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The Complete Guide to Traveling to and around Saint-Malo for Tourists

  • brendan7050
  • Nov 14, 2025
  • 4 min read

Planning a trip to the walled city of Saint-Malo? This complete transport guide will help you get there and explore the city with ease. Whether you’re traveling from Paris, the UK, or overseas, here’s how to reach Saint-Malo confidently—and comfortably!

There are four main ways to reach Saint-Malo: by car, train, ferry, or plane. Let’s explore each in detail.



Getting to Saint-Malo

 

Driving to Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo is around 4.5 hours from Paris by car. You can rent a vehicle directly at the airport.The fastest route follows the A13 through Normandy, a scenic drive that passes close to the D-Day Landing Beaches and the famous Mont Saint-Michel—perfect stops if you’re planning a road trip.

Travel Tips:

  • French highways often have tolls. Expect to pay around €80 in tolls and fuel combined.

  • Driving offers flexibility once you arrive, especially if you plan to visit nearby coastal towns and countryside spots.

  • For more local inspiration, check out my guide: [15 Best Things to Do in Saint-Malo] 

Hiring a Driver (VTC):Instead of renting, you can hire a professional VTC driver. These drivers are licensed professionals who must pass a rigorous exam and drive well-maintained vehicles (under six years old). This is a comfortable and safe alternative for travelers who prefer a private transfer.


Taking the Train to Saint-Malo

France’s rail system is fast, efficient, and one of the best ways to reach Saint-Malo.


From Paris Montparnasse

Take the TGV (high-speed train) from Paris Montparnasse station.

  • Duration: about 2.5 hours direct or 3–3.5 hours with a change in Rennes.

  • Montparnasse is about 2.8 km from the Eiffel Tower and easily accessible by metro, taxi, or Uber.

  • Connections in Rennes are simple—just switch platforms without leaving the station.


From Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

If you’re flying into Paris, you can take the train directly from CDG Airport.

  • Duration: about 3.5 hours with one connection in Rennes.

  • Benefit: avoids the need to transfer across Paris to Montparnasse.

  • Tip: after a long flight, this option saves time and energy.

Once you arrive at Saint-Malo train station, you can:

  • Take a taxi or Uber to your accommodation.

  • Walk to the walled city (Intra-Muros) — about 20 minutes.

  • Hop on the Bus Line 2 or 8 toward Intra-Muros for under €2 per person (tickets available onboard or at kiosks).


Flying to Rennes or Nantes

If you’re coming from other parts of Europe or the UK, you can fly into Rennes or Nantes airports.

  • Rennes Airport: Best if you plan to take a train or shuttle to Saint-Malo (about 1 hour).

  • Nantes Airport: Convenient if you plan to rent a car..


Taking the Ferry from the UK

The Brittany Ferries service connects Portsmouth (UK) to Saint-Malo directly.

  • Day Crossing: Faster and great for travelers who prefer to sightsee on arrival.

  • Overnight Crossing: More relaxing—you can sleep in a cabin and arrive refreshed in the morning.

The ferry port in Saint-Malo is conveniently close to the walled city, making it easy to start exploring or join one of our walking tours right after you dock!


Getting Around Saint-Malo


Car Rentals

There are several car rental agencies within Saint-Malo.If you arrived by train, renting a car can give you flexibility to visit Cancale, Dinard, or other nearby destinations.


Taxis and Ubers

For quick trips, Allo Taxi Saint-Malo offers reliable local service, and some Ubers also operate within the city.🔗 Allo Taxi Saint-Malo


Public Buses

Saint-Malo’s MAT bus network is efficient and easy to use, download the TixiPass App to purchase tickets in advance.

If you don’t feel comfortable driving in France, Saint-Malo has an extremely efficient and easy-to-use bus system. There is an app called TixiPass where you can purchase your tickets beforehand if you plan on using the bus. Some of the main lines for tourists are the 2, the 5, the 8, and the 9.

Lines 2 and 8 will take you directly to the Walled City. The 8 line will also take you to the Cité d’Alet, a popular historic site that has scenic views and a WW2 battery.

Lines 5 and 9 will take you between Saint-Malo and Cancale. Cancale is a popular seaside port town and is wonderful to visit.  The 5 goes between the Saint-Malo station and Cancale, while the 9 line goes from Saint-Malo’s walled city to Cancale, but takes you on the scenic coastal road. Check out my guide to the beaches between Saint-Malo and Cancale:


E-Bikes

Saint-Malo has a fantastic municipal E-Bike system called Vélo MAT.

  1. Download the Vélo MAT App.

  2. Scan the QR code on the bike handlebars.

  3. Press the left brake to unlock and ride!


There's also the possibility of renting E-bikes over several days, which can be useful if you plan on using them as your main form of transportation.


E-Bikes can be rented over a longer period of time from https://www.cancavelo.fr/


Ferry to Dinard

For a scenic crossing over the Rance Estuary, take one of the sea buses between Saint-Malo and Dinard.Boats depart every 30 minutes in summer, and you can even bring your bike aboard.

Companies:


Final Thoughts

Saint-Malo offers endless charm—from its fortified walls and beaches to nearby coastal gems like Cancale and Dinard. With this complete guide, you’ll be able to arrive, explore, and move around the city effortlessly.

🚶‍♂️ Tip: After your journey, join one of our walking tours of Saint-Malo to discover hidden stories, scenic views, and the city’s fascinating maritime history.



 
 
 

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