Rennes is a city that rewards exploration, especially if you’re interested in authentic experiences beyond just wandering its charming streets. While Rennes itself offers fascinating history and lively markets, many travelers find that taking a tour outside the city reveals some of the most memorable sights in Brittany. Our favorite? The small group boat trip with Nicolas (more details here). It offers an intimate perspective on Saint-Malo and Dinard, with lively storytelling about maritime history. And for those craving a full immersion, the private Mont Saint Michel day trip combines convenience with rich local insights, perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see the island’s stunning abbey.
Rennes stands out as a hub for diverse tours, from guided boat rides along the coast to vintage sidecar adventures exploring the Emerald Coast (more here), or even interactive outdoor escape games (see details here). Whether you want a quick overview of Rennes’ city center or an immersive full-day excursion to Mont Saint Michel, the options are plentiful and tailored to different interests and budgets.
1. Small group boat trip with a local
At number 1, this small group boat trip with Nicolas offers a charming 1-hour ride in Saint-Malo Bay. Nicolas, a native of Saint-Malo, shares stories about the city’s maritime past and the region’s transformation over the centuries. The boat tour passes around Les Remparts de Saint-Malo, Fort du Petit Be, and Le Grand Be, with all spots being free to view from the water, making it a relaxed, personal experience. The tour is rated 5.0/5 based on 57 reviews, with travelers praising Nicolas’s enthusiasm and knowledge, especially appreciating the bilingual commentary. This tour is ideal if you want a quick, engaging glimpse of the bay’s scenic beauty and historical context, all in a cozy setting.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for travelers seeking an authentic, friendly boat ride combined with insightful local stories—great for families or small groups.
2. Saint-Malo: 1h30 guided boat trip
Next, the Saint-Malo guided boat trip offers 1.5 hours aboard a modern vessel with Nicolas again at the helm. This experience emphasizes historical tales of privateering, battles, and city growth, all seen from exceptional viewpoints off the coast. The tour includes several stops around Saint-Malo and Fort du Petit Be, with the tide influencing some of the sights passed, adding a lively natural element to the journey. The 50 reviews, mostly 5-star, commend the friendly guide and safe boat. If you’re interested in a slightly longer cruise that combines storytelling with the chance to see Saint-Alet and the old powder magazine, this is a solid pick.
Bottom Line: For a 90-minute journey that marries history with scenic views, this tour offers excellent value and is suited for those who love maritime stories or want a relaxing sea experience.
3. The Emerald Coast and Cancale in vintage sidecar with driver
For a truly unique way to explore Bretagne, consider the vintage sidecar tour. Over about 2 hours 45 minutes, you’ll ride through seaside villages, enjoy panoramic views of Cancale and its oyster ports, and visit Plage Rochebonne and Plage des Chevrets. The tour includes a stop at the oyster market, where you can sample fresh Cancale oysters—a highlight for seafood lovers. The vintage sidecar experience is rated 5.0/5 based on 11 reviews, with travelers loving the personalized, fun atmosphere and breathtaking coastal views. This tour is perfect if you want to combine scenic drives with a bit of local flavor and a touch of adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking an original transportation experience combined with spectacular scenery and a focus on Brittany’s famed oysters.
4. 5-hour Private Tour of Mt St Michel From St Malo with pick up and drop off
Number 4 on our list offers the private 5-hour tour of Mont Saint Michel, including transport from Saint-Malo. This tour covers the abbey, the ancient streets, and scenic viewpoints, with the convenience of door-to-door pickup. Guests love the personalized experience and the opportunity to explore at their own pace. The guide shares insights on the monastery’s architecture and medieval history, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. The price is higher but reflects the private nature and flexibility. Travelers mention the excellent communication and highlight that it’s suitable for those who want a comprehensive, intimate visit without the hassle of navigating alone.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who prefer an all-inclusive, personalized day with a knowledgeable guide, especially if you want to avoid large group tours.
5. Day trip with local driver to Mt Saint-Michel, Cancale, and Saint-Malo from Rennes
The full-day private trip is perfect for those who want a rundown of Brittany’s coastal treasures. For $1,388.18, your private driver takes you from Rennes to Mont Saint Michel, Cancale, and Saint-Malo—all at your own pace. The itinerary includes free time for exploring each site, and you can sample local oysters or shop in Saint-Malo’s streets. The tour has perfect ratings, with visitors praising the personalized service and expert guidance. It’s suitable for groups who want a flexible, hassle-free experience, especially families or couples seeking a luxury, all-in-one day trip.
