Start here
The Maison des Mégalithes is the essential starting point for making sense of Carnac, in Brittany (Morbihan). It stands at the entrance to the site, facing the Ménec alignment.
Run by the Centre des monuments nationaux, it has a permanent exhibition that answers the questions everyone asks in front of the stones: who raised them, how, with what means, and what archaeology does or does not know about their purpose. Entry is free.
See the stones from above
A panoramic terrace lets you take in the whole alignment at a glance, something you cannot do at ground level.
Guided visits
The centre organises the guided visits of the alignments. In high season they are the only way to walk inside the rows, as free access is restricted to protect the vegetation: trampling it loosens the stones.
Plan to begin here before exploring Ménec, Kermario and Kerlescan. The visit makes much more sense once the chronology is clear.
Activities through the season
Depending on the season, the Maison des Mégalithes offers:
- guided tours of the alignments, in French and in foreign languages depending on the season, with tickets sold at the Maison des Mégalithes;
- hands-on workshops open to adults and children;
- storytelling evenings;
- walking tours.
The site also has a reception and ticket desk, a projection room and a bookshop and gift shop. Suitable for all ages.
If Carnac whets your appetite for prehistory, see also the painted caves to visit in France.
Practical information was checked in October 2026: please confirm opening times and book on the official website before your visit.