Saint Malo

The port city in the north-west of France, Saint Malo, was a pirate’s capital in the XIV century. Then, its history changed and the look of the city became more colorful and attractive.

During the World War II, this town was destroyed and, nowadays, everything here is a well-restored copy. Nevertheless, Saint-Malo is one of the most beautiful and interesting cities in Europe.

The city is small and you can explore it in one day. The most convenient way to get there is by train to Gare de Saint Malo railway station or to reach there by car. You can leave your car, for example in the underground car park - Parking Saint-Vincent (€ 2.30 per hour or € 12 for 6 hours).

When traveling in Europe, I usually rent a car at the airport terminal immediately upon arrival, as the cost of renting 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.

Saint Malo is famous for its beautiful beaches with the purest water and soft sand. After visiting the city, you should spend a couple of hours in the gentle French sun and enjoy the sound of the waves and the beauty of the sea. The swimming season is not long at all, just July and August, the rest of the time the beaches are occupied by the tourists looking at the medieval city from the sea-side. The beach looks like a desert during low tide - a wide strip of sand, where you can find oysters in the seaweed and walk towards the small islands. At high tide, you can go boating and enjoy the charming panorama of the entire city.

You will see stone castles, fortresses and forts as the historical attractions of Saint-Malo, and the Fort à la Rein stands out among all of them. A stone fortress, built for the defense of the city, rises over the sea. You can reach it on foot at low tide. Being near the fort, you really can feel the romance of  the time of pirates.

Another landmark of Saint Malo is the tower Tour Bidouane. The castle, that was a part of the battles between pirates and royal ships, currently attracts tourists with its unusual look and beautiful sea views.

You also have to walk along the Cathedral of St. Vincent, the building of which is a mixture of few architectural styles: Romanesque, Gothic and Classicism. Its stone towers reach high into the sky,and this image looks really majestic and beautiful.

Then, you can explore the main city gates, La Grand ' Porte de Saint-Malo. In the Middle Ages, all the ships were moored to it, and there was a busy market at the foot of the gates. Now it gives a great opportunity for tourists to learn more about this interesting city with curious history.

The pirate background of Saint Malo is the main feature of the city - everything here reminds of it and makes the city even more colorful and romantic.

When it comes to a fresh croissants and coffee, be sure to check out one of the best bakeries of France — Boulangerie Chez Mamie at 11 Rue de la Nation. They even participated in the country's competition of bakeries. Here, you can try real crispy French baguettes and the most delicious croissants.

If you wish to have a professional photo shoot in Saint Malo or any other city in France, get more details about the prices of the professional photographer’s services in France on this page.