Dinan, Brittany: A Medieval Town That Feels Frozen in Time
Step inside the stone walls of Dinan and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back several centuries. This stunning hilltop town in northern Brittany is one of France’s best-preserved medieval gems — and yet, it remains a quiet secret compared to nearby Saint-Malo or Mont-Saint-Michel.
Where is Dinan and How to Get There
Dinan is located in the Côtes-d'Armor department of Brittany, northwestern France. Perched above the River Rance, it’s just 35 minutes from Saint-Malo and about 2.5 hours from Paris by train and car.
Getting to Dinan:
- From Saint-Malo: 35–40 minutes by car, or 1 hour by train with a transfer in Dol-de-Bretagne
- From Rennes: Direct train (~50 minutes)
- From Paris: Train to Rennes, then local train to Dinan (~2.5–3 hours total)
Travel Tip: Renting a car allows flexibility to explore nearby coastal towns like Dinard, Cancale, and Cap Fréhel.
Top Things to Do in Dinan, France
Walk the Ramparts
Dinan is one of the only towns in Brittany with nearly intact medieval walls — over 3 km of stone ramparts! Walk along the walls for views over the rooftops, countryside, and port below.
Rue du Jerzual
This steep, cobbled street is the most famous in Dinan. Lined with half-timbered houses, artisan workshops, and ivy-covered walls, it connects the upper town with the port. Bring your camera — every step is a photo.
Visit the Château de Dinan
This 14th-century castle now houses the town’s museum, where you can learn about Dinan’s military history, civic life, and art. Climb the towers for panoramic views.
Saint-Malo Church
The Gothic-style Church of Saint-Malo de Dinan dominates the skyline. Step inside for soaring arches and impressive stained glass windows.
Wander the Old Town
Every corner of Dinan’s old town feels like a medieval movie set: stone gates, creaky wooden signs, slanted houses, and hidden courtyards.
Dinan Port and the River Rance
Walk (or cycle) down Rue du Petit Fort to reach the charming riverside port. You’ll find old stone bridges, waterside restaurants, and beautiful nature trails.
Activities by the River:
- Rent a bike and follow the Rance towpath toward Léhon or Saint-Malo
- Try kayaking or paddleboarding in summer
- Enjoy a relaxed meal at a bistro like La Lycorne or L’Atre
Best Viewpoint: Cross the old stone bridge and climb up the other side for the classic view looking back at Dinan’s houses rising up the hillside.
Local Culture and Events
Dinan has a strong artisan tradition, and you’ll find many local crafts — pottery, leatherwork, glass — sold in boutiques along Rue de l’Horloge.
Key Event: Fête des Remparts (every two years in July)
During this famous medieval festival, the entire town transforms into a living history scene with costumes, jousting, markets, and parades.
Don’t Miss: Weekly market on Thursdays in Place Duclos — a great spot to sample Breton crepes, cider, and cheeses.
Where to Stay in Dinan
- Hôtel Arvor: Located in the heart of the old town with historic charm
- La Maison Pavie: Boutique B&B in a 15th-century building
- Hôtel Le D’Avaugour: Overlooks the ramparts with elegant rooms
- Budget options: Citotel Le Challonge or charming guesthouses near the port
Best Time to Visit Dinan
- Spring (April–June): Pleasant weather and flower-filled streets
- Summer (July–August): Festival season, longer days
- Fall (September–October): Autumn colors and fewer crowds
- Winter: Quiet, atmospheric, especially during December with holiday decorations
Travel Tip: Visit in late spring or early autumn to enjoy the beauty without peak-season crowds.
Day Trip or Overnight Stay?
While Dinan can be explored in a day, staying overnight lets you truly experience its charm:
- Quiet evenings in candle-lit restaurants
- Sunrise walks on empty ramparts
- Deeper immersion in the town’s rhythm
If you’re coming from Saint-Malo or Rennes, Dinan makes an easy and rewarding overnight stop.
Is Dinan Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Dinan offers one of the most immersive medieval experiences in France — without the tourist crowds of bigger destinations.
From fortress walls and cobbled alleys to riverside strolls and artisan shops, this is a town that invites you to slow down and step into another time.
For history lovers, photographers, and anyone craving French charm with fewer crowds — Dinan is waiting.
