Escorted Tours
Brittany by Rail Tour
We explore Brittany by Rail from a base in Rennes, with prehistoric Carnac, walled towns and coastal cities forming the route. Vannes, Dinan, Dinard, Saint-Malo, Mont-Saint-Michel and Fougères give the tour a varied Breton character.
This popular rail tour offers a broad introduction to Brittany’s distinctive character, from ancient monuments and fortified towns to lively coastal settings and historic streets.
Our base is Rennes, the regional capital, where we stay in a central hotel housed in the former printworks of the Ouest France newspaper. From here, the itinerary brings together Breton history, architecture and landscape at a relaxed pace.
what’s included
At A Glance
itinerary & excursions
Your Itinerary
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, stunning landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
Day 1: Journey by Rail to Rennes
Travel by Eurostar from St Pancras to Paris and onwards to Rennes by TGV. On arrival, transfer by coach to the Mercure Rennes Centre Parlement. Welcome drink at the hotel, followed by dinner.
Day 2: Paimpol, Abbaye de Beauport and Breton Cider Tasting
Today we spend the day in Paimpol, a charming Breton fishing port with cobbled streets and a Quartier Latin. We visit the Abbaye de Beauport which was founded in 1202 and boasts beautiful Gothic architecture in a picturesque coastal setting.
Free time in Paimpol for individual exploration, then return towards Rennes with a little detour for a cider-tasting and crepes.
Day 3: Carnac’s Prehistoric Stones and Medieval Vannes
Mysterious Carnac is one of Europe’s most important prehistoric sites, in use since 5700BC. Around 2,000 menhirs (megalithic stones) stand in parallel rows north of the delightful town.
Pass through the gateway Porte Saint-Vincent of Vannes’ walled and well-preserved old town, and you enter a stroller’s paradise of lively squares, winding streets overhung by timber-fronted houses and charming gardens. Busy, modern Vannes has plenty of grand public buildings and fascinating museums.
Day 4: Rennes at Leisure
Rennes, the regional capital, is a likeable, lively city. Though much of the historic centre was rebuilt in the 1720s following a devastating fire, there are still medieval gems to be found amongst the grand 18th-century replacements.
For an excellent overview of life in Brittany since prehistoric times, visit the Musée de Bretagne whilst the Musée des Beaux-Arts is notable for its paintings and drawings collection.
Day 5: Mont-Saint-Michel and Fougères
The breath-taking Mont-Saint-Michel is definitely worth a quick sojourn into Normandy. The island commune has been the seat of a monastery since the 8th century though it was at its most influential in the 12th and 13th centuries as a pilgrimage site. The abbey, unchanged for centuries, crowns the island, the village at its foot full of shops and restaurants.
En route, we will visit the fortress town of Fougères which is protected by ramparts. Its impressive château comprises 13 towers and walls over 3 metres thick.
Day 6: Dinan, Dinard and Walled Saint-Malo
The medieval walled town of Dinan sits on a hilltop overlooking the River Rance. Some of its many historical buildings date back to the 13th century and the city walls are excellent for a stroll that will lead you to the Château de Dinan.
Belle Époque villas and sandy beaches made Dinard France’s top resort until the 1930s and attracted many famous names including Picasso, Debussy and Winston Churchill. Saint-Malo is a walled port city that was once notorious for piracy.
Today the only treasure is the elegant, old architecture, particularly the superb citadel at the city’s heart.
Day 7: Return by TGV and Eurostar
Transfer by coach back to Rennes station to catch the return TGV to Paris. At Paris, board the return Eurostar service to St Pancras.
our guests say
Recent reviews
“I enjoyed the freedom to explore each destination at my own pace, with Mont Saint Michel and market day in Rennes among the highlights. Helen’s excellent guidance, including adapting plans to avoid festival crowds, made the trip run smoothly.”
Ms B, travelled June 2025
“This short break was packed with memorable sights, from Mont Saint Michel to Saint Malo and Vannes. Rennes made the perfect base, and the cider and crêpe tasting was a wonderful way to end the holiday.”
Ms S, travelled June 2025
Availability
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HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
Mercure Rennes Centre Parlement
The hotel sits on a quiet street in the very heart of Rennes, just a few minutes’ walk from both the train station and the city’s historic centre. Hotel rooms are spacious and bright, offering a private bathroom with bath and hairdryer, air-conditioning, television, WIFI and minibar. The hotel also has a breakfast room and a bar that serves light meals.
Mercure Rennes Centre Parlement website
OUR VIEW ON THE HOTEL
Housed in the old printworks of the Ouest France newspaper, the hotel is well-located on a quiet street close to the pedestrianized streets of the historic centre, and a stone’s throw from a wealth of restaurants and shops.
our regular tours
Mobility Information
This tour has a moderate fitness rating, reflecting a fuller itinerary with a good balance of visits, walking and time spent exploring on foot.
Some visits may involve cobbled streets, uneven paving, slopes, steps, stairs, limited seating, or walking from the coach drop-off point to the entrance of a site or attraction. The exact demands will vary from day to day, and we highlight specific practical details within the itinerary wherever possible.
You should feel comfortable walking at a steady group pace, standing during visits and enjoying a full day of sightseeing. If you are unsure whether this tour is right for you, please contact us before booking.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
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