Dating back more than 2,000 years, Vannes is a charming market town near the water. Its relaxed and enchanting ambience arises from its churches and timber-framed houses in the town centre and activities at the nearby ocean. Learn about the town’s intriguing past through its medieval gates and stunning cathedral.
Visit St. Peter’s Cathedral to admire its 15th-century Gothic design. Gaze up at the oldest part of the church, the Romanesque bell tower from the 1200s. Capture photos of the neo-Gothic façade before exploring the ornate interior. The crypt holds tombs of bishops. Vannes has several impressive churches, including the Baroque Chapel of Saint-Yves.
Some of the main attractions in the town are the medieval walls and gates dotted around it. See the Connétable Tower and the Hermine Castle. Walk through the Porte Calmont, Porte Prison, Porte Porterne and Porte Saint-Jean gates. Discover archeology from the region in the Château Gaillard Museum. Jousting tournaments were once held in the central Place des Lices, which now hosts an open-air market.
The harbour differentiates Vannes from Brittany’s other medieval villages. Amble through the trees of its large esplanade and admire the boats at bay. Take a boat trip along the coast to appreciate the picturesque region from the ocean. Bring kids to the Aquarium de Vannes to see all kinds of odd marine creatures.
French is the primary language, although some locals, known as Vannetais, speak the Breton dialect. The region’s green fields spring from the fairly wet weather year-round, with cold winters and pleasant summers.
Find this town in northwestern France in the region of Brittany between the major cities of Rennes, Nantes and Brest in the department of Morbihan. Take a flight to Nantes Atlantique Airport, followed by a train to the Gare de Vannes.
The ramparts and vestiges of Vannes will make you feel like you’re back in the Middle Ages.
