Porte Saint Vincent, depuis l'exterieur de la ville
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Porte Saint-Vincent

4.6
·491k reviews·Saint-Malo, France

Saint-Malo: A historic walled city on the Brittany coast, famous for its dramatic tides and stunning ramparts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Porte Saint Vincent, depuis l'exterieur de la ville

Porte Saint-Vincent

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Saint-Malo: A historic walled city on the Brittany coast, famous for its dramatic tides and stunning ramparts.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Walk the ramparts, witness the powerful tides, and get lost in the charm of this ancient corsair city."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestones and ramparts. :athletic_shoe: Pack comfy footwear!

Check Tide Times Daily

Crucial for exploring safely! Tides change rapidly and affect access to certain areas. :world_map:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ramparts of Saint-Malo

The Ramparts of Saint-Malo

Intra-Muros (Walled City)

Walk the historic ramparts for breathtaking views of the sea and city. A must-do for any visitor!

Grandes Marées (Great Tides)

Grandes Marées (Great Tides)

Coastal areas, especially near Fort du Petit Bé

Witness the powerful force of nature with some of the highest tides in Europe. An unforgettable spectacle!

Cathédrale Saint-Vincent

Cathédrale Saint-Vincent

Intra-Muros

Admire the stunning architecture of this historic cathedral, a serene escape within the bustling city.

Rothéneuf Sculpted Rocks

Rothéneuf Sculpted Rocks

Rothéneuf, eastern Saint-Malo

Discover unique, whimsical sculptures carved into the rocks by Abbé Fouré. A quirky artistic marvel!

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tides

Saint-Malo's dramatic tides are a spectacle! Check tide times before exploring the ramparts or beaches. High tide can make some areas inaccessible, while low tide reveals hidden treasures.

Book Ahead for Peak Season

Saint-Malo is a popular destination, especially in summer. Booking accommodations and popular restaurants in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment and secure the best spots.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour views, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
During Grandes Marées
Why
Spectacular natural phenomenon
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nos recommandations à Saint-Malo 👇🏼 1️⃣Les remparts de Saint-Malo Astuce : débuter la promenade par La Porte Saint-Thomas 2️⃣Les Grandes Marées Astuce : se rendre sur les remparts du côté du Fort à la Reine 3️⃣La ville de Saint-Malo À voir : La cathédrale Saint-Vincent, la place Chateaubriand, la demeure de Corsaire, la rue de l'Orme 4️⃣La plage de Bon Secours 5️⃣ La piscine d'eau de mer de la pla...
@lespepitesdefrance
4.8K likes • 356.5K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestones and ramparts. :athletic_shoe: Pack comfy footwear!

Check Tide Times Daily

Crucial for exploring safely! Tides change rapidly and affect access to certain areas. :world_map:

saint-malo! one of the best coastal getaways frrom paris only 3.5 hours by train 🌊 i’ve added all the details in my newsletter on how to get here, food and restaurants this was a press trip invite and now my 2nd time learning more about the region of france with AR Collection hotels. i have gone to this region independently over 4 times and i feel grateful to be able to share destinations which i...
@preetigills
4.3K likes • 67.9K views
47km entre Saint-Malo et Cancale sur le GR34 en 3 jours 🫶 #randonnee #bivouac #marche #outdoor #camping #bretagne #gr34 #saintmalo #cancale #Vlog #rando @cocopaillette🐍the pop baddie @cocopaillette🐍the pop baddie @cocopaillette🐍the pop baddie
@cocopaillette
4.3K likes • 105.3K views

Explore Intra-Muros by Foot

The best way to discover hidden alleys and charming shops within the walled city. :walking:

Try Local Oysters

Saint-Malo is known for its delicious oysters. Don't miss out on this local delicacy! :oyster:

Répondre à @ojo.sama vous comprenez pourquoi le sang je m’en fiche mtn, je reviens d’une raclette savoyarde sur le port de saint Malo ptin 😭
@johan_avecunj
3.4K likes • 56K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestones and ramparts. :athletic_shoe: Pack comfy footwear!

