tour of nantes

A first-timer's guide to the quirky French city of Nantes

Jul 16, 2023 • 7 min read

Begin your Nantes tour at the ornamental fountain in the beautiful Place Royal © RossHelen / Shutterstock

When was the last time you rode a three-storey mechanical elephant? Or treated yourself to a deliberately burnt pastry? Nantes, where American ragtime jazz first landed on European shores, is not your usual city. 

Birthplace of Jules Verne, Nantes transformed itself from France’s major slavery port , to a youthful, energetic, art-loving city where tradition, a forward-thinking government, and whimsy, blend together in a multicultural, yet very French, enclave. Poised on the Loire, 30 miles from the Atlantic, the map says it’s in the Loire-Atlantique, but its heart is Breton and the street signs are Breton and French.

Is Nantes good for a city break?

Nantes is an ideal city break: with lots to do but never overwhelming. It is rich in glorious spots to simply watch the world go by, plus it has a powerful history and culinary surprises. Not lacking in grandeur – but with an inbuilt sense of humor and unbridled passion for art. It’s kid friendly and LGBTQIA+ friendly. And while only just over two hours by train from Paris, Nantes remains largely under the tourist radar.

When is a good time to visit?

Nantes enchants year-round, but the best time to visit is May to June when blossoms perfume the warming air and it seems like the Nantais find every excuse for celebration. Easy-going Nantes is a comfortable-shoes town. October to March can be cold so bring layers and a raincoat.

How to save money in Nantes

Many of the best things in Nantes are free. Known as the city of 100 parks, you never have to walk far to a peaceful perch. Fancy picnic lunch in the courtyard of the fairytale Château des ducs de Bretagne ? No charge. 

Most museums are free the first Sunday of every month. On weekends, city trams and buses are free too. Across from the Chateau’s moat bridge, pop into Le Voyage à Nantes for excellent free guidebooks, up-to-the moment tips and a good paper map. 

A 22km green line painted on the sidewalk leads you on an eclectic tour of wacky, inspiring, evocative art, history, and culture, with approximately 100 artworks by different artists.

The Pass Nantes (from €27 for a solo traveler for 24 hrs to €225 for a 7-day family pass) makes life easy with a bounty of worthwhile discounts and free admission to more than 50 museums and activities. 

Local tip: Opening and closing times for many activities vary throughout the year and on holidays. Check before you go.

Where to eat in Nantes

For food, go early to the Talensac covered market. Gather all the farm-fresh, fantastic food you crave for meals and indulgent snacks. Prices are modest unless you go wild. Try regional Breton specialties like crêpes or galettes  and fresh-caught seafood. Also seek out tiny restaurants just off Place du Bouffay for authentic international cuisines. The downloadable Les Tables de Nantes offers a comprehensive and well-assembled guide to Nantes dining at moderate to deluxe prices. Coffee fanatics head to Café Penche .

Where to stay in Nantes

It’s best to try to stay in the historic centre-ville if you can. Hotel prices fluctuate considerably so book ahead. Voyage à Nantes lists intriguing options from family-friendly to artist-designed suites at a range of prices, or maybe you’d like to stay in a four-star hotel in a converted church for €190 to €400.

Getting to – and around – Nantes

It’s a quick hop from the international Nantes Atlantique Airport into the historic centre. Every 20 minutes there’s a direct Navette Aéroport bus to Nantes Gare Sud for €9 (note: it only takes cards, not cash). It's also included in the Pass Nantes.

Within France, SNCF runs roughly 18 trains a day between Paris and Nantes. Book ahead for best value. The journey takes around two hours, but check both departure time and duration.

Nantes is an environmentally-conscious walkers’ city with respectful attention to accessibility needs so a car is unnecessary. The Nantes Pass includes trams and buses. Individual tickets are €2.50 for one hour. Rental bikes are also available.

How much money do I need for Nantes

• Good bottle of the local wine, Muscadet: €9
• Coffee: €2.5-5. Take-away sandwich: €5-10
• Pastry: under €5
• Self-catering apartment: average €75
• Four-star hotel: €120 to €270
• Two- to three-star hotels: €90 to €170
• Camping: from €37  

Top things to do in Nantes on 4 easy mini-itineraries

Steampunk menagerie.

Grab Tram line 1 to Chantiers Navals. Take in the view of this vibrantly reclaimed industrial area as you cross the Loire to a nature-lover’s steampunk paradise called Les Machines de l’Île . It’s family friendly, but you don’t need children to have your mind blown by the imaginative mechanical genius behind the astounding rideable sea creatures of the Carrousel des Mondes Marins. Ride the world’s first “eco-friendly mechanical pachyderm” as it wanders the grounds, spraying passers-by with its trunk. If Leonardo da Vinci were alive today, this is where he’d work. Stroll down Quai des Antilles to the Hangar à Bananes, a tropical fruit warehouse turned waterside hangout with unfussy dining, a joyous playspace, an unusual bookstore and HAB art gallery.

Talensac Market and a Japanese Versailles

Stop at Talensac Market early, nab some piquant pink and white radishes, and try the cheeses! Do not neglect your pastry cravings: local delights include Gateau Nantais and Far Breton. And airy burnt-top Tourteau Fromagé (a traditional wedding treat in Poitou-Charentes) is heavenly at Le Banc Bleu. In season, Damien Rio offers more strawberry varieties than you ever knew existed plus prize-winning jam. On weekends, cheap, chic fashions cost 20% less than the same thing in Paris. Head along the nearby Erdre River to Île de Versailles and wander the paths of a serene Japanese garden. You can also rent a little boat to noodle around on the water.

Jardin des Plantes: Nantes Botanic Gardens and beyond

Where else can you stumble out of a train station into one of the most distinguished botanical gardens in France? With waterfalls, ponds, rolling lawns, 10,000 international plant species, a playground and an outdoor cafe, the Jardin des Plantes (created in 1807) is a refuge from stress.

On nearby Rue Clemenceau, the elegant Musée d’Arts de Nantes will surprise you with brilliant artists you haven’t heard of as well as household names. Affordable Café du Musee is “orchestrated” by a Michelin-starred chef. 

Pass archaeological remnants of the 3rd to 15th century Nantes at Porte Saint-Pierre to the Cathedrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul. Begun in 1434, it was ravaged by fire in 2020 and is temporarily closed but still majestic. Walk down cobbled Rue Mathelin Rodier toward the Chateau. Vegetarians adore Terra Vega  (moving to a new location shortly). Next door, everyone loves to gape at the swords in the window of Comptoir du Chateau .

Cross the drawbridge over the moat to the 15th century Château des ducs de Bretagne , once home to the beloved Duchess Anne. It now houses the abundant collections of the Nantes history museum . The museum is unflinching about Nantes’ role in the slave trade, lighthearted about local LU biscuits, and compelling as it reveals Nantes’ multi-faceted WWII experience. The panoramic rampart views, courtyard, and grassy moat area are all free.

From mid-May, pamper your tastebuds with local fresh strawberry sorbet at La Fraiseraie across from Galeries Lafayette on Rue de la Marne. Cafe culture is at its lazy best at Place du Bouffay. Notice Philippe Ramette’s relatable statue of the guy in the suit balancing halfway over the edge of his plinth. 

Heading back toward the Gare, detour at the arty hot-spot Le lieu Unique , an architectural confection that looks like a pastel chess piece.

Glamourous Graslin

Between Place Royale and Graslin, spot L’Univers Café Speakeasy where, in February 1918, the 369th Infantry’s Harlem Hellfighters Band wowed the Nantais with the first jazz concert in Europe.

Grandiose 19th century Passage Pommeraye is a deliriously-ornamented shrine to shopping that’s worth ogling even if you hate to shop.

The Opera House is glorious, with welcoming steps to sit on in true Nantes style. Across the plaza, lusciously-tiled art-nouveau brasserie La Cigale was a hangout for surrealists and cinema types. Around back, stroll between mansions along the mid-19th century Cours Cambronne.

On Rue Voltaire, find the Museum of Natural History , which is old-fashioned in the best sense with a quirky, welcoming park out front.  

