Saint Malo Travel & Vacation Guide
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Description
Dinard can trace its history back a good few centuries, but it is only in more recent times that the elegant resort has come to the fore. It is rather like a typical Victorian upmarket seaside holiday destination – long stretches of sandy beaches, coves, cliffs to explore and seemingly endless esplanades with continental style cafés, architectural street lamps and gardens full of flowers and shrubs. The waters are superb for sailing, and as such a number of marinas and mooring bays have emerged, complemented by facilities to enjoy water sports. Dinard offers a fine dining experience, with countless à la carte restaurants offering fish and seafood dishes – often a speciality - along with grills, traditional French cuisine and dishes from around the world. Shoppers delight in the many designer items available in Dinard’s excellent specialist shops – everything from fashions and leather goods to jewellery can be found. Wine shops sell great selections of wines, while delis are a must for unusual food items and markets offer an experience of lively French life as well as the chance to to shop for antiques.
Useful information
11,720
Euro 1 € = 100 cents
Emergency: 112
Police: 17
Fire: 18
The shops in Dinard are generally open Monday to Saturday from 9 am or 9.30 am to 7 pm in high season, and 9 am or 9.30 am to 6 pm at other times of the year. Coffee shops and patisseries are often open earlier in the morning from around 7.30 am. Most shops are closed on Sundays with a few exceptions, notably those for the tourist industry.
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Tourist Information
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit Saint Malo is during the late spring and early summer months, from May to September. During this period, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Additionally, many local festivals and events take place during these months, enhancing your experience.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Saint Malo is ideal for first-time visitors. This allows you enough time to explore the historic walled city, relax on the beautiful beaches, and take day trips to nearby attractions such as Mont Saint-Michel or the picturesque town of Dinan.
Key sights in Saint Malo include: - The walled city (Intra-Muros) with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture. - The stunning beaches, such as Plage de l'Éventail. - The Saint-Malo Cathedral, known for its impressive Gothic architecture. - The Fort National, offering panoramic views of the coastline. - The picturesque nearby islands of Grand Bé and Petit Bé.
When in Saint Malo, be sure to try local specialties such as: - Galettes de sarrasin (buckwheat crepes) filled with savory ingredients. - Fresh seafood, particularly oysters and mussels. - Kouign-amann, a delicious buttery pastry from Brittany. - Cider, a popular beverage in the region, often enjoyed with meals.
Saint Malo is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot, especially within the walled city. For longer distances, consider using local buses or renting a bike. If you're looking to visit nearby attractions, renting a car or joining a guided tour can also be convenient.
In Saint Malo, it's customary to greet people with a friendly "Bonjour" when entering shops or restaurants. Dining etiquette includes waiting for everyone to be served before starting your meal and using utensils properly. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.
Saint Malo hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including: - The Festival of the Sea in June, celebrating maritime culture. - The Route du Rock music festival in August, featuring various artists. - The Fête de la Saint-Vincent in January, honoring the patron saint of winemakers. These events provide a great opportunity to experience local culture and traditions.
