Things To Do
in Quimper
Quimper is a historic Breton city set on the Odet River, where medieval architecture meets a lively arts scene. Its compact, walkable center is studded with half-timbered houses, artisan workshops, and the Gothic silhouette of Saint-Corentin Cathedral. The town is famed for its faience pottery, creperies, and a strong Celtic heritage that invites easy day trips to nearby villages and coastlines.
From riverside strolls to nearby shorelines, Quimper provides a relaxed base for exploring Finistère’s beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the cobblestone streets of Quimper's historic center, where you’ll discover beautiful half-timbered houses and charming shops. Don’t miss visiting the stunning Saint-Corentin Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Enjoy a fresh croissant and coffee at a local café as you soak in the atmosphere.
After lunch, delve into the Breton cultural heritage by visiting the Musée des Beaux-Arts, featuring an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures. Take a leisurely stroll along the Odet River, admiring the picturesque views and vibrant flora. Stop by local artisan shops to pick up unique handmade souvenirs.
As night falls, savor a traditional Breton dinner at a local crêperie, where you can try delicious galettes and sweet crêpes. Experience the lively atmosphere in the town's squares, often dotted with music and street performers. Wrap up the evening with a relaxing walk to see the city beautifully illuminated.
Begin your day with a visit to the Quimper market, where colorful stalls offer fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal bread. Engage with friendly vendors and taste some of the region’s specialties, including homemade cider. This vibrant setting is perfect for picking up ingredients for a picnic later in the day.
Head to the Parc de l'Évêché for a scenic picnic, enjoying the lush greenery and serene atmosphere. After your meal, explore the park’s gardens and tranquil paths, where you can relax by the fountains and see the stunning views of the Cathedral. Take your time and capture some memorable photographs amidst the stunning landscapes.
In the evening, indulge in a culinary experience by booking a table at a local restaurant known for its exquisite seafood dishes. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine while enjoying a cozy atmosphere. If you’re in the mood, catch a performance at the Théâtre de Cornouaille for a taste of local arts and culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🥐Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚆Public transit monthly pass | $40-70 |
| 🍷Beer or glass of wine at a bar | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact historic center ideal for walking
- Rich Breton culture, cuisine, and pottery
- Beautiful river setting with easy nearby day trips
- Good base for exploring Finistère coast and villages
- Not a large nightlife hub
- Can be crowded in peak season
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable
- Some attractions require longer day trips outside Quimper
- "Demat" - Hello (Breton)
- "Trugarez" - Thank you (Breton)
- "Mar plij" - Please (Breton)
- "Bonjour" - Hello (French)
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please (French)
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where are the restrooms?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Quimper
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic cathedral with soaring arches, stained glass, and dramatic light—great for exterior shots and interior details at different times of day.
Colorful display of the region’s famous pottery; opportunities for close-ups of glaze patterns and historical forms.
Timber-framed houses and charming bridges create classic Breton riverfront scenes, especially during golden hour.
Wide river views with reflections of the town’s façades, ideal for panoramic cityscapes.
Food in Quimper
Quimper Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, caramelized butter cake and a Breton staple; look for it in local bakeries around the center.
Must-Try!
A buckwheat crepe filled with ham, cheese, and a fried egg; a quintessential Breton savory option.
Traditional buckwheat crepe, served with a variety of fillings; great at any creperie.
Breton cider, often served alongside crepes; try a locally pressed apple cider with a plate of galettes.
A custard dessert with prunes; a classic finish at many cafés and crêperies.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Indoor market offering fresh seafood, dairy, fruit, vegetables, and regional specialties; a great place to sample local produce.
Seasonal stalls around the city center featuring bread, pastries, cheeses, and prepared foods; ideal for a quick, authentic bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' when entering shops; a handshake is common, and addressing strangers with politeness goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Quimper
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included (service compris) on the bill; leaving a small tip (about 5-10%) for good service is customary but not obligatory.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always useful for small shops and markets; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with mild evenings; long daylight hours favor outdoor cafés, river strolls, and boat trips. Showers can occur; pack a light rain layer.
Milder-to-cool days with colorful foliage and harvest markets. Rain is more frequent; layers are essential.
Cool and wet with shorter days; many attractions indoors (museums, pastry shops) become appealing; festive markets may appear in December.
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens; great for city walks and early coastal hikes; showers possible but often brief.
Quimper at Night
Hiking in Quimper
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dramatic sea cliffs, picturesque coves, and sweeping ocean views within easy reach of Quimper.
Flat, scenic routes along the river suitable for walking and biking, great for a relaxed day outdoors.
Airports
How to reach Quimper by plane.
A small regional airport about 7–10 km from central Quimper with limited domestic flights.
A larger airport about 120 km away; offers more frequent domestic and some international flights; reachable by car or rail.
Mid-sized airport roughly 2–2.5 hours away by rail or car; serves domestic and some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, students, and retirees with a strong sense of local culture.
Visitors drawn to Brittany heritage, faience pottery, and coastal day trips.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely watched and played; local clubs host matches in the region.
A staple of Brittany culture and sport; local clubs and regional matches are common.
Coastal access and the Odet river provide abundant water sports opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Quimper.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most creperies offer cheese and vegetable galettes; ask for vegetarian fillings or a vegetable quiche; many places will accommodate with a little advance notice.