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Private 3-hour Walking Tour of Nantes with official tour guide

• Official tour guide for 3 hours in Nantes
• Meeting point in your hotel centrally located or central meeting point
• Local Taxes
• Private Tour
• Food and Drinks
• Entrances Fees
• Entry/Admission - Chateau des ducs de Bretagne
• Entry/Admission - Theatre Graslin
• Pick up in the main entrance of Nante's Cathedral or hotel centrally located (walking distance).
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Chateau des ducs de Bretagne
• Passage Pommeraye
• Theatre Graslin

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Statue Anne de Bretagne Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 2 Chateau des ducs de Bretagne Stop: 20 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 3 Passage Pommeraye Stop: 20 minutes See details
• 4 Theatre Graslin Stop: 15 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• bobbybK7200NU 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Customer focused The champagne trip from Paris was fantastic . Our driver was super kind and accommodating. The van was super comfortable and plush. The tours of VC and Moët were truly amazing . Thank you so much for everything! Read more Written March 26, 2024
• N5366MQclareg 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Very interesting tour Many thanks. We enjoyed a wonderful tour today with Brigitte. We will definitely be returning and recommending your company. Read more Written February 17, 2024
• napolicat 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles This hotel is the best! This hotel is clearly the best stay for visiting Mont St Michel. Incredible room with a separate living area. Lovely bath with high end finishes. The best part, though, is the incredible restaurant! Wonderful menu, wine list and service. Couldnt have a better experience! Read more Written October 18, 2023
• alepravia 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing 1st time in Paris It was my 1st time in Paris, and it couldn't have been better. The driver arrived 10 minutes early to start the tour. He showed us hidden places around all the different monuments. The guide also provided us with super interesting facts about each place. And the best part was that they always had huge smiles; both of them were very friendly. It is worth every cent! Read more Written October 3, 2023
• 702lamiah 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great day!!! Guide and driver were great! Picked up on time, clean and such a nice driver. The guide showed us the most important sites of the city. We can’t wait to come back again! 4 hours were short. Thank you once again Tour Travel &More Read more Written October 3, 2023
• glentro 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A fabulous 3 hours Our enthusiastic, informed guide Cecile was absolutely wonderful. She gave us a wonderful overview to Toulouse. Excellent English and we enjoyed all the little known antidotes of BBC the people and places. A well paced tour and we weren’t rushed as Cecile was always considerate to our needs. Highly recommended. Read more Written August 24, 2023
• daveR4349IK 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Private Paris Excursion from Le Havre - much better than booking through Cruise Ship Our family of 5 (Grandma, Parents, 2 kids -12 &15) booked a private excursion to Paris when our cruise ship stopped for the day in Le Havre in Aug 2023. Our driver (Kemel) was waiting for us when we got off the ship. His van was comfortable, clean and had snacks and bottled water. Kemel was polite, knowledgeable and friendly and drove us to Paris. We met our English-speaking guide (Isabelle) at the Arc de Triomphe. She was also extremely knowledgeable, flexible, and friendly. She discussed with us what sites we wanted to visit and learn about and structured the day to meet our choices. We had a wonderful day visiting Paris and were so happy we booked with Kemel and Isabelle. For barely more than the cost of the ship’s excursion, where we would have been put on a bus with 50 other people and been on their agenda, we were ablet to totally customize and get a personalized and private tour. I highly recommend this experience. Read more Written August 14, 2023
• Andre D 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Why would they book a tour for a closed museum? Terrible experience and heartbreaking results. I contacted Tour Travel & More three months in advance of our trip to Europe. I had three tours that I wanted to book and shared dates and itinerary. They booked the tours and received payment at time of booking. I called two days before arriving in Paris to confirm the three tours and was told there was a problem, that the Louvre was closed on Tuesdays and we would not be able to tour the museum as planned on our Itinerary. WHY WOULD YOU BOOK A TOUR ON A DAY THE MUSEUM IS CLOSED???? The reason we used the service is because this is allegedly their area of expertise. HOW DO YOU MAKE THIS KIND OF A MISTAKE? We had firm travel plans and could not rearrange our days due to hotel, trains etc. What a complete and utter failure on the part of Tour Travel & More. Also, Maya never called us back as promised. It has been three weeks and not a peep from her as she said. I don't know when or if we will be in France again and if we will ever be able to tour the Louvre. Sadly our family was robbed of this experience due to the incompetence of Tour Travel and More. DO NOT USE THIS AGENCY. Read more Written July 18, 2023
• Valerie C 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Very friendly and informative tour! Loved it!! Claire, our tour guide, was fantastic! She was very informative and friendly. It was the best way to start our visit to Annecy. Read more Written July 14, 2023
• nancyk872 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Three Days in Toulouse in June 2023 Highly recommend the city of Toulouse to anyone craving a true French experience , but without the"big city" woes of Paris! Toulouse is full of gorgeous churches to explore, a fantastic museum called Guy Depuy, a fascinating and beautifully curated space of his various collections like amazing antique time pieces, pottery , film nostalgia, holy art ..it was a wonder to explore! Also you'll find outstanding restaurants, lovely strolling along the Garonne riverfront, plenty of shopping streets ( but not the frantic crowds of Paris), plenty of accommodation choices too. We drove into town, dropped bags at our hotel then returned car to the airport and took public transport back into the city center which was easy and cheap. Hoteliers speak English of course, but you'll get to practice your French with waiters and others who were always friendly and eager to communicate as best they ( and we) could! Oh if you like Food Halls they have one there that is lots of fun to browse. Everything is easy walkable distances , think 2-mile radius . Train schedules were not very convenient for us so we flew from T'town to Paris on Air France which was a lovely 50 minute experience. Read more Written July 1, 2023
• Happiness220589 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unforgettable!! Great Tour - unforgettable! Evelyne, the guide at Mont Saint Michel, is AMAZING (knowledge, energy, charisma)!! Thank you! Read more Written June 19, 2023
• 482cherylp 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Personalized, knowledgeable and excellent service We had an amazing custom tour arranged for us of the Normandy beaches and memorials. The focus was on Juno and the Canadian history however our guide ( Adrian) was able the quickly adjust and accommodate a request to cover Omaha beach in our time frame. The guide Adrian was extremely knowledgeable and provided many insights on the strategies of both sides ( allies and Germans). Our driver Alain, was an excellent drive, he was on time and was quick to respond to me on the day of our arrival to arrange a meeting place. Maya was also very helpful and answered my many questions before the tour. I would highly recommend Tour Travel and More especially for personalized tours! Thank you agin for making our experience so memorable! Read more Written June 15, 2023
• Toby1960 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Our driver was on time and got us to Paris on time. Our 4 hour visit to Paris was fantastic and we were all very pleased with this tour. We would do it again! Read more Written June 7, 2023
• Visitallthespots 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Monet bucket list, check! We had a wonderful trip to Monet's house in Giverny. Although it rained on us, the gardens were beautiful and so worth the trip! Both our tour guide and driver were great. Our guide was knowledgeable and helpful. If you are a Monet fan, check this off your bucket list! Read more Written May 25, 2023
• Dana H 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Private tour to Monet’s gardens It was so nice to be picked up at our hotel and be whisked off to Giverny with our guide. It did take longer as planned to arrive only because of heavy traffic but the trip home was quick. Kris, our tour guide told us many things about Monet and his life on the way there as well as tidbits about the countryside we were traveling through. She was very pleasant and knowledgeable. We had tickets that skipped the normal line for entrance and that was nice because the lines to get in looked to be hours long. The driver was professional and his car was very clean. It was a very special day for us and I’m glad we used this group. Kris was very helpful in dining suggestions as well! Read more Written May 24, 2023

More to explore in Nantes

Private 3-hour Walking Tour of Nantes with official tour guide provided by Tour Travel & More

Nantes: Jewel of the Loire Valley

History, Good Eating, Scenic Rivers Define City

Nantes, France, like countless other cities, has long been known as the Venice of the West for its prominent water features. The River Loire courses through the center of the city, and the River Erdre, a tributary to the Loire, also runs through Nantes; it is reputed to be one of the most beautiful rivers in France and is the scene of romantic dinner cruises. Nantes, the capital of the Pays de la Loire region of northwestern France, was named by Time magazine as the most livable city in Europe in 2004. Nantes was the capital of Brittany until boundaries were redrawn during World War II, but it still retains much of its Brittany identity.

Nantes is the sixth largest city in France and is considered one of the most desirable places to live in the country. It especially holds appeal for young professionals who enjoy the arts and culture. For the traveler, this means the nightlife in Nantes is quite lively.

Getting There

Nantes is easy to get to on the train or plane. It is served by many train lines, including the high-speed TGV line from  Paris Montparnasse  train station; this trip takes about two hours. The  Nantes Atlantique Airport  also serves the area, and you can fly there from Paris, London, and many other cities in France and the U.K. A shuttle connects the airport with the city center and Sud railway station; the trip takes about half an hour. Cabs and buses also will take you from the airport to the city center. You'll find several hotels near the train station, with botanical gardens as a pleasing backdrop.

Eating and Drinking

Nantes is full of interesting restaurants, bars, bistros, and cafes, as you would expect in a city its size. The region's vineyards produce wines such as Muscadet and Gros Plant, both excellent with fish and seafood. Try oysters with the local Muscadet. Fromage du cure nantais is a cow's milk cheese developed by a priest near Nantes and is also excellent with Muscadet.

