Ferry Port
St Malo
70 km, 1 hour
Airport
Rennes-Bretagne
From Calais
6-7 hours
Est. Tolls
£30-£40
About Rennes
The capital of Brittany is a lively university city with a beautifully preserved medieval centre. Rennes combines Breton culture, half-timbered houses, excellent crêperies, and a youthful energy from its large student population. It's the gateway to Brittany's rugged coastline, Mont Saint-Michel, and the charming towns of the Emerald Coast.
Best for
Tips for Getting to Rennes
Portsmouth-St Malo overnight ferry puts you just 1 hour from Rennes — ideal for western UK travellers.
Rennes is perfectly positioned for exploring Brittany: beaches, Mont Saint-Michel, Dinan, and Saint-Malo.
The city has a compact, walkable historic centre with excellent crêperies and cider bars.
Saturday morning market at Place des Lices is one of the best in Brittany — arrive early.
Brittany ferries from Portsmouth are often cheaper than Dover/Folkestone crossings when you factor in fuel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Rennes from the UK?
Portsmouth-St Malo overnight ferry (Brittany Ferries) followed by 1 hour drive. Or drive via Calais (6-7 hours). Budget flights to Rennes are also available from several UK airports.
Is Rennes a good base for exploring Brittany?
Excellent. Rennes is centrally located for Brittany's north coast (Saint-Malo, Dinard, Dinan), Mont Saint-Michel (1 hour), and the Pink Granite Coast (2 hours).
What is there to do in Rennes?
Explore the medieval old town, visit the Parliament of Brittany, try crêpes and cider, see the Thabor Gardens, and use it as a base for exploring wider Brittany.
Calculate Your Trip to Rennes
Get exact costs for tunnel, ferry, and fly + hire options for your specific dates.
Compare Options to RennesGetting to Rennes from the UK
Compare routes from 1 UK city to Rennes.
| From | Distance | Drive Time | Best Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exeter | 450 km | 6-7 hrs | Plymouth ferry |