Port Guide | France | Dive Deep
Saint-Malo
James Ireton | Editor
Published on 2025-02-05
Congratulations, you've just sailed into Saint-Malo, a walled city so aggressively Breton that even the ramparts seem suspicious of outside influences-especially tourists in cargo shorts. Historically, this stubborn fortress once harbored privateers (a fancy French term for 'state-approved pirates') who gleefully robbed British ships, then strutted home to drink cider and eat oysters. Saint-Malo is charmingly unapologetic about this past, and today you'll find its cobbled streets bustling with seafood joints, crepe stands, and shops peddling Breton-striped shirts you never knew you needed. Shake off any lingering cruise-induced lethargy with a bracing walk along the city ramparts, where salty Atlantic breezes and photo-worthy vistas await. Afterward, grab a plate of fresh-caught mussels or scallops at a seaside cafe; you're in Brittany, after all-seafood here isn't just dinner, it's religion.
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Notes from the Editor
Saint-Malo is known for its historic walled city and beautiful beaches. Visitors should explore the ramparts and try local seafood.
Where do cruise ships dock in Saint-Malo?
Port Name Saint-Malo
Country France
Region Brittany
Ship Terminal Port de Saint-Malo
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The port is approximately 10-15 minutes walk from the city center and offers good pathways.
What's the weather like in Saint-Malo?
Best Season to Visit Summer (June to August)
Climate Maritime temperate climate with mild summers and cool winters.
Weather Notes Summer typically sees pleasant weather, but be prepared for occasional rain.
Temperature Range 60F to 75F (15C to 24C)
High Temp 77F
Low Temp 32F
Average Temp 58F
What do I need to know about Saint-Malo?
Language French
Currency Euro (€)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 50,000
Timezone CET (UTC+1)
How do I get around Saint-Malo?
Buses, taxis, and rental bikes are available in the area.
What are The Best Things to do in Saint-Malo?
Discover what you should do while you're in Saint-Malo.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Walk the Walls of Saint-Malo
Remparts de Saint-Malo
Explore the ancient walled city with unrivaled scenic ocean views.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Visit Fort National
Fort National, Saint-Malo
Historic fortress accessible only at low tide; extensive maritime history.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Visit the Corsaire House
5 rue d'Asfeld
Historical home illustrating Saint-Malo's pirate privateer history.
Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Tidal Pool Plage de Bon-Secours
Plage de Bon-Secours
Swim in the historic sea-water swimming pool filled by sea tides.
Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles
Eat Kouign-Amann
Au Kouign-Amann, 6 rue Porcon
Taste Brittany's famous buttery caramelized pastry, a true culinary highlight.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Dine in a traditional Creperie
N/A
Savor authentic crispy galettes and sweet crepes typical of Brittany.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Attend Fest Noz (traditional Brittany dance)
N/A
Join the locals for lively Breton music and dancing-truly regional.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Learn Breton language basics
N/A
Immerse yourself briefly in Brittany's unique Celtic language heritage.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
A Little Extra
Ride the Petit Train (Little Train)
Esplanade Saint-Vincent
Quaint sightseeing train showing off the town's history and culture.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Traditional Breton pottery workshop
N/A
Hands-on pottery classes influenced by local Breton artistic styles.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Visit the Brittany Aquarium
Avenue du General Patton
Lear about local marine life, especially the coastal Atlantic species.
Distance from Terminal: 2.3 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Lighthouse of Cap Frehel excursion
Cap Frehel
Panoramic view from iconic cliffs and lighthouse visits
Distance from Terminal: 25 miles
Oyster tasting at Cancale
Port de la Houle, Cancale
Experience freshest oysters directly from local farmers at this seaside town.
Distance from Terminal: 9.5 miles
Sailing along Cote d'Émeraude
N/A
Charter a boat ride showcasing Brittany's spectacular emerald coast.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Taste traditional cider in local orchards
N/A
Visit authentic orchards and taste Brittany's distinctive apple cider.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Overnight Trips
Discover Dinan medieval town
Rue Jerzual, Dinan
A beautifully preserved medieval village with charming houses.
Distance from Terminal: 22 miles
Mont Saint Michel overnight visit
Mont Saint Michel
Experience this iconic island abbey after the day crowds have departed.
Distance from Terminal: 32 miles
France Regional Tip
Discussing opinions and engaging intellectually Conversations, even casual ones, often involve direct opinions or friendly debates. Open discussion is encouraged, focusing on thoughtful reflection of diverse viewpoints.