This spectacular walled town, fortified in the 14th century and modified by the architect Vauban three centuries later, sits on a small island linked to place Jean Jaurès by a stone footbridge. Just past the citadel's clock tower and main gate, look out for the 18th-century Tour du Gouverneur, which is one of the access points for strolling the ramparts. As you continue, rue Vauban leads to place St-Guénolé and the former church – and later hospice – of the same name.
On the way you'll pass stone houses converted into shops, crêperies, ice-cream stalls and galleries. Indeed, the best way to explore the island is to wander at will. The eastern side of the island has a small hilly park, and there's a passenger ferry (adult/child €1/free) that runs across the inlet to the opposite quay at place Duquesne from 8am to 11pm in July and August, less frequently but still daily the rest of the year. The Ville Close is rammed in summer and on weekends.