Check Tide Times Daily

Crucial for exploring safely! Tides change rapidly and affect access to certain areas. :world_map:

Explore Intra-Muros by Foot

The best way to discover hidden alleys and charming shops within the walled city. :walking:

Try Local Oysters

Saint-Malo is known for its delicious oysters. Don't miss out on this local delicacy! :oyster:

Consider a Day Trip

Combine Saint-Malo with nearby Cancale for a longer coastal adventure. :ferry:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Saint-Malo for its stunning historic ramparts, dramatic coastal scenery, and charming walled city. The experience of witnessing the powerful tides is a major highlight. Some find parking and navigating the narrow streets challenging during peak season, and the weather can be unpredictable.

What People Like

Historic ramparts
Dramatic tides
Charming walled city

What People Dislike

Parking difficulties
Crowds in summer
Unpredictable weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is by train from Paris Montparnasse to Saint-Malo, which takes about 3.5 hours.TikTok You can also drive, but parking within the walled city can be challenging.

Yes, Saint-Malo is well-connected by train. Once you're in Saint-Malo, the Intra-Muros (walled city) is very walkable, and local buses can take you to surrounding areas like Rothéneuf.TikTok

Walking is ideal for exploring the walled city (Intra-Muros) and the ramparts.TikTok For longer distances, local buses are available. Renting a bike is also a great option for exploring the coastline.

Parking within the walled city is very limited and expensive. It's best to use the public parking lots located just outside the ramparts and walk in.Reddit

While possible, it's a long day trip (3.5 hours each way by train). Many visitors prefer to stay at least one night to fully experience Saint-Malo and its surroundings.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, walking the ramparts is free and accessible to everyone. It's one of the most popular free activities in Saint-Malo.TikTok

Attractions like the Cathédrale Saint-Vincent are generally open during daylight hours, but it's always best to check specific times online. The ramparts are accessible 24/7.

No, the walled city itself is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. You can freely wander its streets and squares.

The Rothéneuf Sculpted Rocks are an outdoor site and are generally free to visit. However, some nearby facilities or guided tours might have a fee.

Yes, guided walking tours of the ramparts and the walled city can be booked in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The views are spectacular all around! Try to catch the sunset from the western ramparts for a magical experience. The views towards the islands like Grand Bé and Petit Bé are particularly stunning.TikTok

Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the cobblestones and ramparts.TikTok Layers are recommended as the coastal weather can change quickly. A waterproof jacket is always a good idea.

Absolutely! The ramparts offer incredible panoramic shots.TikTok The narrow streets of Intra-Muros, the beaches at low tide, and the Rothéneuf rocks are also very photogenic.

Families will enjoy exploring the ramparts, building sandcastles on the beaches, and visiting the aquarium (Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo). The Rothéneuf rocks are also a fun, quirky discovery for kids.TikTok

A full day is good for a taste, but 2-3 days allow for a more relaxed exploration of the walled city, ramparts, beaches, and nearby attractions like Rothéneuf.TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Seafood is king here! Don't miss fresh oysters,TikTok mussels (moules-frites), and local fish dishes. Crêpes and galettes are also a Breton specialty.TikTok

Intra-Muros has many charming restaurants, from casual crêperies to more upscale seafood spots.TikTok Explore the side streets for hidden gems. The port area also offers great dining options.TikTok

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer salads, vegetable gratins, and other vegetarian dishes. Crêperies are also a good bet for vegetarian options.

You can find a range of prices. Casual crêperies might offer meals for €15-€25, while seafood restaurants can range from €30-€50+ per person for a full meal.

Yes, many bakeries (boulangeries) offer pastries and coffee for breakfast. Some cafes and restaurants also serve brunch, especially on weekends.

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers beautiful light for the ramparts and sea views.TikTok Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant colors of the city.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ramparts and cityscapes.TikTok A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the islands or distant boats. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures of the sea.

The views from the ramparts overlooking the sea and the islands (Grand Bé, Petit Bé) are iconic.TikTok The narrow, charming streets within Intra-Muros and the rocky coastline at Rothéneuf also make for great shots.

Photographing the high tides requires careful timing and positioning. Look for dramatic waves crashing against the ramparts or sea walls. Low tide offers opportunities to photograph the exposed seabed and unique rock formations.

