Vannes

Vannes is a walled town in the Brittany region of northwest France. Its old town is characterized by narrow cobbled streets and medieval gates. At its heart, Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Vannes blends Romanesque and Gothic styles, while Place des Lices square is lined with colorful half-timber houses. The harbor, to the south, features restaurants and boats that cruise the Gulf of Morbihan.
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5-Day Vannes Itinerary
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Top things to do in Vannes
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Top places to visit

4.4
(558)
4.0
(1)
Mentioned on 
Castle
Château de l'Hermine is a historic site in Vannes, Brittany, with roots dating back to the 1300s. Initially built as a residence for the dukes of Brittany, it eventually fell into disrepair and was repurposed over the centuries. Today, it stands as a grand classical building along the rampart gardens. The chateau has housed various institutions throughout its history and is currently undergoing transformation into a modern space that will host the Museum of Fine Arts.
Beautiful, nicely presented
Andranik P — Google review
Beautiful place to take photos
Gill D — Google review
View from ramparts, well kept gardens
Diana P — Google review
Very nice place.
Rokas D — Google review
wonderful gardens and nice view of it
O'bon P — Google review
Gorgeous park in historic centre
Brian R — Google review
Top
Gildas B — Google review
Magnificent. But closed.
Henry T — Google review
4.5
(89)
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Historical landmark
Place Henri IV is a charming public square located within the city walls on the Mene hill in Vannes. It offers a picturesque setting with half-timbered buildings and a view of the Cathedral spire in the background. Originally named Men-Guevr, it was renamed Mallievre in the 18th century and later changed to its current name during the revolution.
Historic place very impressive
Andranik P — Google review
Half-timbered buildings are very picturesque. Casually romantic for a couple. But, I my kids would have enjoyed the place too. As a visitor, it looks like the old Northern France of movies. The area has many restaurants and little shops. There are many more in the surrounding streets and Plazas. The locals are friendly. This is a very nice relaxing place to visit. Casual but delicious dining throughout the area with excellent ciders, wines, cheeses, crepes, galletes, and fresh local produce. This is close to the Gothic St. Peter's basicilica and old ramparts. In the summer, there is a good live jazz festival.
Marcus J — Google review
It is a nice quartier with classic architectural buildings, but it can be too crowded to take a decent photo. Not much to do anyway.
Estelita T — Google review
Traditional old build house
Aris P — Google review
(Translated by Google) Very beautiful little square with gabled and half-timbered houses from the 16th century. (Original) Très belle petite place avec des maisons à pignons et pans de bois du XVIème siècle.
Brigitte H — Google review
(Translated by Google) Beautiful square with half-timbered houses which color the town center of Vannes, the oldest dating from the 15th century. Quite a few nice bars in this area. A beautiful walk in the center surrounded by ramparts. I recommend strolling around this area around this square. Don't miss the nearby cathedral either. (Original) Belle place avec des maisons à pans de bois qui colorent le centre-ville de Vannes les plus anciennes datent du 15ème siècle. Pas mal de bars sympa dans ce quartier. Une belle ballade dans le centre entouré de remparts. Je recommande de flâner dans ce quartier autour de cette place. Ne pas manquer non plus la cathédrale toute proche.
Albert A — Google review
(Translated by Google) Place Henri IV is like a stage set, where the half-timbered houses have played the same, yet never boring, role for centuries: charming. The colorful facades lean toward each other, as if secretly chatting with the tourists sipping coffee and photographing croissants on the cobblestones below. Here, the Middle Ages meet the smell of crêpes, and even the square's namesake – King Henri IV – would probably rather sit outside than engage in politics. Fun fact: Many of the houses date back to the 15th and 16th centuries, making them the oldest permanent residents of Vannes. ❤️ (Original) Der Place Henri IV ist wie eine Bühne, auf der die Fachwerkhäuser seit Jahrhunderten dieselbe, aber nie langweilige Rolle spielen: charmant aussehen. Die bunten Fassaden lehnen sich zueinander, als würden sie sich heimlich über die Touristen unterhalten, die unten auf Kopfsteinpflaster Kaffee trinken und Croissants fotografieren. Hier trifft Mittelalter auf Crêpe-Geruch, und selbst der Namensgeber – König Henri IV – würde wohl lieber draußen sitzen, als Politik zu machen. Fun Fact: Viele der Häuser stammen aus dem 15. und 16. Jahrhundert, was sie zu den ältesten „Dauerbewohnern“ von Vannes macht. ❤️
Ernesto M — Google review
(Translated by Google) Exotic, admirable architecture. Get lost in the alleys and take the time to look above your head to admire its many curiosities. (Original) Dépaysant, architecture admirable. Se perdre dans les ruelles et prend ele temps de regarder au dessus de sa tête pour admirer se nombreuses curiosités.
