Rennes Guide

Rennes Old Town Walking Tours: Explore History

Step back in time with guided walks through Rennes' enchanting medieval streets and discover Breton heritage at your own pace.

18+ tours
From $$22
2-3 hours

Rennes, the capital of Brittany, boasts a remarkably well-preserved Old Town, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets lined with colourful half-timbered houses that whisper tales of centuries past. These historic buildings, many dating back to the medieval period and rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1720, create a unique and picturesque atmosphere. Wandering through this architectural gem allows you to experience the heart and soul of Brittany, from its ducal past to its vibrant present. Rennes Old Town walking tours offer a fantastic opportunity to uncover the stories and secrets hidden within this captivating cityscape. Expertly guided explorations provide context and insight, bringing the architecture, history, and culture to life. You'll learn about prominent figures, pivotal events, and the daily life that shaped this resilient city. Whether you're drawn to the grand Parliament of Brittany, the charming Place des Lices, or the intricate details of individual facades, these tours are designed to immerse you in the authentic charm of Rennes.

Featured Rennes Old Town Walking Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for rennes old town walking tours in Rennes

Saint-Malo Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone
From $8.29
Free CancellationNew

The TouringBee audio guide is an ideal mobile companion for exploring the historic town of Saint-Malo. This tour is designed to help you discover the city in a short span of time (1-2 hours). Simply follow the route on the app's map, which takes you from the Fortress of Saint-Malo to the Mole de Noir breakwater. You're guaranteed to see: The fortress walls, gates, and bastions of Saint-Malo, St. Vincent Cathedral, Fort National, The beaches of Saint-Malo, Charming narrow streets brimming with souvenirs and treats. Once you've downloaded the tour, the app operates offline. The audio guide can always be heard clearly through your headphones. Enjoy captivating stories and legends at your own pace, without the need to keep up with a tour group. If you only have a few hours to visit Saint-Malo, make the most of it with the TouringBee audio guide. You won't miss a thing.

4.2(6)
1h 30m
View Details
The Hardest City to Invade: Saint Malo's Secrets Audio Guide
From $8.99
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Be captivated by the coastal city where echoes of corsairs and conquest linger on this self-guided audio tour. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive stroll through Saint Malo. Every cobblestone and sea breeze in Saint Malo seems to whisper a tale of resilience, adventure, and the enduring spirit of Brittany’s captivating coastal city. On this walking tour, you’ll embark on a journey around its walled old town to see its hidden treasures. I’ll show you three of the old city’s gates, starting with Saint Vincent Gate, where I’ll tell you why you’ll see ermines everywhere in Saint Malo. On your way to the Big Gate where our tour ends, you’ll walk along Saint Malo’s ramparts, hear its surprising history and learn a thing or two about the area’s climate. By the end of this tour, you’ll have gained a new appreciation for this slice of Brittany, its history, and maybe, just maybe, a new sense of humour courtesy of the Malouins who call the city home.

4.3(9)
1h
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Mont-Saint-Michel Tour from Rennes - Private Driver
From $391.37
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

9:00 am - Departure from Rennes with our vehicle with Chauffeur, go to Rennes, the journey takes 1h15. 9:15 - Breakfast break available in a bakery. 9:30 - Stop photos viewpoint on the road. 10:30 - Arrival at the car park. A free shuttle "The Smuggler" will take you near the entrance. A 30mn walk is possible to enjoy the view. The Chauffeur will accompany you to the abbey and then wait in the car park. 11:00 - Walk through the medieval streets. Explore the charming shops, old houses and historic museum. 11h15 - Visit the abbey (lasts about 1h30), Explore this Gothic masterpiece and admire the panoramic view of the bay. 1pm - Lunch in one of the local restaurants, enjoy the famous omelet or in a historical setting. 14h - Discover the bay with a guided tour of 1h (guide not included to book in advance) 15:30 - Return to the village to explore the last shops 16h - Return to Rennes

6h
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Half-Day Tour To The Mummies Museum & 1Hour Felucca Nile Ride
From $55
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of ancient Egyptian culture with our half-day tour of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. This museum, one of the world's most important repositories of Egyptian antiquities, will provide an unparalleled view into Egypt's millenia-old history. The tour is meticulously designed to give you ample time to explore the archaeological treasures contained within its walls. As part of your experience, we also offer a 1-hour Felucca Nile Ride. Glide gracefully down the captivating Nile River in a traditional wooden sailboat, or felucca. This tranquil hour on the timeless waters will provide an unforgettable perspective of Egypt's present and past.

