Vannes, a city of history and character, literally invites you on a journey through the centuries. Founded by the Romans as Darioritum, it has stood proudly for over 2000 years. From medieval fortifications to 17th-century mansions and 19th-century urban dynamism, Vannes is a marvel of exceptional heritage. Close to the Gulf of Morbihan, it boasts a Breton charm like no other. Let's discover the 11 must-sees in Vannes during your stay in Brittany. This visit can undoubtedly be added to our 17 must-dos in Brittany!
1. Walk the ramparts of Vannes
Despite the passage of time, the ramparts of Vannes are three-quarters intact. Under Emperor Augustus, the idea of fortifying Vannes was born, with a first enclosure built in the 3rd century. In the 14th century, Duke Jean IV enlarged the fortifications to make it a residence and a strategic defense. The ramparts blend Roman, medieval and Baroque styles, creating an admirable ensemble. Although partially destroyed in the 19th century, they remain a powerful symbol of Vannes' historical and cultural heritage. Discover them on your own or on a guided tour!
Another original option is to take a guided tour of the historic center of Vannes. You'll start your tour in the market square and discover Breton products. Enjoy a cider tasting at the end of the tour!
2. Admire the half-timbered houses in the streets of Vannes
This is where the charm of Vannes lies! The half-timbered houses that dot the city's ancient streets and alleys are as colorful as they are authentic. Although many of them have been destroyed over the centuries, 170 remain, mainly in the Saint-Patern district, around the port and Place Saint-Henri IV.
Did you know? Half-timbered houses often have a top section that is wider than the base, because at the time, the floor area was the only taxable area.
You can also visit the heart of Vannes on a tourist train, learning about its history while admiring the beautiful architecture of yesteryear. Another option is to discover Vannes by bike , which you can book right here. Choose the number of bikes you need, collect them from the store and set off on your adventure!
3. Vannes and his wife: the must-see busts of the old town
At the junction of Rue Bienheureux-Pierre-René-Rogue and Rue Noé, stop by and say hello to"Vannes et sa femme". This couple, represented by granite sculptures inlaid in the facade of a 16th-century half-timbered house, is Vannes' unusual must-see. With their natural bonhomie, they have become a local icon. Their name comes from a local family, the Vennes, a name transformed into "Vannes" by oral tradition. A must-see for the curious and selfie-lovers!
4. Stroll through the Saint-Patern district
It's impossible to miss the pretty Saint-Patern district, the oldest in Vannes. Located on the site of the Roman city founded in 1ᵉʳ century BC, it is adorned with beautiful half-timbered houses, witnesses to its medieval past. Its streets with evocative names, such as Rue du Four or Rue de la Tannerie, recall the old local activities. Of course, a stroll through this district is also an opportunity to admire the Saint-Patern church, dedicated to the first bishop of Vannes. Your visit ends with the Prefecture, a magnificent 19th-century building surrounded by a superb park and a bas-relief honoring Breton history.
5. Discover La Cohue, the Vannes Museum of Fine Arts
If you're an art lover, La Cohue is the place to be! Works by artists such as Eugène Delacroix and Geneviève Asse are presented in exceptional exhibitions. The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Vannes exhibits works from the 19th and 20th centuries, to the delight of local art lovers, or those visiting Morbihan.
6. Visit Château Gaillard, Vannes' historic treasure trove
With its stone architecture and wood-clad interior, Château Gaillard is a marvel of the past. Artefacts unearthed in the region bear witness to the history of Morbihan from prehistoric times to the Palaeolithic and Roman eras. From the daily life of yesteryear to thematic collections, nothing is left to chance! As you move from room to room, you'll admire the superb interior of the château, once the seat of the 15th-century Parlement de Bretagne.
Currently closed for renovation, the Château Gaillard Museum of History and Archaeology has transferred its collections to La Cohue.
7. Admire the Hôtel de Limur, a haven of local architecture
TheHôtel de Limur is undoubtedly one of the architectural gems of the 17th century. Let your imagination run wild as you transport your mind to the elegance of the urban residences of the Grand Siècle. Marked by an eventful history, it has passed through the ages with flying colors, passing through various hands before being acquired by the City of Vannes in 1991. Classified as a Historic Monument in 1993, it has been carefully restored to its former glory. Today, it houses the Centre d'interprétation de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine (CIAP).
8. Crossing the Porte Saint-Vincent
As you stroll through the streets of Vannes, you're bound to come across another treasure from the past: the Porte Saint-Vincent. Made of granite ashlar, the three-storey gateway is richly decorated, notably with the town's coat of arms, and dates back to the 16th century, although architectural concerns later necessitated renovations. Located on Place Gambetta, it represents the entrance to the town from the port. Lovers of Instagrammable places, you've found a nugget "at the gates" of Vannes!
9. Visit Saint-Pierre Cathedral
Beautiful spires, exceptional architecture, magnificent stained-glass windows: there's no doubt about it, you're standing in front of the Cathedral Saint-Pierre, a listed historic monument! Dedicated to the leader of the apostles, its rich history dates back to the 10th century. Built on the remains of earlier churches, it has survived the centuries with Gothic, Renaissance and neo-Gothic additions. Pure splendor! Among its finest features, you can admire the 19th-century stained glass windows that illuminate the interior, as well as the Rotonde du Saint-Sacrement.