Laurent L — Google review
4 Pl. Henri IV, 56000 Vannes, FranceTips and more reviews for Place Henri-IV
4.4
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4.3
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Cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
The Cathédrale Saint-Pierre in Vannes is a remarkable Gothic cathedral with a Romanesque tower and a neo-Gothic facade. It stands on the remains of an ancient Romanesque cathedral and is actually a basilica, housing the relics of Saint Vincent Ferrier since 1419. The cathedral is a pilgrimage site on the Tro Breizh route, honoring the Seven Founding Saints of Brittany during the Middle Ages.
Sweet small cathedral in centre ville Vannes. Great tapestry around the tomb of St Vincent Ferrier and several beautiful stained glass windows of Jeanne d’Arc. Gorgeous pipe organ as well, would love to hear it played one day. Worth a visit if you’re in the area
Ben D — Google review
Beautiful old cathedrale! Part of it is under construction, close to the public, but most part of the cathedrale is available to be seen.
Carmen S — Google review
A lovely little cathedral with a very long history. A lot of work is being put into restoration and it is clearly a living parish church. There are helpful signs posted indicating useful and interesting facts, often in multiple languages. I enjoyed my visit.
Anne E — Google review
A very nice Cathedral in the middle of the beautiful Vannes. A nice quick visit will suffice.
Dr C — Google review
It feels that a lot of a efforts has been put into that cathedral, and it's still the case today (free guided visit, a lot of information/boards) It was sad that there was no holy water left. (Even with the special covid holy water dispenser) Besides that it wasn't a special looking cathedral. Nice temperature and calm inside.
Alexandre D — Google review
Wonderful town 15 min bike ride from Aire Camping carpark
Yvonne A — Google review
Beautiful little cathedral hidden away in the city centre holding the precious relics of the Fourth Angel of the Apocalypse - St Vincent Ferrer. A lot of footfall which can make prayer difficult but good to see so many people inside a church. Information on large posters is also in English so very helpful to follow along. Lots of renovation going on so a lot is not on display which is a shame if you've come from far away. The house where St Vincent lived is above a tourist souvenir shop just around the corner. But was closed by 2pm so we couldn't visit assuming visiting is even possible. The house is quite badly signposted and no info online which makes it a terrible loss for pilgrims. All in all worth a visit - St Vincent Ferrer welcomes you.
G J — Google review
The architecture is quite breathtaking considering its q3th century. Very little time used except on the great organ. The marble used for the statues must be worth a small fortune these days. Very serine place & remarkable cool temperature wise. Visit on a Sunday.
Jaimie H — Google review
4.3
(302)
3.5
(87)
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Museum
Art Museums
La Cohue - Musée des Beaux Arts de Vannes is a medieval hall that now serves as a museum of fine arts. It houses a collection of engravings and works by local artists. The building has a rich history, having been used as a marketplace, the Duke's courtrooms, and even the Breton Parliament in the late 17th century. The museum offers a generous exhibition space with ancient arches and an incredible atmosphere.
A small but interesting art museum/ gallery. Lots to absorb in a beautiful building with english translations available. Only open afternoons. Reasonable entry price. One toilet inside.
Louise H — Google review
Interesting museum with two temporary exhibions (one is free) and a permanent gallery on two floors. It is located in the middle of the old town, nice building but parking nearby is difficult.
