Quimper is a city that combines stunning scenery, artistic charm, and a lively cultural scene. It’s no wonder travelers flock here for unique excursions that go beyond typical sightseeing. Among the options, a surf lesson at La Torche offers a chance to ride some of the best waves in Brittany. For those looking to express their creative side, the open-air painting workshop lets you capture Brittany’s beauty in watercolors or pastels. And if you want to get a real feel for Quimper itself, the guided walking tour introduces you to its top sights, like the magnificent Cathedral Saint-Corentin and the exotic Garden of La Retraite.
These three tours highlight the diverse experiences available — whether you crave outdoor adventure, artistic discovery, or cultural exploration. To help you decide what suits your trip best, here’s a detailed look at each option.
The 3 Best Tours in Quimper
Below, you’ll find descriptions of the top tours in Quimper, including what makes each one worthwhile and who they’re best suited for. Click on the links to learn more about each experience.
1. La Torche: surf lessons in the best waves
Rating: 5/5 (1 review)
Price: $53 per person
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Brittany, France
Imagine stepping onto soft sand with the Atlantic surf rolling just steps away. That’s exactly what you get with a surf lesson at La Torche, one of Brittany’s top surf spots. The ÉLAIA Pors Carn Surf School offers an intimate, 2-hour experience where you learn to ride the waves in a safe, welcoming environment.
What makes this tour stand out is its proximity to the bay of Pors Carn, which provides consistent, quality surf conditions. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, the lessons include board and wetsuit rentals, so you’re ready to hit the water immediately. The instructor’s friendly approach and small class sizes—often just a few students—ensure plenty of personalized attention. One review calls it “a fantastic experience that made me feel confident in the surf for the first time.”
Bottom Line: If you want to try surfing in Brittany, this is a great way to do it without needing your own gear or prior skills. Expect an energetic, fun, and rewarding session that’ll leave you dreaming of your next wave.
2. Open-air painting workshop: come and discover Brittany in a different way!
Rating: No reviews yet
Price: $59 per person
Duration: 2.5 hours
Location: Brittany, France
For those who love art—or simply want to see Brittany through a different lens—the open-air painting workshop offers a hands-on way to experience the region’s beauty. Hosted in some of Finistère’s most scenic outdoor spots, this 2.5-hour class introduces you to techniques in drawing, watercolors, pastels, and more. The focus is on learning the basics in a relaxed environment, whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience.
What makes this workshop special is the opportunity to capture Brittany’s landscapes directly on paper, guided by an instructor who encourages creativity at all levels. The scenic locations provide inspiring backdrops, from lush gardens to coastal vistas. Participants often leave with a new skill and a unique piece of art as a souvenir. It’s perfect for travelers craving a relaxing, creative activity that offers a fresh perspective on Brittany’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: If you want to combine outdoor scenery with artistic expression, this workshop makes for a memorable, hands-on experience. It’s an excellent choice for creative souls or anyone eager to try watercolors in a stunning setting.
3. Quimper Guided Walking Tour
Rating: No reviews yet
Price: $81 per person
Duration: 1.5 hours
Location: Brittany, France
A guided walking tour of Quimper provides an enriching way to explore Brittany’s cultural hub. Starting at the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Corentin, the tour takes you through charming streets and squares, revealing the city’s rich history and vibrant artisan scene. The tour also includes visits to the Exotic Garden of La Retraite and the Faïencerie Henriot-Quimper, where traditional pottery is still made.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this 1.5-hour walk dives into Quimper’s unique character, from its medieval origins to its lively arts scene. You’ll learn about the city’s architecture, local legends, and cultural highlights, making it ideal for history and culture lovers. The tour ends at Rue Kéréon, a street packed with shops, cafes, and more sights. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a concise yet comprehensive introduction to Quimper’s historic core.
Bottom Line: For a focused, informative stroll through Quimper’s highlights, this guided walk offers a balanced blend of history, architecture, and local life—great for those who prefer a guided overview over independent wandering.
How to Choose Between These Tours
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how active you want to be. If catching waves sounds exciting, the surf lessons at La Torche are an excellent value for active travelers eager to try something new. Interested in art? The outdoor painting workshop provides a creative outlet amid Brittany’s scenic outdoors. For a more relaxed, immersive experience of Quimper itself, the guided walking tour offers a structured, informative introduction.
Consider your fitness level and time constraints: surfing requires some physical effort and a 2-hour commitment, painting is more relaxed, and walking offers a brief but in-depth cultural overview. Booking early, especially for popular activities like surfing, ensures you get the dates and times that suit your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Quimper offers a range of engaging tours to suit different tastes. For adventure seekers, the surf lessons in La Torche provide a thrilling way to experience Brittany’s waves. Artistic travelers will enjoy the open-air painting workshop, while those eager to explore the city in depth will find the guided walking tour rewarding.
No matter which experience you choose, booking in advance is wise—these tours often fill quickly during peak travel seasons. Whether you’re after a day of adrenaline, creativity, or cultural discovery, Quimper has an option that will make your trip memorable.
