A layover in Rennes is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport sits just 50 minutes from the city center by Bus (Line C6), and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of RNS:
- Can you legally enter France? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 50-minute journey each way by Bus (Line C6), you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (Line C6) | ~50 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~70 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Bus (Line C6) is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Rennes, budget roughly $43 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $22 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $11 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at RNS aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Rennes itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
How to Spend Your Time in Rennes
For a layover visit to Rennes, we’d suggest Explore Old Rennes (Vieux Rennes) and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Rennes. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Rennes. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Rennes.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at RNS, check out Boutique Relay or Relax at the Bar-Restaurant Le St-Jacques to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
For food in Rennes, local travelers recommend Crêperie La Rozell. If you have time for a second stop, Le Galopin is another popular pick.
Back at RNS, Bar-Restaurant Le St-Jacques is the go-to. Relay (Snacks & Drinks) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at RNS include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in France also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and RNS is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Rennes and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Rennes genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.