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If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Concarneau.
Concarneau is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered, with every corner offering a unique and colorful experience that tickles the senses.
From the sound of the crashing waves on the coastline to the aroma of freshly baked croissants wafting through the air, Concarneau is a sensory delight just waiting to be explored.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Concarneau:
1. Ville Close
Walled town located on an island in the harbor of Concarneau, France.
What to see or do: Explore the picturesque streets and alleys, visit the historical fishing museum, enjoy seafood at local restaurants, and walk along the ramparts overlooking the harbor.
Don’t miss: Watching the fishermen unload their catch at the port and visiting the Chapel Notre-Dame de la Clarté.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months to experience the bustling atmosphere and enjoy the local markets and festivals. It can get busy, so try to arrive early in the day or later in the evening to avoid crowds.
2. Musée de la Pêche
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of fishing in Concarneau, France.
What to see or do: Explore the various exhibits showcasing the traditional fishing techniques, tools, and boats of the region.
Learn about the evolution of fishing in Concarneau, from the early days of sailboats and hand lines to modern trawlers and electronic equipment.
View a large collection of fish specimens and learn about the different species that inhabit the waters off the coast of Brittany.
Don’t miss: The replica of a traditional fishing village, complete with fishermen’s houses, boats, and fish-drying racks. The museum also hosts regular events and workshops throughout the year, including fish-cleaning and cooking demonstrations.
Insider travel tips: The museum is located in the heart of Concarneau’s old town, and can get quite busy during peak tourist season. Consider visiting during the off-season for a quieter and more personalized experience.
Guided tours are available in English and French, and are highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
3. Marinarium
A marine aquarium located in Concarneau, France.
What to see or do: Marinarium features numerous tanks showcasing the diverse marine life found along the Brittany coast. Visitors can expect to see a variety of fish, crabs, starfish, octopuses, and other sea creatures.
There is also an interactive touch tank where visitors can get up close and personal with some of the marine life.
Don’t miss: The daily feeding of the fish and the guided tours, which offer interesting insights into the aquarium’s inhabitants.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit during the week if possible, as weekends tend to be more crowded. Additionally, consider purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid long lines at the entrance.
4. Chapelle de Sainte Croix
Chapelle de Sainte Croix is a beautiful religious monument located in the town of Concarneau in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the chapel’s stunning architecture, including its intricate stained glass windows and ornate altar. The chapel also houses several paintings and statues that are worth admiring.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of the chapel’s bell tower, which offers stunning views of the surrounding town and sea.
Insider travel tips: – The chapel can be reached by foot or by taking the tourist train that runs through the town.
5. Château de Keriolet
Château de Keriolet is a stunning castle located in Concarneau, a commune in Brittany, France. It was built in the 19th century and is considered a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s magnificent interiors that showcase beautiful woodwork, sculptures, and paintings.
The castle also houses a museum that displays a rich collection of items related to the castle’s history, including artifacts, costumes, and photographs.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the castle’s beautifully landscaped gardens, which are spread over 30 acres and offer a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
Also, be sure to visit the castle during its regular exhibitions and events, which feature contemporary art and music performances.
Insider travel tips: – To get the most out of your visit, take a guided tour of the castle that provides in-depth information about the castle’s history, architecture, and collection.
6. Plage des Sables Blancs
Plage des Sables Blancs is a stunning white sandy beach located near the town of Concarneau in southern Brittany, France.
What to see or do: The beach is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, with clear turquoise waters that are perfect for water sports.
You can also take a long walk along the scenic coastal path that runs adjacent to the beach.
Don’t miss: At low tide, a small islet called “ Le Petit Dôme” appears in the middle of the beach, which is great for exploring.
Insider travel tips: – Plan ahead and visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
7. Jardin Botanique de Cornouaille
Jardin Botanique de Cornouaille is a botanical garden located in Concarneau, France.
What to see or do: The garden boasts a collection of over 3,000 plant species from around the world, including exotic plants such as palm trees and cacti.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden’s various themed areas, including the Japanese garden, sun garden, and Mediterranean garden.
Don’t miss: The garden’s greenhouse, which houses a wide variety of tropical plants and a stunning collection of orchids.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the garden’s website for events, such as guided tours and workshops.
Additionally, visitors can purchase unique gifts and souvenirs at the garden’s gift shop, which offers a range of products made from natural materials found in the garden.
8. Plage de Cornouaille
Plage de Cornouaille is a beautiful sandy beach located in Concarneau, a coastal town in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. There are also several restaurants and cafes nearby where you can enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Old Town of Concarneau, which is located just a short walk from the beach.
