Rennes is a vibrant city with a surprising variety of ways to explore its streets, coastlines, and nearby landmarks. Its lively atmosphere, rich history, and stunning natural scenery make it a perfect place for memorable tours. We especially love the small group boat trips that offer an intimate view of Saint-Malo and the Emerald Coast—imagine seeing the fortified city and the tide’s dance from the water with a passionate local guide. These experiences (like Small group boat trip with a local) reveal hidden perspectives you can’t get from land alone, all with friendly company and expert commentary. For history lovers, the immersive 1944 guided tour (Unusual guided tour of Saint Malo in immersion in 1944) takes you back in time with period costumes. And if you prefer an active challenge, the outdoor escape games in Rennes (Outdoor escape game By order of the Peaky Renners) combine sightseeing with puzzles for a fun twist.
Quick Overview
Rennes offers a mix of boat trips, guided walks, themed tours, and adventure activities. You can explore Saint-Malo’s historic coastlines on boat rides (Saint-Malo: 1h30 guided boat trip), learn about WWII history (1944 immersion tour), or enjoy scenic drives to Mont Saint Michel (Private Day Tour). For those interested in local culture, Rennes’ guided city walks (Rennes: Private Guided Walking Tour) uncover centuries of Breton history, while active travelers can solve puzzles outdoors (Outdoor escape game).
1. Small group boat trip with a local
This one-hour boat trip in Saint-Malo is perfect for those who want a quick, authentic maritime experience. Led by Nicolas, a local born into a fishing family, you’ll cruise in a small group—maximizing intimacy and personal storytelling. Nicolas shares stories about port life, the city’s transformation, and regional secrets, making this more than just a ride. You’ll sail past Les Remparts de Saint-Malo, Fort du Petit Be, and Le Grand Be, depending on the tide. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and enthusiastic Nicolas is, with “a fabulous time” and “beautiful views” being common compliments. The tour offers excellent value at just over $45, especially given its rich commentary and scenic stops. It’s suited for anyone craving a relaxed introduction to the area’s maritime charm.
Bottom Line: Small, friendly, and packed with local insights, this tour is ideal for travelers who want a quick but meaningful maritime experience.
2. Saint-Malo: 1h30 guided boat trip
If your schedule allows a bit more time, this 1.5-hour boat trip with Nicolas delves deeper into Saint-Malo’s naval history and offers panoramic views. Again starting from Saint-Malo, this tour includes passing by the historic city, the fort, and the old powder magazine—all narrated in both French and English. Guests praise the clarity of explanations and safety, along with the beautiful scenery. Many note the new boat and the friendly captain who goes out of his way to make sure everyone understands the stories. The price, just above $50, reflects the extended duration and richer experience. Ideal for history buffs or anyone wanting a more comprehensive boat tour.
Bottom Line: Offers a relaxed exploration with an emphasis on maritime history, perfect for those wanting a longer, more detailed maritime perspective.
3. Unusual guided tour of Saint Malo in immersion in 1944
Step back into 1944 with this immersive walking tour led by Joseph Guthrie, a WWII veteran dressed in period costume. Over two hours, you’ll explore historic Saint-Malo’s streets, passing key sites like Porte Saint-Vincent and Le Grand Be, while hearing stories from the liberation and war destruction. The guide’s background as an American soldier adds authenticity, making the experience both educational and emotionally impactful. Guests appreciate the mix of storytelling and living history, with “superb” reviews highlighting how much they learned about WWII’s impact on Saint-Malo. This tour is suited for history enthusiasts eager to see the city through a different lens.
Bottom Line: A well-executed, immersive historical experience that combines walking with storytelling—perfect for history lovers or those looking for something memorable.