10. Stroll along the Vannes harbor
The port of Vannes has been a magnet for yachtsmen and fishermen since the 15th century. After years of remodeling and renovation, the harbor has expanded, creating a lively neighborhood. From Place Gambetta to the Promenade de la Rabine, take time to stroll along the harbor, admiring the boats at sunset. The 800-meter-long tree-lined Promenade is one of the best places for a relaxing stroll. Even the locals love it!
Smart tip: from the harbor, board a boat for an excursion to the Gulf Islands. A wonderful experience for the whole family or for a romantic weekend.
Discover the most popular things to do in Vannes:
11. Market in Vannes
Treat yourself to a bouquet, not of flowers, but of pleasures at the Vannes markets! Visit the Place des Lices and its adjacent streets on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. There, in the heart of the historic center, where jousts and other tournaments were once held, you'll discover a market as rich as it is lively. Place des Lices is also the place to stock up on fresh local produce at Les Halles de Vannes, open every day except Monday. As part of the Gulf of Morbihan tradition, seafood products are given pride of place, but that's not all!
Petit Futé tip
Discover Vannes and the surrounding area with the Trésors du Morbihan application. Accessible from the age of 7, its treasure hunts take little families on a discovery tour of the region. History, heritage, legends: your children will be sure to have a great time!
Where to stay in Vannes?
The area between Porte Saint-Vincent and the Saint-Patern district is the ideal place to put down your bags in Vannes. You'll have a central starting point for discovering the city's treasures.
The most original
Combine Western and Japanese charm at Villa Kerasy, a charming hotel nestled in a century-old building. With its private spa, yoga, massage, relaxation and Zen garden, it's hard not to let go in this haven of well-being A beautiful address offering excellent value for money, book here.
The best location
Located near the port and historic center of Vannes, the Golfe Hôtel Logis is a contemporary design establishment. Let yourself be charmed by its comfortable rooms, spa and breakfast for all, including options for vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free meals. Book this beautiful addresshere .
The best compromise
Comfortable rooms, quality meals, TV and WiFi are all at your disposal atEscale Océania, located in the heart of the city. Do you like entertainment, including nightlife? You've come to the right place! Click here to book this hotel.
Are you more tempted by the camping option? Discover the best campsites in Brittany for your getaway.
What to do in Vannes when it rains?
TheHôtel de Limur welcomes you to its Centre d'Interprétation de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine when it rains in Vannes. Over 2,000 years of architectural history await you! The Musée des Beaux-Arts and Château Gaillard offer other interesting outings for rainy days.
For leisure activities with family or friends, head forHôtel Évasion, an escape game on rue Saint-Tropez. You can also set your sights on the Jump Session trampoline park or Speed Park, with its bowling, laser game and go-kart tracks.
Boat trips on the Gulf are also available most of the time, if the rain isn't too heavy.
What to do in Vannes in the evening
After the day's sightseeing, it's time for evening entertainment! Restaurants, bars, theater or music, there's something for everyone.
Le Zygo Comédie
Welcome to the café-théâtre that revealed comedian Élodie Poux! At Le Zygo Comédie, you'll enjoy shows of all kinds. Shows change regularly, even in the children's section.
Villa Kirov
Come and party at La Villa Kirov, Vannes' must-visit nightclub ! From modern music to old-school tunes, you're sure to have a great night dancing.
The Master Factory
Bowling fans, welcome to the Master Factory! In addition to the lanes, you'll find billiards, a lively bar and the chance to try your hand at karaoke. Ready to sing along?
What's on around Vannes?
We can't recommend enough a visit to the 11 must-sees in Quiberon, a wild and beautiful corner of Brittany. While thalassotherapy is a possible activity in Quiberon, we advise you to concentrate on the coast. Its beauty will leave you speechless!
Another must-see on Brittany's southern coast: Carnac. If the rocky alignments have made this small Breton town famous, our 11 must-do's in Carnac will prove that there's plenty to do in the area.
From Vannes to the Rhuys peninsula, you'll find a lovely bike ride, before visiting this little piece of land in its own right. Around Vannes, you'll find some of the most beautiful walks in Brittany, so don't forget your hiking boots!
And if you're not far from the coast, take advantage of some of Brittany's most beautiful beaches. Even if the water is rather cool, it's the ideal place to recharge your batteries and admire the incredible views, bathed in a salty air.
Want to go further afield? Discover the 15 most beautiful villages in Brittany to round off your stay in style!
From Breton folklore to historical tours, Vannes is full of mystery and treasures, to discover on your own or on a guided tour. While it's great to visit the inner ramparts on vacation, it's also an ideal destination for retiring in pleasant surroundings. A Breton paradise between land and sea, the entire Golfe du Morbihan is a marvel to be discovered without moderation. Check out our top 11 of the prettiest spots in Morbihan, and you too will be won over! Last but not least, music lovers, don't miss the many Breton festivals that take place at different times of the year. Enjoy!
