Things To Do
in Dinan

Savory buckwheat crepes filled with ham, cheese, egg, mushrooms or local sausages; best at a traditional crêperie on Rue du Jerzual or near the market.

Must-Try!

A caramelized Breton butter pastry — rich and flaky — available at local bakeries and pâtisseries in the town center.

Mussels, oysters and other shellfish from the nearby coast, often served simply with lemon or in a marinière; try them at port-side restaurants or market stalls.

Local Breton cider, from sweet to dry; order a small carafe to pair with crêpes and savory dishes.

Held in the historic center (main market day on Saturday), this market sells fresh produce, cheeses, bread, charcuterie and ready-to-eat regional specialties — a great place to sample local flavors.

During warmer months there are often seasonal stalls by the Port of Dinan selling oysters, crepes and grilled items — perfect for a casual riverside lunch.

Always say 'Bonjour' on entering shops or speaking to locals; use 'Bonsoir' in the evening. A polite greeting goes a long way.

Use formal address (Monsieur/Madame) with strangers; many Bretons appreciate polite, slightly formal interactions.

La bise (cheek kisses) is common among friends and acquaintances but wait to follow the locals’ lead and avoid initiating with strangers.

Keep noise low, do not climb on ruins, and follow posted rules in churches and preserved buildings.

Service is typically included in restaurant bills in France (service compris), so tipping is not mandatory; leaving small change or rounding up (5-10%) for good service is appreciated. For taxis, cafes and hotel porters, small tips are customary for excellent service.

Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; contactless payments are common. Carry some euros in cash for markets, small vendors and rural services, and check for minimum card amounts for small purchases.

Warmest and sunniest time (but still mild), busiest with tourists and frequent outdoor markets and events; ideal for boat trips on the Rance, evening terraces and open-air festivals.

Crisp days, beautiful autumnal colors along the river and fewer crowds; good for walking, cycling and sampling fresh seasonal seafood and cider.

Quiet and peaceful with cool, damp weather; some small businesses may close for parts of winter but prices are lower and the medieval streets have a cozy atmosphere.

Blossoms and green landscapes return, markets resume full activity and outdoor sightseeing improves — a pleasant shoulder season for fewer crowds and mild temperatures.

Riverside paths and country lanes around the Rance offer gentle hikes with river views, birdwatching and village stops — suitable for half-day walks.

The famous long-distance coastal route is accessible within a short drive (e.g., around Saint-Malo and Dinard) and provides dramatic cliffs, beaches and longer-day hiking options.

A scenic coastal and village walk around the picturesque fishing village of Saint-Suliac, offering tidal landscapes, traditional houses and sea views.

Short forested trails and country paths around Dinan are ideal for quiet walks, picnics and exploring rural Brittany.

Long-standing families with deep cultural ties to Celtic Brittany and local traditions, cuisine and festivals.

A noticeable portion of the population is middle-aged and older, contributing to a calm, traditional atmosphere.

Visitors from France and abroad, especially in summer, who come for the medieval town, coastal excursions and regional food.

A small community of expatriates (including British and other Europeans) who appreciate the slower pace and heritage properties.

Vegetarian options are available in crêperies (choose cheese, egg, mushroom or vegetable galettes) and many bistros; mention requirements and most places will adapt dishes.

Vegan choices are more limited but increasing — look for vegetable galettes without butter or egg, salads and some bakeries offering dairy-free options; communicating in French helps (e.g., 'Je suis végétalien').

Traditional buckwheat galettes are naturally gluten-free if made from pure buckwheat flour — always confirm cross-contamination if you have celiac disease.

Pharmacies are plentiful and staff-aware; inform restaurants about allergies (use French phrases) and carry any necessary medications with you.