Brest Bretagne Airport Layover? Guide & Tips

Top 5 Layover Ideas for Brest Bretagne Airport

Long layovers can often be a hassle, but not when you're at Brest Bretagne Airport (BES). This airport, located in the beautiful region of Brittany, France, offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained during your wait. Here are our top 5 picks:

1. Explore the Airport Amenities

Brest Bretagne Airport is equipped with a range of services and amenities designed to make your layover as comfortable as possible. You can indulge in some retail therapy at the duty-free shops, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, or relax in the lounge area. The airport also offers free Wi-Fi, so you can catch up on work or stay connected with friends and family.

2. Visit the National Maritime Museum

If you have a few hours to spare, consider visiting the National Maritime Museum, located just a short drive from the airport. This museum offers a fascinating insight into the maritime history of Brest and features a variety of exhibits, including historic ships and nautical artifacts.

3. Take a Stroll in the Botanic Gardens

For nature lovers, the Brest Botanic Gardens are a must-visit. These gardens are home to over 2,000 species of plants and offer a serene environment to unwind and relax amidst nature. The gardens are located just a short taxi ride away from the airport, making them a convenient option for a layover.

4. Discover the Brest Castle

History buffs should not miss the opportunity to visit the Brest Castle, which dates back to the Roman times. The castle now houses a museum that showcases the history of Brest and Brittany. With stunning views of the city and the harbor, this is a perfect way to spend a few hours during your layover.

5. Enjoy Local Cuisine

Finally, no visit to Brest would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. There are several restaurants near the airport where you can try traditional Breton dishes like crêpes, seafood, and cider. This is a great way to get a taste of Brittany even if you're just passing through.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through BES Airport:

Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of BES's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Brest Bretagne airport's internet (free!)
For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near BES to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you find yourself with an extended layover of 12 to 48 hours at Brest Bretagne Airport, consider venturing out a bit further to explore some of the nearby attractions. Brittany is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, and there's plenty to see within a reasonable distance from the airport. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Discover Quimper

Located just over an hour's drive from the airport, Quimper is a charming city known for its medieval architecture, beautiful gardens, and the famous Faience pottery. You can explore the quaint old town, visit the Saint-Corentin Cathedral, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Odet River.

2. Visit the Pointe de Pen-Hir

If you're a nature lover, the Pointe de Pen-Hir is a must-visit. This stunning cliff offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and is part of the Armorican Natural Park. It's about a two-hour drive from the airport, but the scenery along the way is well worth the trip.

3. Explore the Parish Closes

The Parish Closes are a unique feature of Brittany's cultural heritage. These are enclosed churchyards that feature ornate gateways, calvaries, and ossuaries. The most famous of these is probably the Saint-Thégonnec close, which is just under an hour's drive from Brest Bretagne Airport.

4. Visit the Oceanopolis Aquarium

Located in Brest itself, the Oceanopolis Aquarium is one of the city's top attractions. It's home to over 1,000 different species of marine life and features three different pavilions dedicated to polar, tropical, and temperate ecosystems. This is a great option if you have kids in tow, or if you're simply a marine life enthusiast.

5. Explore the Islands of the Iroise Sea

If you have a bit more time, consider taking a boat tour to the islands of the Iroise Sea. These islands are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including seals and a variety of bird species. The boat tours typically leave from the port of Le Conquet, which is about a 30-minute drive from the airport.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

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Layover Ideas Brest Bretagne Airport BES