Did you know that Darioritum is the ancient Gallo-Roman name for Vannes? The die is cast: this is a Breton town with a rich history! Half-timbered houses, mansions and historic buildings punctuate your every step within the wonderfully preserved ramparts. The flower garden at the foot of the ramparts is an eye-catching marvel in its own right, and invites you to discover what to do in Vannes over the weekend.
Day 1: What to do in Vannes over the weekend? Ramparts, Old Town and Saint-Patern
The first day is devoted to simply wandering around Old Vannes, an incomparable treasure of the Gulf of Morbihan. A magnificent city, where you can take the time to savor (just like its crêpes).
Morning: Ramparts, market and town center
This is the first thing you'll see when you arrive: the Remparts de Vannesthree-quarters of them intact despite the passage of centuries! Built under the Emperor Augustus, they blend Roman, medieval and Baroque styles with great harmony.
From the Remparts, plunge into the colorful streets of the historic heart, lined with nearly 170 timber-framed houses that have survived the years!
Good to know: The floors of half-timbered houses are often wider than the rest, because in those days only the floor area was taxable.
Gradually, your steps will lead you to the intersection of Rue Bienheureux-Pierre-René-Rogue and Rue Noé. This is where you'll find the famous "Vannes and his wife", granite sculptures inlaid in a 16th-century house. Say hello to these smiling figures as you pass by, then head for the Porte Saint-Vincent, the town's former monumental entrance from the port.
Finally, we invite you to take a stroll through the Vannes market. This lively market takes place on Place des Lices on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. The latter allows you to kill two birds with one stone, as there's also a market in the Halles des Lices, every day except Monday. On the menu: local produce, maritime specialities and authentic flavours.
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Afternoon: Quartier Saint-Patern and Cathedral
The day continues in downtown Vannes, in the Quartier Saint-Patern, located on the city's heights. Here, the medieval past can be seen around every corner! With its colorful half-timbered houses and numerous boutiques, cafés and restaurants, this lively district is not short of flavor.
Good to know rue Saint-Patern, the main thoroughfare of the eponymous district, and the church, are named after the first bishop of Vannes.
Let's talk about it! L'saint-Patern church invites you to push open its massive doors to discover a rich interior: altarpieces, stained-glass windows and sculptures give the place a unique elegance.
Finally, lovers of religious edifices can round off their day at Saint-Pierre Cathedral. This 10th-century historic monument boasts superb stained-glass windows that shed light on the Rotonde du Saint-Sacrement. Simply magnificent!
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Day 2: What to do in Vannes over the weekend? Parks, Port and Museums
There are some great walks to be had in Brittany, including some in its superb parks. Let's get started!
Morning: What to do in Vannes over a weekend? Discover the most beautiful gardens
The first of Vannes' must-see parks is the Jardin des Remparts. Its 15,000 m² of grounds offer a bucolic stroll along the Marle River, embellished with 30,000 flowers. Romantic as can be! Travelling with the family? You'll find a children's playground near the Porte Prison.
Just 260 m away on foot, you can continue your nature walk in the Jardin du Château de l'Hermine. Also laid out in the French style, its perfectly manicured flowerbeds enhance the view of the château. 100% change of scenery!
Further south, you'll find the Jardin de Collection, which features over 500 plant species in an area of over 5000m².
Petit Futé Tip: if you're a nature-lover, note that the Sentier des Douaniers passes right by. Good luck!
Afternoon: Port of Vannes, Musée des Beaux-Arts de Vannes and Hôtel de Limur
Before leaving Vannes, treat yourself to a digestive stroll along the Port de Vannes, which has evolved since the 15th century into a lively and charming district. From the Place Gambetta to the Promenade de la Rabine, take time to admire the pretty boats and enjoy the 800 meters of shaded walkways, or embark on an excursion to the Gulf Islands!
The afternoon continues at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Vanneslocated in the historic Cohue. Famous works, some by well-known artists such as Eugène Delacroix, form part of a rich collection.
Got a little time left? How about reserving it for a visit to theHôtel de Limur? This 17th-century gem, listed as a Monument Historique, now houses the Centre d'Interprétation de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine. Your visit will plunge you into the elegance of the Grand Siècle, as you discover the history and architecture of Vannes. A perfect opportunity to discover another park: the Jardin de l'Hôtel de Limur. With its three French-style terraces and climbing roses, it's a pure marvel!
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Where to stay in Vannes for a weekend? Our selection of the best hotels
Hotels located within the city walls make it easy to do all your sightseeing. Quality establishments can also be found in the surrounding area, all within easy reach of the sights.
- The most complete
The Le Mauryhotel and spa has everything you'd expect from a pied-à-terre for a weekend or vacation: affordable prices, modern, comfortable rooms, a good full breakfast, an ideal city-center location and a relaxation/spa area! Click here to to make a reservation.
- The cocooning plus
For a very reasonable price, the Padja welcomes you in a cocooning atmosphere just like at home... with the added bonus of a spa! Modern and pleasant, this establishment promises a perfect stay, right next to the old town. Book your roomhere.
- Ideal if you're arriving by train
Just 300m from the station, theHôtel de France is the perfect place to set down your bags not far from the city center. This modern, attractive hotel promises a warm welcome and comfort. Click here to book your stay!
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Did you enjoy the Breton folklore made in Vannes? Discover other nearby wonders, such as the town of Carnac and its unmissable rocky alignments! Further south, Belle-Île-en-Mer awaits you. Better still, we invite you to discover all the must-sees in Morbihan, a pretty area with a wealth of treasures. It's an ideal destination for a July getaway, even as early as May!
You'll also find below some of the hottest things to do in Vannes:
