Brest travel guide
- Introduction to Brest
- History of Brest
- Top services in Brest
- Best time to visit Brest
- Local tip for visiting Brest
- Learn more about France
- What to see in Brest
- Top attractions in Brest
- Map of attractions
- Things to do in Brest
- Most popular experiences in Brest
- Top tours & tickets starting in Brest
- Search for things to do in Brest
- What to eat in Brest
- Best shopping in Brest
- Best free things to do in Brest
- Vacation packages in Brest
- Popular types of vacations in Brest
- Top vacation packages in Brest
- Find vacation packages in Brest
- How to get to Brest
- Find cheap flights to Brest
- Popular flights to Brest
- Where to stay in Brest
- Popular types of accommodation in Brest
- Top hotels in Brest
- Search for accommodation in Brest
- Car rentals in Brest
- Popular types of cars for rent in Brest
- Search for car rentals in Brest
- Transportation in Brest
- Popular destinations to visit after Brest
- All the best destinations in France
- Domestic flights from Brest
- Popular domestic flights from Brest
- Search domestic flights from Brest
History of Brest
Brest, nestled in the heart of Brittany, is a city steeped in rich history. Established by the Romans in the 1st century BC, it developed into a significant port during the Middle Ages.
In the 17th century, Brest was transformed into a major naval base by Cardinal Richelieu, and it became a hub of French maritime power. The city was heavily bombarded during World War II, resulting in widespread destruction.
Post-war, Brest was rebuilt in a modern style under the guidance of architect Jean-Baptiste Mathon, with the reconstruction focusing on the creation of large, open spaces, and the prioritization of functionality over aesthetics. Today, Brest is a vibrant city known for its maritime heritage, with attractions including the National Maritime Museum, located in the ancient Château de Brest, and Océanopolis, a renowned marine research centre and aquarium. Brest's history is a testament to resilience and rebirth, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
Top services in Brest
On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Brest, France. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Brest, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.
Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to France. Check out the best things to do in Brest by browsing over 11 top-rated tours available to you in the hamlet. Compare the rates and services of the 3 types of places to stay and 7 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Brest with this travel guide.
Experience the best of Brest with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Brest from our free 24/7 customer support.
Continue reading this Brest travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the hamlet of Brest!
Best time to visit Brest
The best time to explore Brest, France, is during the late spring and summer months, from May to September, when the weather is warm and pleasant. Temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C, providing perfect conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. A particularly vibrant time is during the second half of July when the city hosts 'Les Jeudis du Port,' a series of free concerts and street performances. However, this period can also be the busiest, so booking accommodations well in advance is advised. For those preferring a quieter visit, the shoulder seasons of April and October offer mild weather and fewer tourists. The city's maritime heritage can be best appreciated in June during the 'Maritime Festival,' a week-long celebration of Brest's seafaring traditions. Whenever you choose to visit, each season offers a unique perspective to experience Brest.
Local tip for visiting Brest
While Brest is known for its maritime heritage and stunning landscapes, the insider tip that locals swear by is visiting the city's vibrant street art scene. Brest is a canvas for many talented artists, and the city streets are adorned with colourful murals, graffiti, and installations that add an urban edge to the historic charm. The district of Saint-Martin is particularly known for its street art, offering a visual feast for art lovers. While most tourists might overlook this, taking a self-guided walking tour to explore this street art can provide a unique perspective on Brest's contemporary culture. Make sure you have your camera ready to capture these unique sights, as they are ever-changing with new art appearing regularly. This insider tip will enrich your visit with a touch of local modern artistry that is often missed by the mainstream travel guides.
Learn more about France
With destinations such as Brest, a trip to France needs no further explanation. Spanning over 643,801 square kilometers, France is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, France has something to enchant every traveler.
Thus, a trip to France becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, France offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered. There's so much to explore and uncover in France.
Click or tap the link below to discover more about France and its offers.
What to see in Brest
Expect an exhilarating journey through Brest, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Brest offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Brest travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the hamlet so special.
Top attractions in Brest
With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Brest is more than just a wonderful hamlet in France. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into France's rich heritage and innovative spirit.
Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the hamlet, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Brest.
For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Brest, check out our list of top attractions below.
Map of attractions
Take a closer look at the hamlet map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Brest.
Things to do in Brest
You've explored Brest's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Brest. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Brest, or learning more about the hamlet's rich history and traditions.
Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the hamlet below.
