Transportation Arriving & Exploring: St Malo

Reaching Saint-Malo

By Air & Train

While Saint-Malo has a small airport, most international visitors arrive via larger hubs like Paris and connect by train.

Flight & Rail Options

Closest major airport: Rennes (RNS).
High-speed TGV trains connect Paris Montparnasse to Saint-Malo in ~3 hours.
Find flight deals with Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

By Ferry

Saint-Malo is a major ferry port for crossings from the UK, offering a direct way to arrive with your vehicle.

Ferry Routes

Daily services operate from Portsmouth (UK) to Saint-Malo.
Convenient for bringing your own car.
Book well in advance, especially for peak season.

Arrival at Train Station

The Saint-Malo train station (Gare de Saint-Malo) is a 15-20 minute walk from Intra-Muros, or a short taxi ride.

Taxis from Station

Taxis are available outside the station, a quick way to reach your accommodation, especially with luggage.

Local Bus Connection

Local bus services connect the station to various parts of the city.

Car Rental Considerations

Renting a Car

Car rental agencies are available at Rennes airport and in Saint-Malo.
A car offers flexibility for exploring Brittany's coastal villages and countryside.
Compare options at DiscoverCars.com.
Factor in fuel costs and tolls on major highways.

Parking in Saint-Malo

Parking within Intra-Muros is limited and costly; external car parks are plentiful.
Look for "Parking Paul Féval" outside the walls with shuttle service.
Many hotels outside Intra-Muros offer parking.

Navigating the Historic City

Walking is Best

Intra-Muros is pedestrian-friendly, ideal for walking the ramparts and exploring narrow streets.

Public Bus System

STAR buses connect Intra-Muros to Paramé, Saint-Servan, and other city areas.

Boat & Ferry Services

Regular ferries cross to Dinard, offering scenic views and easy access to the opposite shore.

Day Trips & Regional Exploration

Nearby Towns

Saint-Malo's location makes it a perfect launchpad for discovering other gems in Brittany and Normandy.

Destinations

Dinan: Medieval walled town with stunning architecture.
Dinard: Elegant seaside resort across the Rance estuary.
Cancale: Famous for its oyster beds and fresh seafood.

Iconic Mont Saint-Michel

Just a short drive or bus trip away, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see marvel.

Visiting the Mount

Home to a stunning medieval abbey.
Accessible by direct bus from Saint-Malo or car.
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.

Coastal Exploration

Explore the unique coastal features and islands surrounding Saint-Malo.

Coastal Gems

Grand Bé & Petit Bé: Tidal islands accessible at low tide.
Fort National: Historic fort with guided tours at low tide.
Rance Estuary: Discover the tidal power station and charming riverside villages.

Organized Tours

Various tour operators offer guided excursions from Saint-Malo to nearby attractions, including Mont Saint-Michel, Dinan, and the D-Day beaches.

Tour Benefits

Convenient transport and structured itineraries.
Insightful commentary from local guides.
Social opportunities with other travelers.

Driving & Parking Alert

Parking inside Intra-Muros is extremely limited and expensive.
Narrow, one-way streets within the old city can be challenging for drivers.
Consider parking in designated areas outside the walls.

Be mindful of rush hour traffic when arriving or departing.
Ensure your rental car insurance covers driving in France.

General Transportation Tips

Public Transport Efficiency

Saint-Malo's public bus system is reliable for reaching various neighborhoods and attractions outside Intra-Muros.

Bus Travel Advice

Purchase tickets directly from the driver or at a tabac.
Check bus routes and schedules via the STAR network website or app.
Consider a multi-day pass if planning extensive bus use.

Ferry & Boat Rides

Local boat services offer a pleasant way to see the coast and connect to nearby towns like Dinard.

Water Transport Tips

Regular passenger ferries run between Saint-Malo and Dinard.
Offers great photo opportunities of the Saint-Malo skyline.
Check schedules, as frequency varies by season and tide.

Embrace Walking

The most rewarding way to experience Intra-Muros. Wear comfortable shoes.

Cycling Around

Bike rentals are available, suitable for coastal paths and exploring outside the walls.

Offline Maps

Download offline maps for navigation, useful for areas with spotty reception.

Navigational Tip

Consider purchasing a city map or using a reliable navigation app. GPS can be helpful in the winding streets of Intra-Muros.

Transportation Arriving & Exploring