Near the Passage Pommeraye and the Place Royale is the Maison des Vins de Loire , the Loire Valley Wine Center, located in the former "wine port" of Nantes, where you can buy the local wines of the Loire Valley . 

Fish and seafood, from the sea or from the Loire (pike, perch, and eels) is a local specialty, often swimming in beure blanc, a regional treatment for fish. Also try a gateau nantais , a cake that's a mixture of sugar, almonds, butter, and Antilles rum.

Getting Around

The historic center of Nantes is easily walk-able or if your hotel is close to the train station, you can just hop a tram; a ride is extremely affordable.

Nantes has an oceanic climate, which means it rains throughout the year but has mild summer temperatures, so if you're looking for a summertime vacation spot you probably won't swelter in, Nantes might just be the place. For details on the weather, take a look at website Nantes Weather and Climate.

What to See

On top of the must-do list is lunch at La Cocotte in Verre on the Ile de Versailles, followed by a relaxing boat trip down the River Erdre, with its gorgeous scenery and famous mansions on both sides.

Other things to see include the below:

• City Center: Nantes is a very old city, and in the city center you'll see examples of the architecture of its medieval past, along with more recent 19th-century architecture. This area is bursting with brasseries, bistros, and cafes and a great place just to stroll around and get a feel for the city.
• St. Pierre and St. Paul Cathedral: Begun in 1434, the Gothic cathedral wasn't finished until the end of the 19th century. After a 1972 fire, the interior was restored. Inside the cathedral's 11th-century crypt is a museum of religions.
• Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne (Castle of the Dukes of Brittany): Nantes' castle has recently undergone restoration and is the second oldest building in Nantes after the cathedral and one of the famous castles of the Loire Valley. The inner courtyard is built in the Renaissance style with blistering white tufa, and the Nantes History Museum is inside. Nearby is the Place du Commerce, a largely pedestrian area that offers a good array of restaurants. 
• Passage Pommeraye : A passage between two streets with different elevations, the rue Santeuil and rue de la Fosse, begun in 1840, now is home to interesting shops and cafes.
• Jules Verne Museum and House: If you like the writing of Nantes' own Jules Verne, don't miss this museum with multimedia exhibits.
• Jardin des Plantes de Nantes:  This botanical garden is a tranquil spot not far from the train station in the city center.
• Musee des Beaux-Arts:  The highly celebrated fine arts museum is built around an airy courtyard and features works ranging from Italian primitives to modern art from such giants as Kandinsky, Monet, and Picasso.
• La Tour LU: This picturesque tower was built in 1905 and restored in 1998 near the entrance of a former Lefevre-Utile (LU) biscuit factory. Go inside to see a panoramic view of Nantes.
• Ile de Versailles: This is an island in the Erdre with a Japanese garden you can easily reach by foot. You can also take boat rides down the Erdre to the Ile de Versailles and the garden.

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NantesTours.com

Exploring the allure of nantes: unveiling the treasures through guided tours.

Nestled in the western part of France, the city of Nantes holds a rich tapestry of history, culture, and art waiting to be discovered. This vibrant metropolis offers an array of guided tours that unravel the secrets of its past, showcase its architectural marvels, and introduce visitors to its unique charm. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a traveler seeking new experiences, Nantes has something captivating for everyone.

Best Nantes Tours

Dive into history: historical tours.

Step back in time as knowledgeable guides take you on a journey through Nantes’ captivating history. From the imposing Château des Ducs de Bretagne , once a fortress guarding the city, to the picturesque medieval quarter of Bouffay, every cobblestone street and ancient building whispers stories of days gone by. Immerse yourself in tales of royalty, trade, and revolution as you explore Nantes’ historic heart.

Art and Creativity: Artistic Tours

Nantes’ artistic soul is evident in its vibrant cultural scene, and artistic tours offer a glimpse into this creative realm. Wander through the famed Le Lieu Unique, a cultural center housed in a former biscuit factory, where contemporary art exhibitions and performances come to life. Discover the breathtaking Machines of the Isle of Nantes , where colossal mechanical creatures roam, blurring the lines between art and engineering.

Culinary Delights: Food Tours

No journey is complete without savoring the local flavors. Embark on a food tour to taste the gastronomic treasures of Nantes. Sip on the region’s renowned Muscadet wines, indulge in buttery galettes, and sample delectable seafood harvested from the nearby Atlantic coast. These tours not only treat your taste buds but also provide insight into the culinary traditions that have shaped Nantes’ identity.

Eco-Friendly Exploration: Segway Tours

For those seeking a unique and eco-friendly adventure, Segway tours are the perfect choice. Glide through Nantes’ charming streets and squares, effortlessly exploring its attractions. From the enchanting Île de Nantes, a hub of innovation and creativity, to the lush Jardin des Plantes, a botanical oasis, Segway tours offer a modern twist on sightseeing.

Nautical Escapes: River Cruises

Nantes’ connection to waterways invites travelers to experience the city from a different perspective. Embark on a tranquil river cruise along the Loire River or the Erdre River, passing under elegant bridges and alongside picturesque landscapes. As the sun sets and the city lights up, the gentle lapping of water against the boat’s hull provides a serene backdrop for your journey.

Architectural Marvels: Modern and Historic Buildings

Nantes boasts a blend of contemporary and historic architecture that captivates the eye. Guided tours reveal the juxtaposition of the towering Nantes Cathedral with the innovative Cité des Congrès, a modern conference center. Explore the innovative Machines of the Isle , a testament to Nantes’ industrial heritage and creative spirit, where imagination knows no bounds.

Intriguing, diverse, and endlessly enchanting, Nantes beckons explorers to uncover its treasures through guided tours that cater to every interest. Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, its artistic prowess, or its culinary delights, Nantes offers an array of experiences that will leave a lasting impression and a desire to return for more. So, step into this captivating city, where every tour is a chance to create unforgettable memories and discover the soul of Nantes.

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Loire Lovers

To awaken your senses in the Loire Valley - Claire & Manu's Blog

Visit Nantes in 3 days: our itineraries (photos + tips)

by Emmanuel ROBINSON , Region Lovers | February 23, 2024 | no intrusive ads, no sponsored content, just some affiliate links - if you use them, we get a small commission (read more)

Visiting Nantes in 3 days means having time to discover the city's main museums, gardens, activities, hotels and restaurants. But it is also a way to feel the soul of this city with a rich port past that has reinvented itself to face this new millennium.

In this article, we offer you a detailed itinerary that will allow you to discover the city under its different facets: cultural, creative or gourmet.

But first of all, we give you some practical advice to avoid unnecessary inconveniences during your stay.

This guide is completely independent , based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.

Practical advice to visit Nantes in 3 days

1. getting around in nantes: prefer public transport.

Having some experience in this field, we can assure you that the city of Nantes is a nightmare to drive in . This is due to the growth of the city in recent years and to the Loire and its tributaries, the crossing of which is always a headache, the number of bridges being necessarily limited.

But Nantes is one of the French cities with the best public transport facilities. It was one of the first to reinstate the tramway , in 1984, and already offers 3 lines, 83 stations and 44 km of tracks. 3 other lines will be created by 2026.

It was also a pioneer in the development of the "Busway " or exclusive right-of-way bus system, with buses running on lanes that are exclusively reserved for them and with appropriate signage.

Finally, it has deployed a self-service bicycle solution with more than 120 stations and 1,000 bicycles available.

2. Opt for the city-pass

The city of Nantes provides city passes , called Pass Nantes, which exist in a 3-day package.

It will give you access to the public transportation network we just mentioned (including the airport shuttle), to the main museums and sites of the city (Dukes of Brittany castle, Art Museum, Elephant of Nantes...) and even to dedicated tours (Voyage à Nantes, Petit Train, CityTour bus)

We strongly recommend that you buy it in advance to avoid wasting time on site and waiting in line. See the conditions and book your City pass.

3. Weather: be prepared

During the 3 days in Nantes, it is more than likely that you will discover the joys of the Nantes weather! The city is indeed subject to the winds and rains that arrive from the Atlantic and that can in a few minutes transform a beautiful day into an intense shower.

On average, it rains 168 days a year for 89 days of sunshine, but in lesser amounts than in many French cities. It is common to say that in Nantes, the weather is nice several times a day!

In any case, bring something to protect yourself from bad weather . We don't recommend umbrellas, which can easily be turned over if the wind picks up!

OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire

• Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
• Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
• Think about full insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
• There is a lot of demand, book it early .

As you can see, there is no lack of beautiful addresses in Nantes and you should not hesitate to change hotels from one night to the next, if you have the courage to discover these beautiful places full of hope. Luggage storage facilities are available at these hotels so that you don't have to carry your luggage around with you during the day.

In any case, we strongly advise you to choose a hotel in the center , to avoid wasting time in traffic jams during office hours.

