Porte Saint-Malo
A magnificent 13th-century gateway to Dinan's enchanting medieval old town, offering a glimpse into France's rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Porte Saint-Malo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 13th-century gateway to Dinan's enchanting medieval old town, offering a glimpse into France's rich history.
"A beautiful entrance to the old town, this formidable 13th-century gateway is a must-see."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Dinan's streets are steep and cobblestoned. You'll be doing a lot of walking!
🚶♀️ Explore the Ramparts
The views from the ramparts are stunning and offer a unique perspective of the town.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Porte Saint-Malo
Dinan
A formidable 13th-century gateway, this impressive stone arch is a testament to medieval architecture and a grand entrance to Dinan's historic heart.
Dinan's Medieval Ramparts
Dinan
Walk along these ancient fortifications for breathtaking views of the Rance valley and the charming town below. A true step back in time.
Rue du Jerzual
Dinan
This picturesque, steep cobblestone street winds down from the Porte Saint-Malo to the port, lined with artisan shops and historic buildings.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Porte Saint-Malo
Navigating Dinan and its Gate
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Dinan's streets are steep and cobblestoned. You'll be doing a lot of walking!
🚶♀️ Explore the Ramparts
The views from the ramparts are stunning and offer a unique perspective of the town.
📸 Capture the Charm
The Rue du Jerzual is incredibly photogenic, especially in the morning light.
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Dinan is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace to soak in its history.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Dinan's streets are steep and cobblestoned. You'll be doing a lot of walking!
🚶♀️ Explore the Ramparts
The views from the ramparts are stunning and offer a unique perspective of the town.
📸 Capture the Charm
The Rue du Jerzual is incredibly photogenic, especially in the morning light.
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Dinan is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace to soak in its history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Porte Saint-Malo as a beautiful and historically significant entrance to the charming medieval town of Dinan. While some note that the gate itself might be undergoing renovation or is less busy than other entrances, the overall consensus is that Dinan, with its ramparts and picturesque streets like Rue du Jerzual, is well worth a visit. The historical ambiance and architectural beauty are major draws.
"Beautiful gate in Dinan, built in the middle of the 13th century."
Natalie Daz
"Beautiful entrance to the old town."
Bob
"Esta porta do XIII protege a entrada da cidade para norte e é reforçada no séc. XV com uma ponte levadiça hoje desaparecida."
Antonio Coelho
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Porte Saint-Malo is a main gateway to the historic center of Dinan. If you're arriving by car, look for parking outside the ramparts and walk in. Public transport options to Dinan are available, and from the town center, it's a short walk to the gate.
Yes, Dinan is a popular day trip from Saint-Malo. You can reach Dinan by car (approx. 30-40 minutes) or by public transport. Many visitors combine a visit to both historic towns.
Dinan is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are steep and cobblestoned. The Porte Saint-Malo is a great starting point for exploring the medieval town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Porte Saint-Malo is an open gateway to the historic town of Dinan and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely pass through it.
As an outdoor historical monument and gateway, the Porte Saint-Malo is accessible at all times. However, shops and attractions within Dinan will have their own operating hours.
There are no general entry fees for Dinan's historic center or the Porte Saint-Malo. Some specific attractions within the town might have admission fees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Porte Saint-Malo is the entrance to Dinan's medieval old town. You can explore the ramparts, walk down the charming Rue du Jerzual, visit local shops, and enjoy the historic atmosphere.
Absolutely! The Porte Saint-Malo and the surrounding medieval streets offer fantastic photographic opportunities, especially the Rue du Jerzual.
Built in the 13th century, the Porte Saint-Malo was a crucial defensive gate for Dinan. It was later reinforced in the 15th century with a drawbridge, showcasing its strategic importance.
Yes, the streets leading from Porte Saint-Malo, particularly Rue du Jerzual, are lined with artisan shops, boutiques, and cafes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Numerous restaurants and creperies are located within Dinan's historic center, just beyond the Porte Saint-Malo. You can find traditional Breton cuisine and local specialties.
While not directly at the gate, Dinan offers delicious crepes and galettes, quintessential Breton treats. Some visitors also enjoy local cider.
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Dinan's Medieval Charm
Beyond the gate, the Rue du Jerzual beckons, a picturesque and famously steep lane that winds its way down to the Rance river port. This street is a visual delight, lined with half-timbered houses, artisan workshops, and quaint boutiques. It’s a perfect spot for photography and for soaking in the authentic atmosphere of a bygone era.
Don't miss the opportunity to walk along Dinan's ramparts. These ancient fortifications offer panoramic views of the town, the river, and the surrounding countryside. The combination of the Porte Saint-Malo, the Rue du Jerzual, and the ramparts creates an immersive historical experience that many visitors find captivating.
The Strategic Importance of the Porte Saint-Malo
Further enhancements in the 15th century, including the addition of a drawbridge (now disappeared), underscore its ongoing military significance. The gate's robust architecture, with its thick stone walls and imposing arch, speaks volumes about the era's defensive engineering. Even today, standing before it, you can appreciate the formidable barrier it once represented.
While its military function has long since passed, the Porte Saint-Malo remains a powerful symbol of Dinan's rich history and its resilience through centuries. It serves as a constant reminder of the town's past as a fortified port city.
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