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French atlantic ocean beach
French atlantic ocean beach

Oceanic Aquarium. Medieval Castle.

Brest is as big and bold as its history. This naval port has many military landmarks for you to explore. View the heavily fortified Chateau de Brest and the rotund 14th century Tour Tanguy tower. The tower contains a museum with dioramas depicting the town on the eve of World War II. But Brest is so much more than a military town. It is the gateway to enchanting medieval villages and abbeys, the mythical Abers Coast and elegant chateaux. And if you’re looking for keepsakes, Brest has handcrafted ceramic pieces and fashions with a nautical flair. Instead of recapping your day over seafood, opt for Breton crêpes made with buckwheat – they are a specialty here.

Exciting Shore Excursions

Immerse yourself in authentic experiences with our Shore Excursions, expertly guided by locals.

Snapshots of Brest

A visual preview of the amazing sites that await you.

Street of old medieval breton city Dinan, Brittany, France Old medieval town
city of quimper in brittany Cathedral of Saint Corentin of Quimper
Port in Brittany, France. Beautiful French port
Lighthouse "Phare du Petit Minou" at the roadstead of Brest, Finistere, Brittany, France Lighthouse Phare du Petit Minou
Plate of freshly shucked oysters in Brittany, France Freshly shucked oysters

Travel Tips & Interesting Info

Uncover Hidden Gems & Fun Facts

View at the Castle of Brest with War Memorial in the streets of Brest - France

Famous For

Known as a military town, Brest also offers plenty of medieval history to take in. Visit the Abers Coast to relive moments from the 5th century.

Delicious scallops with sauce in frying pan and ingredients on dark gray textured table, flat lay

Exquisite Flavors

Be sure to try the creamy local sea scallops and sample in kouign-amann, a buttery, layered pastry unique to this region.

Thin pancakes on a wood plate. Homemade crepes, tasty food. Staple of yeast pancakes, traditional for Russian pancake week (Shrove tide). Thin pancake with crispy crust

Fun Facts

Order like a local and ask for "La Complete," a regional favorite combo of ham, egg and cheese in a buckwheat crepe.


Port Name & Location

Port of Brest, France
Ship will DOCK at this port.

Language

The local language is French. Say hello in French: "Bonjour"

Time Zone

CET (Central Europe Time)
UTC/GMT +1 hour

Currency & Shopping

Euro (EUR)
Shop for handcrafted ceramics and fashion with a nautical flair.

Featured Brest Itineraries

Learn More about Brest

Read more on our official travel blog.

Tips on What to Pack for Your Cruise

Tips on What to Pack for Your Cruise

Packing for a cruise aboard Norwegian Cruise Line should feel easy because the days ahead will be. Think clothes that don’t rush you, shoes that don’t argue with you, and shorts that work well at noon and at sunset. Out here, it’s less about outfits and more about options. Things you can move in. Breathe in. Accidentally nap in. So before you overthink it (you know you will), here’s the simple truth: if it lets the day take you where it wants to go, pack it. If it doesn’t, leave it home (along with your agenda).

Beautiful bay with colorful houses in Portofino,  Liguria, Italy

Which Europe Cruise is Right for You?

Ready to set sail for the old world? Discover which Europe cruise is right for you with these top itineraries.

Observation Lounge couple strolling-Alaska.

Cruise Tips: What to Expect on Embarkation Day

If you're reading this article, then most likely your cruise vacation date with Norwegian is quickly sailing your way! Embarkation day is very exciting and involves a lot of moving parts as guests check in and board, luggage is delivered to staterooms, and you get settled in and explore the ship. One of the many great things about sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line is that they have worked hard to ensure that the embarkation process goes as smoothly as possible.

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