Nicknamed the Ville Bleue (Blue City) for the color of its fishing nets, Concarneau is a must-see in Finistère. The fishing port, long focused on sardines, has gradually specialized in tuna fishing. Brittany is home to some of the most beautiful ports in France, and this could easily be one of them. But there's much more to Concarneau than its pretty harbour. From its fortified walls - the Ville Close - to its magnificent beaches and age-old traditions, this pretty coastal town is much more than just a tourist resort. Discover its treasures with our 15 must-see sights in Concarneau. And if you're wise, we've got a few tips for your family's travels around the town!
1. The Ville Close, Concarneau's historic center
The stronghold of Cornouaille, the Ville Close is the historic heart of the town. Concarneau is one of Brittany's most beautiful villages, partly because of its military fortifications. Today, the Ville Close has preserved its old houses, and it's a pure pleasure to stroll around: granite houses, half-timbered houses, chapels - it's a superb place to visit! Classified as a Historic Monument in 1899 thanks to local residents and artists, the fortifications have survived two threats of destruction. More beautiful than ever, they still stand, anchored in the bay of Concarneau.
At the heart of the Ville Close lies the former Maison du Gouverneur. It is now home to the Maison du Patrimoine, where you can find out all the best things to do in the area. The Maison du Patrimoine is housed in a building dating back to the XVIᵉ century, offering a glimpse into the past. Nearby, you'll also find the Governor's Tower, reinforced to resist attack. Later used as a depot, it is now the entrance tower to the Ville Close.
2. Concarneau's belfry, symbol of the town
In days gone by, Concarneau's inhabitants used the church bells and ship's sirens to keep track of time. However, the installation of the belfry, with its beautiful clock, has changed their habits. Installed at the entrance to the old town, it quickly became a daily fixture. Today, it is the very symbol of the town, representing the passage of time, but also of the old town to a more modern activity, for which the measurement of time becomes important.
Find out more about our 17 must-sees in Brittany, including La Ville Close and its belfry!
3. The Musée de la pêche, at the heart of local heritage
Located in the famous Rue Vauban, the Musée de la Pêche (Fishing Museum) introduces you to the town's maritime history, and in particular its strong economic activity revolving around fishing. Young and old alike will enjoy wandering through the museum's various rooms, discovering a sometimes little-known activity. While interactive activities enhance your visit, the highlight is the ride on L'Hémérica, a vintage trawler moored on the quayside near the museum.
4. Stroll along the "chemin de ronde", in the footsteps of our ancestors
When you're surrounded by ramparts, there's no shortage of reasons to climb them and follow in the footsteps of the soldiers of yesteryear. Of course, neither rifles nor cannons are necessary today - and thankfully so! - but it's a pleasant walk. It's not possible to walk all the way around the ramparts, but small sections are accessible to the public. The 980-meter-long ramparts lead up to the 9 towers, offering a magnificent panorama of the bay and part of Concarneau.
Free time at the end of the day? Take the opportunity to discover Concarneau Bay by booking a catamaran cruise lasting around two hours.
5. Escape to Place Saint-Guénolé
Gone are the huge, impersonal squares of big cities! The charming Place Saint-Guénolé is surrounded by old half-timbered houses and dotted with window boxes. Located at the end of Rue Vauban, it's littered with souvenir stores and charming cafés. Nearby, you can also admire and visit theSaint-Guénolé church, an ultra-modern building that has replaced the old, dilapidated edifice.
Good to know place Saint-Guénolé is home to a number of excellent restaurants, including La Porte au Vin, a favorite among Bretons themselves.
6. Admire the beautiful Breton architecture... and feast!
We're now leaving the Ville Close to discover the outside of Concarneau, which has expanded beyond the ramparts over time. This is a great opportunity to discover Breton architecture in all its splendor! For example, onAvenue du Dr Pierre Nicolas, you can admire the beautiful façade of La Taverne des Korrigans, before pushing open the doors to enjoy a delicious meal. The sharply designed stone facade draws the eye to this Breton institution, known locally as "Chez Guitte", after its former owner.
