As the capital of the Brittany, Rennes is an important center of the ancient Breton culture. While Breton, a Celtic language related to Welsh and Irish Gaelic, is no longer often heard in Brittany, the Bretons have kept many of their traditions alive, and Rennes is the gateway to understanding the region and its unique culture. With only 200,000 residents, a quarter of whom are students, Rennes is a small city, but its rich history and active social and cultural life, and proximity to Paris, make it a popular destination for travelers. Stroll through the old quarter, visit a street market, or eat crepes with local cider for a taste of traditional Breton life.
