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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Brittany, France

Mont Saint-Michel

Approximately 55 km (34 miles) east of Saint-Malo, just across the regional border into Normandy. This iconic tidal island, crowned by a medieval abbey, is an UNESCO World Heritage site and a recognized landmark.

Travel options include organized bus tours from Saint-Malo (about 1 hour each way), public buses (less direct, via Pontorson), or driving (about 1 hour, parking on mainland with shuttles to the Mont).

Visit Details

  • Organized tours offer ease of transport and guided information.
  • Independent travel yields flexibility for pacing and exploration.
  • A full day is generally ideal for a comprehensive visit, including the abbey.
  • Consider Booking a day trip through GetYourGuide for convenience.

Beyond Saint-Malo

The Saint-Malo region holds both stunning natural beauty and rich cultural depths for exploration.

Coastal Charms

The "Emerald Coast" surrounding Saint-Malo holds protected natural areas, featuring numerous walking opportunities along its coastal paths (Sentier des Douaniers). These paths hold rugged beauty, diverse flora, and stunning sea views.

Explore the Coast

  • Parks and nature reserves along the coastal paths provide beautiful walking.
  • Scenic landscapes at Cap Fréhel, Dinard, and the Rance estuary present compelling views.
  • Smaller, quieter beaches and coves along the coastline await discovery.

Historical Depths

Discover the historical and cultural traditions of Brittany beyond Saint-Malo's city walls.

Historic Villages

  • Château de Combourg, a medieval castle, holds literary ties.
  • Dol de Bretagne, a historic town, features an impressive cathedral.
  • Rural villages and agricultural areas display local life away from the coast.

Multi-Day Exploration

Rennes

  • Brittany's capital city, accessible by train (40-50 minutes).
  • An overnight stay allows thorough exploration.
  • Dine at various city eateries.
  • Explore historical streets.

Côte de Granit Rose

  • Further west (2.5-3 hours drive), this stunning coastline.
  • It features unique pink rock formations.
  • An overnight stay allows exploration of Perros-Guirec and Ploumanac'h.
  • Capture scenic coastal views.

Getting Around

  • TrainsDirect high-speed trains (TGV) connect Saint-Malo to Paris.
  • Regional trains (TER) function for travel within Brittany to cities like Rennes, Quimper, and Vannes.
  • Rental CarA rental car is ideal for exploring rural areas or specific coastal routes.
  • A rental car suits visiting multiple, less connected sites.

Trip Planning

These destinations enhance your appreciation of France's rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Nearby Destinations

Dinan

A remarkably preserved medieval walled town with half-timbered houses.

Dinard

A pleasant resort town across the Rance estuary, accessible by ferry.

Cancale

Brittany's oyster capital, known for fresh oysters and seafood restaurants.

Cap Fréhel

This dramatic headland offers stunning cliffs and a lighthouse with panoramic views.

Coastal Views

  • Visit the iconic lighthouse for expansive vistas.
  • Explore rugged coastal paths suitable for walking.
  • Experience the refreshing sea breeze.

Fort La Latte

A magnificent medieval castle perched on a rocky headland, providing a picturesque scene.

Medieval Fortress

  • Discover the well-preserved historical architecture.
  • Capture striking photographs of the castle and sea.
  • Imagine life in a medieval fortress.

Travel Considerations

Organized ToursConvenience, transport handled, guided info included.
Independent TravelMaximum flexibility, custom itineraries, self-paced exploration.
Dinan TravelTrain journey: 20-30 minutes. Driving: 30 minutes.
Dinard TravelFerry: 10 minutes. Driving: 30 minutes.
Cancale TravelLocal bus: 30 minutes. Driving: 20 minutes.
Cap Fréhel TravelBest by car: about 1 hour drive.

Seamless Trips

  • Check tide times for island access to Fort National, Grand Bé, and Petit Bé.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for the ramparts and coastal paths.
  • Book tickets in advance for popular attractions, especially during peak season.
  • Consider a rental car for visiting remote coastal sites with limited public transport.
  • Consult local tourist information for festival dates.

Cultural Excursions

Explore the historical and cultural depth of Brittany beyond Saint-Malo's walls.

Historical Sites

Discover the region's rich past at various significant locations.

Beyond Saint-Malo

  • Château de Combourg, a medieval castle, holds literary ties.
  • Dol de Bretagne, a historic town, features an impressive cathedral.
  • Mont Dol offers panoramic views of the surroundings.

Rural & Pilgrimage

Journey into the Breton countryside and visit sacred sites.

Cultural Immersion

  • Drive through charming rural villages and agricultural landscapes.
  • Mont Saint-Michel is a significant pilgrimage site.
  • Witness daily life away from the coast.

Extended Itineraries

Consider adding 1-3 days to your journey for regional exploration.

Destinations

  • Rennes, Brittany's capital city, is easily accessible by train.
  • The Côte de Granit Rose, with unique pink rock formations, invites exploration.
  • Normandy's D-Day Beaches offer a poignant historical experience.

Logical Next Stops

Connect your Saint-Malo visit to broader French adventures.

Connecting Journeys

  • Paris is easily accessible by direct TGV train from Saint-Malo.
  • Explore other diverse cities within Brittany like Quimper or Vannes.
  • Head south to explore the famous châteaux of the Loire Valley.

Transportation Details

Efficient connections link Saint-Malo to various destinations.

High-Speed Trains

Direct TGV trains link Saint-Malo to Paris, providing fast travel.

Regional Rail

Regional trains (TER) function for efficient travel within Brittany.

Car Rentals

A rental car is optimal for exploring rural areas and specific coastal routes.

Journey Forward

Plan your onward journey with these considerations for a fulfilling French exploration.
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