This medieval walled city in Brittany sits on the Gulf of Morbihan. Half-timbered houses line its narrow streets, while fishing boats fill its coastal harbor.
Vannes, a medieval town in France's Brittany region, lies behind 13th-century stone ramparts. Walk through its cobblestone streets to find timber houses painted in blues and yellows, or watch fishing boats unload their catch at the harbor. From the port, you can sail to any of the Gulf of Morbihan's 42 islands. With 64,000 residents, twice-weekly markets, and direct access to fresh seafood, Vannes works well as a base for exploring southern Brittany.
Walking the Medieval Ramparts
You can walk along the 13th-century walls that encircle the old city. Three main towers remain standing: Tour du Connétable, Tour Poudrière, and Tour Joliette. These fortifications became protected monuments in 1911. Next to the walls, you'll find the Jardin des Remparts with its geometric lawns and carefully shaped topiaries - an excellent spot to photograph the medieval defenses.
Exploring the Old Town Streets
Place Henri IV sits at the center of medieval Vannes, where 15th and 16th-century timber-framed houses display their blue, yellow, and red facades. More than 170 timber buildings line the surrounding streets, their upper floors extending over the walkways. Look for the carved figures on the corner of rue du Bienheureux-Pierre-René-Rogue, known to locals as "Mr and Mrs Vannes."
Markets and Local Food
Visit Places Lices on Tuesday and Saturday mornings to browse stalls of fresh produce, seafood, and regional specialties. Restaurants around Rue de La Fontaine serve Breton dishes made with fish and shellfish from the Gulf of Morbihan.
Discovering the Port Area
Walk along either side of the harbor that connects the walled city to the Gulf of Morbihan. You can take boat tours to explore the gulf's 42 islands. In spring, the Semaine du Golfe festival brings hundreds of sailing vessels to the harbor. Stop at one of the waterfront cafes or restaurants with views of the boats.
Museums and Cultural Buildings
See fine art from Delacroix to contemporary artists at La Cohue, housed in a 13th-century covered market building. Visit the 15th-century Château Gaillard to learn about local archaeology and town history. The Saint-Pierre Cathedral combines three architectural styles - Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance - all built in granite. Look inside to find painted wood paneling and the tomb of Saint Vincent Ferrer, the town's patron saint.
Getting Around Vannes
Take trains from Vannes railway station to Paris, Nantes, and Rennes. Two bus networks serve the area: Kicéo for local trips and CAT for regional travel. Rent a bike through the Vélocéo system to cycle around town and along the harbor. Small aircraft use the Vannes-Meucon airport in Monterblanc.
