RENNES: 10 MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Rennes surprises visitors with the richness and diversity of its heritage. Here is a list of Rennes must-see attractions: 10 historic or iconic sites that you simply must visit during your stay.

This 14th-century convent has been converted into a conference centre hosting business and public events, as well as concerts by the ONB (Orchestre National de Bretagne). It also houses the Tourist Office, the starting point for city tours. 

Once a tournament ground where knights battled, the Place des Lices has hosted one of France’s finest markets every Saturday morning for nearly 400 years. 

These imposing 15th-century fortifications are a symbol of Brittany and the gateway through which its Dukes passed on their way to their coronation.

Discover the treasures of this cathedral, rebuilt and decorated in the second half of the 19th century, with its Roman-style high altar, monumental organ, remarkable paintings, and vaults. Saint-Pierre Cathedral has witnessed key moments in the history of Brittany and France, such as the coronation of the Dukes and Duchesses of Brittany.

Following the Great Fire of 1720, King Louis XV of France sent his architect Jacques Gabriel to build a new complex on this newly created square, combining the Town Hall, the royal court, and the clock tower.

Inaugurated in 1836, the Opera House features a rounded facade mirroring that of the City Hall. Inside this Italianate-style theatre, you will find magnificent decor and a fresco by Lemordant. Above all, its diverse programme, designed for all audiences, makes it a must-see!

The Palace of the Parliament of Brittany is Rennes' most famous monument. Although it was damaged by fire in 1994, its unique interior decoration has been fully restored. This judicial building still houses the Court of Appeal and can be visited all year round.

Experience romance and elegance by discovering the wonders of Thabor Park, where even "Hell" (l’Enfer) is a pleasant open-air theatre. Formerly the monks' garden of the Saint-Melaine Benedictine Abbey, it was designed by Denis Bühler, a famous 19th-century landscape architect. This 10-hectare park combines a French-style garden, an English landscape garden, a grotto, a bandstand, an aviary, and an exceptional rose garden with over 2,000 varieties! Let yourself be guided through one of the most beautiful gardens in France.

Since 1794, the Rennes Museum of Fine Arts’ collection has constantly expanded, offering a panorama of art history from Antiquity to the present day. Prepare to be amazed by Gustave Caillebotte’s Impressionism, Rubens’ "Tiger Hunt", and Georges de La Tour’s "The Newborn Christ".

An innovative cultural venue designed by architect Christian de Portzamparc, Les Champs Libres brings together the Museum of Brittany (Musée de Bretagne), the Science Centre (Espace des sciences), and the Metropolitan Library in the heart of Rennes. Exhibitions, installations, visual arts, digital arts, and literary and artistic performances come together here, making it a truly vibrant hub of cultural activity.