Discover the Secrets of Dinan, a Hidden Medieval Gem in Brittany

If you spend your days daydreaming about all the places you’ll visit in France, then this secret spot in Brittany should be top of your list.

Brittany is known for its beautiful coastline with seaside resorts like the gorgeous town of Saint-Malo, which has recently been pushed into the spotlight by the Netflix Series, All the Light We Cannot See.

But what about the lesser-known places, also guaranteed to take your breath away?

Well, if you love medieval architecture, ramparts, and history, this hidden gem is guaranteed to have you snapping away and filling your feed with beautiful images.

Welcome to Dinan, the secret spot in Brittany you’ll love

The medieval town of Dinan, sitting along the River Rance, with its cobblestone streets and half-timbered buildings, feels like it’s been frozen in time. It was once a powerful city and home to the Duke of Brittany.

It’s part of the Côtes-d’Armor department, making it easily accessible for exploring the rest of Brittany. 

The town is just a short drive from the regional capital, Rennes, and also not far from the coastal city of Saint-Malo, making it a fantastic spot for day trips or as a base to explore the wider area.

Here’s Why Dinan Is One Of Brittany’s Most Beautiful Secret Spots

With its impressive ramparts stretching for 2.7 km, half-timbered houses, and the stunning Basilica of Saint-Sauveur, you’re transported back in time. If you close your eyes you can almost see the knights on their horses galloping through the streets.

Whether you’re wandering along the old port, climbing the 158 steps of the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views, or enjoying a meal in one of its quaint bistros, Dinan represents the quintessential Breton experience, blending history, culture, and scenic beauty. 

The town also hosts weekly markets and fun festivals, where stories from the past are the backdrop for today’s adventures, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in French life.

The half-timbered houses

Dinan is a maze of picturesque half-timbered houses, with their exposed wooden beams and infill of lime, wattle, or brick, part of traditional Breton architecture. It’s almost like being in a fairytale from the Brothers Grimm.

There are 130 in total, most of which date back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with many streets, such as Rue du Jerzual, leading down to the port, lined with these stunning structures. Make sure you wear your walking shoes because its quite hilly in parts.

These amazing structures may look like they’ve been around for centuries, but in actual fact, they aren’t as old as they look.

There is only one house dating back to the late 15th century and that’s Maison de la Mère Pourcel on Place des Cordeliers. The rest were strengthend and rebuilt in the late 16th and early 17th century, but you’d never know to look at them.

La Maison de la Harpe

Don’t miss La Maison de la Harpe at 6 Rue de l’Horloge. You can’t help but see it as the first floor hangs over the street, making it impossible to miss. But don’t be fooled, it might look old but its actually a rebuild.

The original, Hôtel de Kératry, was built in Lanvollon in 1559. For some unknown reason, probably something to do with the development of France, the powers that be pulled it down and rebuilt it in Dinan in 1939. It’s a a beautifully preserved façade and intricate timber framing.

Château de Dinan (The Castle)

The castle’s origins date back to the 14th century, a period marked by the Hundred Years’ War and the Breton War of Succession, during which Dinan played a pivotal role due to its strategic location.

It consists of a keep (the Donjon), known as the Tour du Coëtquen, and substantial ramparts that form part of the town’s extensive medieval fortifications. 

Along with Carcassonne in the South of France, it’s one of the best-preserved walled cities in the country.

The castle’s architecture is a prime example of medieval military construction, with its massive stone walls, battlements, and a deep dry moat that enhanced its defensibility.

The keep itself is a remarkable structure, giving you a tantalizing glimpse into the living conditions of the garrison and the lord of the castle.

Inside, the castle has been carefully preserved, with some rooms housing historical exhibitions that illustrate the life and times of medieval Brittany.

The Clock Tower (Tour de l’Horloge)

One of Dinan’s most iconic landmarks is The Clock Tower or Tour de l’Horloge in French.

It dates back to the 15th century, making it a significant piece of Dinan’s medieval heritage, similar to the Gros Horlage found in Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake. 

It was originally built for defensive purposes as part of the town’s fortifications, but, over the years, it has become a symbol of Dinan’s rich history.

Climbing the Tour de l’Horloge is an adventure in itself, going up a narrow, spiral staircase, winding its way up through the tower. Then there is a miller’s ladder to take you to the top, but the view makes it all worth it as it’s spectacular.

As you make your way up, you can imagine the countless individuals who have climbed these steps over the centuries, from watchmen keeping an eye out for invaders to modern-day tourists.

The reward for reaching the top is unparalleled panoramic views of Dinan and the surrounding countryside, including the River Rance, the town’s terracotta rooftops and the rolling hills of Brittany. 

Place des Merciers et des Cordeliers

The Place des Merciers et des Cordeliers is the place to go if you want to do some shopping as the shops are in beautifully preserved half-timbered houses.

Historically, the Place des Merciers (Mercers’ Square) and the adjacent areas were bustling with artisans and traders. 

The merciers, who were merchants dealing in textiles and small wares, and the Cordeliers, referring to ropemakers or Franciscan monks (depending on context), played a vital role in Dinan’s economic life during the medieval period. 

This square was a hub of commerce and craftsmanship, essential to the town’s prosperity.

Today, it retains its historical charm with quaint shops selling a variety of goods, from local crafts to gourmet delicacies, with plenty of cafés and bistros to relax and soak in the ambience of this historic quarter.

Basilique Saint-Sauveur de Dinan

The foundations of the Basilique Saint-Sauveur were laid in the 12th century, with subsequent additions and modifications made up to the 18th century. 

This long period of construction has resulted in a blend of architectural styles and is a mix of Romanesque and Gothic elements. 

The basilica was elevated to the status of “Basilique mineure” in 1954 by Pope Pius XII.

The Story of Bertrand du Guesclin

Bertrand du Guesclin was a local hero born in Brittany in 1320 and had the nickname, “The Eagle of Brittany.” He wasn’t the most handsome of men, in fact, his family disowned him as he really so he ugly. But it was Bertrand who had the last laugh.

He became a solidier and he defended Dinan from the English during the Hundred Years War. His brother Olivier had gone for a walk when he fell foul of Sir Thomas Canterbury, and English solidier, who kidnapped and ransomed him. Bertrand, hearing of what had happened, waged battle on the English soldier and won, getting his brother back and causing the English to retreat.

Brittany wasn’t part of France at this time and when Bertrand was made a Constable of France (a high ranking miliary officer) many Bretons believed him to be a traitor. However, when he died, although his body was buried at the Basilica of St Denis in Paris, his heart was brought back to Dinan and placed in the Basilica of Saint-Sauveur.

Where to Eat in Dinan

La Fontaine du Jerzual

If you love crepes, and you really can’t go to Brittany without trying them at least once, then La Fontaine du Jerzual gets my vote. It is a Crêperie, Brasserie and Salon de Thé with a lovely outside area with fabulous views.
📍 21 bis rue du Jerzual

La Lycorne

If you want a typical French bistro in a gorgeous building with great food then you can’t go far wrong with La Lycorne.

📍 6 rue de la Poissonnerie

FAQS: Dinan in Brittany

Final thoughts: Dinan, the Secret Spot in Brittany you’ll want to discover

France has more medieval walled cities than any other country in Europe, and Dinan is one of them.

So if you want to visit a town where time has stood still and immerse yourself in the history of France, Dinan is the perfect place for you.

To find out more about Dinan visit the tourist board website.