More about Saint-Malo
Why go to Saint-Malo?
Saint-Malo is a fantastic base for exploring the Brittany region of France
Many of the shops in town close on Sundays
A gorgeous town to explore by foot, Saint-Malo has a well-preserved old city and creperies galore
Saint-Malo Cruise Port Facilities?
Arriving passengers are within walking distance of just about everything -- restaurants, souvenir shops, a taxi stand and gates into the old city.
Good to Know?
At low tide, visitors can walk to the fort on the island of Petit Be, but stay too long and you could be stranded on the island when the water rushes back in. Ask about the tide schedules at the tourist office before setting out.
Getting Around?
On Foot: The narrow streets of the walled district are perfect for strolling -- and so are the walls themselves. It only takes about 30 minutes to walk around the city atop the ramparts (not including stops for pictures).
By Bike: Rental bikes are available at Ty'Boost (49 Quai Duguay-Trouin, +33 02 99 56 47 18). A great spot for a ride is along Digue de Rochebonne, a wide path that borders the beach.
By Taxi: Taxis line up outside Porte Saint-Vincent. They can be hired for excursions to Mont Saint-Michel, the Normandy beaches, the village of Dinan and other popular attractions in the region. Reserve online in advance at, or call +33 (0)2 23 18 11 81.
By Car: While you don't need a vehicle if you want to stay within the city walls, renting a car can be a nice option if you want to drive along the coast and see Mont Saint-Michel at your own pace. Several car rental companies are clustered near the train station, including Avis, Hertz and Europcar. It helps to be able to drive a stick shift, as most available vehicles have manual transmissions.
By Bus: Buses are not permitted within the old city walls, but various companies provide transit around the more modern part of Saint-Malo and to other cities and towns in the region (such as Dinard, Rennes and Mont Saint-Michel). Some bus services pick up along Quai Saint-Vincent, while others must be boarded near the main train station. Companies include Keolis Saint-Malo, Illenoo and Tibus.
By Train: Le Petit Train takes tourists on a 30-minute ride through the walled city, departing approximately twice an hour from Porte Saint-Vincent. Saint-Malo's train station is outside the walls and offers service to Rennes, Dinan and other cities in the region.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The currency in France is the euro. There's an ATM in the old city at the Banque Populaire de L'ouest (3 Rue Porcon de la Barbinais).
Language?
French is the official language. Many locals speak at least a little English, especially within the city walls, where tourists are common.
Where You're Docked?
Smaller ships dock along the Quai Saint-Louis, just a few steps from one of the entrances into the old city. Larger vessels must moor farther out and tender passengers to Cale de la Bourse, which is also within walking distance of the city walls.
