Our Favourite Things to Do in St Malo, France

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The old town of St Malo, known as Intra Muros (taken from an old Latin term meaning ‘within the city walls’), is an ancient walled city and the historic heart of this destination. Wander through its cobbled streets, lined with quaint cafés, unique boutiques, restaurants and inviting bars such as the legendary Bar de l'Univers. Soak up the atmosphere as you explore, immersing yourself in the timeless charm and history of St Malo. 

Bar de l'Univers | Address: 12 Pl. Chateaubriand, 35400 Saint-Malo, France

Holidays to St Malo

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

Walk the Ramparts 

Stroll along the historic ramparts that encircle St Malo for some of the most amazing views the city has to offer. This 2km walk around Intra Muros provides a unique vantage point, showcasing the city’s striking architecture, sandy beaches, dramatic landscapes, and historic defences.

A highlight of this walk is the Maison Pelicot, located in the heart of the old town, an 18th Century building with elegant stonework and distinctive features inspired by the city’s seafaring past. The rampart walk is an efficient way to take in the best of what St Malo has to offer if you’re only here for a short time; the walk should only take around one hour to complete. 

Maison Pelicot | Address: 5 Rue du Pelicot, 35400 Saint-Malo, France

Taste the Local Cuisine 

No visit to St Malo is complete without sampling its incredible seafood. Just minutes from the city lies Cancale, the oyster capital of Brittany, renowned for its world-class oysters. Many of St Malo’s restaurants source their oysters fresh from Cancale, or you can visit the town yourself to try them from source. 

Beyond seafood, don’t miss out on other Breton specialities like buckwheat pancakes, known as galettes. These versatile treats can be served sweet or savoury, making them a must-try for any visitor. 

To complement your meal, try traditional Breton cider. Typically served in a ceramic cup, this sweet and refreshing drink is a delicious pairing for any dish in St Malo or across Brittany. 

St Malo’s fascinating history makes it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. Once a haven for pirates and explorers, the city is steeped in maritime heritage and is awash with medieval treasures waiting to be discovered. 

Explore the Château of Saint-Malo and discover the city's rich history and great views.

Château de Saint Malo 

This historic fortress towers over St Malo, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s nautical past. Now housing the Saint-Malo History Museum, visitors can explore its medieval architecture, discover exhibits detailing the city’s maritime legacy, and enjoy clear views of the surrounding area. 

Cathédrale Saint-Vincent 

Built in the 12 th Century, this cathedral is a remarkable fusion of Gothic and Romanesque architecture, making it one of St Malo’s must-see landmarks. Its stained-glass windows weave a story of the city’s past, while the serene interior offers a peaceful retreat. The cathedral’s stunning sculptures are also well worth admiring, adding to the overall beauty of this historic site. 

Fort National 

Situated on a small island just off St Malo’s coast, Fort National is a 17th Century fortress that once served as a key military stronghold. Accessible at low tide, visitors can explore its ramparts and take in the city and coastline from a unique vantage point. Offering a fascinating look into St Malo’s military history, the fort also treats visitors to spectacular seaside views. 

St. Malo offers several beautiful beaches that provide the perfect spot to unwind, swim, fish, and more. The sandy stretches along the city’s coastline highlight the area, drawing both locals and visitors when the sun shines. 

Family fun starts at Plage du Sillon, St Malo’s favorite beach spot.

Plage du Sillon 

Stretching for 3 km, this is the largest sandy beach in St Malo. With its fine sands and stunning views of the ramparts, it’s the perfect spot to relax. At low tide, the waters shift, revealing hidden rocks and pools, offering plenty of adventure for those keen to explore. For thrill-seekers, the beach is an ideal spot for windsurfing, kite surfing, and more. Don’t miss the chance to get a 360° view of the city from the rooftop of the Les Ambassadeurs hotel. 

Plage de Bon-Secours 

This scenic beach lets you admire St Malo’s coastline and tidal islands. A standout feature is its purpose-built seawater pool with a high diving board, offering a safe and enjoyable spot for swimming and diving, regardless of the tide. The year-round sailing school provides an excellent opportunity to sharpen sailing skills right at the foot of St Malo. 

