Hi everyone! Today, Rita has taken a break from work and embarked on a delightful solo adventure to the charming city of Saint-Malo 🙋🏻♀️.
Transportation 🚄
1️⃣ Paris Montparnasse → Saint-Malo: 7:07 AM – 9:54 AM
2️⃣ Saint-Malo → Paris Montparnasse: 6:08 PM – 8:30 PM
Upon arriving at the Saint-Malo train station, I immediately opened Google Maps and walked straight to the old town. The journey took about 17 minutes, and the route was incredibly straightforward—no chance of getting lost!
Itinerary 🗺️
1️⃣ **Saint-Malo Cathedral**: This stunning cathedral has quickly become my favorite so far 😭. The vibrant stained glass windows are breathtaking, and I highly recommend spending extra time inside—it truly feels like a soul-cleansing experience! As I reached the center of the cathedral, a beam of sunlight streamed through the window and landed right on me, instantly lifting my spirits 🥹.
2️⃣ **Les Remparts de Saint-Malo**: Climb up the ancient city walls for an unforgettable walk toward the fort! Along the way, you’ll encounter numerous small forts and defensive towers that you can explore 👀. On a sunny day, every step reveals a new panoramic view of the coastline—laughter guaranteed 😆!
3️⃣ **Fort National**: Built in 1689, this fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into history. At 1:00 PM, there’s a guided tour (in French) that I cannot recommend enough! The guide shares captivating historical tales 🥹, including stories about the underground confinement rooms illuminated only by torchlight. You’ll also learn about the storied rivalry between England and France (5 euros for adults, 4 euros for students).
4️⃣ **Demeure de Corsaire**: Step into the private residence of a legendary privateer! These government-sanctioned pirates operated much like their lawless counterparts but were required to hand over 25% of their spoils to the king. Inside, you’ll discover hidden passageways, cellars, and intriguing artifacts that bring the history of privateering vividly to life.
5️⃣ **Pirate Ship Visit**: Located next to the giant Ferris wheel, this pirate ship is perfect for families with kids hh. Adult tickets cost 7 euros, and the French-language tour at 10:30 AM is well worth it. Without the tour, the attraction might feel a bit underwhelming, but children will absolutely love it!
6️⃣ **Ferris Wheel**: For just 8 euros per person, enjoy a 10-minute ride offering breathtaking views of the city and coast. It spins at least seven times—I lost count hahaha!
Food 🍽️
1️⃣ **Kouign Amann de Saint-Malo**: Head straight into the old town and indulge in this local delicacy! I tried the traditional Kouign Amann (2.5 euros), and it was simply divine!
2️⃣ **SANCHEZ**: After exploring the city, I stopped here for a quick espresso since the butter croissant was a tad too sweet for my taste 😌. Later, I returned to try their famous ice cream—definitely go for the caramel and salted butter flavor; it’s irresistible 😋!
3️⃣ **O Tapas Bretons**: A must-visit oyster specialty shop! Open in the afternoon, I arrived around 2 PM. When I told the owner (a cheerful grandpa) that many Chinese social media users rave about his shop, he beamed with pride 🥹. For just over ten euros, you can savor some of the freshest oysters paired with buttery bread—it’s pure bliss! 🥹
