Saint-Malo (or Saint-Malo) is the city I know best in Brittany. The reason for this is the ferry to and from Guernsey, which I used every time I wanted to visit Paris. In addition to being an important historical city, its location is ideal for those who want to do star tours in the Ille-et-Vilaine region and reach important attractions such as Mont Saint-Michel, Cancale and Dinan.
Here you will find a number of hotels and holiday apartments within the city walls of Saint-Malo (Intra Muros) and also in the suburbs of the city. If you have come to Saint-Malo for a day or two, I recommend staying within the city walls to save time. If you decide to do a star tour, I highly recommend staying outside the city walls, where prices are usually cheaper, rooms are more spacious and parking can be easily found (there is no point in doing star tours without a car).
To make it easier for you, I have split the list of recommended hotels in Saint-Malo into two parts: those within the walls of the old city and those outside the walls.
Recommended hotels within Saint-Malo (Intra Muros)
Before we move on to the recommended hotels within the walls of Saint-Malo, a little tip. Just like Hotels in Paris, the hotels inside the city walls suffer from a big problem: the rooms there are usually small, to very small (even in 4-star hotels). This painful problem stems from the fact that the historic city is very small and crowded. Therefore, my recommendation is to always try to book a room slightly larger than you need (for example, if you are traveling as a couple, try to book a room for three or four people).
Golden Tulip Saint Malo – Le Grand Bé
Hotel level: Four stars
A luxurious hotel located within the city walls and about a five-minute walk from the port. The hotel serves a breakfast made entirely of local produce and also has a gym so you can burn off those calories later.
The rooms are air-conditioned and each has a private bathroom with a hair dryer and magnifying mirror. There are also pampering services such as a water massage bed and sensory shower - for an additional fee.
Let me tell you a little secret, sometimes all you need on vacation is to feel like you’re being taken care of, and this hotel does just that. The atmosphere here is one of modern elegance that blends in wonderfully with the historic character of the old town. After a day of wandering the picturesque alleys, there’s nothing more enjoyable than returning to this hotel, enjoying the peace and comfort, and maybe even indulging in a spa treatment. In short, if you want a luxurious experience in the beating heart of Saint-Malo, this is the place for you.
House Shipowners
Hotel level: Four stars
I stayed at this hotel with my parents a few years ago. Its big advantage is its central location, right on the main street not far from one of the city gates. The breakfast there was also not bad at all, as was the service and the price.
My only comment about the place is the size of the rooms. As I wrote before, the rooms inside the city walls tend to be very small and this rule certainly applies to this hotel. Therefore, I highly recommend, in case you decide to book a room at this hotel, to try and get a room larger than the minimum required.
I remember the feeling of waking up in the morning, opening the window and knowing that I am right in the “center of the center”. There is something magical about being so close to all the restaurants, shops and the lively atmosphere of the main streets. This hotel is the epitome of urban comfort in a historic city. It is perfect for those of you who like to feel the pulse of the city and don’t want to waste a single second on unnecessary walks. Just walk out the door and be engulfed in the magic of Saint-Malo.
Hotel Ajoncs d'Or
Hotel level: Three stars
I stayed at this hotel with my parents and I am very happy to recommend it. The service was excellent and the rooms, despite being located within the city walls, were relatively spacious. The rooms are all soundproof (very important considering the central location of the hotel) and equipped with everything you need.
The breakfast at the hotel did not leave me with any positive or negative impression. If you don't have time you can definitely take it and if you do have a little time then there are a few boulangerie nearby that can do a great job.
What I love about hotels like Ajoncs d'Or is the warm, homely feel they give. It's not a big, alienated hotel, but a place with soul, one where the staff knows you by name and welcomes you with a smile. It's great value for money, especially considering its excellent location, which allows you to discover all the hidden corners of the city on foot. It's a perfect choice for those looking for comfort, personal service and an authentic atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Hotel De L'univers
Hotel level: Three stars
Ronit Musan's recommendation: A place in a great location, clean rooms and a really good price. The hotel is close to the sea and the main square of Saint-Malo. You can explore the historic city on foot, with the hotel being an excellent starting point.
