Britons seeking inspiration for a city break this autumn might want to explore a lesser-known city in France. Rennes, just an hour’s flight from the UK, offers picturesque medieval architecture and a stunning cathedral. While often overshadowed by popular destinations like Paris and Marseille, Rennes provides a range of affordable accommodations and budget-friendly flight options for visitors.
The city boasts a vibrant atmosphere with numerous shops, cafes, bars, and a thriving art scene, including street art and the renowned Fine Arts Museum. Music enthusiasts can enjoy live music venues and festivals showcasing both emerging and established artists. Food lovers should plan their visit over a weekend to experience France’s second-largest market, offering a variety of delectable French cuisine, such as the famous sausage wrapped in buckwheat pancakes.
One of the key attractions of Rennes is its accessibility from the UK. With just an hour-long flight from London, travelers can reach the city center from the airport in under 15 minutes. These conveniences contributed to Rennes being named Europe’s top city for a one-night break in a recent study by travel experts at Holidu. Factors considered in the ranking included flight duration, transfer time from the airport to the city center, walking distances between major attractions, and average hotel prices (averaging £69.39 per night in Rennes).
Autumn presents an ideal time to visit Rennes, with temperatures around 22°C in September and 17°C in October, making it budget-friendly. Skyscanner offers flights starting from £49 in October, with easyJet providing direct flights from London Gatwick and Manchester. Accommodation options in Rennes start from £42 per night, excluding peak holiday periods, according to Kayak.
Notably, Rennes was not the only French city to shine in the Holidu rankings. Nantes, with a similar flight duration and major attractions within a short walking distance, also garnered attention for its appeal to travelers.