7. Visit the Marinarium, Concarneau's marine biology station
"Know and understand the sea, to better respect it" is the motto of Concarneau's marine biology station. Founded in 1856, it includes the Marinarium, enabling visitors to explore marine biodiversity through interactive exhibits, aquariums and other educational workshops. Young and old alike enjoy discovering the flora and fauna of Brittany's coasts, as well as emblematic species such as seahorses, jellyfish and starfish. In addition to the station's own activities, the site also raises public awareness of ocean protection and the importance of scientific research - the very purpose of the station.
8. Take part in the Festival des Filets Bleus
It's been an institution in Concarneau since 1905, so you won't want to miss it if you visit this pretty corner of Brittany in August! The Filets Bleus festival lasts five days, usually during the first fortnight of the month. Here, Breton and Concarneau traditions take center stage. Hundreds of locals, dressed in typical Breton period costumes, parade through town to the sound of bagpipes. Songs, dances, costumes: it's all there to get you in the mood! Initially created to help fishermen, this festival pays tribute to the work of local fishermen through the famous blue nets used for sardine fishing. Local, typical, disconcerting, astonishing: we love it!
9. Explore the Château de Kériolet, a bit of Russia in Brittany
Set course for the heights of Concarneau (I promise, it's not too high), just five minutes from the Ville Close. Here you'll find Concarneau's undisputed treasure: the Château de Kériolet, once owned by Princess Zenaïde, a member of the family of Tsar Nicholas II of Russia. Today, the château is open to visitors and occasionally hosts musical events.
A little anecdote: in later years, the castle had several owners, including Zenaide's great-grandson Felix Yusupov. If his name rings a bell, it's because he took part in Rasputin's assassination!
10. Stroll around the Place Jean Jaurès markets
If you're a fan of regional markets, you'll love the ones in Concarneau. On Mondays and Fridays, head to Place Jean Jaurès for the weekly unpacking. On Mondays, the food and non-food markets offer local produce and souvenirs. The Friday market, meanwhile, is an institution, with 200 stallholders on the Parvis des Halles, Place Jean-Jaurès and Place du 8 mai 1945.
Last but not least, Les Halles de Concarneau and its 17 traders open their doors to you every morning. Cheese, cider, Breton pastries, fish specialties: let yourself be overwhelmed by the delights of Breton gastronomy!
11. Take the Concarneau tourist train
The Place Jean Jaurès is definitely a hot spot, as it's from here that the Celtic'Train departs. This little tourist train is the ideal way to discover Concarneau in no time. And let's face it, kids love it! For around 40 minutes, you'll wander through the narrow streets of the town and along the coast, discovering the area, its history and its little anecdotes. A great family outing!
12. Relax on Concarneau's beaches
Aside from its historical aspect, Concarneau is best known for its beautiful beaches, with their picturesque coves. The best-known of these is the Sables Blancs beach, ideal for families. Supervised in season, this beautiful beach is perfect for swimming (the average temperature is only 17°, with a maximum of 20° on the best days). But there's plenty of fun to be had with the various water sports on offer!
Do you prefer peace and quiet? Head for Plage des 4 Sardines, accessible only via a narrow path. Thanks to its easy access, this dreamy cove is seldom visited. Round off your escapades with this top 15 list of Brittany's most beautiful beaches!
13. Take the famous Bac du Passage
In service since the Middle Ages, this boat makes it possible to reach both shores in an instant. Initially, it was used by the monks of Saint-Guénolé to leave the Ville Close. Today, the boat known as "Le Vachic" still links the Passage Lanriec, located in Place Duquesne, with the Ville Close. This pretty and unusual stroll saves you having to go round the Pont du Moros and connects you to a number of attractive footpaths.
14. Discover Concarneau's religious heritage
Concarneau's religious heritage, though discreet, offers an immersion in the spiritual history of this Breton maritime town. The church of Saint-Guénolé is a must-see. In a different style, it's easy to fall under the spell of the Sainte-Croix chapel, whose small red door topped with a spike invites you in. Simple white walls, wooden chairs... Here, authenticity reigns, enhanced by the beautiful stained-glass windows that light up the whole. Many other religious buildings await visitors, including the chapelle de l'Hôpital, the chapelle du Caballou and theEglise du Saint-Cœur de l'Église de Marie de Concarneau.
