Top Places You Can Visit When You Stay in St Malo

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Since St Malo is in the heart of Brittany, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore more of this unforgettable region. To help you plan your trip, we’ve highlighted some must-see towns and cities that are well worth a visit. 

Holidays to St Malo

Visit St Malo, a unique coastal town known for its rich history and local charm.

St Malo to Dinan 

A great place to start your adventure, Dinan is just a 40 minute drive from St Malo. It's easily reachable by car or public transport, making it ideal for a day trip. 

This medieval town, perched above the River Rance, is one of France’s most picturesque spots. Its charming, cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and stunning surroundings make it a must-visit. Highlights include the Château de Dinan and well-preserved ramparts, the lively market, and the scenic port, with plenty to see and do. 

On your way, consider stopping at Pleslin-Trigavou, a quaint commune home to an ancient megalithic site, independent shops, and fantastic spots to sample authentic Breton cuisine. Depending on your route, you might also pass through Châteauneuf-d'Ille-et-Vilaine. Nearby, in the village of Saint-Suliac, you can admire the architecture of the Église de Saint-Suliac or take in sweeping countryside views from the Grainfolet Oratory.

Discover Dinan one of the most beautiful and picturesque medieval towns in Brittany.

St Malo to Rennes 

Just an hour from St Malo by car or public transport, Rennes. The capital of Brittany, offers the perfect blend of history and modern charm. Wander through its old town, explore historic landmarks like the grand Parlement of Brittany, or visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, home to art spanning the ages, including Roman, Greek, and Egyptian artefacts. And of course, like any great French city, Rennes boasts an incredible food scene, with no shortage of fantastic restaurants to try. 

The journey itself offers plenty of worthwhile stops. One highlight is Hédé-Bazouges, where you can take a peaceful walk along the Canal d’Ille-et-Rance, a scenic countryside route following an old canal path. You can also admire the Château de Montmuran, a striking 14th-century castle with two working drawbridges still intact. 

Another great stop is Tinténiac, a charming commune perfect for a leisurely waterside stroll and a delicious meal in one of its many restaurants. 

Visit Rennes, a city full of history and a lively vibe.

St Malo to Mont St Michel 

Stepping beyond Brittany, just 45 minutes away, you'll find the breathtaking Mont St Michel, a striking granite island off the Normandy coast. One of France’s most iconic landmarks, this medieval abbey draws around three million visitors each year, captivated by its remarkable architecture, rich history, and pilgrimage significance. Perched dramatically on the rocky island, Mont St Michel is a UNESCO World Heritage site that truly deserves a spot on your itinerary. 

If you're looking for a break on your journey, stop by Pontorson, just a short distance from Mont St Michel. The town boasts the medieval Notre Dame de la Paix church and the Couesnon river, which once marked the border between Brittany and Normandy. Though the river is no longer an official border, it’s still a fantastic spot to fish, kayak, or cycle along! 

A short trip from St Malo takes you to the stunning Mont St Michel.

St Malo to Caen  

While exploring Normandy, consider extending your drive to visit Caen, a historic city located about 20 minutes from the coast. Caen is just under 1 hour and 45 minutes by car from Saint-Malo and about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Mont Saint-Michel. The city features impressive castles, abbeys, and museums. The Caen Memorial Museum offers a deep dive into the region’s WWII history, while the medieval Château de Caen, built by William the Conqueror, brings the city’s past to life. Beyond its historical landmarks, Caen is home to lively markets, Michelin-starred restaurants, and the scenic Orne River Valley, making it a perfect destination for history and culture lovers alike. 

If you’d like a stop along the way, a short detour will take you to Saint-Lô, the capital of the Manche department. Heavily damaged during WWII and later rebuilt, the city stands as a powerful symbol of resilience. Visit the striking Notre-Dame Church, walk along the Saint-Lô ramparts, or explore the Haras National, a prestigious stud farm celebrating Normandy’s equestrian heritage. With its unique history and charm, Saint-Lô is well worth the detour. 

Outside Brittany, the Abbey of Saint-Étienne is a must-see Romanesque landmark in Caen.

