About Rennes

Brittany’s beautiful historic capital, Rennes is characterised by its striking half-timbered houses, imposing Neoclassical buildings and abundance of green spaces. A delight for heritage buffs and culture aficionados, this is also a lively student city full of hip bars, eateries and nightlife spots. Whether you’re travelling as a family, partying with friends or looking to make the most of fabulous food and art on a couples’ weekend break, Rennes will be a sure-fire hit. With accommodation options ranging from charming B&Bs to trendy design hotels, our selection of the best places to stay Rennes promises something special for everyone.

The 17th-century Cathédrale Saint-Pierre dominates Rennes’ old town, and is a wonderful starting point for keen explorers. Take a guided tour to discover the remains of the medieval quarter — much of which was destroyed in the Great Rennes Fire of 1720 — or to admire the imposing Palaise du Parliament de Bretagne and the Art Nouveau-Art Deco fusion that is the Piscine Saint-Georges. Arts highlights include the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Musée de Bretagne. The futuristic Champs Libres is a vibrant cultural centre adjoining the Espace des Sciences — both are well worth visiting.

The superb Parc de Thabor is lovely for long walks, whilst the Ecomusée de la Bintinais allows a glimpse into historic farm life. Both are family-friendly. You'll also find the Breton countryside criss-crossed with hiking, cycling and horse riding trails. Finally, don't miss the Lices Market — the second-largest food market in France — which has been running every Saturday for almost 400 years. With many of the best places to stay in Rennes located just nearby, you’re all set to tuck into regional specialities aplenty!

The Best Places to Stay in Rennes

For a Charming B&B

  • Marnie & Mister H is a charming B&B in a half-timbered 16th century townhouse. Stay here for the historic location and the chic interiors. The four rooms are ideal for couples or independent travellers, whilst the self-catering apartment sleeps up to five guests. In-room breakfasts are served.
  • Castel Jolly offers inviting guestrooms in a late 19th-century mansion. Selected antiques, a smattering of books and fresh flowers create a warm, welcoming vibe, and the sunny garden is a lovely place to relax. A friendly B&B for couples, friends or families in central Rennes.

For a Design Hotel

  • Balthazar Hotel & Spa is a swish design-focused address in central Rennes. Pick this place for the luxurious feel, with slick guestrooms, a subterranean wellness centre, gourmet restaurant and inviting terrace. For well-heeled travellers and romantic couples.
  • Le Magic Hall blurs the line between music studio, events space and 19-room design hotel. Expect pared-back yet comfortable interiors, themed with musical, theatrical or cinematic paraphernalia, as well as welcoming workspaces and an onsite eatery. Meet artists in residence, improvise and get creative in the studio. A quirky spot for music and design lovers.

For a Rural Escape

  • Le Château D'Apigne sits within a 25-hectare park just outside Rennes. A gorgeous, ivy-clad château, the property has stately interiors with antique furnishings and impressive chandeliers. The gourmet restaurant, Les Tourelles, is superb. A charming country escape for walkers, cyclists, anglers or romantics.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Rennes Bretagne Airport and travel into the city by taxi or shuttle.
  • Brittany is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the spring or summer for the best weather, with temperatures peaking at around 21°C in July and August — though this is the busiest time of year in the city. For a quieter trip, consider visiting in May or September, although the weather will be cooler.

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The best hotels in Rennes

Le Magic Hall

Rennes

A unique guesthouse located in the heart of Rennes. Quirky rooms are light and contemporary with a touch of artistic flare. An in-house music studio and organic breakfast served at the large shared table bring opportunities for guests to mingle.

  • Local exploring - Well placed to expore Rennes and Brittany.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the majestic Rennes Cathedral.
  • Lively
  • Full of character
from AU$154 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Château D'Apigne

Rennes

Set in a 25-hectare park outside Rennes, this hotel offers stately accommodation in a classic, ivy-covered château. Inside find original details, from vaulted ceilings in the hallway to intricate corniches in the guestrooms. Be sure to dine at gourmet restaurant Les Tourelles. A charming stay.

  • Foodies - Spread across two dining rooms, the hotel restaurant offers gourmet cuisine that draws on local and international influences
  • Hideaway - Nestled within an expansive park outside of the city, choose this château for your next hideaway holiday
  • Country Escape - Set in verdant grounds in the countryside close to Rennes, book this hotel for an idyllic weekend break
  • Fishing - Head to the Étangs d'Apigné for a fishing trip, a charming lake located a short drive from this hotel
from AU$178 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Castel Jolly

Rennes (Saint-Hélier)

A late 19th-century mansion is the setting for this inviting B&B in the heart of Rennes. In the spacious and bright guestrooms hand-selected antiques, a smattering of books and fresh flowers create a home-away-from-home feeling. Relax in the pretty hotel garden after sightseeing; a true city oasis.

  • Families - Children are welcome at this hotel. Cots are available for free and suites can accommodate older children with an extra bed
  • Local exploring - Set within walking distance of many of Rennes' top attractions, book this hotel as a base for your local exploring
  • City Style - Set in a historic property in central Rennes, this hotel has lots of chic city style
  • Great walks - Discover the historic centre of Rennes on a long walk; start at the pretty Thabor Park, close to the hotel
from AU$204 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Marnie & Mister H

Rennes (Rennes City Centre)

This charming B&B occupies a 16th-century, half-timbered townhouse in the historic district of Rennes. In the living room, an original exposed stone chimney breast recalls the property's heritage, while upstairs in the guestrooms boutique wallpaper and plush linens make for a cosy and stylish stay.

  • City Style - Set in a heritage property in the heart of the city's historic centre, this B&B has reams of local Rennes charm
  • Romantic Break - With cosy, well-appointed suites and a handy central location, book this hotel for a romantic city break
  • Local exploring - Offering easy access to the city's main attractions, this hotel is a great base for local exploring
  • Great walks - Go for a stroll in the Parc du Thabor, an English-style landscaped public park situated close to this B&B
from AU$209 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Mama Shelter Rennes

Rennes (Brittany)

A modern hotel in the heart of Rennes. The chic, contemporary decor is a feast for the eyes, with vibrant colours and eclectic design. Guests can enjoy top-notch facilities including a spa, indoor pool, fitness centre, and multiple dining options with French and Italian cuisine. A memorable stay.

  • City Style - Nestled in Rennes' medieval heart, this vibrant boutique hotel boasts postmodern flair, a trendy rooftop bar, and communal vibes
  • Close to nightlife - Experience the vibrant nightlife at trendy bars and rooftop terraces, perfect for socialising and enjoying the city's atmosphere
  • Local exploring - Stroll through Rennes' medieval city centre, a charming area filled with historic architecture and picturesque streets
  • Total relaxation - Enjoy a relaxing spa day with a range of treatments, including a soothing indoor pool and rejuvenating massages
from AU$219 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Balthazar Hotel & Spa

Rennes (Rennes City Centre)

This 5-star design hotel occupies an elegant townhouse in the heart of Rennes. The individually styled guestrooms are spread across four floors and feature boutique wallpaper and homely linens in a pastel palette. A subterranean wellness centre and gourmet restaurant complete the luxury experience.

  • Romantic Break - With beautifully appointed suites, a sleek spa and romantic restaurant, book this hotel for your next couples' getaway
  • Foodies - Foodies flock to this hotel for restaurant La table de Balthazar, run by Michelin-starred chef Michel Rostang
  • City Style - Set in the heart of Rennes in a classic Breton-style building, this hotel has lots of local city charm
  • Sights nearby - Visit the nearby Cathedral Saint-Pierre de Rennes, designated as a local historical monument in 1906
from AU$282 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia