Things To Do
in Pacé
Pacé is a quiet Breton commune just north of Rennes, blending rural charm with easy access to a dynamic city. Rolling farmland, hedgerows, and slow rivers define the landscape around Pacé, inviting relaxed walks and scenic cycles. Its village core preserves a friendly, small-town atmosphere with a church, market squares, and local shops.
And because it sits on the doorstep of Rennes, Pacé makes a convenient base for exploring Brittany's culture, cuisine, and markets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Pacé and check into your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely morning stroll around the quaint streets to soak in the local charm. Stop by a local café for a warm croissant and rich coffee to kick-start your adventure.
Head to Parc des Gayeulles, where you can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery and perhaps rent a bike to explore its expansive trails. Join in on a guided tour of the park to learn about its flora and fauna. A picnic lunch by the lake will provide a perfect break amidst nature.
As the sun sets, dine at a traditional French restaurant in Pacé, savoring local dishes made from fresh ingredients. After dinner, take a quiet walk through the town to admire its architecture illuminated at night. Engage with locals at a nearby bar for a taste of the vibrant nightlife.
Take a short train ride to Rennes, the capital of Brittany. Start the day with a visit to the stunning Rennes Cathedral, taking time to admire its impressive façade. Don’t forget to grab a traditional galette for breakfast from a local creperie.
Explore the charming streets of Rennes, visiting the Place des Lices and the historic Parliament of Brittany. Enjoy lunch at a bustling market café where you can try the region's specialty dishes. Afterward, consider indulging in shopping at local boutiques for unique souvenirs.
As evening approaches, dine at a restaurant along the quay, offering delectable seafood dishes. Experience the vibrant arts scene by catching a local performance or live music show. End the night with a nightcap at a nearby bar, soaking in the lively atmosphere of Rennes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $4-8 |
| 🧀Local cheese or snack | $6-12 |
| 🚲Bike rental (day) | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful rural charm with easy access to Rennes
- Strong regional cuisine and authentic Breton hospitality
- Pleasant countryside for walking, cycling, and photography
- Good base for exploring Brittany's coastline and cities
- Limited nightlife within Pacé itself
- Public transport connections primarily centered on Rennes; some destinations require a car or bus ride
- Smaller town amenities compared to a larger city
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The bill, please.
Places to Visit in Pacé
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming stone church with a simple, elegant silhouette; ideal for exterior shots at sunrise or golden hour.
Tranquil waters, willows, and rural reflections create serene landscapes for composition and sunset photography.
Rolling farmland, hedgerows, and distant church spires offer classic Normandy/Brittany vistas.
Food in Pacé
Pacé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Buckwheat galettes filled with ham, cheese, egg, and other creative toppings; a staple at local creperies.
Must-Try!
Traditional sweet crepes with sugar, apples, caramel, or chocolate; best enjoyed with a glass of cider.
A Breton fish stew featuring white fish, potatoes, and onions; a classic seaside dish often available in coastal or Rennes-area eateries.
A Breton fish and potato stew; a comforting option found in many seafood-focused restaurants.
A custardy cake with prunes, a sweet Breton finish often served with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering local produce, dairy, meat, bread, cheeses, and seasonal treats.
Vibrant markets such as Place des Lices on weekends with seafood, crêpes, butter, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite Bonjour (or Bonsoir) when entering shops; hand gestures are minimal. In social settings, a handshake is common; la bise is used among friends and family.
French is spoken. Using 'vous' with strangers is courteous; switch to 'tu' only with consent or among close acquaintances.
Wait to be seated in many eateries; keep hands visible and avoid loud, disruptive behavior in quiet dining spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Pacé
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included (service compris) in the bill. If the service is good, a small extra tip (5-10%) is appreciated, or rounding up the bill. Cash is always welcome, but cards are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming hedgerows make for pleasant walking and photography; expect occasional showers.
Warm days with long daylight; sea breezes keep it comfortable. Ideal for outdoor markets, bike rides, and late-evening strolls.
Crisp air and harvest colors along rural paths; frequent rain possible but skies can open to clear, dramatic light.
Cool and damp at times; days are shorter. Cozier dining options, crepes, and riverside views still possible with proper layering.
Pacé at Night
Hiking in Pacé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate 5–7 km loop along hedged fields and rural paths with gentle elevation changes and river views.
Networked forest paths offering shaded sections, birdlife, and scenic overlooks just outside the city.
Airports
How to reach Pacé by plane.
The closest regional airport serving domestic and some international routes; roughly a short drive from Pacé with a 15–30 minute transfer depending on traffic.
A larger regional hub about 2–3 hours by car or rail from Pacé; good for broader international connections.
Major international hub about a 2.5–4.5 hour journey by train or car from Pacé; many international connections and long-haul options.
Another major Paris airport with good domestic and European connections; accessible via rail and road from Brittany.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Quiet neighborhoods, good schools nearby in Rennes, and accessible parks and markets.
Proximity to Rennes attracts students and professionals who commute for work or study.
Mature residents enjoy the peaceful pace, green spaces, and strong community vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed across Brittany, with local clubs and community leagues in the Rennes area.
Popular on quiet country lanes and scenic routes around Pacé, aligning with Brittany’s rich cycling culture.
A classic social pastime in many villages; casual games with neighbors at local plazas and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pacé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many galettes can be filled with vegetarian toppings (cheese, vegetables, eggs); ask for goat cheese, mushrooms, or seasonal vegetables to keep meals satisfying. Several creperies offer veggie-focused options and salads.