• Discover our list of the 12 best hotels and our advice on where to sleep in Nantes .

5. Make choices

You will see in this article, there is no lack of visits in Nantes, with a beautiful diversity and sites that require a minimum of time to visit .

We are really in favor of "less is more " so as not to overload your 2 days in Nantes and soak up the special atmosphere of the city.

6. The map of the main monuments and visits of Nantes

Finally, we offer you a simplified map of the main places to visit in the city, as well as the names of the districts that make up the city center.

Essentials of Nantes in 3 days - our itinerary

3 days may seem like a lot, but when you see all the things to do in Nantes, the days will be quite full. We have taken care to optimize travel time, which can be done either on foot (distances are reasonable) or by streetcar (when tired).

Are you ready? Let's go and discover the many treasures of Nantes .

Day 1 - 9h-11h: The Elephant of Nantes and the machines of the island

Your journey begins on the island of Nantes, in the heart of the city, between two arms of the Loire.

In less than 10 years, the Elephant of Nantes has become the emblem of the city . From an industrial and port city, it is becoming a creative and cultural city, without turning its back on its roots, its know-how and its history.

Located on the site of the former shipyards, this site immerses visitors in the fantastic world of the Nantes-based author Jules Verne , with its bizarre metal and wood machines, including the gigantic 12-meter-high Elephant (a 4-storey building).

The visit takes place in 3 stages:

• The Elephant's walk : several times a day, the Elephant goes out on the esplanade of the old building sites for a long stroll. It carries 52 visitors for each half-hour trip. If you want to go on board, we advise you to make a reservation or to try your luck when you arrive on site, as some tickets are only sold on site.

• The gallery of machines : a surprising visit in the bestiary of Jules Verne between heron, hummingbird and other monarch butterflies, but also a discovery of the know-how of the designers of these fantastic animals.
• The carousel of the marine worlds : find your childlike soul for a ride on the ingenious carousel that will take you 20,000 places under the sea.
• All our advice and many photos to prepare your visit to the Elephant of Nantes and the machines of the island .

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Day 1 - 11h-11h45: The Museum of Men and Technology

Installed in the historic building of the Ateliers et Chantiers de Nantes, this museum perpetuates the memory of the "shipbuilders " who settled on the island of Nantes for over 200 years.

More than 120 objects illustrate the know-how of the 7600 workers, technicians and engineers who worked on the site at its peak in 1954.

11:45-12:15 Buren's rings

A little after the Museum of Men and Techniques, at the tip of the island, is the lively Quai des Antilles with its many restaurants, its Voyage à Nantes canteen, and its theaters.

The French artist Daniel Buren , who made French cultural history by installing his 260 "columns" in the main courtyard of the Palais-royal garden in Paris, needs no introduction.

In Nantes, the artist invites you to see the city from a new angle in each of the 18 rings that punctuate the quay.

Each ring bears his visual and artistic signature , an alternating white and colored band 8.7 centimeters wide, which he has been carrying around the world since 1965.

Day 1 - 12h30-14h: lunch at the restaurant Le 1

We remain on the island of Nantes for the lunch, with the excellent restaurant Le 1.

For several years, it has symbolized the gastronomic revival of the city. It always offers a modern and creative cuisine that attempts to merge the 4 continents.

On sunny days, you can eat on the banks of the Loire for a magical moment.

Day 1 - 2:30-3:30 pm: Jules Verne Museum

We cross the Loire to discover the rebellious district of Chantenay. The family of the famous writer Jules Verne from Nantes owned a house in which he forged memories that would populate his work.

It is undeniable that Jules Verne's numbers are directly inspired by his youth in Nantes and continue to irrigate the city even today, like The Elephant of Nantes and The Machines of the Island.

The museum offers you a journey to the center of Jules Verne's work , from the sources of inspiration (railroads, travels...) to the publication of the novels (role of the publisher of the illustrated books Pierre-Jules Hetzel). This tour is proposed through manuscripts, illustrations or objects that belonged to the writer.

Day 2 - 3:30-4:00 pm: The Lookout Walk

Starting from the museum, discover the walk of the 7 belvederes which give you a beautiful view on the Loire and the city, as well as on the extraordinary garden for some of them. We particularly like the belvedere of the Hermitage designed by the Japanese artist Tadashi Kawamata, with its wooden overhang above the void.

16h-17h30: Exploration of the Extraordinary Garden

Installed in a former quarry in the rebellious district of Chantenay, this garden is an evocation of the dreamlike universe of the writer Jules Verne, populated by numerous animals and unusual plants.

The program includes a waterfall , cliffs of 25 meters high, tree ferns , banana trees or papyrus and lotus that enjoy the omnipresent water!

A change of scenery guaranteed...

Day 1 - 5:30-6:30 p.m.: Memorial of the Abolition of Slavery

On your way back to the city center, by foot or by streetcar, visit the discreet memorial of the abolition of slavery.

A long gallery of rough concrete, under the riverside of the Loire , takes you into the memory of slavery, but also to the discovery of the enlightened minds that led to its abolition.

A solemn and necessary place , in the heart of one of the main former French slave ports of the not so distant 18 th century. Admission is free.

Day 1 - 7-8:30 pm: dinner at imagine restaurant

Because creativity does not stop at the restaurant door, we invite you to taste the cuisine of the young chef Anne Lise GENOUËL who opened, at 28 years old, her restaurant Imagine 2 steps from Place Graslin in 2018.

In addition to the warm atmosphere, we liked this combination of incredible flavors where the spices come to divert our palates for our greatest pleasure.

Proof of the creativity of the chef, the menu changes every week at lunchtime and at least once a month in the evening!

• Discover our review and many pictures after our lunch at Imagine restaurant .

Day 1 - Your night, choose your hotel in Nantes

We have a full article with our selection of the 12 best hotels in Nantes , but we offer our top 4 options in relation to this itinerary:

• Sozo Hotel : 2 steps from the Jardin des Plantes, sleep in an authentic 19th century church converted into a 4 star hotel with a strong design. See our detailed article on the night we spent at the Sozo Hotel / see prices, photos and availability.

• Blu Radisson Nantes : housed in the former courthouse, an incredible neoclassical building, the Blu Radisson condemns you to a quiet night. See our detailed article on the night we spent at the Blu Radisson Nantes / see prices, photos and availability.

• Hôtel de France Océnia : The former mansion of Jean Joseph Graslin, modern builder of Nantes, became a mythical hotel of Nantes in the twentieth century and has been completely updated in 2014. See our detailed article on the night we spent at the France Oceania hotel / see prices, photos and availability.

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Day 2 - 9h-11h: Nantes Castle (Dukes of Brittany)

To start this second day, we went to the impressive castle of Nantes and the Dukes of Brittany . Built from the 13th century, it enters the history of France at the end of the 15th century, under the impulse of Anne of Brittany. Through her successive marriages to 2 kings of France (Henry VIII and Louis XII), she ensured the attachment of Brittany to France.

The castle can only be visited from the outside, but there is much to see:

• The defensive structures (towers, bastion, old keep ( XIIIth century), châtelet and enclosures) to be admired first from the moat and then by walking the covered way.
• From the courtyard, the royal dwelling with its tower of the golden crown and its beautiful loggias very richly sculpted, at the crossroads of Gothic and Renaissance styles.

• The great Government built by Louis XIV in a neoclassical style to replace part of the house destroyed by fire in the 17 th century.
• The other buildings of the castle: the conciergerie, the small government and the harnessing building.
• All our advices and many pictures to visit the castle of Nantes (Dukes of Brittany) .

Day 2 - 11am-12:30pm: Nantes History Museum

Located in the castle of Nantes, the Museum of the History of Nantes traces the history of the city, from prehistory to the most contemporary periods. No less than 1150 objects are presented in the 32 rooms (+1 dedicated to families) of the Museum.

The museum quality is really exceptional, with a lot of interactivity, beautiful settings, a comprehensible division...

Day 2 - 12:30 - 2:00 pm Lunch at the restaurant l'Amenité

After this very dense visit, we propose you to have lunch at the restaurant l'Amenité . Located in the Bouffay district, not far from the castle, it is for us one of the best restaurants in Nantes.

In the kitchen, the truculent Richard Cornet , also a London trader and psychotherapist, who had the happy idea to reconvert to cooking.

They offer a market cuisine with multiple flavors and a perfect mastery of cooking and textures, all for an unbeatable quality/price ratio in Nantes, in our opinion.

• Discover our opinion and many photos on the restaurant l'Aménité

Day 2 - 2pm-3pm Parc de l'île de Versailles

To digest your good meal, we suggest you to discover the small park of the island of Versailles which is surrounded by the river Erdre. On former swamps, a beautiful small Japanese garden , with traditional tea room, rockery composition and mini waterfalls.

