The Hardest City to Invade: Saint Malo's Secrets Audio Guide
4.3 / 5 · 15 traveler reviews
Be captivated by the coastal city where echoes of corsairs and conquest linger on this self-guided audio tour. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive stroll through Saint Malo. Every cobblestone and sea breeze in Saint Malo seems to whisper a tale of resilience, adventure, and the enduring spirit of Brittany’s captivating coastal city. On this walking tour, you’ll embark on a journey around its walled old town to see its hidden treasures. I’ll show you three of the old city’s gates, starting with Saint Vincent Gate, where I’ll tell you why you’ll see ermines everywhere in Saint Malo. On your way to the Big Gate where our tour ends, you’ll walk along Saint Malo’s ramparts, hear its surprising history and learn a thing or two about the area’s climate. By the end of this tour, you’ll have gained a new appreciation for this slice of Brittany, its history, and maybe, just maybe, a new sense of humour courtesy of the Malouins who call the city home.
Your experience
Stop 1
Start your tour outside the Office de Tourisme de Saint-Malo, the perfect spot to get your bearings and learn about what the city has to offer.
Stop 2
Walk a short distance up to Chaussée du Sillon, a boulevard offering incredible vistas of the sea and the city’s coastline. Enjoy the panoramic views and get a sense of Saint Malo's maritime heritage.
Stop 3
Venture towards Saint Malo Castle, where echoes of corsairs and conquests linger in the sea-salted air. Learn about the history of the castle and its role in defending the city.
Stop 4
Discover Saint Vincent Gate, one of the old city’s gates. Hear about the significance of the ermine symbol that you'll see throughout Saint Malo.
Stop 5
Find out why there are three Saint Thomas gates as you pass through Porte Saint-Thomas. Learn about the different stages of the city's fortifications.
Stop 6
See the birthplace of Chateaubriand, a renowned politician and diplomat. Discover his contributions to French literature and politics.
Stop 7
Walk through Place Vauban, the large square in front of the castle named after the city’s notorious combat engineer. Learn about Vauban's influence on the city’s fortifications.
Stop 8
Pass through Poterne Aux Normands, a historical gateway that offers a glimpse into the city's medieval past.
Stop 9
Visit Bastion de la Reine, a formidable part of Saint Malo’s ramparts. Hear about the strategic importance of this bastion in the city's defense.
Stop 10
Stop by Bidouane Tower and hear the story behind the name of the dancing cat street. Learn about its historical significance and unique name.
Stop 11
Walk along Champs-Vauvert Cavalier, a section of the city’s ramparts that offers stunning views and historical insights.
Stop 12
Immerse yourself in Place du Quebec (Quebec Square) and visit House Quebec. Learn about the connections between Saint Malo and Quebec.
What’s included
- Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
- The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
- Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
- Guide: Audio: English Written: English
Not included
- Smartphone and headphones (Please bring your own)
- Entry fees to museum or attractions mentioned en route
Meeting and pickup
The tour starts at the tourism office outside intra muros, next to the castle.
Before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Most travelers can participate
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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