France : Safety by City
- Bordeaux
- Le Havre
- Lille
- Lyon
- Marseille
- Martinique
- Montpellier
- Nantes
- Nice
- Nimes
- Paris
- Reims
- Rennes
- Strasbourg
- Toulon
- Toulouse
Rennes is a city in the east of Brittany in northwestern France at the confluence of the Ille and the Vilaine. Rennes is the capital of the region of Brittany, as well as the Ille-et-Vilaine department. In 2017, the urban area had a population of 357,327 inhabitants, and the larger metropolitan area had 739,974 inhabitants. The inhabitants of Rennes are called Rennais/Rennaises in French.
Warnings & Dangers in Rennes
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Rennes is not the safest place for travelers, but if you use common sense and take precautions, you can avoid most of the troubles.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW
Public transport is well-developed and safe. Taxis are convenient for getting around, but sometimes drivers can rip off tourists at exorbitant prices. Make sure the cab has a taximeter.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Like any major city in Rennes, pickpockets do happen. Especially on public transport during rush hour. Keep track of your belongings and do not leave bags and wallets unattended on the tables in the cafe.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Before coming here, you need to get informed of any potential flood risk, check weather conditions, and watch current news so as to be sure that none of the possible natural disasters might happen.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
In the suburbs of Rennes, local gangs' showdowns take place; during these showdowns, there are shootings and kidnappings. Avoid these areas and don't get involved with drugs.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Rennes. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
The most common scams in Rennes are related to street beggars. Be suspicious of anyone who asks or offers you help.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
Women traveling alone can feel relatively safe in Rennes. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.
How Safe Is Rennes for Tourists?
Rennes is a relatively safe city to travel to.
The crime index here is at an average level.
The main problems are related to drug trafficking and petty theft.
This city can be pretty safe if you follow the usual precautions and watch your belongings.
Natural disasters in this region pose a separate danger.
Pay special attention, as road conditions in mountainous areas, can quickly become complicated in winter, so that you may need special equipment for the trip.
Drivers should only park in well-lit parking areas and avoid traveling at night if driving to locations away from major roads.
Avoid parking in isolated or dark places and do not sleep in the car, as there have been instances where drivers have been assaulted while sleeping.
Otherwise, behave here as in other cities, watch your surroundings, watch your bags and wallets.
Do not contact drug dealers under any circumstances.
Drugs are illegal here.
In the event of any emergency, you need to follow the advice of local authorities and act accordingly.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Rennes?
The visa policy of the French Overseas Territories is quite liberal. The citizens of the European Union, together with the nationals of Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, and Switzerland, are allowed to travel in all French Overseas Territories and stay indefinitely without a visa. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Rennes?
The euro (€) is the official currency of the European Union and is used by most of its members including France, Spain, Italy, The Netherlands, Germany, and others. France’s Caribbean holdings Martinique, have all also adopted the euro as an official currency.
How's the Weather like in Rennes?
In Rennes, the summers are comfortable; the winters are long, icy, and windy; and partly cloudy year-round. The best time of year to visit Rennes for warm-weather activities is from mid-June to mid-September.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Rennes?
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Rennes?
Most of old Rennes was burned down in 1720 when the city was devastated by fire, but some original hearths have survived; the streets around the Place Saint-Anne are littered with disorderly half-timbered houses. The superbly restored Couvent des Jacobins (formerly Dominican monastery) is now home to a convention center and many cultural events.
Is the Water in Rennes Safe to Drink?
In general, the water may be safe to drink in Rennes.
Is Uber Safe in Rennes?
There is an Uber taxi in the city; you can call a taxi from your smartphone application. The fare will depend on the time of day, and the distance traveled.
