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There are great many things to do in France, and so are in Saint-Malo.
A treasure trove of cobblestone streets, ancient ramparts, and shimmering beaches – Saint-Malo is a coastal gem nestled in the Brittany region of France.
A city with an endless supply of charm, it is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and a dash of history.
Here’s a glance at some of the must-do activities in Saint-Malo.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Saint-Malo:
1. Saint-Malo Intra-Muros
A fortified medieval town located in the Brittany region of France.
What to see or do: Walk along the ramparts to get a stunning view of the sea and the town, explore the narrow streets and visit the Saint-Malo Cathedral, the Castle of Saint-Malo, and the Fort National.
There are also several museums to visit such as the Musée d’Histoire de Saint-Malo and the Musée International du Long-Cours Cap-Hornier.
Don’t miss: Watching the impressive high tide phenomenon known as the “Marée du siècle” or “Century Tide”, which occurs every 18 years and causes the sea level to rise up to 13 meters.
Insider travel tips: Try the local seafood such as oysters and scallops which are well known in the region. To avoid crowds, visit the town during the off-season months of October to April.
Also, consider taking a boat trip to nearby islands such as Grand Bé or Petit Bé for a unique experience.
2. Château de Saint-Malo
A beautiful castle located in the heart of Saint-Malo, France.
What to see or do: Explore the castle’s stunning architecture and expansive gardens. Learn about the history of Saint-Malo by visiting the castle’s museum and exhibitions.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of the city and the sea from the castle’s ramparts. Make sure to bring your camera!
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and make the most of your time exploring the castle and its surroundings.
Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and stairs to climb.
3. Grand Aquarium
The Grand Aquarium is a popular attraction located in Saint-Malo, France. It is home to over 600 different marine species and offers visitors an immersive experience into the underwater world.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the aquarium’s various exhibits, including a shark tank, a coral reef tank, and a touch tank where you can interact with starfish and other sea creatures.
There is also a 360-degree underwater tunnel and a seahorse exhibit.
Don’t miss: One of the most impressive exhibits is the Oceanic “Bathyscaphe,” a giant capsule that allows visitors to descend into the depths of the ocean and experience marine life up close.
The feeding sessions at the shark tank and the ray tank are also worth seeing.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, it’s best to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon. There is also a cafeteria and gift shop on-site.
If you plan on visiting other attractions in the area, consider purchasing a combined ticket to save on admission fees.
4. Fort National
Fort National is a stunning fortress located on a small island just off the coast of Saint-Malo, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the fort to learn about its tumultuous history, including its role in protecting Saint-Malo from English attacks in the 17th and 18th centuries.
The views from the fort are also breathtaking, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the coastline and the ocean.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of the fort’s tower, where you’ll be rewarded with an even more dizzying view of the surroundings.
Also, keep an eye out for the unique architecture of the fort, which blends elements of medieval and Renaissance design.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the tide schedule before heading to Fort National, as it is only accessible during low tide.
Additionally, if you visit in the summer, be prepared for crowds and be sure to arrive early to beat the rush.
Finally, consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy on the island’s small beach, as there are no restaurants or cafes on site.
5. Plage du Sillon
Plage du Sillon is a stunning beach located in the heart of Saint-Malo, a historic walled city in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: This beautiful beach offers clear blue waters and soft golden sands perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and strolling along the shore. Visitors can also enjoy various water sports activities such as windsurfing and kite surfing.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a stroll on the promenade which is lined with numerous cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. The view of the crystal clear waters and the walled city of Saint-Malo is absolutely breathtaking.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit the beach early in the morning or during the off-season months. Beachgoers can park their cars in the nearby parking areas for an affordable price.
Also, don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat as the sun can be quite strong during the summer months.
6. La Demeure de Corsaire
La Demeure de Corsaire is a historic house museum in the heart of Saint-Malo that offers a glimpse into the lives of the corsairs, the privateers who defended the city and plundered enemy ships during the 17th and 18th centuries.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the elegantly furnished rooms of the 18th-century mansion, which showcase the lifestyle of wealthy ship owners and merchants.
The museum also displays a collection of weapons, maritime artefacts, and maps that convey the importance of the sea for the city’s economy and history.
Guided tours are available in English and French.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the grand salon, which features a magnificent ceiling painted with mythological scenes and a fireplace adorned with a gilded mirror and rococo motifs.
The bedroom of the famous corsair Robert Surcouf is also a highlight, with its four-poster bed, period furniture, and portraits of Surcouf and his family.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s website for special exhibitions and events, such as concerts and theatre performances.