Bottom Line: Excellent value for those wanting a tailored, private exploration of Brittany’s top sights in one day.
6. Saint-Malo: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour & Commentary
This 2-hour private walking tour is perfect if you prefer to explore Saint-Malo on foot with a guide. It covers ramparts, Saint Vincent’s Cathedral, and other highlights at your own pace. The private format allows for customized itineraries and more interaction with your guide. The reviews are positive, mentioning the personalized attention and deep insights into the city’s history. It’s ideal for travelers who want a compact, flexible experience and enjoy walking rather than boat or vehicle tours.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who prefer a focused, intimate exploration of Saint-Malo’s most iconic sites.
7. Outdoor escape game | The headquarters of Rennes
If you’re into interactive adventures, the outdoor escape game offers a fun, team-based way to discover Rennes. It involves solving puzzles, finding clues, and engaging with your teammates via your smartphone. Rated 4.5/5 from 15 reviews, players love how it makes exploring more dynamic and less passive. It’s a great choice for families, groups of friends, or corporate outings. The game lasts about 2 hours and costs just under $18 per person, making it an excellent value for something different.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active, puzzle-loving groups who want to blend sightseeing with a game.
8. Day Trip Mont-Saint-Michel with a local driver from Rennes – 6 hours
This 6-hour private transfer offers a hassle-free way to visit Mont Saint Michel. The private Mercedes minivan seats up to 7 and includes door-to-door pickup. You get about 4 hours on the island, enough to explore the abbey, stroll the streets, and perhaps enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. The driver provides useful tips but is not a guide. Reviewers mention the reliable service and appreciate the comfortable ride. It’s a good option for travelers who want a stress-free trip to Mont Saint Michel without the constraints of a larger tour group.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking convenience and flexibility, especially families or groups with specific schedules.
9. From Rennes: Mont-Saint-Michel Private Full-Day Tour
For a comprehensive experience, the full-day private tour combines Mont Saint Michel, Saint-Malo, and the surrounding sights. It lasts about 10 hours and is perfect for travelers who want an in-depth visit with a licensed guide. You’ll explore the abbey, the medieval streets, and enjoy a local meal on the island. This tailored experience is highly rated, with travelers praising the expert guidance and customized itinerary. Best for those who want a luxury, all-inclusive day with no worries about logistics.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you prefer a personalized, guided day that covers multiple highlights comfortably.
10. Rennes: Private Guided Walking Tour
This Rennes city tour offers a 1.5-hour deep dive into Rennes’ medieval origins and modern culture. Your guide will walk you through ancient walls, historic squares, and significant monuments. It’s a good choice for travelers interested in urban history and wanting to see the main sights with a flexible, private guide. The reviews highlight the informative narration and personalized attention. It’s best suited for those who want a short, relaxed introduction to Rennes or are on a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for visitors wanting an intimate, guided stroll through Rennes’ historic core.
11. Rennes: Private guided walking tour of the city centre
Another excellent option, this 2-hour city centre tour, focuses on monuments and landmarks like Place des Lices, Saint Peter’s Cathedral, and the Parliament of Brittany. It offers a more comprehensive exploration at a slightly longer 2 hours. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and depth of local insights. It’s perfect if you want a more detailed look at Rennes’ architecture and stories, especially if you enjoy walking and want to avoid crowds.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors who appreciate a deeper, paced exploration of Rennes’ historic sites.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
Choosing between these options depends on what kind of experience you seek. If you want a short, scenic boat ride with storytelling, the small group boat trip (more here) is a winner. For full-day adventures that include Mont Saint Michel, Cancale, and Saint-Malo, the private full-day tour offers a tailored experience, especially for those with limited time.
Travelers on a budget might prefer the outdoor escape game (details here) or the shorter walking tours of Rennes city (see here). If you’re seeking adventure and scenery, the vintage sidecar tour (more info) is hard to beat.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular private tours or during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
To sum it up, Rennes offers a wide variety of tours that cater to different interests—from seaside boat rides to full-day explorations of Mont Saint Michel. For a personalized experience, the private tours stand out, but if you prefer a group vibe or budget-friendly options, there’s plenty to choose from. Whether you’re after a cultural walk, an adventurous drive, or a relaxing boat trip, you’ll find a tour that fits your style. Don’t forget to book early and enjoy discovering Brittany’s treasures with confidence.
