I first heard of Saint-Malo when a friend of mine told me that his most memorable days from his childhood were spent here. And once I arrived at Saint-Malo myself, I completely understood what he meant.

Soaking in the views of Saint-Malo

Situated along the picturesque Brittany coast of France, Saint-Malo is a medieval, coastal, walled city with a rich history through the ages. With its narrow cobblestone streets, fortified walls, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Saint-Malo has the power to transport you back in time. And we immediately fell in love with it!

Us next to Fort National, Saint-Malo, France

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone who loves to explore charming coastal towns, Saint-Malo has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll guide you through the ins and outs of visiting this medieval seaside city, and let you know why it deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

A Brief History of Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo has been around for centuries, evolving from a humble fishing village in the 10th century into a powerful fortified city by the 12th century.

The canons over the fortifications can still be seen at Saint-Malo, France

The city is famously associated with its privateers, who sailed the oceans in pursuit of treasure and trade. This reputation for maritime prowess earned it the nickname “The Corsair City”.

For its maritime prowess, Saint-Malo earned the nickname “The Corsair City”.

The city’s resilience was tested during World War II when Allied bombing resulted in significant destruction. But Saint-Malo was meticulously restored and today the beautifully restored ramparts still stand tall, protecting the city.

The fortified city of Saint-Malo, France is a must-visit destination for anyone

Getting to Saint-Malo

Getting to Saint-Malo is relatively easy, catering to various travel preferences and schedules.

The beautiful sights of Saint-Malo, France

High-speed trains whisk you from Paris to St. Malo in just over two hours. For a quicker trip from Rennes, hop on a TER train or take a scenic drive – both journeys last about 55 minutes. If flying suits you best, scheduled and budget airlines service Dinard Airport, conveniently located only 13 kilometres from St. Malo.

It’s also possible to arrive via ferry from the Channel Islands of Jersey and Guernsey, as well as the Southern English towns of Portsmouth, Hampshire and Poole, Dorset.

Accommodation in Saint-Malo

Although there is no shortage of accommodation options at Saint-Malo, we highly recommend spending a night inside the fortifications (Intra-Muros district) to get the full experience.

Explore the narrow streets inside the walled city

Here are a few worthy options for your consideration:

• Hôtel Bristol Union Intra Muros: Hotel Bristol Union is situated in the heart of Saint-Malo’s old town, just 591 feet (0.18 km) from the marina. The hotel is ideally located for exploring Saint-Malo and is highly rated.
• L’AccrocheCoeur: Just a 3-minute walk from Mole Beach, L’AccrocheCoeur offers a delightful 4-star stay in Saint-Malo’s Intra-Muros district.
• Appartement Intra-Muros – 2 chambres: A highly rated property featuring 2 bedrooms, a bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchen. It is around a 12-minute walk from National Fort, 1.7 miles (2.74 km) from Solidor Tower, and 5.9 miles (9.5 km) from Port Breton Park. The property is 600 yards (0.55 km) from the city centre and a 3-minute walk from Bon Secours Beach.

Top 10 Things to Do in Saint-Malo

Here is a non-exhaustive list of the top 10 must do things in Saint-Malo based on our experience.

One of the best vantage points to enjoy the views of Saint-Malo

Explore the Ramparts

The city’s historic ramparts are arguably its most famous attraction. A walk along these ancient walls offers breathtaking views of the ocean, the island of Grand Bé, and the charming architecture of the town.

The ramparts are the most famous feature of Saint-Malo

These ancient walls, dating back to the 12th century, have witnessed centuries of growth and transformation within the walled city. Originally designed as a protective barrier against invaders, they were later fortified by successive rulers.

Sunset at Saint-Malo

The Ramparts serve not only as a historical landmark but also as an iconic symbol of Saint-Malo’s identity and cultural heritage.

Don’t forget your camera — the photo ops are plentiful!

Visit the Château de Saint-Malo (Former Castle and Museum)

The Château de St. Malo is a historic fortress that stands at the heart of Saint-Malo.

Construction began in 1424 under Jean V, Duke of Brittany, with the addition of a first tower by his successor, Francois II, in 1475. However, it was during the tumultuous Wars of Religion that the castle played a pivotal role – local residents took control in 1590 to prevent their city from falling into Protestant hands.

The historic fortress of Château de Saint-Malo

Later, under the guidance of renowned fortress architect Sebastian Vauban in the 17th century, the Château underwent significant modifications. The 19th century brought new purposes for the Château as it served as barracks.

In the 19th century, the Château de St. Malo was transformed into a museum, showcasing the rich history of the city and its people. Today, it houses an impressive collection of artefacts, paintings, and exhibits that delve into Saint-Malo’s maritime past.

