Things to do in Saint-Malo

Activities, attractions and tours

Saint-Malo
Saint-Malo showing food
Saint-Malo which includes general coastal views and heritage elements
Saint-Malo which includes art
St. Malo Beach featuring a bay or harbour, general coastal views and heritage elements

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Top places to visit

1. Saint-Malo Ferry Port

Stand on the deck of a ship as you drift slowly into Saint-Malo Ferry Port. This port, a gateway to the city of Saint-Malo and the surrounding region of Brittany, welcomes a regular stream of boats from the Channel Islands and Portsmouth in the U.K. The port is equipped to deal with a high turnover of visitors and features an array of modern conveniences to make visitors’ trips as smooth as possible.
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Sail into a modern and well-equipped port that gives you access to the historical towns and beautiful beaches of northern Brittany.

2. St. Malo Beach

There is something remarkable about sunbathing on the sand of St. Malo Beach surrounded by the rustic backdrop of the city ramparts and an island fortress. At low tide, the water appears to drain away completely and you can walk to Fort National. Enjoy fresh seafood from one of the many restaurants at the back of the beach with a view of the English Channel.
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St. Malo Beach featuring a bay or harbour, general coastal views and heritage elements

3. St. Malo Citadel

The St. Malo Citadel is the part of Old Town surrounded by medieval ramparts, a restored wonder that has been brought back to life in the wake of World War II bombings. It stands proudly against the edge of the ocean, indicating the port’s long and exhilarating history. Explore Saint-Malo’s historic center by striding around the ramparts and exploring the sights hidden within the citadel.
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The Old Town of Saint-Malo is one giant fortification, surrounded by medieval ramparts and housing historic churches and stunning castles.

4. Grand Aquarium

Meet a marvelous group of marine animals in the Grand Aquarium of Saint-Malo. Over 600 species live in this engaging family attraction. Spot seahorses hiding in the kelp and giant Japanese crabs scuttling across the seabed. Board an underwater vessel and travel beneath the water for close encounters with all of these weird and wonderful creatures for an exhilarating day out in Saint-Malo.
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Peer into the watery depths at this entertaining aquarium that takes you on underwater excursions and lets you get close to marine creatures.

5. Fort National

Fort National is an extraordinary structure built on a tiny island next to Saint-Malo. The acclaimed military architect Vauban constructed the fort at the end of the 17th century to protect the city’s prosperous port. Learn about the intriguing history of this granite structure, as you peruse its rooms and walls.
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Fort National showing heritage elements as well as a couple

6. Grand Be

The Grand Bé is a serene tidal island known as the burial place of 18th-century French writer Chateaubriand. The picturesque islet connects to the walled city of Saint-Malo via a sandy causeway at low tide. Hike around the circumference of this charming rocky island.
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Walk to this scenic island at low tide and embark on a romantic pilgrimage to the tomb of one of France’s greatest writers.

7. Grande Plage

The Grande Plage, or Large Beach, of Saint-Malo is often listed as one of the finest beaches in the country. Visit the sandy shoreline and you’ll soon realize why it’s so beloved. Calm waters are sheltered by a medieval fortress to the west and a peninsula to the east, with a charming row of houses and hotels lining the waterfront.
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Spend a day at Saint-Malo’s lovely beach, enjoying watersports and basking in the sun. You’ll discover why it is rated one of the most beautiful beaches in France.

8. St. Vincent Cathedral

Look toward the Old Town of Saint-Malo and the first landmark you will see is St. Vincent Cathedral, a magnificent church topped by a long, narrow spire. A building rich in history and symbolism, the cathedral is one of the most treasured sights in town. Admire its stunning architecture from outside and then head inside to see its magnificent stained-glass windows and other artistic delights.
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Marvel at this medieval church, which though once in ruins, has been beautifully restored and is now one of the most iconic sights in Saint-Malo.

What to do in Saint-Malo

Popular places to visit

Saint-Malo Ferry Port

Saint-Malo Ferry Port

4/5(67 reviews)

Sail into a modern and well-equipped port that gives you access to the historical towns and beautiful beaches of northern Brittany.

Saint-Malo Ferry Port
St. Malo Beach featuring a bay or harbour, general coastal views and heritage elements

St. Malo Beach

4.5/5(36 reviews)

Make your way across the various stretches of sand and the islands dotted around this quaint town on the English Channel.