GentilDanseur G — Google review
France is a beautiful place, especially Vannes, glad we were there for Bastille day. Xxx
Debbie S — Google review
Startling women portrait (it's necessary to have a camera). Amazing steel artworks, touch the sculture! Is'nt wood or leather!
Stéphane L — Google review
Nice museum, not too large and very interesting old building.
Denis C — Google review
Superb exhibitions on two floors, plus the entrance area.
Paulene B — Google review
Fabulous space for appreciating art. Especially liked the area dedicated to Geneviève Asse.
Rene W — Google review
Great gallery. 💙🤍❤️
Matt P — Google review
4.5
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4.4
(62)
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Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Porte Saint Vincent is a stone city gate that was originally built in 1620 and later redesigned in a baroque style, featuring columns and niches. It serves as a majestic entrance into the walled city from the port of Vannes. The area surrounding Porte Saint Vincent offers lively bars and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for people-watching and enjoying the bustling atmosphere.
Excellent way to pass through the city walls. 100% recommend to anyone wishing to go from one side of the wall to the other (and vice versa)
Ben D — Google review
I love Bretage especially Summer makes this city stunning and lovely. Don't miss this historical place. You'll fall in love.
MALGEUM K — Google review
Lovely place to wander, eat, drink coffee. In September ot was lively but not too crowded.
Annabel K — Google review
This place is worth visiting when you are in Bretagne. It is a lovely old town with delicious food and beautiful people. You can enjoy it during the day as well as in the evening. I loved it. There is a nice playground for kids too.
Nath L — Google review
Beautiful restaurant beside the port in Vannes, France. Staff very efficient and food A1. Moules were freshest ever. Reasonable priced. We've been before and will return.
Liam D — Google review
Vannes is a beautiful old walled town and was a major port in the days of sail. Today it exists largely on tourism from both French and foreign tourists. It has a tgriving Saturday market which is large and well attended. What is strange is the city's recent decision to introduce parking charges over all areas anywhere near the old town and the market. This will surely be a disincentive to visit as a tourist or to visit the market.
Robert P — Google review
A grand entrance to Vannes
Herbert L — Google review
This entrance is cool and meeting place for students -very much alive
Andranik P — Google review
Pl. Gambetta, 56000 Vannes, FranceTips and more reviews for Porte Saint Vincent

Top places to eat

4.6
(391)
4.5
(489)
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Permanently Closed
affordable
Haute French restaurant
Bistro
Nestled on the outskirts of Vannes, Restaurant La Gourmandiere is a culinary gem that beautifully marries rustic charm with modern elegance. Housed in a 19th-century farmhouse, this Michelin-starred establishment showcases seasonal cuisine that highlights local flavors. The inviting interior features charming stone walls paired with contemporary furnishings, creating an atmosphere that's both cozy and sophisticated. With a menu that evolves every few weeks, diners can indulge in new and exciting dishes crafted from fresh ingredients sourced directly from nearby producers.
Had the menu of the day here for lunch (26 euros). Highly recommend it. Fish was perfectly cooked and has nice complimentary sauce and veggies that balanced perfectly. First plate and dessert delicious as well. Great value for quality. Will come back to try their extensive menus, which are more expensive but it looks worth it.
Gabriela B — Google review
It was so good, it's hard to put into words! Food was exquisite, service exceptional. Highly recommended
Amy R — Google review
Lovely dining experience. Excellent service. Delicious food in a quiet setting.
Lauren R — Google review
Excellent and tasty food. Classics revisited. Friendly staff. Relatively fast service for a gastronomic restaurant.
Matthieu J — Google review
Ok
Trevor G — Google review
excellent
Mélanie T — Google review
Perfect
Grégory G — Google review
Excellent 👌
Josiane G — Google review
4.9
(262)
5.0
(142)
Mentioned on 
Restaurant
French restaurant
Empreinte is a charming rustic-chic restaurant located on Place Valencia in the city center of Morbihan. The interior exudes warmth with its untreated wooden floorboards, fabrics, and vintage porcelain. Run by Marine and Baptiste Fournier, the restaurant offers upscale seafood and meat dishes as well as set menus. The couple takes pride in serving polished cuisine featuring fish from the market and vegetables from local farmers.
