Saint-Malo Intra-Muros

Saint-Malo Intra-Muros is a fortified medieval town on the Breton coast, surrounded by stone ramparts from the 12th century that protect the entire old town. Inside you find narrow granite streets, small squares, and tightly packed buildings that reflect life in a historic port settlement.

The city walls originated in the 12th century but underwent major reconstruction after severe damage during wartime battles in 1944. The rebuilding preserved the medieval layout while modernizing the interior, creating a blend of ancient structure and post-war restoration.

Saint-Vincent Cathedral shapes the town center with its blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, while narrow streets host local shops and restaurants. As you walk through the lanes, you notice how residents and visitors naturally gather in the squares and spend time in small cafes.

The town has multiple entrance gates, with the Saint-Vincent gate offering the most direct access to the center where restaurants and shops cluster. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since all streets are cobblestone and paths wind through narrow alleys.

The Saint-Malo bay experiences a water level change of up to 13 meters (42 feet) during high tidal ranges, the strongest tidal shift in Europe. This natural phenomenon makes visiting at different times of day feel like seeing completely different shores.