Sometimes all you need is a simple, clean hotel in a great location, and Hotel De L'univers is just that. It reminds me of the classic inns of the past, where location and functionality are the main thing. It makes a great and economical base for all your adventures in Saint-Malo and the surrounding area. If you're the type of traveler who likes to spend most of the day out and about, and come back to a clean, comfortable room just to sleep, this is an option well worth considering.
Hotel des Abers
Hotel level: Three stars
This boutique hotel is located in a 16th century building right in the center of Saint-Malo, not far from the main gate and the city museum. Although it is an ancient building, the hotel is equipped with all possible modern comforts. And finally, another good reason to take this hotel: the great service you will receive here.
I am “biased” when it comes to hotels housed in historic buildings. They have a special charm, a feeling that you are sleeping inside a piece of history. This hotel is a perfect example of a successful combination of old and new. You get both the character and atmosphere of an ancient building and the comfort of a modern hotel. The personal and meticulous service only adds to the experience. Highly recommended for those looking for a place with a story and style.
Quic En Groigne
Hotel level: Three stars
The hotel is named after a fortified castle built by Duchess Anne de Brittany (Anne de Bretagne) near the walls of Saint-Alou. The name of the castle and hotel is based on a sentence said by the Duchess: Qui qu'en groigne ainsi sera car tel est mon plaisir which can be translated as: “They can be as angry as they want, it only does me good.”
With such a motto, expectations from the hotel should be low, but the hotel actually surprises. The service is excellent, the location is great, and although the rooms are quite small (like almost every hotel within the walls), they are comfortable and clean. In short, not a bad option at all for those who want to live in Saint-Malo at a reasonable price.
I love places with a story, and the story behind the name of this hotel is just as wonderful and full of character as the hotel itself. Don't let the quirky name fool you, this is a lovely hotel that offers a pleasant and authentic experience. It may not be the most luxurious, but it makes up for it with friendly service, impeccable cleanliness and a real sense of place. This is a hidden little gem that provides excellent value for money.
Hotel Le Nautilus
Hotel level: Two stars
This is a modest and very inexpensive hotel in the heart of historic Saint-Malo. The hotel is housed in a 17th-century building and has soundproof windows (very important considering its location). You will find friendly service and a very good breakfast (quite surprising for a two-star hotel).
In short: not a bad option at all for those who want to save money and still live within the city walls.
This is the kind of hotel that reminds me of my first trips to France, when I was looking for a clean, safe, and centrally located place without breaking the bank. Le Nautilus delivers just that: it’s simple, cozy, and its staff makes you feel welcome. It’s proof that you don’t have to pay a fortune to enjoy the charm of staying within the walls. If you’re traveling on a budget but don’t want to compromise on location and cleanliness, this is a great choice.
Hotel Le Croiseur
Hotel level: Two stars
Another cheap hotel that, despite its price, won’t make you feel like you’re “being swindled.” Like the previous hotel, it’s also located within the city walls, and it’s clean, tidy, and has everything a budget traveler needs to enjoy their trip. The hotel is a short distance from the Saint-Malo Casino, and there’s free Wi-Fi. It’s close to a variety of attractions, such as the ferry and the Palais du Grand Large. You can get a continental breakfast at the hotel, and there are restaurants nearby.
This hotel is the answer to everyone who asks me “Zvi, where can I sleep cheaply inside the walls?” It is functional and efficient, allowing you to save your money for the really important things on a trip – like crepes, oysters and white wine. Its location, close to the casino and the beach, adds to its advantages. This is a great option for young travelers or anyone who would rather invest in experiences than a luxurious room.
Hotels in the suburbs of Saint Malo
As Dr. Seuss said, “If you leave, you arrive in wonderful worlds.” Indeed, if you leave the city walls of Saint-Malo, you will discover, sometimes within a few minutes’ walk, hotels with larger rooms and much more reasonable prices.
