To get around in Brittany, you can choose from a variety of transportation options, including domestic flights, an extensive rail network, buses, and car rentals, which cater to different budgets and preferences.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Brittany has several international airports, including Brest Bretagne Airport, Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport, and Quimper-Bretagne Airport, which receive flights from major European cities. The main hubs for direct flights to Brittany are Paris, London, and Amsterdam. You can also enter Brittany by car or bus from neighboring regions in France, such as Normandy and the Loire Valley. The region has a well-developed road network, making it easily accessible by car. Additionally, there are several ferry ports along the Brittany coast, including those in Roscoff and Saint-Malo, which connect the region to the UK and Ireland.
If you prefer to travel by train, you can take the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) from Paris to Rennes, which is the capital of Brittany. The journey takes around 1.5 hours, and trains run frequently throughout the day. From Rennes, you can connect to other parts of Brittany using the regional rail network. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive from Paris to Brittany, which takes around 4-5 hours depending on traffic.
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights within Brittany are limited, but you can fly from Rennes to other parts of France, such as Paris, Lyon, and Nice. The main domestic airlines operating in Brittany are Air France and Hop!. You can book flights online or through a travel agency, and prices vary depending on the time of year and demand. A one-way ticket from Rennes to Paris can cost anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on the airline and time of booking. It's recommended to book in advance to get the best prices.
Trains & Rail
Brittany has an extensive rail network, with frequent trains connecting major cities like Rennes, Brest, and Quimper. The TGV high-speed train connects Rennes to Paris, while regional trains operate on other routes. You can book train tickets online or at the station, and prices vary depending on the type of train and class of service. A one-way ticket from Rennes to Brest can cost around $30-$60, depending on the type of train and availability. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Buses & Coaches
Intercity buses in Brittany are operated by companies like FlixBus and Ouibus, which connect major cities like Rennes, Brest, and Quimper. The buses are comfortable and affordable, with prices starting from around $10 for a one-way ticket. You can book tickets online or at the bus station, and it's recommended to book in advance to get the best prices. The bus network is not as extensive as the rail network, but it's a good option for shorter journeys or for those on a tight budget.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Rennes | $1.50 | Limited lines, but convenient for city center |
| City Bus | Rennes, Brest, Quimper | $1.50 | Frequent services, but can be slow |
| Taxi | everywhere | $2.50/km | Available at taxi ranks or by phone |
| Ride-Hailing | Rennes, Brest | $5-$10 | Uber and local alternatives available |
| Bike Rental | Rennes, Brest | $10/day | A great way to explore the city |
Driving
- To drive in Brittany, you need a valid driver's license from your home country or an international driver's license.
- The road quality in Brittany is generally good, with well-maintained highways and rural roads.
- Fuel costs are around $1.50 per liter for gasoline and $1.20 per liter for diesel.
- Car rental companies like Hertz and Europcar have offices at airports and city centers, and prices start from around $40 per day.
- Hazards to watch out for include narrow rural roads, pedestrians, and cyclists, especially in city centers.
- It's recommended to drive on the right-hand side of the road and follow local traffic rules and signs.
Transport Tips
- Always validate your train ticket before boarding, as fines can be steep for unvalidated tickets.
- Use a credit card or cash to pay for tickets and transportation, as not all vendors accept foreign debit cards.
- Download the Citymapper or Google Maps app to navigate the city and find the best transportation options.
- Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, and keep your belongings secure.
- Learn some basic French phrases, such as "bonjour" and "merci," to help you navigate and interact with locals.
- Consider purchasing a Brittany rail pass for unlimited train travel within the region, which can be cost-effective for frequent travelers.
- Always check the weather forecast before traveling, as Brittany can experience heavy rainfall and strong winds, especially in the winter months.