Vitre is an enchanting medieval town that seems frozen in time. It’s set in the heart of Brittany and features a well-preserved centre filled with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. Architectural beauty and a fantastic food and wine scene make Vitre a rewarding destination for travellers seeking authentic French culture.
Things to do in Vitré
Château de Vitre towers over the town and combines elements of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Soaring towers, turrets and stone walls give the centuries-old castle a fairytale feel. The chateau is a symbol of the town’s former prosperity and features lavish rooms filled with antiques and tapestries.
Wander through the enchanting Old Town and admire half-timbered houses. Colourful flowers spill out of window boxes and add to the postcard-perfect charm. Place du Château, a picturesque square framed by medieval buildings, is the perfect spot for coffee, croissants and a spot of people-watching. Visit the Museum of Vitre to learn about the local narrative and admire a fantastic collection of paintings and artefacts.
Spend a relaxing afternoon in Jardin du Parc. The park is a green oasis and features tree-lined paths, bubbling fountains and decorative sculptures. Pick up baguettes, cheese and preserves from a local store and enjoy a picnic by the lake.
Stock up on farm-fresh produce at the twice-weekly market held in Republic Square. The market attracts vendors from across the region and is a great place to sample Breton specialties like farmhouse cheeses, “kouign-amann” buttery pastries and sparkling apple cider. You can find more markets in nearby towns like Guerche-de-Bretagne, Chateaubourg and Argentre-du-Plessis.
Getting around Vitré
Vitre is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is accessible by car, with free parking available outside the historic centre. Rennes is a 45-minute drive away and 30 minutes by train. Rennes Bretagne Airport is a 45-minute drive away.