Wonderful experience. Food was absolutely delicious and service is as good as you can ask for. Food was so great that I only took a couple pictures. Come here if you want to experience local gastronomy with a human touch and tremendous quality. Will be back for sure.
Ignacio S — Google review
A lovely welcoming small restaurant in the heart of Vannes. We found it on Google map and was attracted by others’ reviews. Owned by a couple, the service is great. The atmosphere is relaxing. Plus sophisticated dishes prepared by the chef. I would love to spend the whole afternoon there and enjoying the medieval architecture view from the restaurant window.
Suz L — Google review
Wonderful experience ! The chef cooks high quality dishes with very good « terroir » ingredients. The cuisine is a good balance between vegetal and see food. We spent a lovely diner !
Charlotte M — Google review
We have food allergies and the chef adapted with kindness and creativity. In the old town, a hidden gem with the kitchen close to the entrance and the ability to thank the chef directly. A few tables upstairs so do call ahead to book and enjoy.
Cath P — Google review
Excellent restaurant referred by the Michelin guide
RA P — Google review
Excellent
Vincent C — Google review
I've been a few times and it has always been a plendid experience! The food is perfectly cooked, local & healthy. The wine is always perfectly chosen according to the meals. Highly recommended !
Baptiste L — Google review
Tiny restaurant that is full of character. We came as a group of four and dietary requirements, as well as preferences, we’re taken into account enabling us all to enjoy our meals and savour the delicious flavours. I recommend anyone visiting or living in Vanne to visit.
S W — Google review
4.6
(339)
4.5
(213)
Mentioned on 
Permanently Closed
Restaurant
Brunch restaurant
If you find yourself yearning for a delightful chocolate experience, make sure to add L'EntreChoc to your culinary itinerary. Nestled in the charming historic district, this cozy eatery is a haven for sweet and savory lovers alike. With a menu that changes weekly to showcase organic, local, and seasonal ingredients, there's always something new to savor. Whether you're vegan or gluten-free, you'll discover delicious options crafted with care.
Best Brittany local brunch that I have ever! Great taste, good price, nice quality, healthy choice… Will come back one day soon!
May G — Google review
Cosy coffee shop with fresh homemade food and bakery, staff is very nice . Coffee, hot chocolate, latte are delicious Oat milk also available
Lora K — Google review
Perfect place for vegans Some delicious vegan options. Prices are ok, and service is good. I definitely recommend this place. Desserts are specially good.
Amy R — Google review
Ask for hot chocolate - it's great. Have stopped in twice for between meal hot drinks, and given the lunch plates I've seen come from the kitchen I'll be back for a full meal tomorrow. Watch your step coming in and out!
Mark A — Google review
Excellent vegan meal, one of best we've ever had. All 3 courses were perfect
Andy J — Google review
Extremely good hot chocolate and molleaux au chocolat (gluten free!) The welcome was also extremely warm and the atmosphere lovely.
Jade D — Google review
Delicious + healthy food, lots of hot drinks, cute decor, no music.
Kayla - — Google review
A lovely place and if you discuss with the staff they will really help you to enjoy the city in a different way !
Lisa M — Google review
3 Rue Saint-Guenhaël, 56000 Vannes, France+33 9 50 66 93 95Tips and more reviews for L'EntreChoc
4.2
(2429)
3.0
(130)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Pub
Awen Brew Pub is the perfect destination for beer aficionados in the Morbihan region! Situated on the water's edge between the Aquarium and Kasino, this friendly establishment has a passionate team that will happily share their knowledge of artisanal brewhouses with you. In addition to delicious beers, Awen offers mouth-watering home-cooked fare made using only the finest ingredients.
Lovely place to eat a drink with great service. The beef burger was excellent, probably the best I've ever had. And they did a great beer tasting board as pictured. And everything was reasonably priced. Thanks.
