3 day itinerary for Saint Malot

Itinerary

Saint-Malo is a stunning coastal city in Brittany, France, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and charming old town. With your interests in hiking, history, and using public transport, I’ve crafted a delightful 3-day itinerary for you. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart of Saint-Malo

Morning:

• Arrival in Saint-Malo: Start your day by arriving in Saint-Malo via train. The train station is conveniently located, and you can easily walk to the old town.
• Breakfast: Grab a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try a traditional Breton galette or a croissant with a café au lait.

Mid-Morning:

• Wander the Intra-Muros: Explore the fortified old town, known as Intra-Muros. Stroll along the ramparts for stunning views of the sea and the surrounding area. Don’t miss the iconic St. Vincent Cathedral and the charming cobblestone streets.

Lunch:

• Lunch at a Local Bistro: Enjoy some fresh seafood or a traditional Breton dish at a bistro within the walls.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Château de Saint-Malo: Dive into history by visiting this historic castle, which houses the city’s museum. Learn about the city’s maritime past and its role in the Age of Sail.

Evening:

• Dinner: Treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant with a view of the sea. Try some local specialties like moules marinières (mussels) or a seafood platter.
• Sunset Walk: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beach to watch the sunset. The colors reflecting off the water are simply magical!

## Day 2: Hiking and Coastal Beauty

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café.
• Bus to Dinard: Take a bus (Line 3) to the nearby town of Dinard, known for its beautiful coastal paths.

Mid-Morning:

• Hiking the Coastal Path: Once in Dinard, embark on the coastal hiking trail (Sentier des Douaniers). This scenic route offers breathtaking views of the coastline, cliffs, and charming villas. It’s about a 2-3 hour hike, depending on how often you stop to take photos!

Lunch:

• Picnic by the Beach: Pack a picnic or grab a sandwich from a local shop and enjoy lunch on the beach or at one of the scenic viewpoints.

Afternoon:

• Explore Dinard: After your hike, take some time to explore Dinard. Visit the local market if it’s open, or simply enjoy the charming streets and seaside atmosphere.

Evening:

• Return to Saint-Malo: Take the bus back to Saint-Malo.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a creperie, where you can indulge in sweet and savory crepes. Don’t forget to try a traditional cider!

## Day 3: A Day Trip to Mont Saint-Michel

Morning:

• Early Breakfast: Have an early breakfast and prepare for a day trip.
• Train to Pontorson: Take a train from Saint-Malo to Pontorson (about 30 minutes). From Pontorson, you can catch a shuttle bus to Mont Saint-Michel.

Mid-Morning:

• Explore Mont Saint-Michel: Spend the morning exploring this iconic island commune. Visit the abbey, wander through the narrow streets, and soak in the stunning views of the bay.

Lunch:

• Lunch on the Island: Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants on Mont Saint-Michel. Try the famous omelette de la Mère Poulard!

Afternoon:

• More Exploration: After lunch, continue exploring the island. Don’t forget to check out the ramparts and the quaint shops selling local crafts.

Evening:

• Return to Saint-Malo: Take the shuttle bus back to Pontorson and then the train back to Saint-Malo.
• Final Dinner: For your last evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant you haven’t tried yet. Perhaps a place with a cozy atmosphere where you can reflect on your adventures!

Tips:

• Public Transport: Make sure to check the bus and train schedules in advance, especially for the day trip to Mont Saint-Michel.
• Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and walking around the cobblestone streets.
• Weather: Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, as it can be quite changeable along the coast.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your time in Saint-Malo! Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! 🌊🏰🥖