St. Malo, France
Welcome to St. Malo, a walled city by the sea where history, adventure, and breathtaking coastal views come together! Once home to legendary pirates and explorers, St. Malo is a town full of cobblestone streets, medieval towers, and stunning beaches. If you love seaside charm, epic history, and a little bit of swashbuckling spirit, St. Malo is the place for you. Here’s everything you need to know before you arrive!
A Very Brief History
St. Malo has always been a city of explorers, privateers (legal pirates!), and seafarers. In the 17th and 18th centuries, it was home to some of France’s most daring sailors, who set off on expeditions around the world. During World War II, much of St. Malo was destroyed, but it was carefully rebuilt stone by stone to match its original medieval beauty. Today, it remains one of the most fascinating and scenic towns in Brittany.
Essential Languages
French: The official language.
Breton: A regional language spoken by some locals, though French is most common.
English: Many people in tourist areas speak English, but a few French phrases will go a long way! Try "Bonjour!" (Hello) and "Merci!" (Thank you).
Taste of St. Malo
Being a coastal town in Brittany, St. Malo is famous for fresh seafood, buttery pastries, and rich local specialties.
🦞 Moules-Frites - Fresh mussels cooked in garlic, white wine, and herbs, served with crispy fries—one of Brittany’s most famous dishes!
🥞 Crêpes & Galettes - Crêpes are sweet (chocolate, fruit, or caramel), while galettes are savory buckwheat pancakes filled with cheese, ham, or eggs. Both are local favorites!
🐟 Seafood Platters - The ultimate St. Malo experience! These huge trays of oysters, shrimp, crab, and more showcase the region’s incredible seafood.
🥖 Kouign-Amann - A buttery, caramelized pastry that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—often called the most delicious pastry in France!
Pro Tip: The best crêpes are from small street vendors or crêperies—get one to go and enjoy it while exploring the old town!
Things to See and Do
🏰 Walk the City Walls – St. Malo’s fortified walls offer breathtaking views of the sea and old town—a must-do for every visitor!
🏝️ Explore the Tidal Islands – At low tide, you can walk out to Grand Bé and Petit Bé, two small islands with historic forts and unbeatable views.
🌊 Relax on the Beaches – St. Malo has some of the most beautiful beaches in Brittany, perfect for a seaside stroll.
🚢 Visit the Corsair Ship & Pirate Museum – Learn about St. Malo’s pirate past and step aboard a real corsair ship!
🗺️ Explore Intra-Muros – The historic walled town is full of charming streets, local shops, and hidden alleyways waiting to be explored.
Fun Facts & Quirky Highlights
🏴☠️ Home of Famous Pirates – St. Malo was once a base for privateers (government-approved pirates!) who raided ships for France.
🌊 The Tides Are Some of the Highest in Europe – The sea level can rise by 13 meters (42 feet!) between high and low tide.
🌎 Explorer Jacques Cartier Was Born Here – The man who claimed Canada for France came from St. Malo!
🐚 Oysters are Everywhere – The nearby town of Cancale is known as the oyster capital of France—even French kings ordered oysters from here!
Practical Tips
🚶 Wear Good Walking Shoes – St. Malo’s cobblestone streets and city walls require comfy footwear.
🌊 Check the Tide Schedule – Want to walk to the islands? Low tide is your only chance!
💶 Cash is Useful – Some small bakeries and market stalls prefer cash, especially for quick snacks.
🥖 Try the Local Markets – For an authentic taste of Brittany, visit the morning food markets for fresh baguettes, cheese, and pastries!
📸 Bring a Camera – With its medieval towers, ocean views, and charming old streets, St. Malo is one of the most photogenic places in France!
Making the Most of Your Stay
Walk the ramparts at sunrise or sunset for the best views of the coastline and the old town without the crowds.
Visit the market at Place des Halles to sample fresh local cheese, seafood, and pastries.
Take a short boat ride to Dinard, a charming seaside town just across the bay, known for its grand villas and sandy beaches.
If the tide allows, explore the tidal islands, but keep an eye on the schedule so you don’t get stranded!
Enjoy a quiet moment in Cathédrale Saint-Vincent, a stunning church filled with colorful stained glass and history.