Did you know that Rennes enjoys over 1,700 hours of sunshine annually, making it one of Brittany’s sunniest cities? This vibrant capital of France’s Brittany region offers a unique oceanic climate that creates mild temperatures year-round with no extreme seasonal variations. Unlike Paris or the Mediterranean coast, Rennes provides travelers with a comfortable experience across all four seasons, each offering its own distinct charm and activities. Whether you’re drawn to summer festivals, spring gardens, autumn markets, or winter celebrations, understanding Rennes’ weather patterns is key to planning your perfect French getaway.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Rennes is easily accessible by air and rail, making it a convenient destination for international travelers. The Rennes–Saint-Jacques Airport (RNS) connects to major European cities, though many visitors arrive via Paris and then take a high-speed train to Rennes.
By Air
International travelers typically fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Paris Orly (ORY) airports, then connect to Rennes. Direct flights to Rennes are available from several European cities. Consider checking flight options well in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during summer festivals or holiday periods when prices tend to increase.
By Train
The high-speed TGV train connects Paris Montparnasse station to Rennes in just 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it the preferred option for many travelers. Trains from Paris run frequently throughout the day, and the Rennes train station is conveniently located in the city center.
Ready to Plan Your Rennes Adventure?
Find the best flight deals to Rennes or nearby Paris for your weather-perfect getaway.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Rennes experiences an oceanic climate with mild temperatures year-round. Unlike southern France, extreme heat is rare, and winters remain relatively mild compared to northern European destinations. The city receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with slightly higher precipitation in autumn and winter months.
Monthly Weather Overview
| Month | Weather | What to Wear | Things to Do | Pros & Cons |
| January | 5-10°C (41-50°F) 70mm (2.8in) rain 8hrs daylight 85% humidity | Warm coat, layers, waterproof shoes, scarf, gloves | Museums, indoor markets, winter sales, cozy cafés | ✅ Fewer tourists ✅ Lower prices ❌ Frequent rain ❌ Short daylight hours |
| February | 5-11°C (41-52°F) 60mm (2.4in) rain 10hrs daylight 80% humidity | Winter coat, layers, waterproof shoes, umbrella | Traveling Film Festival, indoor cultural sites, winter markets | ✅ Gradually warming ✅ Good hotel availability ❌ Still chilly ❌ Occasional rain |
| March | 7-13°C (45-55°F) 50mm (2in) rain 12hrs daylight 75% humidity | Light jacket, layers, comfortable shoes, light scarf | Early spring gardens, Mythos Festival, city walking tours | ✅ Spring flowers appear ✅ Increasing daylight ❌ Unpredictable weather ❌ Can be windy |
| April | 8-15°C (46-59°F) 45mm (1.8in) rain 14hrs daylight 70% humidity | Medium jacket, layers, umbrella, comfortable walking shoes | Parc du Thabor gardens, outdoor cafés, Saturday market | ✅ Beautiful spring blooms ✅ Pleasant temperatures ✅ Fewer tourists ❌ Occasional showers |
| May | 11-18°C (52-64°F) 55mm (2.2in) rain 15hrs daylight 70% humidity | Light jacket, layers, comfortable shoes, sunglasses | Festival of Brittany, outdoor concerts, countryside excursions | ✅ Warm sunny days ✅ Lush green landscapes ✅ Cultural events ❌ Some rain showers |
| June | 14-21°C (57-70°F) 45mm (1.8in) rain 16hrs daylight 65% humidity | Light clothing, sunglasses, light sweater for evenings | Fête de la Musique, outdoor dining, river cruises | ✅ Long daylight hours ✅ Perfect temperatures ✅ Pre-peak season ❌ Increasing tourists |
| July | 16-24°C (61-75°F) 40mm (1.6in) rain 16hrs daylight 65% humidity | Summer clothing, sun hat, light jacket for evenings | Les Tombées de la Nuit festival, outdoor markets, day trips | ✅ Warm sunny days ✅ Vibrant atmosphere ❌ Peak tourist season ❌ Higher prices |
| August | 16-24°C (61-75°F) 35mm (1.4in) rain 14hrs daylight 65% humidity | Summer clothing, sun protection, light layers for evenings | Summer festivals, outdoor dining, countryside excursions | ✅ Lowest rainfall ✅ Warm temperatures ❌ Many locals on vacation ❌ Some businesses closed |
| September | 13-21°C (55-70°F) 50mm (2in) rain 12hrs daylight 70% humidity | Light layers, light jacket, comfortable shoes | Heritage Days, wine tasting, Marché des Lices | ✅ Pleasant temperatures ✅ Fewer tourists ✅ Local life resumes ❌ Increasing rainfall |
| October | 10-17°C (50-63°F) 65mm (2.6in) rain 10hrs daylight 80% humidity | Medium jacket, layers, waterproof shoes, umbrella | Fall foliage, museums, indoor markets, cultural events | ✅ Beautiful autumn colors ✅ Authentic local experience ❌ Increasing rain ❌ Cooler temperatures |
| November | 7-12°C (45-54°F) 75mm (3in) rain 9hrs daylight 85% humidity | Warm coat, layers, waterproof shoes, umbrella | Yaouank Music Festival, indoor cultural sites, cozy restaurants | ✅ Authentic local experience ✅ Good hotel rates ❌ Highest rainfall ❌ Shorter days |
| December | 5-10°C (41-50°F) 70mm (2.8in) rain 8hrs daylight 85% humidity | Winter coat, layers, waterproof shoes, scarf, gloves | Christmas markets, festive lights, winter specialties | ✅ Festive atmosphere ✅ Christmas decorations ❌ Cold and wet ❌ Shortest daylight hours |
Found Your Perfect Travel Season?