This historic area is home to a charming fishing port, a medieval fortification, and numerous art galleries and boutiques.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re planning to visit Plage de Cornouaille during the summer months, be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach.
9. Port de Plaisance
Picturesque marina in the coastal town of Concarneau, located in the Finistère region of Brittany.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the harbor and admire the beautiful boats, from small fishing vessels to luxurious yachts. Enjoy a seafood meal at one of the many restaurants overlooking the marina.
Explore the walled town of Concarneau and visit the historic Castle.
Don’t miss: Watching the fishermen bring in their catch of the day and enjoy fresh seafood from the local market. Take a boat trip to the nearby Glénan Islands, a pristine archipelago with crystal-clear water and white sand beaches.
Insider travel tips: Check out the local festivals, including the famous ‘Fête des Filets Bleus’ in August, which celebrates the town’s fishing heritage. Be sure to sample the local delicacies such as crêpes, cider and Breton cakes.
The marina can get crowded during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early to find a parking spot.
10. Église Saint-Guénolé
Église Saint-Guénolé is a historical church located in the charming town of Concarneau in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture of the church, which dates back to the 17th century.
Take a walk around the peaceful cemetery surrounding the church, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the town and the Atlantic Ocean from the top of the church tower.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the beautiful stained glass windows and the impressive pipe organ inside the church.
Also, make sure to explore the quaint alleys and colorful buildings of Concarneau’s old town, which is just a short walk away from the church.
Insider travel tips: – Check the church’s opening hours before visiting, as they may vary depending on the time of year.
11. Forteresse de Concarneau
Forteresse de Concarneau is a 14th-century fortress situated on a rocky island in the town of Concarneau, Brittany, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved ramparts, towers, and buildings of the fortress, including the Governor’s House, the Chapel, the Powder Magazine, and the Dungeon.
The museum inside the fortress showcases the history of Concarneau and the fortifications. The fortress also offers stunning views of the sea and the town.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss walking along the ramparts and enjoying the panoramic views of the surroundings.
The courtyard of the Governor’s House is a fascinating place to explore, with its French Renaissance-style garden, the well, and the two pavilions.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or during weekdays.
12. Plongée Passion
Plongée Passion is a professional scuba diving center located in the picturesque town of Concarneau in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: The scuba diving center offers a multitude of activities for divers of all levels, including dives in the beautiful natural marine reserve of the Glénan archipelago.
You can also take diving courses or participate in exploration dives to discover wrecks and reefs.
Don’t miss: Make sure to explore the Crystal Waters dive site, where you’ll have the chance to see numerous species of fish, crustaceans, and even dolphins if you’re lucky.
Insider travel tips: Book in advance as Plongée Passion is a popular attraction in Concarneau, particularly during peak tourist season.
If you’re a beginner, opt for a discovery dive to get familiarized with the equipment and techniques before venturing into the deeper waters.
13. L’atelier Bleu
Art gallery specializing in Breton paintings and sculptures.
What to see or do: Browse through the diverse collection of artworks, featuring both traditional and contemporary styles.
Don’t miss: The stunning seascapes and landscapes that capture the essence of Brittany.
Insider travel tips: Don’t be afraid to ask the friendly staff for recommendations or information about the artists featured in the gallery. And if you fall in love with a piece, the gallery offers a shipping service to international destinations.
14. Promenade en Mer
A boat tour around the walled city of Concarneau and the surrounding coastline.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning views of the town’s medieval fortifications, lighthouse, and beautiful beaches. Look out for the wildlife, including seals and dolphins, that often swim alongside the boat.
Don’t miss: The chance to see the stunning Ville Close from the waters. The town’s fortifications are only fully appreciated from the sea, and seeing them from this vantage point is truly impressive.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding coastline.
Additionally, if you are prone to seasickness, be sure to take medication beforehand as the boat ride can be choppy at times.
Consider booking your tour in advance during peak tourist seasons to secure your spot on board.
15. La Criée de Concarneau
La Criée de Concarneau is a fish auction market located in the coastal town of Concarneau, Brittany, France.
What to see or do: Gather early in the morning to witness fish vendors selling all sorts of fish, from squid to crab. You can bid alongside locals to buy fresh catches of your own and learn about the fishing industry.
Don’t miss: Be sure to stay for the fish cleaning demonstration to learn how to prepare your freshly bought seafood.
Insider travel tips: Try to be there before 6 a.m.
when the fish market opens to see the fish arriving and auctioning. Arriving early will secure you a spot to watch the demonstration later in the day.