The Maison de l'Erdre offers exhibitions on the ecosystem of this river which crosses Nantes before flowing into the Loire via the Saint-Félix canal.

Day 2 - 3:00-3:45 pm: Feydeau Island and Place Royale

On the way to your next visit, take the time to admire 2 surprising places in the city:

• The Royal Square : one of the largest squares in the city, with its Haussmannian and neoclassical quarter-circle buildings

• The Feydeau district : formerly an island, it has only been attached to the right bank since 1938 and has an impressive 18th century architectural heritage that we owe to the city's rich shipowners and merchants.

Day 2 - 16h-17h: Museum of Printing and Graphic Arts

Just a stone's throw from the Passage Pommeraye, discover the very surprising and enchanting Museum of Printing and Bookmaking . You can discover the machines that preceded our digital presses.

Far from being a dusty museum, the machines are still in working order and make art prints before your eyes! Numerous training courses allow to perpetuate the memory and the know-how of the printing trades: master printer, typesetter...

The icing on the cake is a small exhibition of printed works to conclude the visit. We were lucky enough to come across an exhibition of printed drawings by the talented Doctor Paper who reinterprets the world (almost the same passion as ours!).

Day 2 - 17h-17h30: Cours Cambronne

Formerly the seat of the Capuchin religious congregation, the Cours Cambronne was entirely redesigned under the impetus of the influential Joseph Graslin , who transformed the entire district of Nantes at the end of the 18th century.

A landmark of middle-class life in Nantes in the 19th and 20th centuries, it is bordered by 16 listed neoclassical buildings , and the park is home to rare Magnolia species , of which the city of Nantes preserves the national reference collection.

Day 2 - 5:30-6:30pm: Discover the Passage Pommeraye

Leaving La Cigale, go down the luxurious and commercial street Crébillon to reach the high entrance of the passage Pommeraye on rue de Santueil.

This magnificent covered shopping mall built between 1840 and 1843, is a jewel of neoclassical art that symbolizes the gentrification of the city of Nantes carried by its flourishing port activity in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Inspired by the many Parisian passages, it is unique in Europe because of its sloping plan, with a difference in level of more than 9 meters between its high and low points, which was to be easily climbed by the elegant ladies.

In addition to the magnificent decorations which borrow from the renaissance style but also baroque, we invite you to enjoy the incredible light which reigns in this place. We owe it to the impressive glass roofs and to the lighting, first gas, now led, which illuminate the passage advantageously.

• Our anecdotes and tips for not missing anything from the Passage Pommeraye

Day 2 - 7:30-9:00 pm: Dinner at La Cigale - Place Graslin

After this beautiful and dense 2nd day, let's go to a Nantes institution for your dinner, the brasserie La Cigale located on the beautiful Place Graslin .

On this square, a sign stands out, that of the chic brasserie La Cigale . Inaugurated in 1895, it is a real Nantes institution, as much appreciated for a tea with a small pastry in the middle of a shopping day, as for a dinner after a weekend by the sea.

But, even if its cuisine is of high quality, what makes it really unique is its art nouveau décor entirely created by Nantes artists and which humorously depicts the bourgeois mores of Nantes society at the end of the 19th century. You will notice that the cicada is a bit sulky, wearing a tutu and carrying a mandolin.

• Our opinion and many photos on the restaurant La Cigale in Nantes

Day 3 - 9:30am-12pm: Parc Floral de la Beaujoire in Nantes

For this third and last day, we suggest you to take the tramway, to get out of the city center and discover the magnificent floral park of Beaujoire .

On more than 14 hectares, they present 16000 varieties of roses (flowering mainly in May-June), but also 400 species of magnolias (flowering from the beginning of March to June) and a beautiful iris garden (flowering March-April).

This garden was created in 1971 to host one of the most important events for ornamental plants, the Floralies .

Day 3 - 12:30-14:30: Lunch at the Manoir de la Régate

Before returning to the center of Nantes, we suggest you prolong this moment of nature, by lunching at the excellent Manoir de la Régate . In a protected setting on the banks of the Erdre, this starred restaurant has been in the hands of the Pérou family since 1995.

It is the new generation, barely thirty years old, which offers you a gustatory and gastronomic journey just incredible , between beet bread, pike-perch of the Loire stewed in clay and Bottereau nantais with kiwi and mint!

The chef, Matthieu Pérou, flavors his dishes with wild flowers and herbs picked along the Erdre River. Another way to do botany!

• Back in photos on this exceptional dinner at the Manoir de la Régate in Nantes .

Day 3 - 3-6pm: Museum of Art

We hope you are not tired and that you are ready to fall under the spell of the incredible Nantes Museum of Art .

Created in 1801 and completely reinvented in 2017, it offers one of the most beautiful collections of paintings in France, in a setting that is just exceptional , both architecturally, but also in the quality of the hanging.

The ancient art , carried by the Italian painters and the religious painting, rubs shoulders with the treasures of the modern art , with in particular a very beautiful collection Kandinsky, without forgetting the emblematic painters of the XIXth century (Courbet, Monet, Delacroix).

A great moment for us, it was difficult to leave

Day 3 - 6pm-7pm: Lieu Unique

We suggest you finish your stay by discovering the Lieu Unique , which symbolizes the transition underway in Nantes. During your stay, you must have seen this art deco tower that seems to serve as a lighthouse in the old port city.

Today converted into a cultural place, the unique place was the headquarters of the famous cookie factory LU which closed its doors in 1986. There used to be 2 towers of 38 meters high , but only one survived the bombings of the 2nd World War.

In addition to the visit of the tower which will allow you to better know the history of the place, do not hesitate to take the time to visit one of the current exhibitions, the programming is of very good quality.

We invite you to have a drink or a coffee at the bar of the unique place , in the hall with the indus decoration or in the terrace. You will surely come across those who keep the cultural and bohemian life of Nantes alive.

A nice way to end these 3 days of visit in our company!

Option 1 - add tours

As there is not only one way to visit Nantes, we propose you below some original ideas to discover the city differently.

Follow the green line

The green line runs over 24 kilometers of sidewalks, stairs and other narrow streets in the city of Nantes.

Every summer since 2012, as part of the voyage to Nantes, she offers tourists an artistic stroll through the city. On the program, about forty places and monuments presenting a particular cultural interest or reinterpreted by artists.

Very innovative when it was launched, the green line is in the middle of an institutionalization phase, which makes it lose some of its vitality . Nevertheless, it remains a nice alternative for those who want to see the urban space through the eyes of artists.

Original tricks

• Private visit according to your expectations with a passionate Nantais - See prices and availability .
• Visit the highlights of the city by Segway : a mode of transport now well known in tourist cities and quite adapted to travel in Nantes, outside the hyper center - See prices and availability .
• Even if the traffic is not easy in Nantes, you can opt for a discovery of the city in a 2CV Citroën , the mythical French deuche - See prices and availability .
• Guided tour of the city with an audioguide directly accessible on your smartphone, to learn all about the history of the city - See the price of the audioguide of Nantes .
• Need to motivate your children to discover the city, opt for an outdoor escape game with the city as a playground - See price and conditions .

Option 2 - alternatives with children to spend 3 days in Nantes

If you can motivate your children for 3 days, you are very strong! But because we are realistic, we have provided you with some alternatives that might interest them and some ideas to motivate them:

Kid-friendly restaurants in Nantes

Even if your children are welcome in all the restaurants we have selected, we suggest 3 alternatives, easier for young palates, but in which we eat healthy.

Sugar Blu Restaurant

Our favorite canteen in Nantes, where everything is ultra-fresh and the atmosphere is definitely friendly , reminding us of the brown cafés in Amsterdam.

No doubt you'll find something to satisfy their sometimes fussy stomachs, and to please yourself as well! Quiches, salads, burrito... for the main course and a nice collection of desserts , each one more delicious than the other (guaranteed success): brownie, scone, carrot cake...

Restaurant "Le coin des crêpes

A sure value with children (and which does not displease the parents), a good creperie . Even if we are not quite in Brittany, we know how to make beautiful pancakes in Nantes and to marry the pancakes with the greedy tradition of the city (the cookie factories BN and LU testify it...).

So that they don't feel too cramped, we recommend "Le coin des crêpes ", Cours des 50 otages, not far from the Passage Pommeraye, where we enjoyed ourselves.

Restaurant Coq Monsieur

Another great classic of the kitchen for our children: the croque-monsieur ! At Coq Monsieur, it is available in 10 gourmet recipes and served with French fries (and salad).

Installed in one of the small pedestrian streets of Bouffay, it will satisfy everyone and in a good mood!

Where to have a snack break with your children in Nantes

For the snack break , you have a lot of choices. Our 2 favorites (of which Eugenie knows the map by heart):

• Near the castle, Chez Dinette , a very cosy tea room, with a brocante atmosphere, where you can taste home-made pastries: crumble (that we love...), carrot cake, banana caramel pie.