Ian T — Google review
Server was kind and made a small talk but they didn’t come often, after 15 minutes you still had to make a sign yourself that you’d like a drink. The atmosphere was pretty good. Many place for people outside and the tables had a perfect spacing in between. The drinks (and self brew beers) and “Fingerfoods” were good. However the main course was pretty bad. The fish from the fish and chips were alright but the fries were awful. Almost completely black and like they were fried in a year old oil. The pulled pork from the pulled pork burger tasted and looked like it was straight from a package and mushed together. Conclusion: Nice place with a good atmosphere and kind servers to have a drink. However, I don’t recommend visiting for dinner.
Floris — Google review
Nice brewpub offering a large choice of beers on tap, including homemade ones. The staff is friendly and welcoming. A large terrace is available, while games and sports on TV can be found indoors. The pub is modern and clean. Free parking available nearby.
Margot — Google review
Cool place to drink some beers. I tried few beers and they all were very good 🍻. The food was also good. We recommend the Awen brewery when you're in Vannes.
Melody F — Google review
The burgers were amazing, some of the best I've had. Fresh buns, amazing fillings and fabulous chips. Kids menu was good value. They enjoyed their fish and chips.
Catherine S — Google review
Stopped here for an hour while waiting for a ferry. The amber beer was delicious and the staff very friendly and welcoming. If I lived in Vannes, I'd be here often!
James — Google review
Very sympatic Spanish inspirered pub. Very friendly international service and both the terasse and the overwhelming space inside invited for events. Their beer cocktails are genießen so are their small dishes.
Olaf C — Google review
Nice brewery with good food and perfect staff!
Alexander L — Google review
4.9
(1723)
5.0
(781)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Haute French restaurant
French restaurant
Restaurant La Tête en l'air, located in Vannes, is run by a young couple, Clement Raby and Estelle Mercier. Their 'cuisine libre' or free cooking has gained attention for its creative and original dishes with perfect flavor combinations. The blind menus add an element of surprise as dishes are only revealed after tasting, allowing guests to fully engage their senses. The restaurant has received accolades from the Michelin guide for its mastery of cuisine.
One of the best meals ever . Very creative , subtle and surprising associations. Excellent service and detailed explanations about the dishes and the wines. Absolutely perfect!
Françoise R — Google review
We had the Mizuna menu at lunch. Everything was delicious. The flavours, textures, attention to detail in the preparation of the ingredients contribute to making each dish outstanding. We have been to Michelin star restaurants in North America, Belgium & France and this one is one of the best 1 star restaurants we've been to. The service was excellent and the overall experience was superb. Loved it!
Claire Y — Google review
This was a beautiful experience, and so fun to guess what you were tasting with each bite! The 9-course at lunch was indulgent but well-priced. An unforgettable meal!
Agnes G — Google review
Spectacular food without being overly 'clever'. It all worked superbly. We have the 5 course tasing menu and loved absolutely everything. Great relaxed atmosphere, with pleasantly engaging staff who all spoke good English. Been to several higher Michelin rated restaurants that were not as good, and twice the price.
Steve B — Google review
The four of us enjoyed exploring the unknown -- in the sense that one did not know what was in the courses until after enjoying them. The food was inventive without losing touch with the ingredients. Service was impeccable, and dinner moved at a nice pace.
Ah V — Google review
Amazing experience for our family, including our young children aged 10 and 8 years, who enjoyed guessing the ingredients. Each dish was a delightful surprise-so beautifully presented. Amazing experience from a professional, friendly and informative hosts who had superb English! Thank you to the brilliant chef and his wonderful team!
K&P R — Google review
Absolutely amazing! Would highly recommend the pork was immense and the staff were incredibly friendly!
Phoebe G — Google review
A wonderful restaurant with a beautiful, modern but cozy atmosphere. Many thanks to the chef and his team! The food was absolut fantastic with nothing to criticise. The chosen six course surprise menu was a great choice and it was really fun trying to discover the ingredients and learning about the actual making afterwards. For the first time I had an idea how the famous German „Kitchen Impossible“ TV show feels like for the competitors 😊. The service team did a great job as well. Only one recommendation left (depending on the demands of the other ‚typical’ customers of the restaurant): in addition to the existing variety of mocktails some further drink alternatives for those who don’t consume alcohol would be appreciated (bubble tea or fermented drinks etc.). We are looking forward to our next visit when we will be back in Brittany.
Thomas K — Google review

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