Dinan is a picturesque medieval town in the popular tourist region of Brittany. Popular thanks to its proximity to the French ferry ports and its pleasant temperatures, Brittany is also home to a number of pretty towns, like Dinan, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy their history and culture. Dinan itself has plenty of cultural activities and events, while the surrounding area offers some interesting day trip options.
The walls that were built to protect the old town of Dinan in the Middle Ages are still standing, along with many of the watchtowers. The town's fortress castle can also still be visited and is home to a museum about the history and art of Dinan and the surrounding area. The donjon, or tower of the castle, provides a great view over the medieval buildings below. Visitors can even walk round the remaining fortress walls, though there are a few gaps where you will have to instead walk through the pleasant, shady streets of Dinan, until you reach the next tower or gate.
Within the walls, the medieval centre of Dinan is full of historical attractions and curiosities – or lots of winding cobbled streets and pleasant open squares if you prefer to just wander and discover things for yourself. The 13th century convent, which is now part of the town's college, still welcomes visitors to certain parts of the building, such as the courtyard garden and the cloisters. Dinan's large 15th century church, the Eglise St Malo, is well known as a fine example of Renaissance architecture and features some impressive stained glass windows. Finally, the Tour de l'Horloge, or clock tower, is still welcoming visitors today, and you will be rewarded with a fantastic panoramic view if you can manage the steep, winding staircase!
There are several marked walking trails throughout this part of Brittany, and three of these circular routes pass through Dinan. A short, easy trail of just a few kilometres takes you, either by foot or by bike, to the nearby village of Lehon which hasn't changed much since medieval times. It is home to an impressive abbey on the banks of the River Vance, while kids will enjoy a dip in the outdoor pool to cool off after their walk. In the countryside around Dinan, visitors will spot many prehistoric standing stones or menhirs. Brittany is well known for these ancient monuments and there are several fine examples within a few kilometres of Dinan.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Dinan? Then below is a selection of gites in Dinan and villas in Dinan that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