Try capturing the reflections in the wet cobblestones after rain, the colorful fishing boats in the harbor, or the intricate details of the historic architecture within the walled city.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Saint-Malo is a fantastic destination for families. The ramparts offer a safe and exciting place for kids to explore, with plenty of space to run around and imagine pirate adventures.TikTok The beaches within and outside the walled city are perfect for sandcastle building and paddling, especially at low tide. Don't miss the Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo, which houses a diverse collection of marine life and offers interactive exhibits that will captivate young minds. The Rothéneuf sculpted rocks also provide a quirky and engaging discovery for children.TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Saint-Malo is a welcoming city for solo travelers. The compact Intra-Muros is easy to navigate on foot, allowing for spontaneous exploration of its charming streets and shops. Walking the ramparts offers stunning views and a sense of connection to the city's history. You can easily strike up conversations with locals or fellow travelers in cafes or during guided tours. The focus on fresh seafood also means you can enjoy delicious meals at the bar of many restaurants, a comfortable option for solo diners.TikTok

💑 Couples

For a romantic getaway, Saint-Malo offers a picturesque setting. Enjoy sunset strolls along the ramparts, taking in the breathtaking views of the sea and islands.TikTok Indulge in a seafood dinner at one of the many charming restaurants within the walled city.TikTok Consider a walk to the Grand Bé or Petit Bé at low tide for a secluded experience. The historic charm and coastal beauty create a perfect backdrop for a memorable trip together.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Historic Ramparts

The ramparts of Saint-Malo are a defining feature of the city, offering a unique perspective and a journey through history. These impressive stone walls, largely rebuilt after World War II, encircle the Intra-Muros (the old town) and provide a fantastic elevated walkway. Walking the full circuit takes about an hour, but you can dip in and out at various gates. The views are spectacular, stretching across the English Channel, the nearby islands of Grand Bé and Petit Bé, and the bustling port. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a sense of grandeur and a glimpse into Saint-Malo's past as a formidable port city.TikTok+1

When exploring the ramparts, be mindful of the weather. The sea breeze can be strong, and the sun can be intense. It's also important to note that while the ramparts are generally accessible, some sections might have stairs, so consider this if mobility is a concern. Many visitors recommend starting their rampart walk from the Porte Saint-Thomas for a good initial perspective.TikTok The experience is particularly magical during sunrise or sunset, when the stone glows and the sea takes on a different hue.TikTok

The Spectacle of the Grandes Marées

Saint-Malo is renowned for its Grandes Marées, or great tides, which are among the highest in Europe. These dramatic tidal shifts create a dynamic coastal landscape, transforming the shoreline multiple times a day. At low tide, vast expanses of sand and rock are revealed, allowing access to islands like Grand Bé and Petit Bé, where famous figures like writer Chateaubriand are buried. Visitors can walk out to these islands, but it's crucial to be aware of the tide times, as the sea can return very quickly and cut off access.Reddit

The spectacle of the incoming tide is truly awe-inspiring. Watching the powerful waves surge and crash against the ramparts and sea defenses is a raw display of nature's force. This phenomenon is particularly impressive during the spring and autumn equinoxes, when the tidal range is at its maximum. Many locals and visitors gather on the ramparts or along the coast to witness this natural event.TikTok It's a photographer's dream, offering dramatic shots of the sea and coastline, but always prioritize safety and respect the power of the ocean.

Culinary Delights of Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo, being a coastal city in Brittany, offers a rich culinary scene, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood and regional specialties. Oysters are a must-try, with local producers offering some of the finest in France.TikTok You can enjoy them raw, often with a squeeze of lemon or a shallot vinaigrette, at various restaurants and oyster bars. Mussels, particularly moules-frites (mussels with fries), are another popular and delicious choice, often served in generous portions.TikTok

Beyond the Walls: Rothéneuf

A short distance east of the walled city lies the charming area of Rothéneuf, famous for its unique sculpted rocks. Created by Abbé Adolphe Julien Fouéré between 1894 and 1907, these whimsical and often fantastical figures carved directly into the granite cliffs are a testament to his artistic vision and dedication.TikTok Wandering among these stone creations feels like stepping into a surreal open-air museum. The site is particularly atmospheric at different times of the day, with the changing light casting shadows and highlighting the intricate details of the sculptures. It's a delightful and unexpected artistic detour from the more traditional sights of Saint-Malo.

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