5.0(1)
5h
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Private 2-hour Walking Tour of Saint Malo with private official tour guide
From $225.33
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Take this 2 hour private walking tour with our official tour guide to get to know the city of pirates!. Let our private official tour guide take you on this walking tour to get to know Saint Malo’s most important monuments and sites. Saint malo has Roman and Gothic architecture and amazing views of the sea. Let our private tour guide give you all his/her knowledge of this unique location. Here are a few examples of what you will see during your walking tour: Saint Malo Walls Old town of Saint Malo: beautiful cobblestone streets and a great charm to walk around in Plage du Sillon Château de Saint Malo Paramé - unique district next to the Place du Sillon Fort National Saint Malo is a unique city and let our guide indulge you in all the history and hidden gems during this private walking tour.

5.0(1)
2h
View Details
Rennes Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
From $353
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Rennes is the vibrant capital of Brittany, renowned for its medieval half-timbered architecture and Grand Cathedral. Experience a fusion of medieval attractions and modern style buildings. The streets of this britannic town tells us fascinating stories of different wars and dynasties. Also, the cultural center of Champs Libres is home to the Brittany Museum, a sight to visit after our comprehensive tour. From the Gallians to the Romans, from the early Medieval to Modernity, Renne has much to see and much more to admire, together with its major attractions. Walk with us on a veritable pathway of History.

4.3(3)
1h 30m
View Details
Day trip with local driver to Mt Saint-Michel Cancale and Saint-Malo from Rennes
From $1,423.16
👤Private Tour

Discover the Wonder of the West France with a local driver in English, Spanish or Italian. Start the tour in Rennes and visit the Mont Saint-Michel climbing its hundreds of steps to reach the abbey, walk on the fortifications and see the medieval village. After a scenic drive along the bay listed at the UNESCO heritage, you will stop in Cancale...oysters, seafood, galettes, crepes, this tasty town will offer you a large choice for a local lunch. In the afternoon, you will discover the pirate city of Saint-Malo where you could enjoy the beauty of the emerald coast. Your driver will give you all the keys to enjoy the best the place. Saint-Malo is also a nice town for shopping.

5.0(5)
9h
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Why Choose Rennes Old Town Walking Tours in Rennes?

Uncover Local History

Gain a deeper understanding of Rennes' rich past, from its ducal origins to its architectural evolution.

Navigate Easily

Let local guides lead you through the winding streets, ensuring you don't miss any key landmarks or charming corners.

Experience Authentic Brittany

Connect with the unique culture and heritage of the Breton region through engaging storytelling.

Small Group Focus

Many tours prioritize smaller groups, allowing for a more personal and interactive experience.

Photographic Opportunities

Discover the most picturesque spots and learn about the architectural styles that make Rennes so visually appealing.

Value for Money

Explore the highlights of Rennes' Old Town without the need for expensive transportation or individual entry fees.

Types of Rennes Old Town Walking Tours in Rennes

General Old Town Walking Tours

These comprehensive tours cover the essential highlights of Rennes' historic center. Expect to see key squares, significant buildings, and learn about the city's general history.

Covers main landmarksIntroduction to Rennes historySuitable for first-time visitorsGroup tours available

Photography Walking Tours

Designed for those who want to capture the beauty of Rennes, these tours focus on the most photogenic streets, architectural details, and scenic viewpoints.

Focus on visual aestheticsTips for best photo spotsExploration of architectural stylesSmaller group sizes common

Themed Historical Walking Tours

Dive deeper into specific aspects of Rennes' history, such as its medieval past, the Great Fire of 1720, or the stories of its famous citizens. These tours offer a more specialized perspective.

In-depth historical contextFocus on specific eras or eventsOften led by history enthusiastsFewer participants generally

Food & Drink Discovery Tours

Combine sightseeing with culinary delights. These tours often include stops at local markets, bakeries, or traditional taverns to sample regional specialties.

Taste local Breton foodVisit markets and eateriesLearn about culinary traditionsIncludes tasting portions

What to Expect on Rennes Old Town Walking Tours

Duration

Most walking tours in Rennes' Old Town typically last between 2 and 3 hours. Some specialized tours might be shorter or longer.

Weather

Rennes experiences a temperate climate. Be prepared for potential rain, especially outside of summer. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, regardless of the weather.

Group Size

Group sizes can vary significantly, from intimate private tours with just your party to larger groups of 15-20 people. Check tour details for specifics.

