In the north of Brittany, France, lies Saint-Malo, a city considered one of the most beautiful in the region. Saint-Malo has a particularly rich history and there are many landmarks that reflect the city’s past. The walled part of the city, Intra-Muros, is exceptionally well-preserved and offers an interesting mix of medieval and 18th-century architecture. If you’re on vacation in Brittany or visiting beautiful places in Normandy, a trip to Saint-Malo is definitely worth it.
Why is Saint-Malo so special?
The main attractions of Saint-Malo are the city’s location, history, city walls, architecture and the charming center. The city is situated on a peninsula, surrounded by the sea and offers expansive views of the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel. Saint-Malo is surrounded by impressive medieval city walls, where you can take long walks. Inside the city walls, you’ll find beautiful, mostly stately buildings. Here, narrow, atmospheric streets are lined with cozy terraces and great restaurants. Everywhere you go, you feel the rich history of the city. Whether you’re walking on the city walls, standing on the pier or sitting on a terrace, Saint-Malo exudes a medieval atmosphere!
In short: the history of Saint-Malo
Going back to the books, we find that in Roman times, there was a settlement with a harbor where Saint-Servan is now located. The settlement was frequently attacked by Vikings, so the inhabitants eventually moved to a nearby rocky island and later to the peninsula, as there was not enough space for the population. This happened in the 12th century and from that time on, the place became known as Saint-Malo (named after a 6th-century bishop). In the centuries that followed, Saint-Malo was often involved in conflicts between France and Great Britain, with peaks during the Hundred Years’ War. In the mid-16th century, the fur trade in beaver pelts thrived in Saint-Malo after the discovery of Canada. However, this trade came to an abrupt end due to a devastating fire in the 17th century. Saint-Malo had to be largely rebuilt. To prevent future fires, granite was chosen as the building material.
Pirates of Saint-Malo
In the 18th century, Saint-Malo was also known for piracy. Two of the most famous pirates who operated from Saint-Malo were René Duguay-Trouin and Robert Surcouf. Duguay-Trouin was a French admiral and privateer who fought during the War of Spanish Succession. He captured ships from the British and Dutch trade fleets, amassing great wealth. Surcouf was a French privateer and merchant known as the ‘King of the Indian Ocean’. He captured countless British ships and became wealthy through trade in spices and other goods between India and Europe. Both are still remembered as important figures in the history of Saint-Malo.
Saint-Malo after World War II
During World War II, Saint-Malo was heavily damaged by Allied bombings. The German occupiers had dug into the city’s fortress walls and used it as a key stronghold as part of the Atlantic Wall. In August 1944, Allied troops began an attack on Saint-Malo to end the German occupation. The city was almost completely destroyed during this attack. After the war, Saint-Malo was carefully rebuilt, aiming to retain as much of its original medieval style as possible.
If you’re visiting Saint-Malo, are interested in World War II and enjoy reading, then the historical novel The Library of Saint-Malo by author Mario Escobar is a must-read. The story takes place in Saint-Malo during World War II, where a librarian tries to save as many books as possible from the bonfire when the Nazis occupy the city and destroy everything in their path. Hoping this story would one day be publicly known, she writes letters to a famous author, Emile Zola.
Unique architecture in Saint-Malo
The architectural style in Saint-Malo is mainly characterized by the traditional architecture of Brittany. The buildings in Intra-Muros (the walled part of the city) are notably tall, straight and narrow. The houses have many large windows, often with shutters and are frequently decorated with woodwork and wrought-iron balconies. The architectural style in Saint-Malo is also known as the Malouinière style. In the surrounding area of Saint-Malo, you’ll find large, stately manor houses built in the same style.
What to do in Saint-Malo?
Saint-Malo is a city that truly offers something for everyone. There are great restaurants, cozy terraces and beautiful spots to explore. Additionally, you can take stunning walks along the city walls. Is it warm? Then take one of the stairs down to the beach for a refreshing swim in the sea. If you’re visiting with children, they can spend hours searching for crabs and seashells when the tide is low. You can also seek out quieter spots by the sea. Around Saint-Malo, there are beautiful, secluded beaches in hidden coves.