Château de Saint-Malo

Don’t miss the large keep, general tower, Quic-en-Groigne tower, Dames and Moulins towers.

Visit The Fort National

Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Atlantic Ocean lies the historic Fort National in Saint-Malo. Built between 1689 and 1694 under the supervision of renowned fortress architect Sebastien Vauban, this strategic military structure was designed to protect the city from naval attacks.

Fort National, Saint-Malo, France

Today, visitors can explore the fort’s impressive architecture and learn about its rich history through guided tours or self-guided visits. The fort offers breathtaking views of the coastline and Saint-Malo’s historic ramparts.

The view of Saint-Malo from Fort National

Visitors can gain access to Fort National at low tide during select periods, marked by the French flag flying above the fort. This brief window, spanning from June 1st to September 30th, as well as on designated additional days, offers a unique opportunity to explore this historic fortress.

Make sure to visit the Fort National during low tide

Visit Le Petit Bé

In 1667, the French government constructed a small fort on Petit Bé, with current fortifications beginning in 1689 under engineer Siméon Garangeau. This fort was part of a larger defensive system designed by Vauban to safeguard Saint-Malo against British and Dutch fleets, alongside other structures like Fort National and Fort Harbourg.

Le Petit Bé, Saint-Malo, France

Designed in a horseshoe shape, the fort featured a seaward battery with 19 gun embrasures and housed a garrison of 177 soldiers. Notably, it was armed with multiple cannons, including powerful 48 and 36-pounders.

After serving the French army until 1885, the fort was designated a Monument Historique in 1921. Following years of neglect, the city transferred it to a non-profit organization in 2000 for restoration, which is now complete, allowing for tourism and renewed appreciation of this historical site.

Visit the tidal island of Grand Bé and Châteaubriand’s tomb

Tucked away at the mouth of the Rance River, just a stone’s throw from Saint-Malo’s historic walls, lies the tidal island of Grand Bé. Exposed at low tide, this natural gem can be reached via the nearby Bon-Secours beach. Scattered across its surface are the remnants of another ancient fort.

Grand Bé, Saint-Malo, France

One notable landmark that stands out on Grand Bé is the final resting place of François-René de Châteaubriand, a celebrated French writer from Saint-Malo.

Châteaubriand’s tomb

Pay your resects at the Saint-Vincent Cathedral

The Saint-Vincent Cathedral is a magnificent example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Dating back to the 12th century, the cathedral boasts stunning stained-glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and an imposing stone façade.

Today, it serves as a place of worship for the local community and attracts visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its beauty.

Head over to the Solidor Tower

The Solidor Tower is located in the former town of Saint-Servan, which merged with Saint-Malo and Paramé in 1967.

Perched at the estuary’s edge, where the Rance River meets the sea, the tower is a fortified complex comprising three interconnected towers.

Built between 1369 and 1382 by John V, Duke of Brittany, this strategic stronghold was designed to exert control over the river’s passage, particularly during a period when Saint-Malo refused to recognize his authority. Over time, the tower’s military significance waned, and it transitioned into a prison before being repurposed as a museum celebrating the brave sailors who navigated the treacherous waters of Cape Horn.

Relax on a beach

If you want to take a break from all the sightseeing, why not relax on the one of beautiful beaches in Saint-Malo. Plage de l’Éventail is especially known for its lively atmosphere and excellent swimming conditions.

Indulge in Breton Delights

No trip of ours is complete without sampling some local delights and delicacies. At Saint-Malo with we were fortunate enough to try their traditional galettes (savoury buckwheat pancakes), savour fresh seafood, and sip on a glass of locally brewed cider.

Take a Day Trip to Le Mont Saint-Michel

Just an hour away by car or bus is Mont Saint-Michel, one of France’s most iconic landmarks.

The abbey illuminated at night

This island commune, crowned by a stunning abbey, is a must-visit and a perfect complement to your St. Malo adventure. Read more about visiting Le Mont Saint-Michel in our dedicated guide.

Our Guide to Saint-Malo, France

We hope our guide to Saint-Malo, France has been helpful in planning your trip to this stunning city. As one of the most beautiful medieval fortified cities, Saint-Malo is a must-see destination. Its unique charm is amplified by its seaside location, making it a truly unforgettable experience. But if there’s another unforgettable, fortified city, it has to be Rothenburg Ob der Tauber in Germany.

Best way to discover Saint-Malo is to walk around

After exploring Saint-Malo, we had the pleasure of visiting Le Mont St. Michel for a couple of nights, which was an absolute delight. If you’re planning a trip to France, I highly recommend adding the Alsace region to your itinerary. Colmar and Strasbourg are not to be missed – their picturesque canals, colourful buildings, and rich history will leave you spellbound.

Saint-Malo, France