Here are some great options.
Grand Hotel Des Thermes
Hotel level: Five stars
A super luxurious 5-star hotel that offers a massage and thalasso therapy experience to its guests, all alongside gourmet health cuisine and a private beach. The hotel is about a 20-minute walk from Saint-Malo, it is not cheap but is the ultimate indulgence.
Let me confess, I have a weakness for classic spa hotels, and this hotel is simply a dream. It is not just a hotel, it is a holistic experience of pampering and relaxation. Imagine yourself starting the day with an invigorating seawater treatment, continuing with a gourmet meal in front of an endless view of the ocean, and ending it with a walk along the private beach… This is the perfect place for a honeymoon, to celebrate a special occasion, or simply to give yourself the gift of peace and quiet. Expensive, but worth every euro.
Château Hotel Du Colombier
Hotel level: Four stars
Want to treat yourself to a real castle? Just a 5-minute drive from the beaches of Saint-Malo, you'll find a charming 18th-century chateau. This palace is set in the center of a five-hectare park that includes a small lake, rose bushes, and even a teahouse.
Although it is an old palace, it has all the modern comforts that can be found in any hotel of this standard (flat screen TV, Wi-Fi, etc.). The hotel is excellent for those interested in exploring Brittany by car because of its location and the parking it offers its guests.
There's something incredibly romantic about staying in a castle. French, a feeling of time travel. This place is nothing less than a piece of paradise. The vast park, the lake and the pastoral silence provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. This is a great opportunity to combine an urban trip to Saint-Malo with a peaceful rural holiday. I highly recommend taking your time, wandering the gardens, having afternoon tea and feeling like royalty for a day. Perfect for couples and anyone looking for a unique experience.
Mercure Saint Malo Balmoral
Hotel level: Four stars
This is one of my favorite hotels in Saint-Malo and I've stayed there several times. Its great advantage is its proximity to the train station (all you have to do is cross the road and you're there), which makes it perfect for people arriving in Saint-Malo in the evening from Paris (or for those who decided to travel from Saint-Malo to the City of Lights in the morning).
Beyond the excellent location, this is a luxurious hotel with relatively large rooms, friendly staff, and excellent prices for a hotel of this level. In short, I highly recommend it.
I admit, I'm a person of comfort and practicality, and this hotel hits the mark. Being able to get off the train after a long journey and be in my room within two minutes is a huge advantage for me. But it's not just the location. The hotel itself is modern, pleasant and provides simply excellent value for money. It's my regular choice when I need a reliable, comfortable and accessible place. If you're planning to arrive by train or take day trips by public transport, don't think twice.
Hotel Le Nouveau Monde
Hotel level: Four stars
Want to wake up in the morning and see the sea? Then this is definitely the hotel for you.
This is a luxurious hotel located a 5-minute drive from the historic center of Saint-Malo. The hotel has a pool, Turkish bath and gym, and is great for both stargazing and a summer vacation. And speaking of stargazing, the hotel has underground parking, which is very useful for keeping your car safe.
There's nothing like a view of the sea to soothe the soul, and this hotel understands that well. It offers a waterfront resort experience, with all the luxuries that go with it. The combination of a heated pool, hammam and gym makes it ideal even for less sunny days, which, as we know, are not lacking in Brittany. This is a perfect hotel for families and anyone who wants to enjoy a sea view and pampering facilities, without being too far from the old town.
Hotel and Aparthotel The Address
Hotel level: Four stars
Want to enjoy the best of both worlds? A spacious and well-equipped apartment as well as reception services and other amenities of a hotel? This is the perfect place for you.
This aparthotel is superbly located on the seafront and a short walk from the historic centre of Saint-Malo. Each apartment has a fully equipped kitchenette, and there is also a buffet breakfast for those who don't want to cook. The hotel has private parking, making it ideal for exploring the Brittany region.