Highlights and sights in Saint-Malo
Saint-Malo has many sights to offer, both inside, on top of and outside the city walls. If you don’t feel like exploring the city center with a guidebook or map in hand, you can book a private guided walk in Saint-Malo. The guide will tell you everything about the city, its history and the sights of Saint-Malo. Prefer to go out on your own? Below are a few special places in Saint-Malo that you really shouldn’t miss during your visit.
Saint-Malo Intra-Muros
The walled part of Saint-Malo is called Intra-Muros. It’s a densely built center with historic buildings, cobbled streets, restaurants and shops. This is the perfect place to soak in the atmosphere of Saint-Malo.
Walking along the old city walls of Saint-Malo
Around Intra-Muros, there is the nearly 2-kilometer-long city wall: Les Remparts de Saint-Malo. This city wall was built between the 12th and 18th centuries and has been well preserved over time. The fortifications have eight gates and three bastions, as well as three former lookout posts. A walk along the city wall offers panoramic views of the sea, the islands Grand Bé and Petit Bé and the coastline bordering Saint-Malo. On the other side of the wall, you’ll find the impressive buildings of Intra-Muros. At each gate, you can descend (and ascend) from the city wall via stairs. It’s a lovely way to continuously discover different parts of Intra-Muros or explore the sea views from the other side. You can always pick up the walk again at the same spot. During our visit to Saint-Malo, we walk almost the entire length of the city wall. We start at Porte Saint-Thomas and by the time we reach Porte de Dinan, we dive into the narrow streets of Intra-Muros. Some beautiful spots along the city wall to stop for a moment include:
- Tour Bidouane – Former powder magazine, great view of the beach and the islands
- Bastion de la Hollande – Lovely view of the Piscine de la plage Bon-Secours
- City wall between Porte de Dinan and Bastion Saint-Louis – View of the stately granite privateer houses, including Robert Surcouf’s. From here, you also have a nice view of the Saint-Servan district
- Grand’ Porte – The oldest entrance gate, with a beautiful view of the most famous privateer house Hôtel Maison des Armateurs and the clock tower of Saint-Vincent Cathedral. On the other side of the wall, you have a lovely view of the harbor.
Môle des Noires
Don’t forget to descend the stairs to Môle des Noires during your walk along the city wall. The pier gets its name from the black rocks below the water’s surface, which can pose a danger to passing ships. At 500 meters long, the pier isn’t very long, but it offers a beautiful view of Saint-Malo and the old city walls. While walking along the pier, you’re likely to encounter local fishermen. It’s also a great spot to watch the sunset and see the city lights illuminate in the evening. If you want to include the pier during your walk along the city wall, it’s best to descend the stairs at Porte de Dinan and walk along the water toward the pier.
Cathédrale Saint Vincent de Saint-Malo
Church and cathedral enthusiasts will want to visit the impressive Cathédrale Saint Vincent de Saint-Malo. The cathedral was built in the 12th century and is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture, Angevin-style vaults and beautiful stained-glass windows.
Fort National
On the Islet rock off the coast of Saint-Malo stands the historic Fort National. The fort was built in the 17th century and was one of four forts on the islands off the coast. Fort National became an important defense point to protect the city from attacks by sea. During low tide, you can reach the fort on foot via a causeway. The fort houses several exhibition spaces and museum halls where you can learn more about its history and the role it played in defending the city. Interested in France’s military history? Then this is the place to be.
Fort de la Conchée
Further off the coast, about 4 kilometers away, lies Fort de la Conchée. This fort was also built in the 17th century as part of the defense line. It is the largest of the four forts, measuring 65 meters long and 32 meters wide. The fort is less accessible, which is why it is only open to the public during Heritage Days. If you happen to be visiting Saint-Malo during those days, it might be an opportunity you shouldn’t miss.
Le Grand Bé and Petit-Bé
Two small islands, located close to each other just a few hundred meters off the coast, are Le Grand Bé and Petit-Bé. On Le Grand Bé, the writer François-René de Chateaubriand is buried. During low tide, it’s possible to walk to Le Grand Bé. Be sure to check the tides first to avoid getting stuck on the island. Behind Le Grand Bé lies Petit-Bé. This island also has a fort, built as part of the aforementioned defense line. During low tide, you can reach the island on foot, but visiting by boat is also possible.
