· FR

Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo, Bretagne, France

Step Back in Time in Saint-Malo: Where History Meets the Sea Perched dramatically on Brittany's Emerald Coast, Saint-Malo is a captivating fortress city that blends a rich history with a vibrant present. Surrounded by fo…

#historic city#coastal town#fortified walls#beaches#Breton culture

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Saint-Malo.

Top Hotels in Saint-Malo

Top Flights to Saint-Malo

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Saint-Malo.

Tours

Explore the Ramparts

Walk along the ancient city walls of Saint-Malo for stunning views of the sea and city.

Visit the Grand Aquarium

Discover the fascinating underwater world at the Grand Aquarium of Saint-Malo.

Discover the Fort National

Visit the historic fort located on a tidal island, offering insights into the region's history.

Shopping

Shopping at Intra-Muros

Enjoy shopping in the historic walled city center with a mix of boutiques and specialty shops.

Explore Dinard's Market

Take a ferry to nearby Dinard and explore its vibrant local market.

Outdoor

Boat Tour to Mont-Saint-Michel

Take a scenic boat ride to the nearby Mont-Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Beach Day at Plage de l'Éventail

Relax on one of Saint-Malo's popular beaches with golden sand and clear waters.

Location videos

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

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Saint-Malo.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Saint-Malo, Bretagne, France is around 46,000.

Languages

French, Breton

Average weather

Saint-Malo

Jan

8°3°

Feb

8°3°

Mar

11°4°

Apr

13°6°

May

16°9°

Jun

19°12°

Jul

21°14°

Aug

22°14°

Sep

20°12°

Oct

16°10°

Nov

12°6°

Dec

9°4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Saint-Malo.

What people love

Saint-Malo, located in Brittany, France, is a charming coastal city with a rich history and plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Saint-Malo:

Historic Walled City: Saint-Malo is known for its historic walled city, which dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can walk along the ramparts and explore the narrow streets lined with old stone buildings, giving them a glimpse into the city's medieval past.
Beautiful Beaches: Saint-Malo is home to some stunning beaches, including Plage du Sillon, which is a popular spot for sunbathing and water sports. The beaches offer picturesque views of the coastline and are perfect for relaxing and unwinding.
Rich Maritime History: As a prominent port city, Saint-Malo has a rich maritime history. Visitors can learn about the city's seafaring past at the Maritime Museum and visit the Fort National, a historic fortress built to protect the city from invaders.
Gastronomic Delights: Brittany is known for its delicious cuisine, and Saint-Malo is no exception. Visitors can sample fresh seafood, traditional Breton crepes, and other regional specialties at the city's many restaurants and cafes.
Day Trips to Mont Saint-Michel: Saint-Malo is located within easy reach of the iconic Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning medieval abbey. Visitors can take a day trip to this historic island and explore its narrow streets and breathtaking views.

Overall, Saint-Malo offers a perfect blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and delicious food, making it a fantastic destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Brittany.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Saint-Malo in Bretagne, France could include:

Crowds: Saint-Malo is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. This can lead to crowded streets, long lines at attractions, and difficulty finding accommodations.
Weather: Being located on the coast of Brittany, Saint-Malo can experience unpredictable weather, including rain and strong winds. Visitors should be prepared for potential weather disruptions to their plans.
Language barrier: While many people in Saint-Malo speak English, there may still be instances where language barriers can be challenging for travelers who do not speak French fluently.
High prices: Like many tourist destinations in France, prices in Saint-Malo can be higher than in other parts of the country. This includes accommodations, dining, and attractions.
Limited public transportation: While Saint-Malo is a walkable city, public transportation options can be limited, making it more difficult to explore surrounding areas without a car.

It's important to note that these cons may vary depending on individual preferences and circumstances.

Saint-Malo is a historic port city located in Brittany, France, on the English Channel. It has a rich and fascinating history, marked by its strategic maritime position, pirate legends, and significant wartime events.

Early History

Origins: Saint-Malo was founded in the 1st century BC as a Gallo-Roman settlement. Its name is derived from Saint Maclou, or Malo, a 6th-century monk who fled to the area.
Medieval Period: In medieval times, it was a fortified island at the mouth of the Rance River, which allowed it to become a significant trading and military port.

Pirate Haven

Corsairs: During the 16th and 17th centuries, Saint-Malo became famous for its corsairs. These were privateers who were authorized by the French crown to attack enemy ships during wartime. The corsairs brought wealth and notoriety to the city.
Notable Figures: One of the most famous corsairs was Robert Surcouf, who became a legendary figure for his exploits against British ships.

Expansion and Prosperity

18th Century: The city continued to thrive as a trading hub and expanded its influence. It was also during this period that the city's iconic granite ramparts were built.
Exploration: Jacques Cartier, a notable explorer from Saint-Malo, embarked on voyages that led to the discovery of parts of Canada, including the naming of the Saint Lawrence River.

French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars

Revolutionary Period: During the French Revolution, Saint-Malo was affected by the political upheaval but managed to retain its strategic importance.
Napoleonic Wars: The city's maritime prowess continued to be leveraged during the Napoleonic Wars.

20th Century and World War II

German Occupation: During World War II, Saint-Malo was occupied by German forces. The city suffered significant damage during the Allied efforts to liberate it in 1944, particularly due to American shelling.
Reconstruction: Post-war reconstruction restored much of the old city to its former glory, preserving its historic architecture and charm.

Modern Era

Tourism: Today, Saint-Malo is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant local culture.

Important Landmarks

The Ramparts: The city walls provide stunning views of the sea and surrounding areas.
Saint-Malo Cathedral: A beautiful Gothic-style cathedral that stands as a testament to the city’s rich religious history.
Fort National: Built in 1689, this fort is accessible at low tide and offers insight into the city’s military past.
Château de Saint-Malo: A historical fortress that now houses a museum dedicated to the city’s history.
The Grand Aquarium: A modern attraction that showcases marine life and educates visitors about the sea.

Saint-Malo’s rich history and its blend of maritime heritage, architectural beauty, and cultural significance make it a unique and enduring symbol of Brittany and France.