Rennes Airport Mini Guide
Why Should I Visit Rennes?
Rennes is a popular student town in Brittany and is a great base for exploring this part of the region. Near the town is the iconic Mont St Michel, the third most popular tourist sight in France. In the town itself you have the vast expanse of the Place de la Republique towered over by the town hall, great just to sit and enjoy a moment’s peace in the bustling town. For those that like a bit of night life, the student population has spawned whole streets lined with bars and the atmosphere of revelry is friendly and welcoming.
What’s the Best Way of Getting to Rennes?
Rennes Saint-Jacques Airport is around four miles from the town and whilst the runways can only handle small airliners, there are many flights from across Europe that land there. From the
UK, Flybe operate routes from
Southampton,
Edinburgh,
Exeter and
Manchester. It’s easy enough to get to the city from the airport by bus or taxi or you could hire a car there to explore the town and the rest of Brittany.
What’s the Airport Like?
It’s an interesting little airport with the runway running alongside the terminal so that from the departure gates you can watch the planes take off and land. It has only limited facilities despite being an international airport but there’s enough for the passenger just travelling through.
What can I Expect When I Arrive at Rennes Saint-Jacques?
You’ll need to walk from the plane to the terminal so if you need assistance, don’t forget to ask your airline well in advance. Once inside, you’ll need to go through passport control unless you’ve arrived on an internal flight. The baggage reclaim is usually quickly out of the way with the limited size of flights the airport can handle. In the arrivals hall, the information desk can help with tourist information, dispense maps and deal with lost luggage as well as general airport enquiries. For holiday money, there are no banks or currency exchanges but there is an ATM. If you decided to hire a car, the desks of the companies are easily located and once the final paperwork is completed it won’t be long until you’re in Rennes. For public transport, leave the terminal building and follow the signs to the buses and taxis.
What About When it’s Time to go Home?
It’s worth being hungry when you arrive at the airport for the restaurant, La Passerelle, is excellent. You have a great view of the runway to watch the planes as well as being in very elegant surroundings with attentive waiters and delicious haute cuisine. After your meal you can spend a little time in the Relay shop which at Rennes sells all manner of travel related items including books, travel accessories, gifts and souvenirs plus local products. There are no Wi-Fi or public internet services at the airport as yet.