Quimper
France · Brittany
Description
Quimper, the historic capital of Cornouaille in southern Brittany, is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval old town and the centuries-old tradition of Quimper faience pottery. At the heart of the city stands the Gothic Cathedral of Saint-Corentin, notable for the visibly bent axis of its nave, surrounded by half-timbered houses along Rue Kéréon and the small squares of the old quarter. In the Locmaria district, potters have hand-painted the distinctive Quimper faience since the 17th century, a craft still practiced today. The Odet river, spanned by flower-lined footbridges, and the wooded viewpoint of Mont Frugy complete a city that combines Breton heritage, craftsmanship, and a lively cultural calendar anchored by the Festival de Cornouaille.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: May – June
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Cathedral of Saint-Corentin
- Quimper Old Town and Rue Kéréon
- Quimper Faience Pottery Tradition
- Locmaria Pottery Quarter and Abbey Church
- HB-Henriot Faïencerie Tour
- Musée Départemental Breton
- Musée des Beaux-Arts de Quimper
- Odet Riverbanks and Footbridges
- Mont Frugy Viewpoint
- Festival de Cornouaille (July)
- Place Terre au Duc
- Breton Crêpes and Cider
Getting there
- Airports:
- UIP
- Train stations:
- Quimper