La cathédrale
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Saint-Malo Cathedral Saint-Vincent

4.5
·4k reviews·Saint-Malo, France

A resilient and beautiful cathedral in Saint-Malo's historic walled city, showcasing stunning stained glass and architectural history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-day

Sunlight best for windows

CrowdMedium
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La cathédrale

Saint-Malo Cathedral Saint-Vincent

Best Time

Mid-day

Sunlight best for windows

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A resilient and beautiful cathedral in Saint-Malo's historic walled city, showcasing stunning stained glass and architectural history.

4.5
(4k reviews)

"A lovely, peaceful cathedral in the center of Saint Malo, completely free to enter and well worth a visit."

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TIP

Free Entry & Donations

:moneybag: Entry is free, but donations for upkeep or candles are warmly welcomed.

A Quiet Escape

:park: Perfect spot for a peaceful break from busy Intra-Muros streets.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stained Glass Windows

Stained Glass Windows

Vibrant depictions of Saint-Malo's history and religious scenes, illuminated by sunlight.

Restored Interior

Restored Interior

A testament to resilience, showcasing a blend of architectural styles and beautiful artwork.

Peaceful Atmosphere

Peaceful Atmosphere

A serene escape from the busy tourist streets, offering a moment of quiet contemplation.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Calm Within the Walls

Escape the bustling streets of Intra-Muros by stepping into Saint-Malo Cathedral. It's a free sanctuary offering a peaceful respite, perfect for quiet reflection or a break from the elements. Donations are appreciated, especially for lighting a candle.

A Glimpse into History and Art

This cathedral is a living testament to Saint-Malo's resilience, beautifully restored after WWII. Admire the blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles, and marvel at stained glass windows that narrate the city's rich history.

Best Times

When
Mid-day
Why
Sunlight best for windows
Crowd
Medium
When
During Mass
Why
Experience choir and acoustics
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We’re absolutely in love with Bordier Butter that we went to the original shop in Saint-Malo, France (2.5h from Paris)! 🧈❤️ Made from the freshest organic milk from local farms in Brittany, Normandy, and Pays de la Loire, every block feels like a piece of art. Watching the artisans slap that block of butter into shape is a feast for the eyes is such a treat. Make sure to turn your sound on to hear...
@voyagewithmc
27.2K likes • 449.3K views

Free Entry & Donations

:moneybag: Entry is free, but donations for upkeep or candles are warmly welcomed. Reddit

A Quiet Escape

:park: Perfect spot for a peaceful break from busy Intra-Muros streets. Reddit

reddit.com

Currently 1 week into a month long stay in Paris - what more should I do?

Candle Lighting

:candle: Donate to light a candle and soak in the warm, reverent atmosphere. Reddit

Architectural Blend

:classical_building: Admire Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles, plus modern altar pieces. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Entry & Donations

:moneybag: Entry is free, but donations for upkeep or candles are warmly welcomed. Reddit

A Quiet Escape

:park: Perfect spot for a peaceful break from busy Intra-Muros streets. Reddit

Candle Lighting

:candle: Donate to light a candle and soak in the warm, reverent atmosphere. Reddit

Architectural Blend

:classical_building: Admire Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles, plus modern altar pieces. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Saint-Malo Cathedral for its free entry, peaceful ambiance, and stunning stained glass windows that depict local history. Many find it a welcome respite from the busy streets of Intra-Muros and appreciate its beautiful restoration after WWII damage. Some note the warmth inside due to numerous candles.

"My wife and I were fortunate to visit on the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker and attend Mass. It was a beautiful and reverent liturgy. The church is also visibly stunning and filled with history."

Brendan Gotta

"This lovely cathedral in the centre of Saint Malo is completely free to enter. It has a lovely peaceful atmosphere, beautiful stained glass windows, a large organ at the back.
It's a wonderful place to head into for a calm and quiet break from the busy tourist streets of Intra Muros, or to get away from the weather, whether rain or sunshine!"

Josh Wakeford

"Beautiful Cathedral. It was a warm day outside and I couldn't believe how warm it was inside due to all of the burning candles! Peaceful place with interesting religious artwork. Free entry but donations appreciated. You can however donate for a candle."

