Rue du Jerzual - Image 1
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Rue du Jerzual Dinan

4.7
·155 reviews·Dinan, France

A steep, cobblestone medieval street in Dinan, lined with over 130 charming half-timbered houses and artisan shops.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
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Rue du Jerzual - Image 1

Rue du Jerzual Dinan

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A steep, cobblestone medieval street in Dinan, lined with over 130 charming half-timbered houses and artisan shops.

4.7
(155 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful streets in Brittany, transporting you back in time."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The Rue du Jerzual is very steep and cobblestoned. Prioritize comfort for your feet! :athletic_shoe:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Downhill First

Start at the top and walk down to the port. The climb back up is a good workout but worth it for the views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rue du Jerzual's Medieval Architecture

Rue du Jerzual's Medieval Architecture

Dinan, Brittany

Wander down this iconic steep, cobblestone street lined with over 130 beautifully preserved half-timbered houses.

Artisan Shops and Local Crafts

Artisan Shops and Local Crafts

Rue du Jerzual

Discover unique local artwork, handicrafts, and souvenirs in the charming boutiques that spill onto the street.

Port de Dinan Views

Port de Dinan Views

Bottom of Rue du Jerzual

Reach the picturesque port of Dinan at the bottom of the street, offering lovely views and a pleasant place to relax.

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Planning Your Visit

Conquer the Cobblestones

The Rue du Jerzual is famously steep! Wear comfortable shoes :athletic_shoe: and be prepared for a workout. Going downhill is easier, but the climb back up is rewarding with stunning views and charming shops.

Embrace the Medieval Charm

Dinan's historic heart, especially the Rue du Jerzual, is a step back in time. Allow ample time to wander, explore artisan shops, and soak in the atmosphere of this well-preserved medieval street. :camerawithflash:

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Fewer crowds, soft light
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Can you believe that 130 half-timbered houses are still standing in this medieval French town? When people think of half-timbered houses in France, they usually think of Colmar and Strasbourg in Alsace. But this town breaks that stereotype! It’s certainly one of the most charming towns in Brittany worth putting on your bucket list! Follow along @voyagewithmc to see more unique destinations aroun...
@voyagewithmc
107.7K likes • 779.5K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The Rue du Jerzual is very steep and cobblestoned. Prioritize comfort for your feet! :athletic_shoe: Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Downhill First

Start at the top and walk down to the port. The climb back up is a good workout but worth it for the views. Instagram

Ça me va le chapeau melon ? 😂 💡 C’est de l’archéologie expérimentale, une reproduction des armures de l’époque afin de faire des avancées historiques. 🏰 Château de Dinan 📍 Rue du Château, 22100 Dinan #bretagne #tourisme #chateau #monument #dinan #chateaudedinan #casque #armure #medieval
@lachainedelea
24.9K likes • 211K views
LA RUE DU JERZUAL 🍃 Le « Jerzual » à Dinan •Côtes d’Armor• , est certainement une des plus belles rues de BRETAGNE . Elle relie le port au centre historique, je vous cache pas que son ascension peut faire souffrir car la montée est pentue 🫣 . . . . #dinan #cotesdarmor #bretagne #bretagnetourisme #jerzual #ruejerzual #ruedejerzual #portdinan #dinantourisme #dinanbretagne #cotedarmortourisme #franc...
yasminebelhajsalem
95 likes • 3.8K views

🛍️ Browse Artisan Boutiques

Discover unique local crafts and artwork in the charming shops lining the street. Instagram

📸 Capture the Charm

This street is incredibly photogenic, especially in the morning light. :camerawithflash: Instagram

Dinan, en Bretagne ❤️ Avec ses maisons à colombages et ses pavés, la rue du Jerzual a quelque chose de magique, elle nous transporte dans le temps ✨ . . #dinancapfrehel #dinan #dinantourisme #cotesdarmor #bretagne #bretagnetourisme #destinationbretagne #bzh #bretagnemylove #igersbretagne #jaimelabretagne #breizh #breizhpower #jaimelafrance #hello_france #super_france #igersfrance #instatravel #ins...
cloetclem
758 likes • 16.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The Rue du Jerzual is very steep and cobblestoned. Prioritize comfort for your feet! :athletic_shoe: Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Downhill First

Start at the top and walk down to the port. The climb back up is a good workout but worth it for the views. Instagram

🛍️ Browse Artisan Boutiques

Discover unique local crafts and artwork in the charming shops lining the street. Instagram

📸 Capture the Charm

This street is incredibly photogenic, especially in the morning light. :camerawithflash: Instagram

☕ Relax by the Port

Enjoy a coffee or snack at one of the cafes near the port after your descent. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(155 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Rue du Jerzual for its stunning medieval architecture and charming atmosphere, calling it one of Brittany's most beautiful streets. The steep, cobblestone path is a notable feature, offering a rewarding descent to the port, though the climb back up is a significant workout for some.

"Charming town!"

A Vans

"One of the most beautiful places we’ve seen in Brittany. That houses along this little road are absolutely beautiful. Although it is very steep to get up to the top. If you are going from the top make sure you go all the way down the path, it reaches a pretty canal with a bridge and nice cafes around."

Vitali Andrusiak

"Lovely medieval street. Oozing with history."