Plage du Môle 

Escape to this secluded beach, tucked away near the Môle des Noires breakwater. It’s the perfect spot for peace and tranquillity. Sheltered from strong winds, it boasts calm waters for relaxation and ideal conditions for leisurely strolls along the shore. 

St Malo’s natural beauty extends beyond its beaches, offering picturesque walking routes along its rugged coastline and lush green spaces. 

Discover Cité d’Alet’s historic forts and peaceful coastal views of St Malo.

Cité d’Alet 

The Alet Peninsula overlooks the Bay of Saint-Malo, the estuary of the Rance, and Dinard. Here, you’ll discover remnants of WWII fortifications, adding a touch of historical intrigue to your journey. Surrounded by greenery and the soothing sounds of nature, the relaxing coastal vistas provide a soothing escape. During summer, Le Point Zero is an ephemeral bar at the very top of the Cité d'Aleth, an ideal spot for refreshments after a walk. 

The GR34 - Customs Officers’ Path 

The GR34 is a stunning long-distance coastal trail that winds through St Malo and its surroundings. Once used to guard against smuggling, this historic path now treats hikers to jaw-dropping views of rugged cliffs, clear waters, and iconic landmarks like the city’s ramparts and Fort National. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll or a longer hike, the GR34 offers a unique way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of St Malo. 

In addition to its beaches and coastal trails, St Malo is surrounded by several islands, each offering its own unique experiences and stunning scenery. These tidal gems are perfect for exploring more of the area’s natural beauty. 

Le Grand Bé—St Malo’s iconic island, just a low-tide walk away.

Le Grand Bé 

Accessible on foot at low tide, this island is one of St Malo’s most famous islands to visit. In addition to offering a good look at the city and its ramparts, it is also home to the tomb of French writer François-René de Chateaubriand, adding a historic touch to your visit. 

Let Petit Bé 

Situated near Le Grand Bé, this small island is also accessible on foot at low tide. Along with its views of the English channel and nearby islets, the island is home to a historic 17th Century fort that still stands as a testament to the area's maritime past. 

If you have time to explore beyond St Malo, the city is surrounded by other delightful destinations in Brittany that are definitely worth a visit. 

For food lovers and nature fans, Cancale is a seaside must-visit near St Malo.

Cancale 

Cancale also sits around 11km from St Malo; this picturesque town is famous for its oysters and coastal surroundings. The town’s bustling harbour is a hub for fresh seafood, with many restaurants serving delicious oysters harvested from the nearby tidal flats.  

Visitors can also walk along the scenic Sentier des Douaniers, a coastal path that offers a glimpse at the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel. Cancale is a great location for food lovers and nature enthusiasts, offering beautiful beaches and a unique maritime atmosphere. 

Dinard 

Just 11km from St Malo, Dinard is a sophisticated seaside town brimming with things to explore. Famous for its elegant Belle Époque villas, beautiful beaches, and lively cultural scene, Dinard offers a peaceful escape. 

Experience scenic coastal walks, including the popular Promenade du Clair de Lune, which let you admire the surrounding waters and St Malo. With its quaint harbour, inviting cafés, and relaxed atmosphere, Dinard is perfect for a leisurely day trip. 

Mont Saint-Michel  

A little further afield, Mont Saint-Michel is about a 50-minute drive from St Malo, but its grandeur makes it well worth the trip. One of France’s most iconic landmarks, this medieval abbey sits atop a rocky island, surrounded by tidal waters. 

With a history dating back to the 8th Century, visitors can explore the abbey, wander through narrow streets lined with local shops, and panoramic views of the bay. The island’s breathtaking beauty and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site make it an essential destination on any trip to Brittany. 

Mont Saint-Michel, a stunning UNESCO site, is a must-see near St Malo.

With its beaches, rich history, stunning islands, and iconic landmarks, St Malo is a fantastic destination to explore in Brittany. Located nearby many other towns and cities within Brittany, St Malo offers a great spot to explore the rest of the region.  With us, you can sail directly to St Malo’s port, allowing your adventure to begin the moment you step off the boat! 

Whether you’re in St Malo for a quick stop or a longer stay, there’s so much to discover in this historic coastal gem. Book your accommodation with us and enjoy 30% off your ferry to St Malo. For even more inspiration, explore our full guides to Brittany and start planning your next adventure.