• We really like the tea-time proposal from the brasserie La Cigale, which we told you about earlier. You will have to face a formidable choice: gourmet ice creams (special mention for the nutcracker: caramel and hazelnut ice creams with cookie chips) or the terrible home-made pastries, including the famous Nantes cake.

Other places to visit with children in Nantes

The water mirror.

The water mirror is a must-see in any large French city and is located at the foot of the castle. They can either admire the beautiful reflections or refresh themselves while exercising.

Natural History Museum

The natural history museum is a sure bet with children and the one in Nantes is in the process of updating itself to continue to captivate them with its very rich collections.

Adventurers, ship owners and other naturalists have contributed over the last two centuries to make the Natural History Museum of Nantes one of the most important in France .

Between stuffed vertebrate animal specimens, vivarium with friendly live snakes and collection of minerals and rocks , they will not know where to turn!

Option 3 - alternatives for garden and botanical enthusiasts

As you are in Nantes for 3 days, take advantage of this time to discover some of the most beautiful gardens of the city of 100 parks (actually 101, according to the official count of the City Hall).

In addition to the Extraordinary Garden and the Garden of the Island of Versaille already included in our 3-day itinerary, we offer 2 alternatives depending on your botanical interests.

Garden of plants of Nantes

On 7 hectares , the plant garden, one of the largest in France, presents more than 10,000 living species , some of which are preserved in beautiful greenhouses, which can be visited with a city gardener.

You will also come across playful works of art , which we owe to the author and illustrator for young people, Claude Ponti, but also a funny greenhouse designed by the machines of the island.

Note that if you have not succumbed to the Fraiseraie you can opt for a gourmet break at the orangery .

Grand Blottereau Park

With 22 hectares, the Grand Blottereau park is the largest in Nantes and also one of the most amazing. Its exotic vocation , inherited from its first patron, the wealthy Nantes merchant Hyppolite Durand-Gasselin, and its pedagogical orientation (headquarters of the horticultural high school of Nantes), make it a place of experimentation and learning about plants in life size .

Throughout your journey, you will discover landscapes of different continents reconstituted, from the American bayou, to the hill of Suncheon (Korea) without forgetting the Mediterranean rock garden.

You can also discover the rich collection of exotic species in the dry greenhouse (jojoba, baobab and other kapok) and in the one reproducing a humid climate (ebony, mahogany, banana trees, cocoa trees...)

The best things to do in Nantes in video

And finally, a short video to inspire you!

PLAN YOUR STAY IN Nantes

Itineraries

• 5 thematic itineraries to visit Nantes in 1 day
• Our advice to visit Nantes in 2 days , or in 3 days

• 15 best things to do in Nantes
• 8 best museums to do in Nantes
• Our tips for the elephant and the machines
• Visit the castle of Nantes
• All about the village of Trentemoult

• 12 best hotels to stay in Nantes
• 15 best restaurants to eat in Nantes
• How to rent a car at Nantes airport

HE MADE THE TRIP AND WROTE THE ARTICLE Manu

The 10 commitments of region lovers.

• Visit all the places we tell you about.
• For each city, sleep in at least one hotel, visit the ones we recommend.
• For each city, eat in at least one restaurant, visit the ones we select.
• Pay all our bills in full, refuse any partnership or sponsorship.
• Update our articles periodically, with the help of our readers.
• Enrich our articles with our on-site experiences.
• Use 99% of our own photos
• Have a reasoned and transparent use of the AI tool, which we feed with our locally verified information.
• Inform about the traveler/writer pairing that gave birth to the article.
• Tell you what we do, and do what we tell you!

Claire and Manu

Learn more about the team and our history.

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Visit Nantes: The 20 Best Things to Do and See

Things to do in nantes: all highlights and activities.

You’re planning to visit Nantes , this nice city located in the Loire Atlantique department during your travel in France?

In order for you to make the most out of your stay, I have created a guide with all the best things to do in the city .

Historical monuments, parks, activities like the famous Island of machines (“Machines de l’île” in french), there is a lot to discover in Nantes! Another big advantage of this medium sized city is that you can visit everything on foot.

In addition to the must-see attractions of Nantes , I will give you my best advices about where to stay , as well as itineraries to visit Nantes in 1, 2 or 3 days.

So, what are the best places to visit in Nantes?

Let’s start with the 15 points of interest!

1. A journey to Nantes and the green line

2. the château des ducs de bretagne, 3. lu tower, 4. nantes cathedral, 5. nantes arts museum, 6. the jardin des plantes, 7. versailles island, 8. the erdre riverside, 9. the tour bretagne – closed for renovation, 10. the bouffay district, 11. kervegan street, 12. the passage pommeray, 13. the machines of the isle of nantes, 14. nantes museums, 15. the escape hunt experience nantes, 16. trentemoult, 17. clisson, 18. grand lieu lake, 19. the nantes-brest canal, 20. the puy du fou, the nantes pass, what to do in nantes for a day, what to do in nantes for 2 days, what to do in nantes in 3 days, where to stay in nantes, where to eat in nantes, renting a boat in nantes, what to do in nantes with your family, what to do in nantes when it rains, what are the best districts to visit in nantes, where to buy the pass to visit nantes, you’re traveling in france these articles will help you.

To start this list of things to do in Nantes Nantes, here is an original project that takes place every year from July 1st to the end of August in the city.

Entitled A journey to Nantes (“Le Voyage à Nantes” in French), this cultural event allows you to discover the city’s must-see attractions, historic buildings, squares and numerous temporary artistic installations.

And they have made it very easy! This artistic trail is symbolized by a green line drawn on the ground : you just have to follow it to discover the majority of the places listed below.

Even if the artist’s installations are temporary, the Green Line is an excellent route to visit Nantes on foot or by bike all year round!

You will find the green line itinerary as well as the highlights of the tour on the “A Journey to Nantes” official website.

The château des Ducs de Bretagne (The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany) is Nantes most important historical monument and one of the main touristic attractions.

Located in the historic heart of the city, this fortress is endowed with a 15th century rampart and several buildings built from the 14th to the 18th century.

Listed as a historical monument since 1862 , the buildings have been used as ducal residences, governor’s sieges or barracks and even bunkers during the during the Second World War German occupation.

The castle became the property of the city of Nantes in 1915, and after fifteen years of restoration, it’s now a must-see in the city.

You can visit the castle and its different rooms . It also houses the Nantes History Museum , which provides a portrait of the city from its origins to the present day, with nearly 1150 collector’s items. Every year, numerous temporary exhibitions are also held there.

Not to be missed is the 500-metre path at the top of the ramparts , which will allow you to admire the castle as well as the city of Nantes from every angle. It’s even nicer at night thanks to the magnificent lighting.

You can find more information on the château des Ducs de Bretagne official website

To visit the château des Ducs de Bretagne as well as most other tourist sites and museums of the city , you should buy the Nantes Pass.

It’s the best way to save time and money , and it also includes free access to public transports!

To buy your Nantes Pass, simply click on the button below:

Just in front of the château des Ducs de Bretagne is the Lu tower (“tour Lu”). As its name suggests, it was part of the former factory that produced the famous Nantes biscuits, the “BN” (“Biscuit Nantais”).

Originally, the factory consisted of 2 towers and a building, but they were badly damaged during the Second World War and only one of them could be restored.

The tower is really photogenic with its gold and blue colors as well as its dome pierced with windows. Inside, on the ground floor, you will find a small room retracing the history of the Lu factory .

However, the highlight of the visit is to go up to the top of the tower in order to admire the view over the whole city of Nantes . It’s possible thanks to the Gyrorama, a strange machine, with a “Jules Verne” invention look. A must see during your stay in Nantes.

Next to the Lu Tower, in the former manufacturing factory, there is also an atypical art centre that offers several exhibitions:

• A performance hall with dance and theatre performances
• A trendy bar
• A restaurant
• And a bookstore.

This place is now named “Lieu Unique” (LU, which means “Unique Place” in English )

Another historic monument of Nantes: The Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul of Nantes. The construction of the cathedral has spanned over 500 years. About the size of Notre-Dame-de-Paris, its white stone facade is surrounded by 2 massive towers, with terraces overlooking the city at the top.

To see inside:

• The tomb of Francis II , last Duke of Brittany
• The crypts: a Romanesque crypt sheltering the treasures of the cathedral and another one featuring an exhibition retracing its history.
• The great pipe organ

To discover the best places to visit in Nantes, you can also opt for a guided Segway tour .

You will have the choice between a 1h or a 2h tour. They both starts at the Place Royale and passes in front of the castle and the cathedral.

