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Want to explore Brittany without a car? Head to the southern part of the region for a trip that’s as accessible as it is spectacular, starting from Paris. From Rennes to Brest, via Quiberon, Belle-Île, Quimper, Concarneau, and the Glénan Islands, this tour takes you through charming towns, wild islands, and breathtaking coastal scenery. All by train, bus… and even by sailboat!
High speed train
(≈ 1h30)
High speed train
(≈ 1h10)
Regional train
(≈ 1h00)
Sailing
(≈ 1h30)
Sailing
(≈ 1h30)
Regional train
(≈ 00h58)
Long distance train
(≈ 1h10)
Day bus
(≈ 00h43)
Sailing
(≈ 1h30)
Sailing
(≈ 1h30)
Day bus
(≈ 00h43)
Day bus
(≈ 1h30)
Day bus
(≈ 1h30)
High speed train
(≈ 3h30)
Paris → Rennes → Quiberon → Belle-Île → Quimper → Concarneau & Les Glénan → Crozon → Brest → Paris
From Paris, take the TGV to Rennes. Get your first taste of Brittany in this cozy city, perfect for a gentle start.
Take some time to stroll through its historic center: half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and a lively atmosphere around the Lices neighborhood. It’s the perfect introduction before venturing further into Brittany.
From Rennes, take the TER to Auray (about 1 hour and 20 minutes).
This is where one of France's most unusual journeys begins: the Corkscrew, a legendary regional train that takes you all the way to Quiberon along a spectacular isthmus, with the sea on both sides.
In 45 minutes, you'll enjoy a unique train ride that takes you from land to ocean.
From Quiberon, board the the Ilians to sail to Belle-Île in 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Brittany’s largest island is definitely worth a visit. With its wild landscapes and island atmosphere, it’s a must-see stop on this tour. Be sure to spend at least one night there to really enjoy it.
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Back to the mainland, then on to Quimper.
This iconic Breton city immediately captivates visitors with its two rivers and its flamboyant Gothic cathedral. It’s also the starting point for several must-see excursions in Finistère.
From Quimper, a BreizhGo bus will take you to Concarneau in 43 minutes.
From this fortified port, set sail with Sailcoop to reach the Glénan Archipelago in 1 hour and 30 minutes on a sailing trip. A paradise-like setting that contrasts with the classic image of Brittany—turquoise waters, wild islets… clearly one of the most beautiful spots in the region.
Then back to Quimper.
From Quimper, there are two must-see day trips:
Two different atmospheres, but both equally impressive.
From Crozon, continue on to Brest, stopping at Pointe Saint-Mathieu along the way.
Abbey ruins, a lighthouse overlooking the ocean, a rugged atmosphere: an iconic spot on the Breton coast.
From Brest, all you have to do is hop back on the TGV to head back to Paris, your mind filled with sea spray and coastal scenery.
This itinerary proves that it’s possible to explore Brittany in a different way—without a car and without compromising on the experience.
✔️ Discover Brittany by train and using sustainable transportation
✔️ Enjoy unique experiences (the Tire-Bouchon train, sailing trips)
✔️ Explore islands, cliffs, and historic towns at your own pace
✔️ Travel more responsibly
To connect Auray and Quiberon, take the famous Corkscrew an extraordinary train that winds gently through the salt marshes and moors of Brittany before skirting the ocean. An hour of pure pleasure!
