Around halfway down this hill, by the Porte de Jerzual (the ancient city gate), is a staircase to the remaining ramparts. It's open to the public and great for a view over the street and town. Most of the 2.7km of ramparts are now privately owned. The city council sold them off many years ago and locals built houses on and against the old city walls and walkways.
The old chateau of Dinan is now an interesting museum about the history of the town.
Every other July (even number years) the Fete des Ramparts takes place in Dinan and for three days the town goes medieval mad. Parties, shows, music, festivals and - if you dress up in medieval costume you’ll get free entry to the shows. Visit when this event is on and you might just feel like you stepped into a time machine and got off in the 16th century!
Get your bearings from on high. Climb to the top of the 40m high Tour de l’Horloge to enjoy spectacular views over Dinan and the surrounding area. It’s said that on a clear day you can see as far as Mont-Saint Michel.
Head to the square of Place des Merciers to see some of the most beautiful houses and shops and take a break in rue de la Cordonnerie. The locals call this street “thirsty street” (rue de la soif) as there are so many bars!
On Thursday mornings, Dinan’s weekly market is held on the place du Guesclin There’s been a market here since the 1300s and today it’s a vibrant, colourful event where the wonderful smells of spices, fresh fruit and street food vie for attention alongside stalls selling blooming flowers, pongy cheese and local products.