To book  the 1 hour tour, simply click on the button below:

And click there for the 2-hour tour:

In the middle of the promenade between the Nantes cathedral and the Jardin des Plantes , you will pass in front of Nantes Art Museum , sometimes also called the Nantes Fine Arts Museum .

Closed during 6 years for renovation, the museum has just reopened its doors to the public, so why not take advantage of it to discover the brand new facilities.

This museum houses a collection of works ranging from ancient to contemporary ar t presented in various forms, including paintings, videos, photographs and art installations.

For information on timetables and prices, you can find everything on the museum’s official website

You’re going to Nantes?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Nantes on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Nantes.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Nantes, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Nantes!

Located in the heart of Nantes, a few hundred meters from the château des Ducs de Bretagne and the cathedral, you will find the Jardin des plantes .

With nearly 7 hectares of greenery, this large botanical garden is among the 4 largest in France . It will allow you to enjoy a beautiful stroll while admiring the 50,000 flowers planted each season or by walking through the 800 square metres of greenhouses.

Every year, during the A journey to Nantes event , you will also find cool funny giant installations made of shrubs or wood.

A perfect place to stroll along the alleys, and enjoy a little coolness thanks to the fountains.

As we are talking about the parks and gardens of Nantes , you can then go to Versailles island (“L’île de Versailles”) to continue the walk on the theme of greenery and nature.

Formerly occupied by tanners and carpenters, this 1.7 hectares artificial island has been turned into a Japanese garden .

The rocks shapes, waterfalls and vegetation recreate the typical Zen atmosphere of Japanese landscapes.

In the heart of the island, you will even discover a traditional tea house , the “Maison de l’Erdre”, which houses exhibitions on the river’s fauna and flora.

The Versailles island is a great starting point for a walk or bike ride along the Erdre riverside.

Thanks to the many parks, manor houses and castles along the river, the Erdre was nicknamed by François 1st, the most beautiful river in France . Indeed, you will be able to see several vast mansions with large gardens that belonged to rich shipowners or merchants.

To see also: the Chantrerie park and the Beaujoire floral park .

Continue the walk up to the port of Sucé sur Erdre where the river forms a nice small lake.

Many activities allow you to discover Nantes and the Erdre on the water side, you can also rent canoes, license-free electric boats or opt for a romantic cruise.

Update: The tour bretagne is closed for several years for renovation works

From the outside, this office tower has nothing extraordinary, but take its elevator to the 32nd floor and you will discover a magnificent 360 degree panorama over the whole city of Nantes .  And all this for a symbolic €1, it’s rare enough to be highlighted.

Don’t miss “Le Nid”, an atypical bar perched at the top of the Tour Bretagne (Brittany tower), with a giant stork and egg-shaped poufs! A perfect opportunity to have a drink in an original atmosphere.

Speaking of good food, you will find a multitude of bars and restaurants in the Bouffay district . This lively neighbourhood is a popular place for going out and shopping.

Ancient historical heart of the city, it’s still considered as the soul of Nantes . Mainly pedestrian, it’s in the Bouffay district that you will be able to see half-timbered houses and vestiges of 15th and 16th century buildings .

Not to be missed: the Apothecary house (“maison de l’Apothicaire”), a 3-storey building with sculptures and statuettes on the facade. Nowadays, there is a restaurant inside.

In the neighborhood, go around Bouffay Square (Place du Bouffay). Formerly the square were public executions were taking place, it now houses a small covered market. All around, you can have a drink on one of the many cafés terraces.

It’s also in Nantes that you can see one of the most beautiful European architectural complexes of the 18th century. Kervegan Street is considered to be one of the most characteristic streets in the city, with its buildings listed as historic monuments.

Along with the Bouffay district , it’s part of the gastronomic center of Nantes and you will find everything you need to eat well.

The passage Pommeray is a must-see in Nantes. Built to allow the passage between Place Royale and Place Graslin , this shopping gallery was built according to the model of the great Parisian galleries.

The passage is simply magnificent with its huge glass roof and monumental staircase that connects the 3 levels of the gallery. Around the balconies, on the upper floors, you an find statues and sculptures representing the geniuses of art and science.

Do not hesitate to go and admire it, the place is very photogenic thanks to its brightness .

And if you have time, you can of course take advantage of it to do some shopping in the boutiques.

In Nantes, you will be able to enjoy a unique and original activity that will delight young and old alike. The Machines of the Isle of Nantes (“Les Machines de l’île” in French) is THE must-see tourist attraction in Nantes!

The island of Machines is an original project mixing the worlds of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci .

The 2 designers of the project invented articulated machines representing giant animals . During your visit, you will be able to discover the manufacturing secrets of its machines and even climb on or drive some of them.

The most famous is the 12 meters tall and 48 tons giant elephant . Seeing it in motion is quite impressive! If you’re lucky, you can even be one of the 50 passengers who can board for a 30-minute stroll at a speed of 1 to 3km/h

Another attraction is the machines gallery (“la galerie des machines”), which houses a bestiary of beautiful mechanics.

You can ride and lead several animals including a spider, an ant and even a giant heron that will take you around the gallery. Machinists are there to explain the process of creation and operation of these strange creatures.

The gallery will be home to the Heron Tree (l’Arbre aux hérons), a giant tree with 22 branches and hanging gardens, in the coming years. Today only the experimental branch is accessible, but no doubt that the result will be outstanding.

Finally, the island is home to a unique merry-go-round: the Marine Worlds carousel (“le carrousel des Mondes Marins”). On 3 levels, you will discover the sea creatures that populate the seabed, abyss and sea surface: giant crabs, Manta rays and squid that you can ride.

On the island you can also enjoy many bars and restaurants with themes such as “La Cantine du Voyage” (The Travel Canteen) which offers, every day in summer, a unique menu at 10€ , made from local produce and vegetables from the garden.

And for dessert, choose one of the best ice cream in Nantes at the “Fraiseraie”.

Access to the machines Gallery is free with the Nantes Pass.

The island of Machines Official Website

1) Jules Verne Museum

The Jules Verne Museum is located on Sainte-Anne hill in a beautiful bourgeois house. It was created to pay tribute to the writer, who was born and lived in Nantes. However, he never lived in the house where the museum is located.

The museum retraces the writer’s life and presents objects that belonged to him. A collection of his original works is also being showcased.

Free access with the Nantes Pass.

2) Natural History Museum of Nantes

Another museum to see in Nantes, the Natural History Museum traces the origins of man and animal species through its various galleries.

The Earth sciences section about minerals allows children to discover the rocks through workshops, in a very playful way.

But the most impressive part is the zoology gallery, which has more than 1000 vertebrate animals, including a whale skeleton more than 18m long!

3) The printing museum of Nantes , where you can attend a guided tour and discover how different machines work.

4) The naval museum Maillé Brézé , located in a former french navy ship, in the port of Nantes. You can discover the life on board, the engine room and the armaments during a guided tour. If you want to visit, you should have a look at the opening hours on the official website.

If, unfortunately, it’s raining during your stay in Nantes or simply if you like it, Nantes offers several spaces devoted to the most fashionable games at the moment: the escapes games.

I particularly recommend you The Escape Hunt Experience which is the biggest escape game in France .

The goal here is to decode puzzles and solve mysteries in 60 minutes. A great activity to do with friends or family (children must be 12 years old or older). Of course, it’s only on reservation.

To get your detective brain to work, it’s this way .

Things to do around Nantes

if you are in Nantes for a few days, here are my favourite places to visit nearby:

About ten minutes from Nantes in Navibus, you can go to Trentemoult , an old fishing village. With its brightly coloured facades, its maze of narrow alleys and its many restaurants, everything is put together for a pleasant time.

20 minutes from Nantes, don’t hesitate to visit Clisson , a very beautiful medieval city. A must-see for its castle, medieval halls and Romanesque church.

The city is also described as the capital of the Nantes vineyard , so take the opportunity to discover the know-how of the winegrowers or visit their cellars.

A guided visit of Clisson is free with the Nantes Pass (click here)

At about 15 kilometers from Nantes, there is the largest natural lake in France , the lake of Grand Lieu .

More than 500 species of plants (some of which are very rare) are recorded on its shores. It’s also home to one of the most important colonies of grey herons in Europe.

If you wish to visit Nantes and its surroundings , it is the opportunity of a nice family walk to discover the flora and fauna.

As the name suggests, the Nantes-Brest Canal connects the 2 french cities and stretches for nearly 360 kilometers. You can follow it on foot, by bicycle or you can choose the waterway and enjoy the magnificent landscapes it crosses.

Do not miss the city of Carhaix, Chateauneuf-du-Faou and the “domaine de Trevarez.”

Located only 1 hour from Nantes, the Puy du Fou , a famous historical theme park with shows, is an excellent idea for a visit, with or without children! And if you want to spend 2 days there, there are many hotels on site.

The park is also easily accessible from La Rochelle (1h30).

