Brest in Brittany, France, is a port city nestled on the banks of the Penfeld River. The city has a number of historic sites, including Tour Tanguy, a tower from medieval times. Brest also features Oceanopolis Aquarium and the National Botanical Conservatory. The city is famous for its naval base and rich maritime history. However, one of its most iconic sites is the medieval Château de Brest (or Brest Castle), which houses the National Navy Museum. Pop over to the official website for Brest to learn more or visit the official website for Château de Brest. Scroll down for a guide to Château de Brest, France.
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Places to stay near Chãteau De Brest
1. Gorgeous apartment with castle view
Château de Brest is a popular place to visit in Brittany, France, and finding accommodation nearby is the most convenient way of exploring this tourist attraction. This light-filled apartment offers an abode for couples, solo backpackers, or business travelers. You can catch glimpses of the distant sea and the Castle of Brest from your bedroom views. You’ll find a dedicated workspace by the window where business travelers can take all their meetings uninterrupted. The living space through the bedroom is based on an open-living concept with large windows to keep it airy.
This is a self-catering apartment with an open, fully furnished kitchen. And the meticulous lounging area across from a TV is perfect for unwinding after exploring this destination.
Book Your Stay: Splendid apartment - Rade/Garden/Castle view
2. Oceania Le Conti Hotel & Spa
Restaurant at the bar may not match the hotel's standing, but everything else is exceptional.
Reasonable pricing for the exceptional facilities offered.
Conveniently located near train station and shopping street, with old-world charm.
Beautiful art deco design, amazing pool and spa, complimentary tea and coffee, comfortable beds.
Stay at this contemporary hotel and indulge in all the activities to do near Chateau de Brest. Boasting stunning designs, it offers aesthetically warm and soundproof rooms with a TV, air-conditioning, and heating. Some rooms have minibars and a private terrace to provide ultimate luxury. Book a room that meets your travel needs, and enjoy exploring the Castle of Brest and other nearby tourist destinations.
This incredible hotel has an on-site spa with a hot tub, ideal for indulging in mental well-being and therapeutic massages. Moreover, the heated indoor pool offers opportunities for washing away your exhaustion with a swim.
Book Your Stay: Oceania Le Conti
Things to do / Highlights
Château de Brest or Castle of Brest is a popular attraction near the Penfeld River. It is the oldest monument in Brest, Finistère, France, that is still in continuous use. The monument can be found at the mouth of Penfeld River. The castle is unique in the city of Brest—during World War II, the area was destroyed by bombing, but the castle survived the onslaught. The structure stands tall on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the city and offers views of the surroundings. Brest Castle was classified as a Monument Historique on March 21, 1923. It stands across the river from Tour Tanguy, which was also built to defend the entrance to Penfeld River.
National Navy Museum
Brest Castle houses Musée National de la Marine or National Navy Museum. The building dates back to Gallo-Roman times in the 17th century.
Dungeon
It is possible to visit the eerie dungeon in the castle, which was used as a prison in the old days.
Ramparts
Explore the ramparts of the castle while enjoying views over the bay, the city of Brest, and the surrounding area.
The keep
The following towers can be seen in this site, dating from various eras: Azenor Tower (13th century), Duchesse Anne Tower (14th century), Sourdeac Bastian (16th century), and Donjon Tower (16th century).
Exhibits
The naval museum in Château de Brest features exhibits relating to both the history of Brest and its military history—the French Navy and the Brest Arsenal. Other exhibits relate to armament and military technology. More naval sights are captured in the works of art on the museum’s walls.
Models
Among the models in the museum are a number of frigates, galleys, battleships, and liners. These include Jouffroy Abbans Steamer from 1784, an armored frigate from 1859, a model of a ship canon from 1720, and many more.
Outside the museum
Out in the fresh air, visitors can view various exhibits including a German WWII submarine and other mini-submarines.
Travelers tips
Visits
Château de Brest and National Navy Museum are open to the public all year round except on certain holidays. It is always wise to check out the website before visiting for possible changes in schedules. Narrated and guided tours are available in English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian, which give more detail about the exhibits in the museum.
Wheelchair accessibility
Regrettably, a visit to National Navy Museum is not suitable for those visitors in a wheelchair. This is mainly because of the ancient design of the place.
Photography
Due to its military nature, no photos are allowed inside National Navy Museum. Other areas, though, offer opportunities for picture-taking.
How to get there
On foot
To reach Château de Brest and National Navy Museum on foot from the center of the city, the quickest route is via Boulevard Jean Moulin, which takes approximately 12 minutes to cover the 950-meter (0.6 mi) distance. Other routes are via Boulevard Jean Moulin and Place du Général de Gaulle or Rue du Château, which spans a distance of 1 kilometer (0.62 mi) and takes approximately 13 minutes.
By car
Driving from the center of Brest to Château de Brest and National Navy Museum is most convenient via Boulevard Jean Moulin, which takes only three minutes. Check out the directions on Google Maps for more information.
Parking
Convenient parking garages nearby include Parking Q-Park Brest Liberté in Place de la Liberté and a parking lot at 76 Boulevard des Français Libres Parking.
By public transport
To get to Château de Brest and National Navy Museum by public transport, catch the nos. 1 and 21 line bus from the city center.
By Uber
Uber is available in the city of Brest—simply download the Uber app.
How to buy tickets
Tickets can be purchased at the box office of Château de Brest and National Navy Museum. While the normal ticket price is 7 EUR (7.60 USD), reduced admission is available for families and students. The ticket also includes a free audioguide in your preferred language. The various payment methods accepted here are bank cards, bank checks, traveler’s checks, and cash. The box office closes at 5:30pm. Find out more by heading to the museum’s practical information web page.
Château de Brest information
Château de Brest
Address: Château de Brest, Boulevard de la Marine, Brest, France
Opening hours: 1:30pm - 6pm (daily)
Price: 7 EUR (7.60 USD)
Official website: National Navy Museum
Department of tourism: Brest Metropolitan Tourist Office
Book Tours : [Walking Tour] Discover the Best of Brest in 2 hours
Frequently asked questions about guide to Château de Brest, France
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