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Day Trips from St Malo

Day Trips from St Malo

St Malo Brittany, France Travel Guide

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 (around 1 hour each way), public buses (more indirect, via Pontorson), or driving (approximately 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 by 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, peaceful shores 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 presents unique pink rock formations.
  • An overnight stay allows exploration of Perros-Guirec and Ploumanac'h.
  • Capture picturesque coastal views.

Getting Around

  • TrainsDirect high-speed trains (TGV) connect Saint-Malo to Paris.
  • Countryside 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 a town with resorts across the Rance estuary, you can get there 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 lighthoutilize for expansive vistas.
  • Explore rugged coastal paths fine for pedestrian use.
  • Experience the refreshing sea breeze.

Fort La Latte

A grand 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-era 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 A drive of one hour.

Seamless Trips

  • Check tide times for island the ability to reach 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-era 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 an important 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'the nation'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 The french capital, 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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