French cities are the blend of beautiful landscapes, cozy streets and original houses reflecting the history of the country. The city of Rennes really stands out among them. The ancient buildings of the city were destroyed during the war, but the citizens have rebuilt them, so that the architecture of Rennes represents all the styles.
And even though the city itself is small, it definitely makes sense to stop here for a day on your way to Saint Malo or Mont Saint-Michel. I was telling in this article and this article about these two towns, accordingly.
The best way to get to Rennes is by train that arrives at Gare de Rennes railway station (1.5-2 hours from Paris) or to drive there by car (about 4 hours). You can leave your car at a paid parking lot, available all around the city center (Parking costs € 0.40 for 15 minutes or € 4 for 3 hours).
When traveling in Europe, I usually rent a car at the airport terminal immediately upon arrival- the rent at the airport is cheaper, than at the rental office in the city center.
Out of all the rental companies available, I have picked the most affordable ones: Interrent and GoldCar. And I told you, how to rent a car in Europe on this page.
What to see in Rennes
Rennes features not only historical objects as its landmarks, but also amazing streets with half-timbered houses. Because of these houses, the Downtown of Rennes looks really fabulous.
The main beauty of Rennes is a complex of slightly crooked half-timbered houses of the 17th century.
It is Rue Saint-Michel that became my favorite place in Rennes. The citizens lovingly call it "the street of thirst". Most likely, it is due to the fact, that almost each house has a pub, where local citizens hang out in the evenings.
The same street has preserved the oldest house of Rennes (1580) and other buildings of the 16th and 17th centuries.
Another attraction of Rennes is the square, Place Sainte-Anne. There is a church in the center of the square, that has a long name Saint-Aubin church Notre-Dame-de-Bonne Nouvelle, i.e. Notre Dame "good news". The square is circled by half-timbered houses as well.
There is also a curious street, Rue du Chapitre, close to the Tourist Office, that occupies the Gothic building of the former Saint-Yves Chapel. This stone chapel building and half-timbered houses make this street very cozy and colorful.
And of course, a couple of places that are also worth visiting, when you come to Rennes, are the Palace of the Parliament of Brittany and St. Peter Cathedral.
The cathedral perfectly suits the royal appearance of Rennes and makes you feel inseparable from this amazing aristocratic place.
Once you are in Rennes, you cannot remain untouched with its charm and you are reluctant to leave this wonderful city, imbued with the beauty and historical mood!
Photographer in Rennes
If you wish to have a professional photo shoot in Rennes or any other city in France, get more details about the prices of the professional photographer’s services in France on this page.
