So you're a solo female traveler, and you're looking for a quick and convenient weekend getaway, from Paris, that's both relaxing, fun and safe? Look no further than Saint Malo, France! This charming seaside town is the perfect weekend getaway, and has something to offer everyone, from its beautiful beaches and historic walled city to its lively atmosphere and delicious seafood.
Let’s make planning your weekend getaway to Saint Malo a breeze. Read on my fellow weekend warrior!
Why you should visit Saint Malo: First things first, why would you even want to go to Saint Malo?
Saint Malo is a port city in the Ille-et-Vilaine area of Brittany in northwestern France, just 2.5 hours away from Paris by train. It is located on the English Channel, at the mouth of the Rance River. The city has a long and rich history, dating back to the 6th century, and it was once a major center of trade and commerce, playing an important role in the history of Brittany. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Saint Malo was also a major naval power and home to several famous privateers. The city was heavily damaged during World War II, but it has since been rebuilt and is now a popular destination to visit, especially during the warm summer months.
Today the city has several historical monuments that are worth a mention (we’ll talk about these in a few) and a popular destination for seafood lovers.
When to Visit: In my personal opinion, the best time to visit Saint Malo is during the shoulder seasons in late spring or early fall. The weather is mild and there are fewer tourists than during the peak summer months. The last time I was in Saint Malo, was in early September where it was still warm enough to enjoy the beach, very few tourists. It was perfect. However, if you do want some more flexibility, her are a few things to consider on the best time to visit for you:
For the best weather: The best time to visit Saint Malo for the best weather is during the summer months when you can enjoy its spectacular beaches. But remember, since Saint Malo is a coastal town, the weather can be unpredictable, so look at that weather app before you leave for the weekend, and pack accordingly.
For fewer tourists: If you want the town quieter and mostly to yourself (and the locals), than the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons in the late spring and early fall. Plus you’ll save a few bucks on hotels during this time of the year.
For specific events: If you are interested in attending a specific event in Saint Malo, such as the Saint-Malo International Film Festival or the Saint-Malo Jazz Festival, you will need to plan your trip accordingly. Both of these are summer events, and it does get busy, so plan and book early.
How to get there: As this is a perfect weekend getaway from Paris, several daily trains leave from Paris to Saint-Malo, and take approximately 2.5 – 3 hours. Most of the train options include a quick transfer to a regional train in Rennes, however there are a handful non-stop trains from Paris to Sant Malo as well. Want a quick way to figure out how to get to Saint Malo? Plug it into Rome2Rio and you’ll have all the available transportation options in minutes.
Where to stay: Given that Saint Malo is a popular place for both tourists and locals looking to escape to the beach, there is no shortage of accommodation in this town, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are a few of my personal suggestions:
If you want a gorgeous beach front property, consider Hôtel France Chateaubriand. Located right across from the beach, it offers stunning beach view rooms, and all the comforts you may need. And it’s pet friendly too, in case you want to bring your fur-baby along.
For a hotel right inside the walled city of Saint-Malo take a look at the Hôtel France Chateaubriand. This property sits right on the edge of the old town, overlooking the stunning fort on the beach. With its included breakfast and perfect location, this was my preferred hotel of choice the last time I visited this wonderful city.
For Creatures of Comfort – Check out Aparthotel Adagio Access Saint-Malo. Located right in the historic center of Saint Malo, this apartment hotel offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens. Great if you want to save some money and cook your meals at home.
For the Budget Traveler – Look no further than Hostellerié Saint-Malo. Located right in the old town, and within walking distance of all the major attractions. This hostel dormitories and private rooms, as well as a bar and a common area.
For the Frugal Traveler – Look into Camping de la Ville Close. Note that this is a campsite and it’s located just outside the walls of the old town. It offers a variety of pitches, as well as a swimming pool and a playground.
What to do: Whether you’re escaping to Saint Malo in the summer to lounge on the beach or visiting in the shoulder seasons for a quick getaway, there’s no shortage of things to do in Saint Malo! Here are my favorites:
Take a dip in the salt-water swimming pools: Saint Malo has two salt-water swimming pools, with the larger one right on the Bon Secours beach outside the old walled city, with 3 diving boards whether you jump right in, or just sit on the beach and watch others do it, it’s a delightful way to spend a summer day. The other salt-water swimming pool is located at the Eventail beach, this one is smaller and shallower than the one at the Bon Secours beach and is perfect for families with children.
