If you’re traveling through the northwestern portion of France, a must-stop destination is the serene port city of Brest. Boasting the sparkling Penfeld River that cuts through the town, Brest provides an idyllic setting of coastal brilliance. This French hamlet is overflowing with a rich nautical history, so it’s no surprise that contributing to the town’s appeal is the delightful Musee De La Marine. The oldest monument in the city, this maritime museum residing in an immense medieval castle showcases 17 centuries of the French navy’s impressive marine past via seafaring-related paintings, expertly drawn maps, intriguing artifacts, and a wonderful model ship collection. To be in-the-know before you go, we’ve assembled a guide to Musee De La Marine, Brest.
Things to do/Highlights
Seehund submarine
When France fell to the Nazis during World War II, Brest was used as a German U-boat base. After the war, a fascinating German Seehund submarine was discovered in the area and donated to this museum. Because the weight of the vessel is under 150 tons (136 metric tons), it is known as a mini or pocket submarine - worth checking out!
Defensive towers
The structure’s bold combination of defensive towers and impressive, rock-solid ramparts is this museum’s trademark. The tower’s various vantage points allow for stunning views across the Penfeld River. You can also relish captivating sights of the bustling harbor, lovely bay, charming town, and beyond.
Model ships
If you like to geek out about historical vessels, this museum has a nice collection of scale antique-model ships on display. Examine a detailed shipyard model for a 118 gunship used during the Napoleonic period, admire a model of a La Bretagne 100 gunship circa 1766, study the marvelous intricate interior of a model 64 gunship, and so much more.
Things to buy
What’s a trip to an exciting tourist attraction if you don’t stop by the gift shop for a souvenir? Musee De La Marine Bookstore and Boutique offers an incredible assortment of intriguing books, fine knickknacks to decorate your home, excellent tableware, pretty glassware, and beautiful brass or porcelain merchandise. Visitors can also browse simpler and more traditional souvenirs like colorful magnets and key rings.
For younger members in your traveling party, there are medieval-related gifts such as fun castles, pretty princess and shiny knights’ costumes, and pirate paraphernalia. You can also find classic souvenirs that thrill kids like exciting board games, handsome wooden toys, and, of course, a range of ship-model building kits.
Travelers tips
Wheelchair accessibility
Be aware that this attraction is not accessible for persons in wheelchairs and there are no handicapped parking spaces nearby.
Reduced ticket price
If you’re on a budget, you can still enjoy this attraction. Musee De La Marine offers a discounted rate for guests possessing a full-price ticket to Musee Des Beaux-Arts, Brest. If you’re a member of the association of friends of the Musee Des Beaux-Arts, Brest, just present your up-to-date card to gain free entry.
Audio guide
A handy audio guide to enhance your visit is included in the admission price. Those entering for free must pay 3 USD (2 EUR) to obtain an audio guide. The audio is presented in French, English, German, Spanish, Italian, and Dutch. Be aware that the audio guides are available on a first-come-first-serve basis.
How to get there
Rent a car
If you choose to rent a car and drive to Musee De La Marine, the museum is located at Chateau de Brest, Boulevard de la Marine.
Public transit
Operated by the Bibus network, the city provides 16 efficient bus lines that cover one end of the city to the other. The price for one ticket is about 3 USD (2 EUR) and you can travel the complete network for one hour. To get to Musee De La Marina, hop on Bus Line 1 and get off at Musee De La Marine stop. Or you could catch the light rail marked A which offers a nearby stop at this attraction.
Taxi
There a several taxi services in Brest, so you can get to the museum the easy way by hailing a taxi off the streets or arranging for a taxi pick-up.
Uber
Uber is available in Brest, so tap the app for an affordable and handy ride to the museum.
Parking information
Musee De La Marine is situated in the town’s center so parking options are extremely limited. However, there is a car park named Parking Q-Park Brest Colbert that’s 0.68 miles (1.1 kilometers) away at 8 Rue Frédéric Le Guyader. Parking Q-Park Brest Liberte is located at Place de la Liberte and is 0.93 miles (1.5 kilometers) away.
How to book tickets
At this time, the only way to obtain tickets for Musee De La Marine is on-site at the museum box office.
Musee De La Marine information
Address: Chateau de Brest, Boulevard de la Marine, 29200 Brest, France
Opening hours: 1:30pm - 6:30pm (daily)
Cost: 8 USD (7 EUR)
Official website: Musee De La Marine
Department of tourism: France
History
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