15. Discover the best addresses for local specialities
Fish has pride of place on the Breton coast, and it's at the Conserverie Gonidec you'll discover it with authenticity. Here, sardines are sacred! It comes in 1001 forms, including truffle or Espelette pepper, for those who love it. You can also visit the Brasserie de Bretagne. It's not cider that takes pride of place here, but craft beer. Another great place to discover the Breton terroir is the Biscuiterie de Concarneau. You'll find it at two addresses, rue de Trégunc and place Saint-Guénolé. Kouign-amann, caramel au beurre salé, far breton, cider and many other delights await gourmets!
Petit Futé Tip
Do you like good fish? Be brave, get up early at least one morning! From 6.30am, the fish auction on the quayside allows fishermen to sell their catch directly to consumers. You won't find fresher fish!
Where to stay in Concarneau?
The area around the port of Concarneau is perfect for staying in town, yet close to everything. In a quieter style, the Cabellou district is also an excellent option!
- The most original
As well as being one of the only hotels overlooking the coast, the Ker-Moor (or Kermor) is 100% original. The layout and décor are 100% authentic, giving you the impression of being on board a boat. Click here to to book this unusual hotel in Concarneau.
- Simple but effective!
There's no glitz at theHôtel du Port, just quality services at an affordable price. Facing the port and close to the Ville Close, it enjoys a privileged location. Click here to book your room.
- The most beautiful view
Treat yourself to a unique sea view at Les Sables Blancs, a beautiful hotel where some rooms have Jacuzzis. From the restaurant to the reception, not to mention the quality of the rooms, this is one of Concarneau's best addresses, book here.
If you're a fan of tents and mobile homes, you'll also find someexcellent campsites in Brittany, where you can enjoy the fresh air!
Which villages to visit around Concarneau?
Located just 20 kilometers from Concarneau, Pont-Aven is one of the 25 most beautiful villages in France, as is Locronan, 40 minutes from your vacation destination. Let yourself be seduced by the picturesque lanes and charming houses typical of Brittany. Both are superb walks! You can also take a hike along the "sentier des douaniers", which links Concarneau to Pont-Aven. We also recommend a visit to the village of Kerascoët, with its lovely stone-walled thatched cottages.
With our 21 must-sees in Finistère, you're all set to fill up on great visits around Concarneau! Among them, don't miss the hike to the Pointe du Raz, one of the most beautiful hikes in Brittany. It's the perfect place to feel like you've reached the end of the world.
What to do in Concarneau with your family?
Fancy a bike ride? Take the Voie 7 Bretagne, linking Roscoff and Concarneau. It's one of the most beautiful bike rides in Brittany, and will take you peacefully through some magnificent scenery.
Change of scenery! While children will enjoy making sandcastles on the beach, they'll prefer to swim at the Atlantide aquatic center, where inflatable games are combined with water that's warmer than the sea. The Marinarium is another great place to visit with the whole family. Its fascinating, immersive exhibits enthrall young and old alike, while raising public awareness of the need to protect the marine world.
A visit to Château de Kériolet may also be of interest to children. Murder parties are sometimes organized there, often of interest to teenagers. Finally, don't hesitate to take part in the "Archi Kurieux" treasure hunt, a fun way for the whole family to discover the town.
What to do in Concarneau when it rains?
Is it raining in Concarneau? It doesn't have to! If you can't make it out to sea, you can still head for the Musée de la Pêche. Here, you'll discover unique techniques, equipment and know-how, all showcased in beautiful collections. The Marinarium is the perfect complement to this visit. Also focused on the sea, this biological station allows you to observe protected marine species. Of course, the Château de Kériolet can also be visited when it's raining in Concarneau, as can the town's craft and gourmet workshops. A quick trip to the Halles de Concarneau to do your shopping, and that's it!
Finistère, between land and sea, is pure splendor, and Concarneau is no exception. An ideal destination in August, it protects you from the heat, while offering some of the most beautiful wild landscapes in France. This pretty town has an incredible ability to appeal to all kinds of people: families, couples, friends - everyone loves it here! Party-goers themselves will find plenty to do in Finistère, thanks to events such as the Festival du Bout du Monde, one of Brittany's not-to-be-missed music festivals.