Rural Rory

What People Like

Beautiful medieval architecture
Charming artisan shops
Historic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Very steep incline
Challenging climb back up

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rue du Jerzual is located in the heart of Dinan's historic center. You can reach it by walking from the main town square. If arriving by car, park in one of the designated parking areas outside the old town and walk in. Reddit

While there isn't direct public transport onto Rue du Jerzual due to its pedestrian nature, local buses stop near the historic center of Dinan, from where you can walk to the street. Reddit

Many visitors recommend starting at the top of the street (near the castle) and walking downhill towards the port. This makes the initial descent easier, though the climb back up is a good workout. Instagram

Rue du Jerzual is primarily a pedestrian street and is very steep and narrow. Driving is generally not permitted or advisable for visitors. Park your car in designated areas. Reddit

Yes, there are several parking lots available around the perimeter of Dinan's old town. From there, it's a short walk to access the top of Rue du Jerzual. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, walking down Rue du Jerzual is free and open to the public. It's a public street within the historic town. Instagram

Rue du Jerzual is always accessible as it's a public street. However, the shops and cafes along the street have their own operating hours, typically closing in the early evening and on certain days. Instagram

There is no entrance fee to browse the shops on Rue du Jerzual. You only pay if you decide to purchase items. Instagram

Yes, you can walk down Rue du Jerzual at night, but it will be dark and the shops will be closed. It offers a different, quieter ambiance. Reddit

Many guided walking tours of Dinan's historic center will include a walk down Rue du Jerzual, providing historical context and insights. Reddit

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

The main activity is to walk down the steep, cobblestone street, admire the medieval architecture, and browse the artisan shops selling local crafts and art. Instagram+1

Due to its steep incline and cobblestones, Rue du Jerzual can be challenging for those with mobility issues. It's best to assess your comfort level before descending. Instagram

You'll find a variety of artisan boutiques selling local artwork, ceramics, jewelry, and other handicrafts. It's a great place for unique souvenirs. Instagram

At the bottom of Rue du Jerzual, you'll reach the Port de Dinan, a picturesque area along the Rance river with cafes and boat rentals. Instagram+1

Walking down Rue du Jerzual itself might only take 5-10 minutes, but you'll want to spend much longer exploring the shops and enjoying the views. Allow at least 30-60 minutes for the experience. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire street is a photo opportunity! Capture the steep cobblestones, the charming half-timbered houses, and the views towards the port. Early morning light is particularly beautiful. Instagram

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light. Instagram

Drone regulations vary, and it's essential to check local rules before flying. Be mindful of privacy and safety in this historic area. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the street's scale. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or to ensure sharp images on the uneven cobblestones. Instagram

Look for the intricate woodwork on the half-timbered houses, the unique window shapes, and the textures of the ancient cobblestones. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Rue du Jerzual offers a unique adventure for families, but its steepness requires careful consideration. Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes for everyone, and be prepared for the climb. Consider starting at the top and walking downhill, holding hands for safety. The charming shops can be a fun distraction for kids, and reaching the port at the bottom provides a nice reward. Pack snacks and water, as the climb back up can be tiring for little legs. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

The Rue du Jerzual is a fantastic free attraction! The main cost will be any souvenirs you choose to buy or refreshments at the port. Walking the street and admiring the architecture costs nothing. Pack your own water bottle and snacks to save money on purchases along the way. The experience of soaking in the medieval atmosphere is priceless. Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, the Rue du Jerzual is a dream. Early morning is ideal for capturing the street without crowds and with beautiful soft light. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the full sweep of the street and its historic buildings. Look for details in the half-timbered architecture and the textures of the cobblestones. The views from both the top and the bottom offer different photographic opportunities. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Charm of Rue du Jerzual

The Rue du Jerzual is more than just a street; it's a living testament to Dinan's rich medieval past. This steep, winding lane has historically connected the upper town to the port on the Rance River, serving as a vital artery for trade and daily life. Its name, 'Jerzual,' is believed to derive from 'Jérusalem,' possibly referencing a pilgrimage route or a significant religious site in the past. The street is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved 130 half-timbered houses, a rarity that transports visitors back centuries. Each building tells a story with its unique architectural details, from the jutting upper floors to the intricate wooden beams.

Walking down the Rue du Jerzual is an immersive experience. The cobblestones underfoot, the narrow passage between ancient buildings, and the scent of local crafts create a sensory journey. Many of these historic structures now house charming artisan boutiques, selling everything from local pottery and paintings to handmade jewelry and regional delicacies. This blend of history and contemporary artistry makes the street a vibrant hub for both locals and tourists. The descent culminates at the Port de Dinan, offering a picturesque scene with boats bobbing on the river and cafes lining the waterfront, providing a perfect spot to rest and reflect on the historical journey.

Travelers often describe the Rue du Jerzual as one of the most beautiful streets in Brittany, a sentiment echoed in numerous social media posts. The steepness is frequently mentioned, with advice to wear comfortable shoes being paramount. Despite the physical challenge, the visual reward is immense. The street's charm is amplified by its authenticity; it doesn't feel like a manufactured tourist attraction but rather a genuine slice of medieval life that has been lovingly maintained. It’s a place where history is not just seen but felt with every step. TikTokInstagramReddit+6

Navigating the Steep Descent and Ascent

The most talked-about aspect of the Rue du Jerzual is its significant incline. This steep, cobblestone path requires sturdy footwear and a bit of stamina. Many visitors suggest starting their exploration at the top of the street, near the Château de Dinan, and walking downhill towards the Port de Dinan. This allows for a more manageable descent, letting you take in the sights without the immediate challenge of an uphill climb. The journey down offers progressively stunning views and a chance to pop into the various artisan shops that line the way.

Reaching the bottom of the Rue du Jerzual brings you to the Port de Dinan, a charming area by the Rance River. Here, you can enjoy a well-deserved break at one of the riverside cafes or simply admire the boats. However, the adventure isn't over until you've made the return journey. The ascent back up the Rue du Jerzual is a considerable workout, often described humorously by visitors as a test of endurance. Pace yourself, take breaks if needed, and remember that the effort is rewarded with a different perspective of the street and the satisfaction of conquering its famous slope. InstagramReddit+1

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