St. Malo Beach
St. Malo Citadel

St. Malo Citadel

4.5/5(39 reviews)

The Old Town of Saint-Malo is one giant fortification, surrounded by medieval ramparts and housing historic churches and stunning castles.

St. Malo Citadel
Grand Aquarium

Grand Aquarium

5/5(8 reviews)

Peer into the watery depths at this entertaining aquarium that takes you on underwater excursions and lets you get close to marine creatures.

Grand Aquarium
Port of Saint-Malo

Port of Saint-Malo

4/5(73 reviews)

Explore the waterfront in Saint-Malo with a trip to Port of Saint-Malo. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Port of Saint-Malo
Fort National showing heritage elements as well as a couple

Fort National

4.5/5(25 reviews)

Stroll across the sand at low tide to reach this historic island fortress and learn about its fascinating military past.

Fort National
Grande Plage

Grande Plage

Spend a day at Saint-Malo’s lovely beach, enjoying watersports and basking in the sun. You’ll discover why it is rated one of the most beautiful beaches in France.

Grande Plage
St. Vincent Cathedral

St. Vincent Cathedral

4.5/5(9 reviews)

Marvel at this medieval church, which though once in ruins, has been beautifully restored and is now one of the most iconic sights in Saint-Malo.

St. Vincent Cathedral
Solidor Tower

Solidor Tower

4/5(2 reviews)

Learn about the local history of Saint-Malo when you spend time at Solidor Tower. Wander the beautiful beaches and waterfront in the area.

Solidor Tower

Areas of Saint-Malo

St. Malo Beach featuring a bay or harbour, general coastal views and heritage elements

Intra Muros

4.5/5(47 area reviews)

Cafes, historical sites and waterfront views highlight some of the noteworthy features of Intra Muros. Make a stop by St. Malo Citadel or St. Malo Beach while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Intra Muros
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Rocabey - Alsace - Gare

5/5(2 area reviews)

Uncover some of the top draws of Rocabey - Alsace - Gare like its waterfront views and historical sites. If you're hoping to see more of the larger area, stop by Sillon Beach or Port of Saint-Malo.

Rocabey - Alsace - Gare
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Photo by chisloup (CC BY)

Parame

Parame is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Plage de Rochebonne and Plage de La Hoguette while you're in town.

Parame
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Courtoisville-Sillon-Moka

4.5/5(34 area reviews)

The beaches and seaside views are top of the list for many visitors to Courtoisville-Sillon-Moka. A stop by Grande Plage or Sillon Beach might round out your trip.

Courtoisville-Sillon-Moka
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Saint-Servan

4/5(18 area reviews)

The charming neighborhood to the south of the center of Saint-Malo features fascinating historical sights, celebrated restaurants and busy marinas.

Saint-Servan
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Rotheneuf

If you're spending some time in Rotheneuf, Plage du Val and Île Besnard are top sights worth seeing.

Rotheneuf
Dinard

Dinard

Frequently asked questions

Is Saint-Malo worth visiting?
Saint-Malo offers a unique mix of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into history, nature or local cuisine, there's plenty you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Saint-Malo?
Once you've checked off major attractions like St. Malo Beach and Port-Mer, spend the rest of your day exploring the retail and food options in Saint-Malo.
What is the top tourist attraction in Saint-Malo?
The top tourist attraction in Saint-Malo is St. Malo Beach, so be sure to put it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Saint-Malo?
You can easily tour popular sights like St. Malo Beach, Plage de Saint-Énogat and Plage de la Fourberie with a three-day trip to Saint-Malo. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stay a bit longer and check out Le Mont-Saint-Michel.
Is Saint-Malo a walkable city?
With exciting neighbourhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Saint-Malo is a good destination to see on foot. Have fun wandering between St. Malo Beach and Plage de Saint-Énogat. Then take a stroll around Courtoisville-Sillon-Moka, located 2 kilometres from downtown, and Rocabey - Alsace - Gare, which is roughly 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Saint-Malo with kids?
Planning what to do in Saint-Malo with kids has never been easier. Whether you're holidaying with toddlers or teenagers, there are loads of family-friendly attractions to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Saint-Malo for adults?
Domaine de Montmarin is one of the top things to do in Saint-Malo. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Saint-Malo?
From enjoying parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Saint-Malo. If you need inspiration, ask a local tour guide for some tips. St. Malo Beach is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing adventures.