In Brittany, it is above all the sights of nature that fascinate: dream beaches, stretches of coastline, islands or forests enchant every visitor. In addition to the highlights of the authentic landscapes, the holidaymaker will come across worthwhile town centres, churches, harbours, museums, parks and other attractions in almost every town and village in Brittany. We have put together a few “hors d’oeuvres” in terms of breton attractions here.
Côte de Granit Rose
From Brittany’s diverse coastline, the Côte de Granit Rose stands out brilliantly. The colourful and unusually shaped stones between Trébeurden and Paimpol are not missing from any ranking of Brittany’s sights. Special highlight: the Ploumanac’h lighthouse in Perros-Guirrec.
Saint-Malo
In France, which is blessed with sights, Saint-Malo is one of the most popular destinations for French and foreign tourists. From the city walls, which once completely enclose the old town, visitors have a magnificent view of interesting architecture and the expanse of the Atlantic.
Pointe du Raz
Rugged cliffs and roaring surf: Pointe du Raz is one of the westernmost points in France and like an essence of the wild side of Brittany. Surrounding Cap Sizun is a longing place to hike because of the unique views from the high cliffs.
Quiberon
The Quiberon peninsula is a pearl on the south coast of Morbihan, especially for hiking fans. Two different coasts of the narrow peninsula – one boisterous, the other mild – show the full range of Brittany’s nature. There are also prehistoric sites on the seaside walking route.
Rochefort-en-Terre
Of all the picturesque towns in Brittany, Rochefort-en-Terre is one of the most beautiful. Well-kept medieval houses, dreamy alleyways, floral decorations as far as the eye can see – the postcard idyll of Rochefort-en-Terre looks like something out of a fairytale. Ideal for a day trip!
Belle-Île-en-Mer
Famous artists have succumbed to the natural beauty of Belle-Île-en-Mer in the Sea of Morbihan. Brittany’s largest island has retained its timeless charm. Whether for an active hiking holiday or a holiday on the beach – with its mild climate, Belle-Île leaves nothing to be desired.
Locronan
Locronan is known for one of the most complete medieval ensembles in Brittany, indeed in the whole of France. Locronan’s pretty little houses and church are grouped around a car-free centre that can be easily explored on a 1 to 2 hour walk.
Huelgoat
What makes Huelgoat so special? There is hardly any other place where the magic of Brittany’s woodland can be felt so clearly. Legends of fairies, sorcerers and giants abound around the moss-covered rocks and the stream of Huelgoat.
Carnac
One of the largest megalithic sites in the world can be admired in Carnac. Covering several square kilometres in southern Morbihan are long rows of prehistoric dolmens and menhirs, some up to 4 metres high. The enigmatic stones can be discovered on your own or as part of a guided tour.
Ouessant
Despite its remote location, Ouessant offers sights in the classic sense with 2 lighthouses and a lighthouse museum. The much greater attraction, however, is nature. The rugged character of the islet, with its storm-swept rocky coastline, is what makes Ouessant so appealing.
Pont-Aven
Pont-Aven in southern Finistère is one of Brittany’s most popular destinations. The beauty of the area is not the only reason for this. Rather, it is Pont-Aven’s history as a centre of attraction for renowned artists such as Paul Gauguin that makes the place so special and which you encounter at many points in Pont-Aven.
Vitré
Unlike other areas in France, there are not many castles in Brittany. Vitré, near Rennes, is an impressive exception. In the winding centre of the town and the Château de Vitré, visitors can experience the Middle Ages at their best!
This special Brittany map shows exactly where the attractions presented here and others are located.
Even More Brittany Attractions
The list of attractions in Brittany could go on and on. Among them would be the attractions in large Brittany cities such as Rennes, Brest or Saint-Brieuc. But also attractions in medium-sized and smaller towns such as Vannes, Quimper or Morlaix.
Islands such as Île de Bréhat, Île-Molène or Île de Groix are also not included in our ranking, but should not be missing from any list of Brittany’s sights. In every travel guide, world-famous destinations such as Mont Saint-Michel or the old capital of Brittany, Nantes, are also included among the highlights in the northwest.
Are you looking for something special in Brittany, away from the big tourist crowds? Have you ever heard of Carantec, Monteneuf or Bécherel? Real insider tips that are hardly to be found in any travel guide can be discovered in all corners of the departments of Finistère, Morbihan, Côtes d’Armor and Ille-et-Villaine. La Bretonelle shows you where to escape the hustle and bustle. Browse our blog posts or our Brittany encyclopaedia.
Relax And Enjoy Interesting Places
The more beautiful the sight, the more attractive the place is for tourists. This is not only true for communities like Rochefort-en-Terre or Locronan, which are among the most beautiful villages in France – in the “Plus beaux villages de France”, the entire village is a sight. The walls of Saint-Malo, the historic old town of Dinan or the “Ville close” in Concarneau must therefore always be shared with other enthusiasts.
Especially in the high season in July and August, the number of visitors can take the unprepared visitor by surprise. Car parks, restaurants and streets at particularly popular sights are busier then in the low season. Tip: The earlier you arrive, the more likely you are to enjoy Brittany’s sights undisturbed.
Comité Régional du Tourisme de Bretagne | © Yanick Le Gal, © Maxence Gross, © Yvon Boelle,, © Emmanuel Berthier, © Donatienne Guillaudeau, © Yannick Derennes, © Nicolas Job