Book your accommodations in Rennes now to secure the best rates for your preferred dates.
Seasonal Overview
Spring (March-May)
Weather: 7-18°C (45-64°F), gradually warming with occasional showers
What to Wear: Light to medium jacket, layers, umbrella, comfortable walking shoes
Things to Do: Explore blooming gardens at Parc du Thabor, attend the Festival of Brittany, enjoy outdoor cafés
Pros: Beautiful blooms, increasing daylight, fewer tourists
Cons: Unpredictable weather, occasional rain showers
Summary: Spring is an excellent time to visit Rennes, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful blooming gardens. The city comes alive with cultural events and outdoor activities.
Summer (June-August)
Weather: 14-24°C (57-75°F), warm and pleasant with lowest annual rainfall
What to Wear: Light summer clothing, sun hat, light jacket for evenings
Things to Do: Attend summer festivals, enjoy outdoor dining, take day trips to nearby coastal towns
Pros: Long daylight hours, warm temperatures, vibrant atmosphere
Cons: Peak tourist season, higher prices, some local businesses closed in August
Summary: Summer offers the warmest weather and longest days, perfect for enjoying Rennes’ outdoor spaces and festivals. Early summer (June) is ideal before the peak tourist crowds arrive.
Autumn (September-November)
Weather: 7-21°C (45-70°F), gradually cooling with increasing rainfall
What to Wear: Light to medium layers, jacket, waterproof shoes, umbrella
Things to Do: Visit the Marché des Lices (one of France’s largest markets), enjoy fall foliage, attend cultural events
Pros: Beautiful autumn colors, authentic local experience, fewer tourists
Cons: Increasing rainfall, shorter daylight hours
Summary: Early autumn (September) offers pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, while November brings the highest rainfall of the year. A great time for cultural experiences and local cuisine.
Winter (December-February)
Weather: 5-11°C (41-52°F), cool and damp with frequent light rain
What to Wear: Warm coat, layers, waterproof shoes, scarf, gloves
Things to Do: Explore Christmas markets, visit museums and indoor attractions, enjoy cozy cafés
Pros: Festive atmosphere, fewer tourists, authentic local experience
Cons: Cold and wet, short daylight hours
Summary: Winter in Rennes is mild compared to other northern European destinations, but expect frequent rain. The festive season brings charming Christmas markets and decorations.
Best Time to Visit Rennes
Based on weather conditions and tourist experiences, the best times to visit Rennes are:
- Highly Recommended: Late May to June and September (warm weather, fewer tourists, cultural events)
- Good Option: April, July, August, early October (pleasant but with some considerations)
- Consider Avoiding: November (highest rainfall) unless you don’t mind the wet conditions
Ready to Experience Rennes?
Discover the best tours and activities available during your preferred travel season.
Getting Around Locally
Rennes is a compact city with an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to explore regardless of the weather conditions.
Public Transportation
The city has a single metro line that connects major points of interest, complemented by an extensive bus network. A single ticket costs around €1.50 and is valid for one hour on both metro and buses. Consider purchasing a day pass (€4) if you plan to make multiple trips.
Bicycles
Rennes offers a bike-sharing system called “STAR Vélo” with stations throughout the city. This is a pleasant option during spring and summer months when the weather is favorable. The city has developed good cycling infrastructure with dedicated lanes.
Walking
The historic center is pedestrian-friendly and compact enough to explore on foot. During spring and summer, walking is the best way to discover the charming medieval streets and hidden corners of Rennes.
Rental Cars
While not necessary for exploring the city itself, a rental car is useful if you plan to visit the surrounding Brittany countryside, especially during good weather months. Rental cars are readily available at the airport and train station.
Where to Stay
Rennes offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Where you stay can significantly impact your experience, especially considering seasonal weather conditions.
Historic Center
Staying in Rennes’ historic center puts you within walking distance of major attractions, restaurants, and shops. This area is particularly charming during spring and summer when you can enjoy outdoor cafés and evening strolls. During rainy seasons, the central location means less time exposed to the elements.
Near the Train Station
The area around the train station offers modern hotels with good connections to public transportation. This is convenient if you plan day trips to other parts of Brittany, especially during less predictable weather months.
