Afternoon In Rennes: What to Do After Class?

The following blog was written by a student intern on a 2026 CIEE high school summer abroad program. Read on for a first-hand account of what it's like on program in France. 

Oh no, class is over! What should you do with the rest of your afternoon? Don't worry, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your free time in Rennes after your CIEE activities end. Here are a few of my favorite things to do.

1. Enjoy the Cafés in Sainte-Anne

Head downtown and explore the many cafés and restaurants around Sainte-Anne. This area is full of budget-friendly spots where you can try some of Brittany's most famous specialties, including delicious galettes and crêpes. Every café has its own unique atmosphere, so you'll never run out of cozy places to discover. And once you find your favorite, you can always keep coming back!

Going with friends makes the experience even more memorable. Grab a table on a terrace, people-watch, and practice the French you've been learning in class. After all, you're here for a French immersion experience, so order your coffee or pastry in French and enjoy life the Breton way.

2. Go Shopping with Your Friends

What better souvenir than something you bought in France? When you get home, you'll have a great story to tell every time someone asks where your outfit came from.

Shopping in Rennes can be surprisingly affordable, especially if you're here during the annual mid-summer sales. You might score some amazing deals! If you love vintage fashion, the city also has plenty of thrift stores where you can find unique pieces without spending too much. It's a fun way to refresh your wardrobe while shopping more sustainably.

Whether you're looking for something to buy or just want to window shop, Rennes has plenty of shopping streets and malls to explore with friends.

3. Dive into the Pool

Need to cool off after a warm summer day? Head to one of Rennes' public pools for a refreshing swim. It's the perfect way to relax after class, especially when the temperatures rise.

Public pools are a popular part of everyday life in France, so visiting one is also a fun way to experience local culture. You might even strike up a conversation with someone new while enjoying the afternoon.

4. Experience French Cinema

Going to the movies is one of my favorite things to do back home, so why not experience it in France? Watching a film in a French cinema is a fun way to immerse yourself in the language and culture. Even if you don't understand every word, you'll be surprised by how much you can pick up through context, gestures, and subtitles. It's a great opportunity to expand your French vocabulary, improve your listening skills, and become more comfortable hearing the language as it's spoken by native speakers. Plus, it's the perfect activity for a rainy afternoon or a relaxing evening with friends.

5. Have a Picnic with Your Host Family

Ask your host family if they'd like to have a picnic together. Rennes has many beautiful parks where you can spread out a blanket, enjoy a delicious meal, and spend quality time outdoors.

Sharing a picnic is a wonderful opportunity to get to know your host family better while learning more about French culture and everyday life. These simple moments often become some of the most memorable parts of studying abroad, so don't miss the chance to enjoy them together!

Interested in high school study abroad? Check out CIEE's high school study abroad options and submit an application today!