A few words about Rennes

After Brittany united with France in 1532, the city of Rennes became its capital and remains ever since. The town has a considerable and well-preserved historical and cultural heritage that witnesses its glory in the past. Most historic sites are concentrated in the area known as Les Lices and this fact has an unfortunate explanation. Back in 1720 a drunken carpenter caused a devastating fire on most of the city. Les Lices gladly remained intact, maybe due to its location at the connection of the island and the River Vilaine. A large restoration plan was developed afterwards and implemented by Parisian architects. As a result the northern part of the town boasts of splendid 18th century buildings with elegant squares and alleys among them.

Today the city of Rennes is lively and pleasing. There are 3 major museums that should not be missed. The Musee des Beaux Arts, Ecomusee du Pays de Rennes and the Musee de Bretagne. As most French cities, Rennes has preserved its beautiful cathedral and the area around it shelters some of its major historic attractions.

Thanks to the local university, Rennes enjoys the young and lively spirit of a students' town. Nightlife is wild and entertaining with plenty of clubs, bars and pubs till early in the morning. For fun lovers the streets of St. Malo and St. Michel are recommended for the highest concentration of entertainment spots. And if you are a culinary fan, St Georges street is the place of top delight. Myriad of excellent restaurants offering local and international cuisine will amaze you with gastronomic mastery.

Some blame Rennes for having lost most of its personality and characteristic atmosphere. In fact it has become a modern town, though not that imposing and huge as many of the other urban centers of Europe. Its cozy elegance and harmony with the past makes it even more delightful and pleasant, and most of all beating with its own vibes.