I love the flexibility that apartment hotels offer. Being able to prepare a light breakfast or a simple dinner with fresh ingredients from the local market is a big plus, especially for families or long stays. This place gives you the independence of an apartment with the comfort and service of a hotel. The location on the beach is a huge bonus, and the proximity to the old town makes it an ideal base for exploring the area.
Oceania Saint-Malo
Hotel level: Four stars
A luxurious hotel with sea views, including a jacuzzi and a well-equipped gym. The rooms here are particularly comfortable and feature pleasant parquet floors, flat-screen TVs, and excellent showers with very strong currents (see warnings).
The hotel staff is also friendly and nice, and those who want to spend a pleasant evening at the hotel itself are welcome to enter the bar and enjoy a selection of cocktails. The hotel serves breakfast and all rooms are air-conditioned.
This hotel feels like a modern, chic take on a classic beach hotel. The contemporary design, stunning views and luxurious amenities create a winning package. I love the attention to detail, like the parquet floors that add warmth and the excellent shower that is a real treat after a day at the beach. This is a great place for those looking for style, comfort and a sea view, with a young and vibrant vibe.
Manor of the Barony
Hotel level: Four stars
Liron Klibanov's recommendation: An 18th-century mansion located a five-minute drive from Saint-Malo. Luxurious to the highest level and includes a pool and jacuzzi. One of the best places we've stayed. Highly recommended!
This is not just a recommendation, it is an exclamation of admiration! This place is the embodiment of the Breton dream. A beautiful historic mansion, manicured gardens, a pool and a jacuzzi… what more could you ask for? Staying here is an experience in itself, a chance to disconnect from everything and recharge with the energies of peace and beauty. If you want to feel the rural atmosphere of the area without going too far from the city, and are looking for a place with a high level of pampering and hospitality, this is the perfect choice.
The Ascott Mansion
Hotel level: Three stars
This is a 19th-century mansion that has been converted into a solid, comfortable, and nice family hotel. The hotel is located about 400 meters from the beach and about 2 km from the historic center of Saint-Malo.
The hotel has private parking and as such is great for stargazing in the area. Also, the breakfast includes local produce and the hotel staff is exceptionally nice.
There is something charming about family hotels like this, a sense of personal and caring hospitality. This hotel is a great example of how you can preserve the character of a historic building and turn it into a pleasant and inviting place. The private parking is a huge advantage for those arriving by car, and the short distance from the beach allows you to enjoy refreshing morning or evening walks along the water. This is a great option for those looking for peace, comfort and a homely atmosphere.
Manoir du Cunningham
Hotel level: Three stars
The hotel's gate may look a bit like a pagoda, but don't let that fool you. It's a 17th-century mansion that has been converted into a hotel and has spacious rooms (something you'll have a hard time finding in hotels in the city center).
The hotel itself is very close to the seafront and the town of Saint-Malo itself is not far away (10 minutes walk). Note that the breakfast here is good but very expensive, so you may want to find other alternatives.
I love this strange and charming combination of a classic Breton mansion with a gate that looks like it was taken from Asia. It only adds to the unique character of the place. The big advantage here is the space. The large rooms and the proximity to the sea give a feeling of freedom and airiness. The ten-minute walk to the old town is very pleasant and runs along the coast. This is an excellent option for those who want both proximity to the city and spacious rooms, and are willing to give up breakfast at the hotel in favor of croissant Fresh from the local boulangerie.
Manor of Ville Marie
Recommendation by Ofir Baron: Recommended B&B near Saint-Malo – We stayed here for three nights and it was very comfortable, spacious and cozy. We took the August Suite. The price is very reasonable, and includes an excellent breakfast.
There's nothing like a personal recommendation from a friend, which is exactly why I'm happy to share Ophir's experience. Staying in a Manoir (country estate) is a wonderful way to feel the true character of Brittany. These places offer a much more intimate and personal experience than a large hotel, and often include thoughtful homemade breakfasts. If you're looking for a place with a rustic atmosphere, space, and warm hospitality, this sounds like a perfect option.
Are all the hotels in Saint Malo that I recommended booked?
You can find more hotels In this link.