Intra-Muros ramparts
Walk the complete circuit of the granite city walls for harbour, beach and rooftop views.
Brittany · France
St Malo Ferry & Destination Guide
Walk St Malo’s magnificent walled old town, beaches and harbourfront, then use the nearby Terminal Ferry du Naye for cross-Channel sailings to Portsmouth and seasonal links involving Poole and Guernsey.
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Discover St Malo
St Malo is one of Brittany’s most atmospheric coastal cities, combining a fortified old town, sweeping beaches and a passenger-ferry terminal only minutes from the historic centre.
The granite ramparts of Intra-Muros define St Malo. Walking the walls gives changing views across the old town, harbour and islands, while the streets below are filled with restaurants, crêperies, shops and buildings rebuilt in traditional style after wartime destruction.
At low tide, broad sands open around Plage du Sillon and the smaller beaches beside the old town. The tidal causeway to Grand Bé can be walked when conditions allow, but visitors should pay close attention to tide times because the sea returns quickly.
St Malo’s maritime identity is central to its appeal. The city’s corsair history, fishing traditions and links with explorers such as Jacques Cartier are reflected in museums, statues and the old harbour, while seafood and Breton galettes make the destination particularly rewarding for food-focused stays.
The surrounding Emerald Coast adds easy excursions. Dinard sits across the Rance, Cancale is celebrated for oysters, and Mont-Saint-Michel can be reached on a longer day trip, making St Malo a useful base even for travellers who are not simply passing through the port.
The railway station is outside Intra-Muros but still close enough for practical transfers, with rail links towards Rennes and the wider French network. Local buses connect the station, town centre and areas around the port.
Terminal Ferry du Naye is just a few minutes from central St Malo. That proximity makes the city especially convenient for foot passengers, although current port-improvement works can affect access and parking, so extra time before check-in is sensible.
City highlights
What to see while you are in St Malo
St Malo combines one of France’s great walled old towns with beaches, tidal scenery and easy access to the Emerald Coast.
Plage du Sillon
Enjoy the long sandy beach stretching east from the old town and watch the dramatic Breton tides.
Grand Bé
Cross the tidal causeway when conditions permit to visit the island and Chateaubriand’s tomb.
Saint-Vincent Cathedral
Step inside the historic cathedral at the heart of the walled city.
Corsair streets
Explore narrow lanes, squares, crêperies and maritime landmarks within Intra-Muros.
Emerald Coast
Use St Malo as a base for Dinard, Cancale, coastal viewpoints and Mont-Saint-Michel.
Tours & experiences
Things to Do in St Malo
Browse St Malo walking tours, Mont-Saint-Michel excursions, coastal experiences and food tours to combine with your ferry journey.
Tours and activities displayed in this section are supplied through Viator. Availability, descriptions and prices are provided by the activity supplier and can change.
Arriving or departing by ferry
St Malo Ferry Terminal
Brittany Ferries advises passengers to check in at least 45 minutes before departure, with earlier arrival required for some travellers such as passengers with pets. Port-modernisation works can temporarily affect access and parking, so follow the latest instructions issued with the booking.
The core year-round passenger route links St Malo with Portsmouth. In 2026 Brittany Ferries also operates seasonal high-speed services involving Poole and Guernsey, so the exact available route depends on the travel date.
Brittany Ferries uses Terminal Ferry du Naye, a short distance south of St Malo’s walled old town. The port is clearly signposted from the N137 and sits close enough to the centre for practical foot-passenger transfers.
Passenger portTerminal Ferry du Naye, St Malo, 35400 Saint-Malo, France
Main connectionsPortsmouth, Poole & Guernsey
OperatorsBrittany Ferries
VehiclesCars, motorcycles, campervans, caravans, bicycles and foot passengers on applicable sailings
Check-inBrittany Ferries advises at least 45 minutes before departure; allow longer where your booking or passenger circumstances require it
Plan your stay
Getting around St Malo
St Malo is easy to explore on foot, while rail and bus links support onward travel through Brittany and northern France.
Explore Intra-Muros on foot
The walled city, ramparts, harbour and nearby beaches are best explored without a car, although cobbled streets and steps can slow progress.
Continue by rail
St Malo station connects with Rennes and onward French rail services. Find St Malo rail tickets here...
Drive the Emerald Coast
A car is useful for Cancale, Dinard, Mont-Saint-Michel and smaller coastal villages; allow extra time returning to the ferry terminal during busy summer periods.
Stay in St Malo
Find St Malo Accommodation
Stay inside Intra-Muros or near the beach
Intra-Muros is ideal for atmosphere and restaurants, while accommodation near Plage du Sillon suits travellers who want easier parking, beach access and a quieter base.
Common planning questions
St Malo ferry & destination FAQs
Where is St Malo Ferry Terminal?
Brittany Ferries uses Terminal Ferry du Naye, only a few minutes from St Malo’s walled old town and clearly signposted from the main road approaches.
Where can I sail from St Malo in 2026?
The principal year-round route is St Malo–Portsmouth. Brittany Ferries also publishes seasonal 2026 services involving Poole and Guernsey.
Is St Malo Ferry Terminal close to the old town?
Yes. Terminal Ferry du Naye is close to Intra-Muros, making St Malo convenient for foot passengers and short city stays.
Can I take a car on ferries from St Malo?
Yes on applicable sailings. Vehicle types and capacity vary by vessel, so enter the correct dimensions when booking.
How early should I arrive at St Malo Ferry Terminal?
Brittany Ferries advises check-in at least 45 minutes before departure, with longer lead times for some passengers such as those travelling with pets.
What are the best things to do in St Malo?
Walk the ramparts, explore Intra-Muros, visit Plage du Sillon, cross to Grand Bé at low tide and enjoy Breton seafood and crêpes.
Can I reach St Malo by train?
Yes. St Malo has rail links through Rennes, and the station is about a 25-minute walk from the ferry terminal according to Brittany Ferries.
Should I book St Malo ferries in advance?
Yes, particularly for vehicles, cabins and summer travel. Seasonal Poole and Guernsey services also have limited operating periods.
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