A charming and lively town that is only a short train journey away from the UK boasts one of the largest markets in the whole country – as well as a vibrant nightlife.
If you’re keen to avoid airport security queues or lengthy car lines at Dover, then Rennes in France could be your ideal destination for a quick weekend getaway or an extended stay.
Boasting stunning medieval architecture and one of France’s largest markets, this lovely town of 300,000 residents serves as the capital of Brittany, offering a unique fusion of history, culture, and modernity.
It’s conveniently connected to the UK via a two-hour Eurostar journey to Paris, followed by an hour and a half on the TGV.
The town’s most distinctive feature is its half-timbered houses that line the edges of the town centre. Hundreds of these quirky properties still stand the highest number in Brittany.
Many of these homes date back to the 15th century and managed to survive the devastating fire of 1720, which raged for six days, obliterating 33 streets and over 900 homes.
The remaining 280 houses, with their muted red, brown, and yellow-streaked wooden facades, resemble a slightly modified version of the classic British Tudor design.
While Rennes may not be as well-known as some French cities, it offers a more authentic experience off the beaten tourist track.
A stroll through its enchanting streets provides a snapshot of everyday life in Brittany. The Marche des Lices, the second-largest market in France, boasts a vast array of local produce, crafts, and food.
Now in its impressive 402nd year, the market in Rennes sees approximately 300 traders setting up their stalls weekly in the Place des Lices, attracting around 10,000 shoppers and tourists.
The city of Rennes hosts about 20 markets throughout the week, including the organic market held on Wednesday afternoons along the Mail Francois Mitterrand, and the popular Wednesday morning Sainte-Therese market, a favourite among local chefs.
The Lices market is the largest and oldest, offering a vibrant array of fish, charcuterie, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, flowers, bread and galettes-saucisse – the local speciality of a hot pork sausage wrapped in a buckwheat crepe – in abundance each week.
Despite its charm, Rennes is far from a sleepy French village. Home to 60,000 university students, the town boasts bustling bars and an excellent nightlife.
These students also play a crucial role in the thriving arts scene.
Visitors can immerse themselves in contemporary street art, and cultural events that showcase Rennes’ dedication to artistic expression, and explore galleries such as the Musee des beaux-arts de Rennes.
For those who prefer the great outdoors, Rennes offers numerous parks and green spaces. The Parc du Thabor, with its botanical gardens and colourful flowers, provides an ideal spot for a relaxing day outside.
Alternatively, a short hour’s journey south by train or car will bring you to the powerful Atlantic Ocean.