Piscine de la plage Bon-Secours
On Plage de Bon-Secours, you’ll find the public swimming pool Piscine de la plage Bon-Secours. A pool with a view! Due to its location, the seawater-filled pool offers a spectacular view of the sea and Saint-Malo. This spot is also considered one of the most beautiful swimming locations in Brittany.
Le Jardin des Douves
A lovely green space in Saint-Malo is Le Jardin des Douves. The city garden is located next to Porte Saint-Thomas, behind Château de Saint-Malo. Palm trees, fountains, beautifully landscaped flower beds and walking paths; it’s not large, but it’s a pleasant spot to stroll through.
Château de Saint-Malo
Behind Le Jardin des Douves stands Château de Saint-Malo, a fort built in the 15th century that now serves as a museum. Want to learn everything about the history of Saint-Malo, its inhabitants and more? Then this is definitely the place to be.
Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo
If the weather isn’t great during your visit to Saint-Malo and you’re looking for an indoor activity, pay a visit to the Grand Aquarium de Saint-Malo, which opened in 1996. This fascinating underwater world is home to more than 600 different species of marine life, including sharks, rays, corals and tropical fish. In addition to various aquariums, the Grand Aquarium also features interactive and educational exhibits where you can learn more about the different ocean ecosystems and the impact of climate change on the sea.
Beaches in and around Saint-Malo
Done with the hustle and bustle of the city? Then dip your feet in the sand at one of the many beaches near Saint-Malo. Plage de Bon-Secours is tempting with the seawater pool within reach, but it can get quite crowded here, especially during the summer months. The same goes for Plage des Bas Sablons, with views of Port des Sablons. During our stay in the area, we visit Plage de la Varde, located in two adjacent small coves. It’s a lovely, quiet spot at the end of the day (we are there in mid-August). Plage du Nicet is also known as a nice place to relax. Plage du Val is larger but offers amenities such as public restrooms. If you’re looking for more entertainment and long stretches of beach, but not right next to the city walls of Saint-Malo, you can head to the interconnected beaches of Grande Plage du Sillon, Plage de la Hoguette, Plage de Rochebonne and Plage du Mihinic.
Overnight stay in Saint-Malo
In Intra-Muros, you’ll find plenty of accommodations. Each one is more charming than the next; almost all of them are located in old buildings, giving them a unique atmosphere. Plus, you’re always in the right spot: in the old, walled center of Saint-Malo. Le Blue Note by Cocoonr – Bel appartement de standing is highly recommended. This apartment has two bedrooms and is exceptionally colorful. Another beautifully decorated apartment with two bedrooms, centrally located in Intra-Muros, is Appartement de 60 m² tout juste rénové à Saint Malo Intra-Muros. Prefer a hotel over an apartment, so you can join breakfast in the morning? Hotel Ajoncs d’Or comes highly recommended. In the immediate area, you’ll find many great restaurants and the harbor is just 350 meters away. A hotel with many authentic details is Hôtel de France et Chateaubriand, but if you’re not so fond of classic style, The Originals Boutique, Hôtel des Marins might be a great place for your stay in Intra-Muros.
Parking in Saint-Malo for a day visit
Parking in Saint-Malo is easier than you might think. While you won’t find parking right in the walled city center, there are several options further from the center. You can either walk a bit or take the bus. We had a good experience parking at Parking Saint-Malo Feval P14 – EFFIA. This parking lot is open 24 hours a day and a day ticket costs €3.30 (prices as of 2025). With a day ticket, up to 5 people can use the bus to Intra-Muros for free. You’ll board across from the parking lot and get off at Château de Saint-Malo. Super convenient!
Don’t forget Normandy on your way to Brittany
On your way to Brittany, you’ll drive right through Normandy. This region is, of course, famous for the invasion beaches, but it also boasts many beautiful places, villages and towns, such as Haute-Ville, the old walled city center of Granville. It’s worth spending a few days in this much quieter part of France on your way.
