Plan a Gap Year Abroad in France

CIEE's Gap Year Abroad offers high school graduates an incredible opportunity to go abroad and immerse themselves in the French language, culture, and environment.

Rennes, the economic center of the region of Brittany, is also the center of Celtic culture and traditions in France. It has been a strategic crossroads since Roman times and served as its capital since it became part of France in 1532. In the 10th century, Rennes became a symbol of Breton resistance when it withstood Norman invaders. Today, it is a modern university town of 60,000 students and its lively young population gives it a distinctive zest and excitement. Situated at the confluence of the rivers Ille and Vilaine, Rennes is easily accessible by train from Paris in just two hours, and has the distinction of being the smallest city in the world with a subway system, built in 2002. Its dynamic reputation is well earned, being one of the foremost research centers for computer, video and communications technology in France. Its excellent quality of life has ranked among the top four in France in surveys published recently in national French magazines. Car manufacturing and the food industry are among the most important elements of its economy.

The city center of medieval Rennes was devastated by a fire in 1720, said to have been started by a drunken carpenter who accidentally set light to a pile of wood shavings. In spite of this, there remain some fine medieval houses and mansions, as well as a 17th century palace. The city was rebuilt in the 18th century to the plans of royal architect Jacques Gabriel, and laid out with rigidly straight streets, which give the city a somewhat austere feeling, uncharacteristic of the province. Narrow winding streets, timber-framed houses, colorful street markets and grand public squares make the old quarter of the city picturesque and attractive. Among the most interesting buildings are the Cathédrale St. Pierre, which retains its 17th century façade but has a magnificent 19th century neo-classic interior, and the historic Palais de Parlement, rebuilt and carefully restored after a major fire in 1994.

Several of the music and film festivals of Rennes are well known throughout France and attract big-name acts from all over the world. These range from those celebrating traditional Breton culture with music, mime and poetry, to rock, contemporary music and jazz festivals. Soccer brings thousands to the soccer stadium. Rennes is home to Stade Rennais FC, who play in the French Premier League. The city has two main universities, Université de Rennes 1 (Science) and 2 (Humanities). Students often take classes in the French Language and Culture Center of UR2.

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