Recommended Accommodations by Season
- Spring/Summer: Look for properties with outdoor terraces or garden access to enjoy the pleasant weather
- Autumn/Winter: Consider hotels with indoor amenities like restaurants and lounges for comfort during rainy days
- Year-round: Boutique hotels in converted historic buildings offer a unique experience regardless of season
Find Your Perfect Stay in Rennes
Browse a wide selection of hotels, apartments, and B&Bs to match your preferred travel dates and budget.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Rennes offers exceptional culinary experiences that reflect Brittany’s rich gastronomic heritage. The local cuisine changes subtly with the seasons, making each visit a unique culinary adventure.
Seasonal Specialties
- Spring: Fresh seafood, early vegetables, and spring lamb
- Summer: Outdoor dining, fresh salads, and seasonal fruits
- Autumn: Mushroom dishes, game meats, and apple-based desserts
- Winter: Hearty stews, galettes complètes, and festive specialties
Must-Try Local Dishes
Regardless of when you visit, don’t miss these Breton specialties:
- Galettes: Savory buckwheat crepes filled with ham, cheese, egg, or seafood
- Crêpes: Sweet dessert crepes with various fillings
- Kouign-amann: A rich, buttery pastry that’s a regional specialty
- Cidre: Local apple cider, both sweet and dry varieties
- Seafood: Fresh oysters, mussels, and other Atlantic catches
Dining Experiences
The Saturday Marché des Lices is one of France’s largest markets and a must-visit for food lovers. During good weather (April-October), the market bustles with vendors selling fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and prepared foods. In winter months, the indoor section remains vibrant and is a perfect rainy-day activity.
For the best dining experience, consider the weather when planning your meals. Summer evenings are perfect for outdoor terraces, while cozy crêperies provide a warm retreat during cooler or rainy days.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Rennes offers a variety of attractions and activities that can be enjoyed year-round, though some are better suited to specific seasons. Here’s how to make the most of your visit regardless of when you travel.
Weather-Friendly Attractions
Outdoor Attractions (Best April-October)
- Parc du Thabor: A magnificent 10-hectare park with French gardens, an aviary, and a botanical collection. Most beautiful in late spring and summer.
- Medieval Center: Wander through the picturesque streets lined with half-timbered houses. Most enjoyable during dry days.
- Place des Lices: Home to one of France’s largest markets (Saturdays). Visit early morning in summer to avoid crowds.
Indoor Attractions (Perfect for Rainy Days)
- Parliament of Brittany: A masterpiece of 17th-century architecture with guided tours available year-round.
- Fine Arts Museum: Houses an impressive collection spanning from antiquity to contemporary art.
- Champs Libres: Cultural center including the Museum of Brittany and a planetarium.
Seasonal Activities
- Spring: Garden tours, Mythos Festival (April), Festival of Brittany (May)
- Summer: Les Tombées de la Nuit festival (July), outdoor concerts, river cruises
- Autumn: Heritage Days (September), Yaouank Music Festival (November)
- Winter: Christmas markets, festive illuminations, indoor cultural events
Discover Rennes’ Best Experiences
Book guided tours, skip-the-line tickets, and unique activities to make the most of your visit.
Practical Travel Tips
To make the most of your visit to Rennes regardless of when you travel, consider these practical tips that account for the city’s weather patterns and seasonal variations.
Weather Preparation
- Pack layers: Rennes’ weather can change quickly in any season
- Bring a compact umbrella: Useful year-round, especially in autumn and winter
- Waterproof footwear: Essential for comfortable exploration, particularly October-February
- Sun protection: Necessary even in spring and autumn as UV levels can be significant
Planning Around Weather
- Check forecasts daily: Weather can change rapidly in Brittany
- Have indoor alternatives: Plan backup activities for rainy days
- Morning activities: Afternoons are more likely to see showers, especially in spring and autumn
- Flexible itinerary: Allow for schedule adjustments based on weather conditions
Local Etiquette & Customs
The people of Rennes are proud of their Breton heritage, which is distinct from mainstream French culture. A few phrases in French are always appreciated, and greeting shop owners when entering and leaving is customary. Tipping is not required but rounding up the bill for good service is common practice.
Safety Information
Rennes is generally a safe city with low crime rates. Standard travel precautions apply. The city’s excellent public transportation system is safe to use at all hours, though services reduce after midnight. During heavy rain, some streets in the old town can become slippery, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Ready for Your Weather-Perfect Trip to Rennes?
Whether you’re drawn to the blooming gardens of spring, the vibrant festivals of summer, the rich colors of autumn, or the cozy atmosphere of winter, Rennes offers unique experiences in every season. With its mild oceanic climate, the city provides a comfortable destination year-round, though late spring and early autumn offer the most balanced weather conditions. Pack your layers, bring an umbrella just in case, and prepare to discover the charm of Brittany’s capital city. The cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and magnificent parks of Rennes await your exploration—no matter when you choose to visit!
Start Planning Your Rennes Adventure Today
Find the best flights, accommodations, and experiences for your weather-perfect getaway.
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
