Home to a mast-filled port, shuttered ivory buildings and cobblestone laneways, Saint-Malo is a walled city that takes you back in time. Explore the ancient ramparts of the city, then enjoy the Saint-Malo’s boutique shops, water sports and cultural and sporting events.

Things to do

Stroll around the walled ramparts to get a bird’s-eye view of the city. Encircling the entire town, the ramparts reveal a 1.7-kilometre stretch of 12th-century remnants that protected it from pirates. From the walls you can soak up panoramic views of the Celtic Sea, Grand Be island and Fort National landmark.

Watch the waves roll in at the beach at Plage du Sillon, where three kilometres of fine sand reveal shallow rock pools. Take a summertime swim at Bon Secours beach, sitting at the foot of the ramparts, or admire the views of the Fort National at Eventail beach.

If you’re travelling with the kids, head to Le Grand Aquarium to admire a collection of sharks and fish from the oceans and seas around the world in 360-degree tanks. If you’d rather work on your golf swing, visit Saint-Malo golf to play its 27-hole course that sits on 100 hectares bordering the Mesnil forest.

Once owned by the Dukes of Brittany, Château de St Malo houses a museum that traces the history of the city since its founding. Browse the collection of fascinating exhibitions on its maritime history in addition to the model ships and paintings, then climb the lookout tower for stunning views of Saint-Malo.

Getting around

Saint-Malo is well-connected by a bus system and the city centre can be easily explored on foot. Dinard-Pleurtuit-Saint-Malo Airport is 13 kilometres from the city centre, with taxis available outside its terminals.