What's Included

Tours typically include the services of a knowledgeable guide. Some tours may include entrance fees to specific sites if visited, or tasting portions for food tours. Always check the tour description.

Meeting Point

Meeting points are usually in central, easily accessible locations within the Old Town, such as near the Parliament of Brittany or Place de la Mairie. Specific details will be provided upon booking.

Additional Costs

Prices listed are for the tour itself. Any personal purchases, additional food and drink not included in a food tour, or optional gratuities for the guide are not usually part of the tour price.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes – the cobblestones can be uneven.

2

Check the weather forecast and dress in layers. An umbrella or waterproof jacket is often a good idea.

3

Arrive at the meeting point at least 10-15 minutes before the scheduled start time.

4

Book in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your preferred tour and time slot.

5

Don't hesitate to ask your guide questions; they are a wealth of local knowledge.

6

Consider the 'Food & Drink Discovery' tours if you want to experience Rennes' culinary scene alongside its history.

7

Look for tours that mention 'half-timbered houses' to ensure you'll see the iconic architecture of the Old Town.

8

Carry a small bottle of water, especially during warmer months, though you can usually find places to refill or purchase drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is the best time of year to do a walking tour in Rennes Old Town?

A: Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. However, tours operate year-round, and each season offers its own charm.

Q:Are Rennes Old Town walking tours suitable for children?

A: Many general walking tours are suitable for children, as they provide a good overview of the city. Some tours might be more engaging for younger audiences if they focus on stories or have a more interactive element. It's always best to check the tour description or contact the operator if you have specific concerns.

Q:Can I customize a walking tour of Rennes Old Town?

A: While standard tours follow set itineraries, some operators offer private or customizable tours. This is a great option if you have specific interests or a limited amount of time and want a more personalized experience.

Q:What happens if it rains during my walking tour?

A: Most walking tours will proceed rain or shine, as guides are accustomed to the local weather. They will often carry umbrellas and focus on historical context and stories. If severe weather is expected, operators usually have a cancellation or rescheduling policy, so check the booking details.

Q:How do I find and book a Rennes Old Town walking tour?

A: Platforms like TopTours.ai aggregate tours from various operators. You can use the search function to find 'Rennes Old Town Walking Tours', compare options based on price, duration, and reviews, and book directly through the platform.

Q:Do I need to tip my guide?

A: Tipping is not mandatory but is always appreciated for excellent service. If you enjoyed your tour and felt your guide went above and beyond, a small gratuity is a common way to show your appreciation.

Q:Are the tours physically demanding?

A: Rennes' Old Town involves walking on cobblestone streets and some gentle inclines. Most tours are moderately paced, but if you have mobility concerns, look for tours specifically advertised as accessible or inquire with the tour operator beforehand.

Don't Miss the Perfect Rennes Experience

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Why Visit Rennes?

Discover Rennes, Brittany's vibrant capital, for its rich medieval history and lively student atmosphere.

Experience genuine Breton culture in Rennes, known for its colorful half-timbered houses and charming squares.

Navigate easily through Rennes' compact city center on foot or by its efficient public transport system.

Explore Rennes' fascinating past through its stunning Parliament of Brittany and ancient city gates.

Savor local delicacies like galettes and cider in the bustling Marché des Lices, a true taste of Rennes.

Immerse yourself in the authentic charm of Brittany's capital, a perfect blend of history and modernity.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

France experiences a predominantly temperate climate, with variations across its diverse regions. Expect mild, wet winters and warm summers in the north and west, while the south enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters.

Best Months

May, June, and September offer the most pleasant weather across much of France, with warm temperatures, lower rainfall, and fewer crowds than the peak summer months.

Peak Season

July and August are the busiest months, characterized by warm to hot weather, long daylight hours, and a vibrant atmosphere, especially in coastal and tourist hotspots.

Off Season

The winter months (November to March) are generally cooler and wetter, with fewer tourists and lower prices, making it ideal for city breaks and experiencing local culture without the crowds.

Plan Your Rennes Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Rennes is a breeze. The city center is wonderfully walkable, letting you discover hidden corners easily. Rennes also boasts an efficient metro system with two lines (A and B) connecting key areas, plus a comprehensive bus network. Consider purchasing a day pass or a multi-day ticket for cost-effective travel if you plan on using public transport frequently. Taxis are available, and bike-sharing schemes offer another pleasant way to explore.

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Where to Stay

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