Some places make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook—and Dinan, perched above the Rance River in northern Brittany, is exactly that kind of place. With its cobbled streets, timber-framed houses, fortified walls, and an atmosphere straight out of the Middle Ages, this town is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France.
I discovered Dinan on a sunny afternoon, and from the very first steps within the city walls, I was enchanted.
🕰️ A Town Where Time Stands Still
Strolling through Dinan’s Old Town is like walking through history. Every corner, every façade seems to tell a story. The famous Rue du Jerzual—a steep, cobbled street lined with artists’ studios and boutiques—leads from the upper town to the riverside port. It’s undoubtedly one of the most picturesque streets in Brittany.
Timber-framed houses lean toward each other, draped in flowers and colorful shutters. Iron signs creak gently above shop entrances, and the scent of crêpes lingers in the air. The medieval spirit is alive and well in Dinan.
🏯 The Castle and the Ramparts
At the heart of the town stands the Château de Dinan, a 14th-century fortress built by the Dukes of Brittany. The views from the top are stunning—rolling countryside, the rooftops of Dinan, and the calm flow of the Rance below.
The castle itself is home to a museum showcasing the town’s history, including its strategic importance during the wars of Brittany. But perhaps the most unique feature of Dinan is its 3 kilometers of walkable ramparts—one of the longest and best-preserved stretches in France.
🚤 Down by the Rance: Dinan’s Riverside Charm
After exploring the upper town, I made my way down to the Port of Dinan, nestled at the bottom of the hill. The contrast is striking: here, the pace slows, the river glistens, and boats gently sway by the stone quay.
The port is the perfect spot to relax over a drink or a crêpe, or to rent a bike and follow the scenic towpath to Léhon, a charming village with a peaceful abbey just a 20-minute walk away.
🎨 A Haven for Artists and Creators
Dinan is also a town of creativity. All along its streets, you’ll find art galleries, ceramic studios, and workshops where craftsmen still work by hand. The artistic energy here is palpable.
Every two years in July, the town hosts its famous Medieval Festival, during which locals and visitors dress in full medieval garb. The streets come alive with music, jousting, markets, and reenactments. It’s one of the most immersive and beloved events in Brittany.
🍴 Taste of Brittany
And of course, no visit would be complete without enjoying the local flavors. I treated myself to a traditional galette with ham and cheese, followed by a buttery kouign-amann—a Breton pastry as rich as it is delicious. A glass of local cider was the perfect finishing touch.
📍 Practical Info
- Location: Dinan, Côtes-d’Armor, Brittany, France
- Getting there: Easily accessible by car or train (direct trains from Rennes and Saint-Malo)
- What not to miss:
- Rue du Jerzual
- Château de Dinan & the ramparts
- Port of Dinan
- Léhon Abbey
- The biennial Medieval Festival
- Best time to visit: Spring to early fall, or during the festival in July (odd-numbered years)
✨ Final Thoughts
Dinan is more than just a historical town—it’s a living museum, a hub for artists, and a peaceful escape by the water. It captures the essence of Brittany: proud, beautiful, and timeless. I left with stars in my eyes and the warm feeling of having touched a little piece of history.
