· FR

Quimper

Quimper, Bretagne, France

Discover Quimper: Where Breton Charm Meets French Elegance Nestled in the heart of Brittany, where the Odet and Steir rivers converge, lies Quimper (pronounced "kam-pair"), a city that effortlessly blends medieval charm …

#Quaint#Historic#Breton culture#Cathedral#Pottery
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Quimper.

Top Hotels in Quimper

Top Flights to Quimper

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Quimper.

Tours

Quimper Cathedral Tour

Explore the stunning Saint-Corentin Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with beautiful stained glass windows.

Locmaria Quarter Walking Tour

Discover the charming Locmaria quarter, with its medieval buildings, pottery shops, and scenic riverside views.

Shopping

Quimper Covered Market Shopping

Visit the Quimper Covered Market to explore local Breton produce, cheese, and craft items.

Outdoor

Odet River Kayaking

Enjoy a peaceful kayaking tour along the scenic Odet River, surrounded by lush Breton landscapes.

Bénodet Beach Day

Spend a day at Bénodet Beach, a beautiful sandy beach ideal for sunbathing and swimming.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Quimper.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Quimper, Bretagne, France is around 63,000.
Languages
French, Breton
Average weather
Quimper
Jan
rain
9°3°
Feb
rain
10°3°
Mar
rain
12°4°
Apr
cloud
14°6°
May
cloud
17°9°
Jun
cloud
20°12°
Jul
sun
22°14°
Aug
sun
22°14°
Sep
cloud
20°12°
Oct
rain
16°9°
Nov
rain
12°6°
Dec
rain
10°4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Quimper.

What people love

Traveling to Quimper in Brittany, France, offers a variety of attractions and experiences that make it a worthwhile destination. Here are some of the pros of visiting Quimper:

  1. Rich Cultural Heritage: Quimper is renowned for its historical architecture and cultural significance. The town is particularly famous for its beautiful old town, which features charming medieval streets and well-preserved half-timbered houses.

  2. Stunning Architecture: The Saint-Corentin Cathedral is a must-see. This Gothic cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in Brittany and is noted for its impressive stained glass windows and distinctive spires.

  3. Art and Museums: Quimper is home to several museums, including the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses an impressive collection of European paintings, and the Musée de la Faïence, which showcases the town’s renowned pottery and ceramic history.

  4. Cultural Festivals: The town hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Festival de Cornouaille, which celebrates Breton culture with traditional music, dance, and costumes.

  5. Gastronomy: Quimper offers a taste of authentic Breton cuisine. Visitors can enjoy local specialties such as crepes, galettes, and cider, along with fresh seafood from the nearby coast.

  6. Scenic Beauty: The surrounding region of Brittany is known for its natural beauty, with rugged coastlines, picturesque countryside, and charming villages. Quimper serves as a great base for exploring these areas.

  7. Friendly Atmosphere: The town has a welcoming and relaxed vibe, with friendly locals and a slower pace of life that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture.

  8. Accessibility: Quimper is well-connected by train and road, making it easy to reach from other parts of France. It’s also close to other popular destinations in Brittany, such as Concarneau and Pont-Aven.

  9. Shopping and Local Crafts: Visitors can explore local markets and shops that offer a range of unique Breton products, including the famous Quimper faience pottery.

Overall, Quimper offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for travelers interested in exploring the rich heritage of Brittany.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Quimper, located in Bretagne, France, could include:

  1. Limited transportation options: Quimper is not a major transportation hub, so getting to and from the city may require multiple transfers or longer travel times.

  2. Weather: Bretagne is known for its unpredictable weather, with frequent rain and cooler temperatures, which may not be ideal for some travelers.

  3. Language barrier: While many people in Quimper may speak English, French is the primary language spoken, so communication could be a challenge for non-French speakers.

  4. Limited nightlife: Quimper is a smaller city, so the nightlife options may be more limited compared to larger cities in France.

  5. Seasonal crowds: Quimper can be popular with tourists during certain times of the year, which may lead to crowded attractions and higher prices.

Please note that these are general potential cons and may vary based on individual preferences and experiences.

Quimper is a city located in the Brittany region of northwestern France, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and picturesque setting. Here’s an overview of its history, significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Historical Overview

Ancient and Medieval Periods:

  • Origins: Quimper, originally named Civitas Aquilonia, traces its origins to a settlement by the Celtic tribe known as the Osismii. The city's name is derived from the Breton word "Kemper," meaning "confluence," as it is situated at the confluence of the Steir, Odet, and Jet rivers.
  • Roman Era: During the Roman conquest of Gaul, the area became known as Aquilonis Civitas. Little remains from the Roman period, but the region was significant for its strategic location and resources.
  • Early Christianity: Quimper became an important center for Christianity early on. The city is traditionally associated with Saint Corentin, one of the seven founding saints of Brittany, who is said to have been its first bishop in the 5th century.

Middle Ages:

  • Ducal Period: In the Middle Ages, Quimper was a part of the Duchy of Brittany. It became an episcopal see and was a center for ecclesiastical power. The construction of the Quimper Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Corentin, began in the 13th century and is a significant example of Gothic architecture.
  • Breton War of Succession (1341–1364): Quimper played a role in this conflict over the ducal succession in Brittany, which was part of the larger Hundred Years' War between France and England.

Renaissance and Modern Periods:

  • 16th to 18th Centuries: The city developed as a regional administrative and commercial center. This era saw the expansion of its trade, particularly in textiles and pottery, with the establishment of faience pottery in the 17th century, which remains a notable craft.
  • French Revolution: During the French Revolution, Quimper, like many other places, underwent significant social and political changes. It became the capital of the newly created Finistère department.

Significant Events and Historical Figures

  • Saint Corentin: The city's patron saint and first bishop, his legacy is integral to Quimper's religious history.
  • Breton Culture: Throughout its history, Quimper has been a bastion of Breton language and culture. It hosted several Breton cultural movements and festivals, preserving and promoting regional identity.

Important Landmarks

  • Quimper Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Corentin): This stunning Gothic cathedral is a central landmark, known for its twin spires and beautiful stained-glass windows.
  • Old Town (Vieux Quimper): Characterized by its medieval and Renaissance architecture, with half-timbered houses and winding streets.
  • Musée des Beaux-Arts: A major art museum housing a collection of European paintings from the 14th to the 21st centuries.
  • Musée de la Faïence de Quimper: A museum dedicated to the history and art of Quimper faience pottery.
  • Locmaria Quarter: Known for its historical abbey and the birthplace of Quimper's pottery tradition.

Quimper's history is rich with cultural heritage and historical significance, making it a fascinating city within Brittany and France as a whole.