Most popular experiences in Brest
A visit to Brest gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the hamlet is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Roundtrip Port Transfers, Historical Tours, Walking Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.
In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Brest, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant hamlet. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Brest. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Brest offers and let your adventures begin!
Top tours & tickets starting in Brest
In Brest, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 2 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.
Brest also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. Walking Tour Discover the Best of Brest in 2 hours, for example, is the cheapest Walking Tour option in the hamlet. This experience costs around 15 EUR.
Elevate your upcoming Brest adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the hamlet. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Brest right below.
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Search for things to do in Brest
Discover the best things to do in Brest. Choose from 11 fantastic tours and activities available in the hamlet.
Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Brest. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Brest.
What to eat in Brest
In Brest, the gastronomic delights are as varied as they are delicious. The city is particularly famous for its seafood, with the Rue de Siam and the bustling markets of Saint-Louis being some of the best places to eat in Brest for fresh oysters, lobsters, and scallops. For a more upscale dining experience, head to the renowned Michelin-starred establishments along the Rue Jean Jaurès, where you can indulge in exquisite traditional dishes such as Kig ha farz, a Breton delicacy made from buckwheat. Don't miss trying the famous Breton crêpes and cider, which can be found in quaint crêperies scattered throughout the city. Brest is also home to a plethora of food trucks serving mouthwatering street food, from savoury galettes to locally made pastries. To enhance your dining experience, consider joining a culinary tour or a cooking class to learn about the city's rich gastronomy. Whether you're a seafood lover, a street food aficionado, or a gourmet enthusiast, Brest has something to offer for every palate.
Best shopping in Brest
Brest, a vibrant city in Brittany, France, boasts a unique shopping experience that combines tradition and modernity. Rue Jean Jaurès, the city's main shopping street, is the best place to go shopping in Brest. Lined with fashion boutiques, bookstores, and local artisans, it perfectly captures the city's distinct style and craftsmanship. Don't miss out on the Galeries Lafayette, a chic department store offering a wide range of fashion, beauty, and gourmet food items. For a more traditional shopping experience, head to Les Halles Saint Louis. This iconic market is teeming with local produce, fresh seafood, and regional specialties, making it an ideal spot to hunt for edible souvenirs. Brest is also home to the artisanal Créations Léonie, renowned for its handmade Breton-striped clothing. Practical information: Most shops in Brest are open from 10 am to 7 pm, with a lunch break between 12 pm and 2 pm. Credit cards are widely accepted. Remember, the best shopping experience in Brest is not just about what you buy, but the journey of discovery and the memories you create.
Best free things to do in Brest
Brest, a vibrant city in the Brittany region of France, is packed with an array of free activities that showcase its rich history and culture. One of the best free things to do in Brest is to explore the atmospheric streets of the city center, where you'll encounter historic buildings, charming squares, and bustling cafes. Don't miss a stroll through the beautiful public gardens of the Valon du Stang-Alar. This botanical paradise houses a wealth of flora and fauna and offers picturesque views. Visit the National Maritime Museum, located in the ancient Brest Castle, which offers free entrance certain days of the year. Familiarize yourself with the city's maritime history and enjoy sweeping views of the harbor. For art enthusiasts, the Brest Metro Art project allows visitors to admire a collection of street art installations scattered throughout the city, absolutely free of charge. Lastly, take a leisurely walk along the Moulin Blanc Marina, a scenic harbor area with stunning views of the sea and ships. These free activities offer a rich and fulfilling experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the unique charm of Brest.
Vacation packages in Brest
Booking a vacation package to Brest means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accommodation, and a rental car to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Brest to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.
Apart from providing everything you need to travel comfortably, travel packages to Brest also offer full customization. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.
Continue to the next section of this complete Brest travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the hamlet.
Popular types of vacations in Brest
The most popular way to experience Brest is by visiting the hamlet as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in France. However, it is also common for travelers to go on holiday to Brest on both shorter and longer getaways to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.
With Guide to Europe, you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in France, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across France, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Brest, there is a vacation package for you.
Explore the popular types of travel packages to Brest below. Click on any to delve into the details and effortlessly plan your dream getaway.
Top vacation packages in Brest
Top-rated travel packages to Rome allow you to experience a memorable journey. These packages offer customizable features, ensuring you're guaranteed to have an immersive exploration through the heart of Rome and beyond. Browse a couple of options to uncover the finest ways to explore the city of Rome with ease and excitement.
