HOTEL ISIDORE****
TOURISM IN RENNES
Do you want to go sightseeing in Rennes?
Rennes is an essential tourist destination. As the capital and gateway to Brittany, it has a rich historical and cultural heritage as well as a rich and varied gastronomy. The city also has a lively city centre with restaurants, bars and shops, as well as numerous cultural and sporting events taking place throughout the year. In short, there is never a dull moment.
Rennes: A cultural and historical city
Rennes is a city with a rich historical and cultural heritage. The first emblematic heritage of Rennes and Brittany is the half-timbered houses. Dating from the 15th century and built with wood from the Breton forests, half-timbered houses are a priceless legacy of the Middle Ages. Although most of them were destroyed by major fires or during the Second World War, Rennes still has just under 400 of them, which still provide a good picture of the architecture of the time.
Another emblematic monument of the city of Rennes is the Palais du Parlement or Parliament of Brittany. Built in the 17th century, it is today the seat of the Court of Appeal of Justice as well as the main heritage building of the city. After major demonstrations in 1994, a devastating fire almost completely destroyed this historic monument. Remarkably restored, the Palace of Parliament can be visited today and reveals magnificent rooms decorated with tapestries and paintings from the 17th century.
There are also a number of other cultural sites that are not to be missed, such as the Rennes Opera House. Built in the 19th century, it has been designated as a historical monument since 1975. The Rennes Opera offers around thirty opera evenings each season, and it is also possible to visit it. Another emblematic monument, you can admire the Cathedral Saint-Pierre de Rennes. Classical in style, it has also been listed as a historical monument since 1906.
Rennes: a city of art
If you are an art lover, you should not miss the « Beaux-Arts » Museum of Rennes (MBAR). It presents an encyclopaedic collection of art, covering all periods from Antiquity to the present day. The museum has a very complete collection of objects from ancient civilisations (Egyptian, Etruscan, Greco-Roman) and from outside Europe.
If you prefer modern art, you should visit the FRAC Bretagne (Fond Régional d'Art Contemporain). It presents more than 5000 art works of contemporary style. Following a policy of decentralisation of art initiated by Jack Lang (former minister of culture), the FRAC Bretagne in Rennes was the first FRAC to be created in France in 1981. Today there are 23 FRACs in France.
Finally, we invite you to discover the Odorico house, which pays tribute to the mosaics of Isidore Odorico, a great Italian craftsman who marked the history of Rennes with his works in the 20th century. The Odorico house is now open to the public and transformed into a creperie-tea room.
Rennes: a gourmet city
A must-see in Rennes: the Marché des Lices. For more than 400 years, this market has brought together the people of Rennes every Saturday from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm on the Place des Lices, in the centre of the city. It is the 2ème largest market in France. There are more than 250 producers, craftsmen and shopkeepers offering the best products and specialities from Brittany. Don't miss the traditional Rennes speciality, the galette saucisse.
You can then enjoy a Breton pancake or galette accompanied by a cider in one of the many traditional crêperies in Rennes, in a friendly and festive atmosphere. You will also have to taste the Breton craft beers, in moderation of course.
Rennes: a commercial city
Rennes is an ideal city for shopping. Everything is within walking distance. Fashion, decoration, design, shoes, jewellery, designer clothes, stationery, Breton specialities...
In Rennes, there are more than 2,000 shops and businesses of all sizes waiting for you: from small, original craft shops to large retail chains, there is something for every taste and every budget.
Rennes: a festive city
Rennes is known for being one of the first student cities in France and when you say student city, you mean party city.
Indeed, the nightlife is particularly dynamic in Rennes, and you can easily find a pub, a dance bar or even a discotheque for the most festive among you.
Tourist walking tours
For your walks, don't hesitate to ask us at the reception desk, we will advise you on the best tourist routes to take on foot or by bike according to your level. You can also find many suggestions for itineraries on the Destination Rennes tourist office website.
Rennes in family
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Rennes as a couple
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