Port Guide | France | Dive Deep
Lorient
Michael States | Editor
Published on 2025-05-03
Welcome to Lorient, France's salty, soulful enigma tucked away in Brittany, where the air smells of saltwater adventure, and people still stubbornly insist they're Breton first, French second. Sure, at first glance this gritty port city might seem like your standard harbor town, but scratch beneath Lorient's concrete-and-steel surface and you'll uncover quirky stories of its pirate-era origins, WWII submarine bases turned artsy event venues, and the Celtic heart that beats fiercely beneath. You're docked here for a few days-ample time to trade sea legs for bike wheels, lose yourself among the bagpipes and fiddles of the annual Interceltic Festival (a lively celebration proving Celts do have more fun), and happily succumb to a diet consisting entirely of freshly shucked oysters, buttery Breton crepes, and chilled muscadet. An easygoing attitude, comfortable shoes, and a willingness to follow your curiosity are your best allies here-so raise a glass of cidre, ponder whether bagpipes are genuinely musical instruments or just noise-makers with attitude, and dive head-first into Lorient's offbeat charms.
France has 7 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Lorient is known for its maritime history and the annual Interceltic Festival, which attracts many visitors. Ensure to explore the local seafood delicacies and historical sites.
Where do cruise ships dock in Lorient?
Port Name Lorient
Country France
Region Brittany
Ship Terminal Port de Lorient
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The port is approximately 1.5 km from the city center, easily accessible by foot, bike, or taxi.
What's the weather like in Lorient?
Best Season to Visit Summer (June to August)
Climate Oceanic climate with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year.
Weather Notes Expect mild weather but be prepared for occasional rainfall. Summer is generally comfortable for outdoor activities.
Temperature Range 60F - 75F (15C - 24C)
High Temp 75F
Low Temp 45F
Average Temp 60F
What do I need to know about Lorient?
Language French
Currency Euro (€)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 57,000
Timezone CET (UTC+1)
How do I get around Lorient?
Buses, taxis, bicycle rentals, and local transport services are available.
What are The Best Things to do in Lorient?
Discover what you should do while you're in Lorient.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Festival Interceltique de Lorient
Centre-ville, Lorient
Experience the largest gathering of Celtic cultures with music, dancing, and Breton traditions.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Breton Crepe Workshop
N/A
Learn how to make traditional Breton crepes from local artisans.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Kouign-Amann Pastry Tasting
Centre-ville, Lorient
Indulge in Brittany's buttery, decadent pastry specialty, the Kouign-Amann.
Distance from Terminal: 1.3 miles
Langoustine Fishing Experience
Lorient Harbor
Join local fishermen for a morning catching prized Brittany langoustines.
Distance from Terminal: 0.6 miles
Plouharnel Oyster Farms Visit
Plouharnel, Brittany
Discover the region's famous oysters directly from farms with guided tastings.
Distance from Terminal: 17.5 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Cite de la Voile Éric Tabarly
Rue Roland Morillot, 56100 Lorient
Unique sailing museum dedicated to famous sailor Éric Tabarly, offering interactive maritime exhibits.
Distance from Terminal: 2.1 miles
WWII Keroman Submarine Base Tour
Boulevard Jacques Cartier, Lorient
Visit the German submarine base, a fascinating historical remnant from World War II.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Menhirs Standing Stones of Carnac
Carnac, Brittany
Explore these iconic Neolithic standing stones, shrouded in captivating mystery.
Distance from Terminal: 20 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Île de Groix Bicycle Adventure
Île de Groix, Lorient
Rent a bicycle and explore charming coastal paths, secluded beaches, and quaint villages.
Distance from Terminal: 8 miles
Surfing on Guidel Beach
Guidel Plages, Guidel
Catch waves at this popular regional surfing hotspot suited for all skill levels.
Distance from Terminal: 9 miles
Tyrolienne de Gavres
Presqu'ile de Gavres
Thrill-seekers can experience Brittany's coast via an exhilarating seaside zipline.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Pont-Scorff Zoo
Rue du Zoo, Pont-Scorff
Visit a conservation zoo highlighting species from Brittany and around the world.
Distance from Terminal: 7.2 miles
Overnight Trips
Île aux Moines Day Trip
Île aux Moines, Golfe du Morbihan
Spend a heavenly day exploring the charming island's trails and scenic beauty.
Distance from Terminal: 37 miles
Morbihan Gulf Sailing Trip
Port du Crouesty, Arzon
Experience dramatic coastline and small islets on a chartered sailing excursion.
Distance from Terminal: 40 miles
Belle Île Overnight Getaway
Belle Île en Mer, Morbihan
Spend the night exploring beautiful coastal scenery and lovely towns on Brittany's largest island.
Distance from Terminal: 28 miles
A Little Extra
Breizh Escape Experience
N/A
A Brittany-themed escape room where puzzles incorporate local legends and myths.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
La Taverne du Roi Morvan
Centre-ville, Lorient
Dive into local legends and sip Brittany craft beers at this folklore-inspired tavern.
Distance from Terminal: 1.4 miles
France Regional Tip
Jaywalking, especially in busy cities like Paris. Although often overlooked, police occasionally enforce fines, catching unsuspecting tourists off guard.