4. The Emerald Coast and Cancale in vintage sidecar with driver
For a truly unique way to explore Brittany, hop into an authentic vintage sidecar for nearly three hours of sightseeing. Starting at the Intra Muros gate, your driver whisks you along country roads, through oyster ports at Cancale, and to beaches like Plage Rochebonne and Plage des Chevrets. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of Mont Saint Michel from Cancale, and if you’re lucky, sample fresh oysters directly from the producer at the Marche Aux Huitres. The experience combines adventure, comfort, and a sense of nostalgia, with reviews emphasizing the beautiful scenery and friendly driver. The $170 price is high but reflects the personalized nature of this tour and the extraordinary views you won’t see on typical buses. Best for those craving a fun, offbeat experience with a dash of adventure.
Bottom Line: A memorable, scenic ride that’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a different perspective on Brittany’s coast.
5. 5-hour Private Tour of Mt St Michel From St Malo with pick up and drop off
This private 5-hour tour offers flexibility and personalized attention as you explore Mont Saint Michel. Included are transport from Saint-Malo, a guided visit of the abbey, and time to walk the cobblestone streets of this UNESCO site. The tour’s key advantage is the private setting, allowing you to customize your experience and avoid the crowds. Guests mention the professional guide and the opportunity to see the abbey, ramparts, and even sample local delicacies. The price, around $600, is justified by the tailored experience and-includes transportation, making it excellent value for those who prefer a private, in-depth visit.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a customized, hassle-free day at Mont Saint Michel with a knowledgeable guide.
6. Guided tour of Saint-Malo at the time of the last corsairs
This immersive two-hour walking tour takes you into Saint-Malo’s corsair era, led by a guide in period costume. Starting at Saint Vincent Cathedral, you’ll walk along the beach to the Grand Bé, hearing stories of privateers and pirates that once roamed these waters. The guide’s vivid storytelling makes history lively, and reviews praise the engaging narration. It’s perfect for those curious about the city’s maritime piracy history and wanting an interactive experience. The small group size means you get plenty of personal attention and stories you won’t find in guidebooks.
Bottom Line: A lively, themed walk that brings Saint-Malo’s corsair past to life, perfect for history enthusiasts and families alike.
7. Day trip with local driver to Mt Saint-Michel, Cancale, and Saint-Malo from Rennes
For a full day exploring the coast, this private 9-hour tour covers Mont Saint Michel, Cancale, and Saint-Malo. Your own driver and vehicle ensure flexibility, with stops for sightseeing, oyster tasting, and shopping. The Mont visit includes free time to explore the abbey and streets, while Cancale offers fresh seafood. Guests report excellent guides and a well-paced trip. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to see the highlights comfortably without the hassle of self-driving. Note the price (around $1,400) reflects the private, all-inclusive nature, but it’s a good deal for a customized experience.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, flexible way to see multiple highlights in a day—best for those who value comfort and personalized service.
8. Outdoor escape game By order of the Peaky Renners
Add some adventure and teamwork with this outdoor escape game in Rennes. Using your smartphone, your team will receive a mission full of puzzles and clues around the city’s most iconic spots. It’s a fun, active way to discover Rennes’ streets and landmarks while solving challenging riddles. Reviewers mention how complex puzzles make the game engaging, and it’s perfect for friends or family looking for a lively challenge. The game lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a quick but memorable activity.
Bottom Line: A fun, interactive way to see Rennes in a different light—ideal for small groups, families, or anyone who enjoys puzzles.
9. Private Tour: Full Day Tour of Mont Saint-Michel from St Malo
This full-day private tour is designed for those who want a personal touch when visiting Mont Saint Michel. Starting with pick-up from your Saint Malo hotel, your guide will take you around the abbey, the bay, and the charming village. Guests love the personalized itinerary and the chance to explore at their own pace. The tour includes entrance fees, and you’ll have plenty of time for photos and shopping. It’s perfect for travelers who value exclusivity and a tailored experience, with an emphasis on discovering every corner of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a private, comprehensive day trip with expert guidance and flexibility.
10. Saint-Malo: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour & Commentary
Explore Saint-Malo at your own pace on this two-hour private walking tour. Led by an expert guide, you’ll visit ramparts, Saint Vincent’s Cathedral, and other major landmarks. The private setting allows for personalized questions and a relaxed rhythm. Many reviews mention how the guide’s local knowledge brings the city’s stories alive. This tour is best for travelers who want a quick yet in-depth overview, with the flexibility to customize what they see.
