Rennes

It’s over two thousand years old, and over the centuries, the city of Rennes has endured several fires, wars, and periods of occupation, and yet, this city in the north west of France seems as youthful and sprightly as ever. This is surely something to do with its huge student population, which brings a sparkling energy to the city’s bars, restaurants, concert venues, clubs and festivals. A night out in Rennes will leave you giddy with excitement as you dance all night with a carefree crowd. Once you’ve recovered from the evening’s excesses, you can set off to appreciate the charm of the historic city centre, wandering along Rue du Chapitre, Rue Saint-Saveur and through Place du Champ-Jacquet, admiring the grand mansions and half-timbered houses with their hanging galleries inside. Stop off at the Marché des Lices on a Saturday morning: it’s a riot of colours and aromas. Treat yourself to a few oysters, or a sausage galette (savoury crepe) before heading off on a shopping marathon. Rennes is a great place to find independent designers and trendy boutiques. Take a break at the Parc du Thabor, a quiet little oasis of greenery with a French garden, a botanical garden and a rose garden: take your pick. Before jumping on the Ouibus once more, cross the Vilaine near the Place de la République and pop into the Museum of Fine Arts which houses a fantastic collection of drawings and paintings.