Visiting Concarneau: a guide to things to do
City of art, history and the ocean
A town of art and history, Concarneau, located in Finistère, is a real Swiss Army knife, diversifying into culture, heritage, tourism and leisure.
There’s something for everyone in this town, where fishermen, locals, tourists and water sports enthusiasts live in harmony. Nicknamed the “Blue City” thanks to the color of its fishing nets, let’s discover together all the assets of this Breton city and seaside resort.
What to see in Concarneau
A city of heritage, we can’t talk about Concarneau without mentioning the emblematic Ville Close, a truly exceptional site. You won’t be able to miss a thing of this 15th and 16th century fortified town, at the heart of the city with its ramparts and famous belfry.
A detour through historic alleyways
When you enter the Ville Close, it’s like stepping back in time, with its narrow cobblestone streets leading to numerous stores and restaurants. Don’t forget to climb the ramparts for an unforgettable panorama of Concarneau Bay and its fishing and yachting harbor.
Head for the Maison du Patrimoine
If you’d like to find out more about the history of Concarneau, we invite you to visit the Maison du Patrimoine. Located in the former house of the Governor of Concarneau, this site at the entrance to the Ville Close opens its doors to you for temporary exhibitions. Step out of this 16th-century building and learn about the town’s history and heritage, with a view of its sumptuous fortifications.
Educational tour of the Fishing Museum
Rain or shine, a visit to the Musée de la pêche is a must for your vacation in Concarneau. This “musée de France” will introduce you to a historic activity of the “Ville Bleue” in a 2-hour tour. You’ll learn about the different aspects and techniques of fishing, as well as the methods used to preserve fish. From aquariums to models, slide shows and various teaching aids, this visit is equally interesting and enriching for adults and children alike.
A must-see at the Marinarium
Step inside the world’s oldest marine station for a 45-minute tour, where biodiversity will hold no secrets for you. The Marinarium welcomes you to a tour featuring aquariums, exhibitions, films and a touch tank. You’ll learn how to protect the environment, as well as a number of explanations about local species.
Discovery of canneries and shipbuilding workshops
Mainly known as a fishing port, it was in the 19th century that Concarneau saw the construction of numerous canning factories, to the great benefit of the economy of Concarneau and Brittany in general. Today, the port has expanded to include a “yachting” section, offering safe shelter to sailboats and speedboats. Of course, you’ll pass a number of shipbuilding and repair companies, both fishing and pleasure.
Guided tour of Château de Kériolet
Although built in the 13th century, Château de Kériolet was renovated at the end of the 19th century, at the request of Princess Zenaïde Narischkine, aunt of Tsar Nicolas II.
This château in the hills above Concarneau is now listed as a historic monument for its superb neo-Gothic architecture. A guided tour of the manor house and its magnificent gardens allows visitors to intensely experience the Russian epic between a princess and a commoner.
What to do in Concarneau
As you can see, Concarneau was built on its natural environment and its main activity: fishing. But there’s more to Concarneau than just fishing. The town takes full advantage of its location to offer a wide range of tourist and leisure activities, appreciated by locals and visitors alike.
Departure for the Glénan
If you’re wondering what to do in Concarneau, you should know that this Breton city is also the starting point for numerous excursions to discover the richness of the coastline. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing the shipping company that’s right for you: Croisières Bleues, Vedettes de l’Odet, Glénan Découverte, H’Cap Ouest, … If you’re going on an excursion, and in particular to the discovering the Glénan Archipelagodon’t forget your cap, sunglasses and sun cream!
Leisure and relaxation by the sea
Concarneau has also developed its leisure and tourism activities, multiplying and diversifying its offerings for young and old alike. The coastline has also become a playground for water sports enthusiasts, with the famous and renowned Glénan school (windsurfing, catamaran, sailboat, kayak, paddle, etc.).
In the city, companies such as “Archi Kurieux” offer treasure hunts and rallies to discover Breton towns in the form of fun games.
Attend the Festival des Filets Bleus
Among the major festivals in Southern BrittanyThe Festival des Filets Bleus is a not-to-be-missed event in August in Finistère. This festive event is always eagerly awaited in the Ville Close, where the richness and diversity of Breton culture is expressed.
If you’d like to visit us during the Festival des Filets Bleus, we invite you to book your accommodation at Camping Le Kergariou. Our campsite is 45 minutes from Concarneau. ! Ideally located between Finistère and Morbihan, it allows our visitors to take full advantage of the charm of the Brittany region. You’ll be able to compare the different facets of Brittany’s towns and countryside during a quiet, relaxing vacation.