St Malo to Carnac 

Carnac, a charming seaside town, is just two hours away by car. It's famous for its ancient megalithic sites, making it a must-see for history lovers. The Carnac Stones, a collection of over 3,000 prehistoric stones, invite tourists year-round. As a seaside location, Carnac also offers fantastic seafood, including fresh oysters, mussels, and scallops. On top of that, the town boasts beaches, local markets, and scenic coastal routes perfect for walking. 

Since the journey to Carnac takes a while, consider making a stop along the way. Ploërmel, about halfway there, is a peaceful town surrounded by Brittany’s lush countryside. Don’t miss the Notre-Dame-du-Roncier Basilica, located just outside the town, which draws visitors with its serene atmosphere and historical significance.

Ploërmel is also a gateway to scenic spots like the Voie Verte Mauron-Questembert trail and the Ploërmel Lac au Duc Blue Green Golf course. Both offer a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the stunning surroundings before continuing your journey. 

Visit the Carnac Stones: Europe's Largest Megalithic Site in Carnac.

St Malo to Nantes 

Just over two hours away by car, or a little longer by public transport, Nantes is a city rich in history and culture. Once the capital of the Duchy of Brittany, it officially became part of the Pays de la Loire region in 1941. Once home to kings and dukes, this vibrant city boasts impressive landmarks, including the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul de Nantes, a masterpiece of architecture that took over 400 years to complete. 

History and art lovers will find plenty to explore, from the Natural History Museum to the Nantes Art Museum. If you’re looking for a peaceful break, the city also offers beautiful green spaces, such as Park La Beaujoire. With its mix of culture, history, and stunning scenery, Nantes is a destination well worth adding to your French adventure. 

On the road to Nantes, there are a few worthwhile stops along the way. About halfway through the journey, Rennes is a great place to take a break and explore. 

Closer to Nantes, you’ll find Héric, a quiet town with its own unique charm. One of its highlights is the Saint Nicolas Church, beautifully rebuilt in the 19th century. As you stroll through the town, you’ll spot impressive private castles, including Dreneuf, the Prairie, and Beaulieu. If you’re looking to stretch your legs, the nearby Nantes-Brest Canal offers a scenic spot for some fresh air before continuing your journey. 

Nantes, located about two hours by car from St Malo, offers beautiful walks along the Loire River.

St Malo to Roscoff 

About two hours west of Saint-Malo by car (approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes), Roscoff is a charming seaside town situated on a picturesque peninsula. Stroll past elegant, former ship-owners’ houses, admire the striking Gothic church, or take a trip to the Isle of Batz for a peaceful escape. Roscoff is also known for pioneering thalassotherapy in France, with its first spa opening in 1899. Today, you can still enjoy this relaxing seawater treatment, perfect for unwinding after your journey. 

About an hour into your trip, Saint-Brieuc makes for an ideal stop. This coastal town sits at the heart of Brittany’s largest nature reserve, offering breathtaking landscapes and one of the largest tidal ranges in the world. Wander through streets filled with colourful murals, explore lush gardens, or visit a traditional biscuit factory for a sweet treat. With so much charm, you might find yourself staying longer than planned! 

Roscoff offers incredible beaches such as Plage de Perharidy to relax and enjoy.

St Malo to Quimper 

A two-and-a-half-hour drive from St Malo, Quimper is often called the cultural heart of Brittany. Wander through its medieval streets, explore the impressive Saint Corentin Cathedral, or browse local markets for a taste of Breton life. Art lovers can admire the fine collections at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, while the city’s cobbled old town and easy access to Brittany’s coastline make it a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. 

About two hours into your journey, Carhaix-Plouguer is a great place to take a break. Best known for hosting Les Vieilles Charrues, the largest music festival in France, it also offers a quieter side. Stroll through the town’s welcoming streets, explore local markets, or visit Roman aqueducts and archaeological sites for a glimpse into its past. It’s the perfect spot to experience Breton culture in a more relaxed setting before continuing on to Quimper. 

Explore the impressive Saint Corentin Cathedral in Quimper, just a short drive from St Malo.

There’s so much to see and do when exploring Brittany starting in St Malo, with the highlights we’ve mentioned and many more waiting to be discovered. To experience this region of France, book your ferry today and enjoy 30% off your crossing when you book your stay with us.