Walk along the ramparts: Since Saint Malo is a walled city, and the ramparts of Saint Malo are amongst some of the most impressive in France. They offer stunning views of the city, the sea, and the surrounding countryside.
Take a boat trip to the Ile de Cézembre: Visiting Saint Malo in the summer, why not take a boat out to the Ile de Cézembre, a small island located just off the coast of Saint Malo. It is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and hiking.
Explore the old town: The old town of Saint Malo is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways, and home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Take a stroll around the narrow streets, then take a seat at a café and people watch. What better way to spend a leisurely Saturday morning.
Visit the Château de Saint-Malo: The Château de Saint-Malo is a medieval castle that was once the home of the Dukes of Brittany. It is now a museum that houses a collection of art and artifacts from the region and a great way to spend an afternoon strolling around.
Visit the Saint-Malo Cathedral: The Saint-Malo Cathedral is a Gothic cathedral that was built in the 16th century and happens to be one of the most important religious buildings in Brittany.
Eat your way through the city: This perhaps is my favorite thing to do in Saint Malo, as it happens to be a foodie's paradise! There are restaurants serving everything from traditional Breton cuisine to delightful and super fresh seafood, to all sorts of international fare.
Enjoy the nightlife: Not ready to call it a night yet? There are bars, clubs, and live music venues to suit all tastes to help you take in and enjoy the lively nightlife scene of Saint Malo.
Where to Eat: As I’m a solo traveler that wanders the world through it’s culinary delights, I love finding all the fantastic places to eat and drink in what ever city I’m visiting. And let me tell you, Saint Malo does not disappoint.
Let’s kick this section off with one of my (and the locals) favorite – La Cabane. Located just a quick 10 min walk from the old town, this delightful little gem of a seafood buffet is no frills and delivers on all the local and delicious seafood. The seafood selection varies daily based on what’s in season and what’s brought in by the fishermen that day, but rest assured the selection is quite extensive and delicious. This no frills restaurant does not have an online reservation system, so you will need to call to snag a spot, as it does get busy every single night.
Want something a bit more refined, consider Le Sillon. Located right on the boardwalk, it offers typical French specialties and seafood dishes in a bright and refined space overlooking the beach.
Want a low-key snack on the beach overlooking the old fort? Buvette des Bains offers oysters, mussels, burgers, and a bunch more. Grab a cold beer and a bowl of mussels and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze.
Need some French pastries in your life or perhaps a delightful pate, who doesn’t! Check out Boulangerie Patisserie de La Cathedrale. Freshly made sandwiches and homemade pates and terrines are finger licking good and the perfect place for lunch.
What’s nearby: And if you happen to have enough of Saint Malo, there are a few easy to get to nearby towns that are work a stop on your weekend getaway.
Dinan: Dinan is a medieval town located just 30 kilometers (30 minute train ride) from Saint Malo. With its well-preserved ramparts, its half-timbered houses, and its many historical monuments, no wonder it’s a favorite of many visitors.
Cancale: Cancale is a cute little town located about 15 kilometers (20 minute bus ride) from Saint Malo and is famous for the oysters, which are considered to be some of the best in the world.
Mont Saint-Michel: If you have not heard of Mont Saint-Michel, you have surely seen it on some travel destination poster or breathtaking photo. Mont Saint-Michel is a tidal island located about 100 kilometers (1.5 hour train ride) from Saint Malo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in France. Travel tip – want Mont Saint Michelle all to yourself and without the crazy tourist crowds? Stay the night on the island, and you’ll get to enjoy this little gem all to your self once the tourists leave for the day.
I hope this inspires you to take a weekend getaway to Saint Malo (and perhaps a few of its surrounding towns). It truly is the perfect location to spend a weekend lounging on the beach with a good book, devouring the local seafood, or wandering the charming streets of its walled city.
So what are you waiting for? Pick a weekend, hop on the train and have the best weekend getaway from Paris.
Cheers and Happy Travels!
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