The Hardest City to Invade: Saint Malo's Secrets Audio Guide

4.3 (15 reviews) Rennes, France
Duration1h - 1h 15m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, French
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

Be captivated by the coastal city where echoes of corsairs and conquest linger on this self-guided audio tour. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive stroll through Saint Malo.

Every cobblestone and sea breeze in Saint Malo seems to whisper a tale of resilience, adventure, and the enduring spirit of Brittany’s captivating coastal city. On this walking tour, you’ll embark on a journey around its walled old town to see its hidden treasures.

I’ll show you three of the old city’s gates, starting with Saint Vincent Gate, where I’ll tell you why you’ll see ermines everywhere in Saint Malo. On your way to the Big Gate where our tour ends, you’ll walk along Saint Malo’s ramparts, hear its surprising history and learn a thing or two about the area’s climate.

By the end of this tour, you’ll have gained a new appreciation for this slice of Brittany, its history, and maybe, just maybe, a new sense of humour courtesy of the Malouins who call the city home.

What's included

  • Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
  • The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
  • Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
  • Guide: Audio: English Written: English
  • Smartphone and headphones (Please bring your own)
  • Entry fees to museum or attractions mentioned en route

What to expect

  1. Pass by
    Start your tour outside the Office de Tourisme de Saint-Malo, the perfect spot to get your bearings and learn about what the city has to offer.
  2. Pass by
    Walk a short distance up to Chaussée du Sillon, a boulevard offering incredible vistas of the sea and the city’s coastline. Enjoy the panoramic views and get a sense of Saint Malo's maritime heritage.
  3. Pass by
    Venture towards Saint Malo Castle, where echoes of corsairs and conquests linger in the sea-salted air. Learn about the history of the castle and its role in defending the city.
  4. Pass by
    Discover Saint Vincent Gate, one of the old city’s gates. Hear about the significance of the ermine symbol that you'll see throughout Saint Malo.
  5. Porte Saint Thomas
    Pass by
    Find out why there are three Saint Thomas gates as you pass through Porte Saint-Thomas. Learn about the different stages of the city's fortifications.
  6. Birthplace of Chateaubriand
    Pass by
    See the birthplace of Chateaubriand, a renowned politician and diplomat. Discover his contributions to French literature and politics.
  7. Pass by
    Walk through Place Vauban, the large square in front of the castle named after the city’s notorious combat engineer. Learn about Vauban's influence on the city’s fortifications.
  8. Pass by
    Pass through Poterne Aux Normands, a historical gateway that offers a glimpse into the city's medieval past.
  9. Pass by
    Visit Bastion de la Reine, a formidable part of Saint Malo’s ramparts. Hear about the strategic importance of this bastion in the city's defense.
  10. Tour Bidouane
    Pass by
    Stop by Bidouane Tower and hear the story behind the name of the dancing cat street. Learn about its historical significance and unique name.
  11. Pass by
    Walk along Champs-Vauvert Cavalier, a section of the city’s ramparts that offers stunning views and historical insights.
  12. Pass by
    Immerse yourself in Place du Quebec (Quebec Square) and visit House Quebec. Learn about the connections between Saint Malo and Quebec.
  13. Les Remparts de Saint-Malo
    Pass by
    Walk along Les Remparts de Saint-Malo, the city's famous ramparts. Enjoy the views and hear about the surprising history of the city’s defenses.
  14. Pass by
    Spot the statue of Jacques Cartier at the formidable Holland Bastion, a silent guardian of Saint Malo’s maritime heritage. Learn about Cartier’s voyages and his connection to Canada.
  15. Pass by
    See the statue of Jacques Cartier and hear about his role in the exploration of Canada.
  16. Pass by
    Discover Porte Saint Pierre, another historical gate that offers insights into the city's fortifications.
  17. Pass by
    Explore Place du Guet, a charming square that provides a glimpse into the city's past and its strategic importance.
  18. Cathedrale de Saint-Malo
    Pass by
    Pass Saint Vincent Cathedral of Saint Malo, where prominent individuals, including Jacques Cartier, are buried. Learn about the cathedral’s history and architectural features.
  19. Pass by
    End your tour at the Big Gate, the final stop on your journey through Saint Malo. Reflect on the city’s rich history and maritime heritage.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The tour starts at the tourism office outside intra muros, next to the castle.

End point

The tour ends at Big Gate, Grand Prte, 35400 Saint-Malo.

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Most travelers can participate

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.3 (15)
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