Brest, a port city between history and the open sea

In the far west of France, Brest is a city facing the ocean, renowned for its military port, its cultural dynamism and its breathtaking maritime landscapes. Despite a past marked by the Second World War, it has managed to reinvent itself and today offers a modern and lively living environment.

A port steeped in history
Brest is above all a maritime city. Its Château de Brest, which today houses the National Maritime Museum, traces the history of the city and its naval fleet. The Pont de Recouvrance, emblem of Brest, offers a panoramic view of the mouth of the Penfeld and the Arsenal. Nearby, the former submarine base from the Second World War has been transformed into an unusual cultural venue, the Ateliers des Capucins, which hosts exhibitions, events and restaurants with a breathtaking view of the port.

Océanopolis, a fascinating immersion in the marine world
The large Océanopolis aquarium is a must-see in Brest. This huge center dedicated to the discovery of the oceans offers themed pavilions (polar, tropical, temperate) where you can observe sharks, seals and colorful corals in immersive settings.

An exceptional natural setting
Nature lovers will be won over by Pointe Saint-Mathieu, a few kilometers from Brest. This site offers a magnificent panorama of the ocean and the steep cliffs, dominated by an emblematic lighthouse. For a stroll along the water, the port of Moulin Blanc is a pleasant place where you can enjoy the restaurants on the terrace with a view of the harbor.

A gastronomy with Breton flavors
It is impossible to visit Brest without tasting a buckwheat pancake accompanied by a bowl of cider. The local cuisine also showcases seafood, such as Breton lobster and the famous scallops.

Where to sleep in Brest?
Whether you are on a maritime stopover, on a business trip or on a tourist visit, Contact Hôtels offers you comfortable accommodation to explore Brest and its maritime treasures.