Bottom Line: A great choice for a tailored, intimate introduction to Saint-Malo’s key sights.
11. Outdoor escape game | The headquarters of Rennes
Similar to the Peaky Renners game, this interactive treasure hunt around Rennes offers a lively, puzzle-filled day. Using your phone, you’ll uncover clues, solve riddles, and explore Rennes’ city center while learning about its architecture and history. Reviewers love how challenging yet fun it is, with some completing the puzzles in just under two hours. It’s especially good for groups who want more than a typical sightseeing tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active, puzzle-loving groups who want a memorable day exploring Rennes’ streets.
12. Day Trip Mont-Saint-Michel with a local driver from Rennes – 6 hours
This 6-hour private transfer makes visiting Mont Saint Michel stress-free. Your driver will whisk you from Rennes, and you’ll get around 4 hours to explore the abbey, the streets, and the shops. Guests appreciate the timed visits and the personalized attention. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a quick, easy trip without the hassle of public transport or self-driving. The price is reasonable for up to 7 people, making it a good option for families or small groups.
Bottom Line: An easy, convenient way to visit Mont Saint Michel without sacrificing comfort or flexibility.
13. From Rennes: Mont-Saint-Michel Private Full-Day Tour
For those wanting a comprehensive private experience, this full-day tour covers both Mont Saint Michel and Saint Malo. Your guide will take you through the abbey, the city walls, and the bay, with time for photos and shopping. Guests recommend the expert guidance and the tailored itinerary. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see everything in one day but prefer to avoid the crowds or long self-guided walks. The high price reflects the private, all-inclusive nature.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a private, hassle-free day combining history, scenery, and local flavor.
14. Rennes: Private Guided Walking Tour
Discover Rennes’ urban charm on this 1.5-hour private walking tour. Led by a local guide, you’ll see Saint Peter’s Basilica, Place des Lices, the Opera, and other key sights. Many reviews praise the informative narration and personalized attention. It’s especially good for first-time visitors who want a quick but rundown without feeling rushed. Ideal for those who want a flexible, private experience with expert insights into Rennes’ past and present.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a concise, personalized introduction to Rennes’ main sights and stories.
15. Rennes: Private guided walking tour of the city centre
This two-hour tour offers a focused deep dive into Rennes’ city center, including the Portes Mordelaises, Lices Market, and Place du Champ Jacquet. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the city’s key landmarks at a relaxed pace. The reviews highlight the friendly guide and insightful commentary. It’s suitable for travelers wanting a quick, well-rounded overview of Rennes’ history and attractions.
Bottom Line: An efficient, engaging way to explore Rennes’ core neighborhoods with a guide’s local insights.
How to Choose the Perfect Rennes Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and pace. If you love water and scenic views, the boat trips (Small group boat trip) or the vintage sidecar adventure (Emerald Coast in vintage sidecar) are fantastic options. History buffs should prioritize the WWII immersion (1944 guided tour) or the corsair tour (Corsairs of Saint-Malo). For those looking for flexibility and a private experience, the full-day Mont Saint Michel tours (Private full-day) or city walking tours (Rennes private walk) offer personalized service.
Budget travelers may prefer the escape games (Rennes escape game), which combine fun and discovery at a lower cost. Time-constrained visitors should look at shorter tours like the 1-hour boat trip or 2-hour city walks for a quick but enriching experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Think about what excites you most—whether it’s sailing, history, or active exploration—and choose the experience that best matches your travel style.
Rennes offers a variety of tours that cater to history lovers, adventure seekers, foodies, and those just wanting to relax and take in the scenery. From intimate boat rides to private full-day adventures, this city and its surroundings are ripe with opportunities to create unforgettable memories. For a well-rounded trip, mix and match a few experiences—just remember to book early so you don’t miss out on your favorites.