A Guide to the Best Things to do in Auray

Last Updated on 28th February 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

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Of all the towns I’ve been lucky enough to visit in Brittany, one of the most charming of them all is that of Auray, a timber-framed historic settlement on the banks of the river Loch in the Morbihan department of Bretagne. In the local language, Breton, Auray is known as An Alre. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Auray.

Auray is one of those kinds of places where time has stood still and the town appears just as it would have done centuries ago. It’s one of my favourite places to visit in Brittany and is the kind of destination you can return to again and again.

Introducing Auray

Nestled between the Quiberon peninsula and the city of Vannes, many tourists miss out on Auray in favour of its more famous neighbours. However, on any visit to Brittany, this would surely be your first mistake.

After all, the town boasts cobbled lanes, charming façades, and a laid-back ambiance that allows you to escape from the hustle and bustle of busy modern day life, if only for a few hours.

What is Auray known for?

Auray is most famous for its picturesque fishing port, Saint-Goustan, which was once a small village community in of its own right but has since become incorporated into the fabric of modern day Auray. Other highlights of the town include a handful of medieval chapels, several beautiful vistas, and the chance to experience traditional Breton life.

Things to do in Auray

Port de Saint Goustan (St Goustan)

Hands down, one of the very best things to do in Auray is to head to Port de Saint Goustan to soak up the ambiance, admire the historic boats, and snap photos of the timber-framed houses to be found there.

The port is so historic that it’s even here, in 1776, where Benjamin Franklin landed to hold secret meetings with the King of France regarding the US War of Independence.

Today, several spots of interest in Auray are named for Benjamin Franklin, including one of the quays in the Port of Saint-Goustan. The charming port dates all the way back to the Middle Ages and is the historic city centre of Auray to this day.

Many of the buildings date back to the 15th, 16th, and 17th-centuries. It’s also here where you’ll find a medley of cobblestone lanes and eateries where you can sample local cuisine and produce.

Pont de Saint-Goustan

The medieval bridge linking the former port of Saint Goustan to Auray is that of Pont de Saint-Goustan. The bridge dates back many centuries and, though it accommodates cars today, is only single track.

The very first attestation of a bridge on site dates back to the 13th-century, though it was rebuilt during the 15th-century, when it was called ‘Pont Neuf’ (which is translated into English as ‘new bridge’).

The current bridge was constructed in 1752 and was restored in 1983. One particular peculiarity of the bridge today is that it’s home a little historic building (formerly used as a toll house) with a modern twist in that it is where you’ll find an ATM machine!

Mairie d’Auray (Auray Town hall)

If you’re parking in the city centre of Auray, then chances are that the first glimpse you’ll have of central Auray is of Place de la République, which is centred around the imposing town hall.

The building itself is traditional French architecture from the 18th-century and is similar to the kind of town hall buildings you’ll find across the rest of France. Around Place de la République is where you’ll find the Auray weekly market, which sells goods from the local Morbihan department, and the wider Brittany region.

The market takes place on a Monday morning and, if you’re in the area, it’s definitely a not-to-be-missed experience, particularly if you’re staying in self-catering accommodation and are looking to stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables for the week.

Place de la République

Another location which we particularly enjoyed on Place de la République is the café called the ‘French Coffee Shop’ (6 Place de la République). Their coffee concoctions are simply delightful and include extravagant delights such as cookie marvels and caramel blends.

If you’re looking for a good takeaway option, then I recommend ordering hot coffees to go and walking them down to the Square Castelbar. Here, you’ll find a cute little square overlooking the water with plenty of benches where you can sit and enjoy a picnic while watching the world go by.

Admire the view from the old castle

If you’ve ever seen photos of Auray before, then the chances are that you’ll have seen the picture perfect view of the Saint Goustan district from above. This vista can be found at the top of the Ramparts D’Auray, a pleasant (though steep) sloping walk which follows the traces of a former castle on site. There has not been a castle in Auray since the 16th-century.

Église Saint-Saveur d’Auray

There are actually a handful of churches and chapels in Auray, one of the largest and most prominent of which is that of Saint-Saveur d’Auray. Though the doors leading into this ecclesiastical building date back to the 16th-century, the building itself was constructed in the 19th. One particular object of interest to be found within the church is a model of a ship which dates back to 1865.

Chapelle Notre Dame de Lourdes

Immediately next to the church of Saint Saveur d’Auray, another chapel worth mentioning is that of the Chapelle Notre Dame de Lourdes. This place of worship dates back to the latter half of the 19th-century and is unusual in that its altar piece is decorated with a natural rock-like formation.

Rue Saint-René

There are several charming streets in Auray and one of the most beautiful is that of rue Saint-René. Located in the historic Saint-Goustan part of town, this pedestrian only street comprises of cobbled steps with a handrail that offer beautiful views onto the port and beyond.

Rue du Château

Yet another beautiful road in Auray that you simply must stroll down when visiting Auray is that of rue du Château, which is translated into English as ‘castle road’. This street leads from the town centre of Auray (where you’ll find the town hall) towards the Port of Saint Goustan.

The street is narrow and winding, though also accomodates cars and has steps leading down for pedestrians. It’s also along this Auray road where you’ll find an eclectic mix of independent shops and boutiques where you can shop for unique goods, wares, and souvenirs.

Église St-Gildas

Situated on the Auray side of the river (as opposed to the part of town which was once known as Saint Goustan), the Church of Saint Gildas was constructed in 1636. Particular highlights of this listed building include a wooden porch, an altar from Laval, and a 19th-century organ.

Auray Christmas Market and Illuminations

While I personally maintain that the best time to visit Auray is during the summer months when the weather is at its best, there is no denying that Auray is most certainly a cosy winter destination.

Visit the city during December and you’ll find that many of the main streets are decorated with beautiful illuminations during the evenings. On an annual basis, there is also a Christmas market during the last two weeks of December.

Typically, there are around 80 stalls selling everything from unique gifts to Christmas market food. There’s also an ice skating rink. In 2024, the Auray Christmas Market is set to be held for most of December.

Frequently asked questions about Auray

What is the population of Auray?

As of 2015, the population of Auray was 13,746.

What are the best free things to do in Auray?

Those visiting Auray on a budget will be pleased to know that there are a number of low cost activities and attractions on offer. Some of the best free things to do in Auray include strolling around the port of St Goustan, climbing on the old city walls, and visiting the many churches and chapels across the tow

Is Auray safe to visit?

Auray is generally as safe as most other destinations in Europe, though petty crime can still occur. Visitors should be especially wary of pickpockets (pickpockets operate all over Europe and so you should always keep your things close, particularly in crowds). Never leave your valuables lying around or attended. I personally recommend always wearing a crossbody bag like these ones.

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