Elizabeth Baker

What People Like

Free entry
Peaceful atmosphere
Beautiful stained glass

What People Dislike

Can be warm inside

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The cathedral is located in the heart of the walled city (Intra-Muros) of Saint-Malo. If you are already within the walls, it's easily walkable. If arriving by ferry or train, you can take a local bus or taxi to the city gates and then walk. Reddit

Parking within Intra-Muros is very limited and often restricted. It's best to use one of the public car parks located just outside the city walls and walk in. Reddit

The cathedral is generally accessible, though some older sections might present challenges. The main nave and altar area are usually accessible. It's advisable to check with the cathedral directly for specific accessibility details. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The cathedral is typically open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information, especially around holidays or special events. Reddit

No, entry to Saint-Malo Cathedral is generally free. However, donations are greatly appreciated to help with its maintenance and preservation. Reddit

Photography is usually permitted inside the cathedral, but it's important to be respectful. Avoid using flash, especially during services, and be mindful of other visitors. Reddit

While official guided tours might not always be readily available, you can often find information leaflets or brochures inside the cathedral that detail its history and features. Local tourist offices may also offer guided walking tours that include the cathedral. Reddit

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

Saint-Malo Cathedral showcases a fascinating blend of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements, reflecting its long history and various phases of construction and restoration. Reddit

The stained glass windows are a significant feature, depicting scenes from the history of Saint-Malo and religious narratives. They are particularly beautiful when illuminated by sunlight. Reddit

Yes, you can attend Mass and other religious services. Visitors have reported attending Mass and finding the liturgy beautiful and reverent, with impressive choir singing and acoustics. Reddit

The cathedral features an unusual contemporary altar piece, which adds a modern artistic touch to the historic setting. Reddit

Absolutely. The cathedral offers a cool refuge on a hot day and a dry, peaceful haven during rain, making it a perfect spot to pause and recharge. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Saint-Malo Cathedral offers a peaceful, free activity that can be a welcome break for families. The stained glass windows can be a point of interest for children, sparking imagination with their vibrant colors and stories. It's a good opportunity to teach them about history and art in a calm environment. Reddit

Keep in mind that it's a place of worship, so encourage quiet behavior. The cathedral's central location within Intra-Muros makes it easy to incorporate into a family-friendly walking tour of the walled city.

❤️ Couples & Quiet Seekers

For couples or anyone seeking a moment of tranquility, Saint-Malo Cathedral is an ideal destination. Its serene atmosphere provides a perfect escape from the lively tourist crowds outside. You can wander hand-in-hand, admire the beautiful architecture, and find a quiet pew for reflection. Reddit

Consider visiting during off-peak hours or attending a service for a more intimate experience. The beauty of the stained glass and the historical significance of the building offer a romantic and contemplative backdrop.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Symbol of Resilience: Restoration and History

Saint-Malo Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of Saint Vincent, stands as a powerful symbol of the city's enduring spirit. It suffered significant damage during the bombings of World War II, but has since undergone extensive and meticulous restoration. This process has preserved its rich architectural heritage, allowing visitors to appreciate the layers of history embedded within its walls. The blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles is a testament to its centuries-long construction and evolution. Reddit

Walking through the cathedral, you can feel the weight of its past. The careful restoration ensures that the beauty of its original design is not lost. It’s a place where history is not just read about, but felt. The resilience of Saint-Malo is palpable in every stone and every archway, making a visit here a deeply moving experience. Reddit

Artistry in Light: The Stained Glass Windows

One of the most captivating features of Saint-Malo Cathedral is its stunning collection of stained glass windows. These windows are more than just decorative; they serve as visual storytellers, depicting significant events from the history of Saint-Malo and various religious narratives. When sunlight streams through them, the interior is bathed in a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the beauty and detail of these windows, noting how they bring the stories to life. The contemporary altar piece also adds an interesting artistic dimension, contrasting with the historical elements and offering a unique focal point. The interplay of light, color, and artistry makes the cathedral a feast for the eyes. Reddit

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