Get more Brest vacation ideas by continuing to read this Brest travel guide and discover the greatest selection of travel packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in France that match your needs and budget.
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Find vacation packages in Brest
Explore and compare vacation packages, each offering unforgettable journeys to the wonderful hamlet of Brest. Be sure to act swiftly, as the best flights, hotels, and activities in Brest tend to fill up quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best travel deals in France. Your customized holiday package to Brest is only a few clicks away!
How to get to Brest
International travelers can fly to Brest by booking flights with Volotea, Transavia France, Chalair, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and Aegean, offering flights to Brest Bretagne. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Brest.
For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Brest, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Brest. Go to this page to compare all flights to Brest.
Find cheap flights to Brest
Booking budget-friendly flights to Brest is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.
Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Brest. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the hamlet. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.
To help you find cheap flights to Brest, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search, " and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Brest even more convenient.
Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book, " and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!
Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Brest both affordable and unforgettable.
Where to stay in Brest
An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a hamlet as fantastic as Brest is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Brest usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Brest offers a ton of benefits.
Staying in the heart of the hamlet allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Brest and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Brest planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.
In Brest, you'll find 3 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in France can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Brest. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the hamlet, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Brest.
Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Brest in the following sections.
Popular types of accommodation in Brest
A trip to Brest means opportunities to relax at any of the 3 different types of places to stay in the hamlet. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Brest provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.
Among all the choices available in the hamlet, Hôtel Restaurant Logis Center Brest is one of the top picks of travelers in Brest. Hôtel Restaurant Logis Center Brest is a 3-star stay with an average rating of 2443 stars out of 5 from 4 guests. The hotel is located at 4, boulevard Léon Blum and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, free wi-fi, and terrace.
Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Brest. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.
In Brest, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose chambre d'hôte. For approximately 47 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Single Room at this popular bed & breakfast, which also offers garden, family rooms, and more.
Below is a list of all 3 different types of places to stay in Brest. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.
Top hotels in Brest
Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Brest for the unique experience they provide. Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Brest provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Brest are created equal, finding the best in the hamlet often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Brest.
If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Hôtel L'Amirauté Brest, the top 4-star hotel in the hamlet. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Brest, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Hôtel Restaurant Logis Center Brest, is for you.
Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in Brest. Travelers are encouraged to book early, as these hotels quickly reach capacity. Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel in Brest by clicking the cards.
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Search for accommodation in Brest
Finding the perfect stay for your visit to Brest is made easy with our search tool. With just a few clicks, explore a range of available hotels and accommodations, complete with prices and amenities for easy comparison. Simply input your check-in and check-out dates, along with the number of guests and rooms needed. Start planning your trip to Brest effortlessly now!
Car rentals in Brest
To navigate Brest effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 7 car rental companies in Brest, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.
Automatic cars for rent in Brest start at 30 EUR per day or 208 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Fiat 500 Electric. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Brest, starting at 35 EUR per day or 247 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.
Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Brest, France below.
Popular types of cars for rent in Brest
Renting a car in Brest is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the hamlet at their own pace.
A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Brest, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.
Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Brest for your upcoming adventures in France below.
Search for car rentals in Brest
Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful hamlet of Brest. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Brest, France, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.
Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.
Transportation in Brest
Navigating Brest, France is quite convenient thanks to its well-developed, efficient, and reliable transportation system.
The city's public transit system is primarily made up of the Brest Métropole Océane network of buses and trams, which offer extensive coverage of the city and its surrounding areas. The system is known for its punctuality and affordability, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
Taxis are also readily available in Brest and can be hailed from the street, booked online, or picked up from designated taxi ranks. For those who prefer driving, several car rental companies are available, offering a range of vehicles to suit different travel needs.
An interesting and unique way to explore Brest is by taking a ride on the Brest Cable Car, the first urban cable car system in France. It offers a unique perspective of the city, especially the stunning port area. Whether you are in Brest for business or pleasure, the city's transportation options are designed to provide efficient, comfortable, and enjoyable travel experiences.
Popular destinations to visit after Brest
The hamlet of Brest is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in France. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that France has it all.
Each destination in France offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in France that are as magical as the hamlet of Brest. The most popular travel destinations in France are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.
All the best destinations in France
When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in France. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.
Domestic flights from Brest
Experience the authentic charm of France by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Brest. Explore other destinations around France with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Brest to other amazing locations in France, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in France for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Brest.
Search domestic flights from Brest
Traveling to another city or region in France? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Brest to different local destinations.
Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in France on the selected dates.
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