To avoid waiting in line at the entrance of the park, you should really book your tickets in advance . It’s super easy and you will save a lot of time!

To buy your tickets for the Puy du Fou , simply click on the button below:

If you are planning to visit Nantes, I strongly recommend you to take the Nantes Pass .

Valid for 1, 2 or 3 days, for a price ranging from 25 to 45€, it will give you free access to public transport , and many points of interest and activities.

Sites and museums such as the Château des ducs de Bretagne , the city bus tour and even a cruise on the Erdre river are included!

You will also get discounts on many attractions.

If you only spend 1 day in Nantes , I advise you to follow the “green line” that I mentioned at the beginning of this article as it will allow you to visit Nantes on foot while going through the following attractions:

• Start the day with a visit to the Château des ducs de Bretagne
• Then go up to the Lu Tower and take a walk to the Lieu Unique
• The Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul of Nantes is also worth the detour
• Take a good lunch break at “La Cigale” restaurant,. I’ll tell you more about it in the “Where to eat in Nantes” section.
• Spend the afternoon at the  Machines of the Isle of Nantes , with the Marine Worlds carousel and the Great Elephant.

The perfect way to discover Nante’s main points of interest!

In 2 days in Nantes, in addition to the itinerary I gave you for the 1st day, you can visit:

• Start your morning with the Passage Pommeray and its superb architecture
• Then take Kervegan Street to admire its listed buildings.
• Before the lunch, you can visit the Nantes Art Museum.
• Lunch break
• For a bit of freshness in the afternoon, start by visiting the Jardin des Plantes
• Continue with Versailles island and take a short stroll along the Erdre riverside
• End your day by going to the terrace of the Tour Bretagne to enjoy the sunset. Use this opportunity to take the aperitif at the Nid , the bar located on the 32nd floor of the building.

If you plan to spend 3 days in Nantes , you can add to your schedule:

• In the morning, take the Navibus to join the old fishing village of Trentemoult
• While you’re at it, have lunch there!
• For the afternoon, how about a trip to Clisson, the medieval city , or to Grand Lieu lake , perfect with children?

And if you would like to visit more tourist attractions around like the Puy du Fou, you can easily spend 4 or 5 days in this nice city.

• Logis Hôtel Duquesne : Located 100 meters from the Tour Bretagne, in the Nantes city center. Sleek and modern room from 58€ per night, breakfast at 9€. Strong points: very good location, quiet hotel, good breakfast
• Residhome Nantes Berges de la  Loire : Situated 10 minutes walk from the city centre, in the Euronantes district. Bright and spacious studio apartment with kitchenette from 76€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: quiet location, studio equipment and excellent breakfast. Clearly the best value for money in Nantes under 100 euros!
• Best Western Hôtel Graslin : 2 minutes walk from the Graslin Theatre and 15 minutes from the Château des ducs de Bretagne . Comfortable room from 80€, breakfast at 12€. Strong points: its location, the very warm welcome, copious breakfast with fresh products.
• Okko Hotels Nantes Château: This modern 4-star hotel is simply the best hotel in Nantes city center . Double room price starts from 115 euros per night, breakfast included. The ideal choice for a luxury stay in Nantes!
• La Cigale : This brasserie restaurant is very famous in Nantes. We come here for the special atmosphere that emanates from its Art Nouveau décor but of course also for its excellent cuisine. I advise you to book in advance.
• Le bistro des enfants nantais:  A real local bistro with generous and homely cuisine at very reasonable prices. Save a place for dessert, they’re excellent. Reservation recommended.
• Crêperie Ker Breizh: Traditional creperie where everything is homemade. Large choice of copious and varied pancakes and patties, from classic to the most original (mussels for example). Unbeatable value for money.

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day on the Erdre River during your stay in Nantes, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Nantes? 😊

FAQ – I answer your questions about Nantes

If you plan to visit Nantes with your children, I recommend the following activities:

• Visit the Dukes of Brittany castle – Visiting a castle, that can only please your children!
• Walk around the Jardin des Plantes in Nantes – A great idea for a family outing.
• A bike ride on the banks of the Erdre river
• Take them to see the machines of the island of Nantes
• Discover Nantes’s natural history museum
• For teenagers: the Escape Hunt Experience Nantes
• A family day at the Puy du Fou

If unfortunately it’s raining during your stay in Nantes, here are a few ideas of visits that can be done no matter the weather:

• Discover the castle of the Dukes of Brittany and the history museum of Nantes
• Visit the Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul cathedral of Nantes
• Visit the museums: the art museum, the Jules Verne museum, the natural history museum
• Go to the Pommeray passage for a bit of shopping
• Try to solve the riddles of an escape game.

Here is the list of neighborhoods to see during your visit in Nantes:

• Graslin district, where the Passage Pommeray is located, is famous for its numerous shops and restaurants
• Bouffay district (which I talk about in point 10 of this guide), the historical district of Nantes
• The island of Nantes for its extraordinary machines.

And you, what do you plan to visit in Nantes?

France travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet France guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Rick Steves France guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all our articles about France: All Voyage Tips articles about France are listed there.

• Honfleur: Top 15 things to do and discover
• La Rochelle: The 15 must-see attractions
• Nice: 15 things to do and see

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Private tour of Nantes with a guide

Explore Nantes the way you want to with your own private tour guide.

We suggest you through this unique tour  a discovery of Nantes, at your own pace, on specific spots of Nantes barely known, and with surprising suggestions.

The endless journey – Strolling Nantes (2 hours): the tour not to be missed if this is your first visit to Nantes! Historical anecdotes, emblematic districts, selection of works of art from the endless Voyage du Voyage à Nantes…

The endless journey – Île de Nantes; a renewed  insight on the last island of the Loire in Nantes.  An open-air urban laboratory: from the former shipbuilding activities housing today the Machines de l’Ile, contemporary architectures, artworks and friendly designed spots! It’s the new place to be in Nantes.

The castle of the Dukes of Brittany Let’s meet up and design a tour of this must-see site! What might you expect? Visit of the castle and the museum but also exclusive access, breathtaking views – and, above all, a tour perfectly adapted to your needs.

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Nantes was our second stop on our trip to France and also the reason we were there in the first place:  Jeffrey’s little sister was studying there for the semester.  After spending a few days in Bordeaux (see our walking tour of Bordeaux here) , we took the SNCF INTERCITÉS train up to Nantes to spend a few days exploring the city and visiting his sister.

Nantes is the region of Brittany’s largest town and another large port, with a population of half a million people.  Nantes, though, felt way different than southern Bordeaux. In Bordeaux, it had been sunny and warm. Our entire stay in Nantes was filled with rainy days and the damp cold that comes with it. Maybe we just caught it at a bad time, but Nantes was lacking a bit of the bustle and energy that Bordeaux had. Right away, my preference leaned (just a little!) toward Bordeaux.

All that to say, we had a wonderful time in Nantes, exploring with Jeff’s sister and her boyfriend and drinking lots of vin chaud (hot wine).

Total distance : appx 4.5 miles (or 7.2 km) Time : You could power walk in less than 2 hours, but I’d say a  minimum of 4-6 hours  would be good and even better if you try to use all day. Day of the week : Avoid Mondays/Tuesdays as the following are closed: Les Machines de l’île, Natural History Museum of Nantes.

A. You might as well start your day off at the Gare SNCF Nord.  If you’re just stopping into Nantes for the day, this is likely where you’ll first land. I always like to visit the train station in any European city–it’s the lifeblood of city, full of life and hustle and bustle. 

B.  Hang a left out of the train station, following the tram line to its next stop (you could also take the tram, but it’s less than a 10 minute walk):   Château des ducs de Bretagne.  You won’t be able to miss this monstrosity. This is probably the highlight of Nantes. Their prized possession. A must-visit attraction. But don’t be disappointed that we’re bringing you here first; despite being the most popular attraction, Nantes has a lot more to offer!

C. Leaving there, you’ll head north on Rue Mathelin Rodier , a narrow cobblestone street, to   the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul of Nantes ( Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul de Nantes). Crazy fact (!):  The construction of the cathedral began in 1434 and took 457 years to finish, finally reaching completion in 1891.

D. From here, if the weather is good and you’re up for a (minor) detour, we suggest a walk to the Île de Versailles , an island turned garden-oasis right in the middle of the city. It’s only a ~13 minute walk from the Cathedral and will be a great time to walk along the banks of the canal.

E. The next section is basically a walking tour down some great pedestrian-only roads through the middle of Nantes: Rue de Verdun –> Rue de la Marne –> Rue d’Orleans –> Place Royal.  Take your time, pop into the stores, grab a snack and enjoy yourself!   Leaving the canals, you’ll walk down Rue Strasbourg for about a 1/4 mile (~500 meters) and hang a right on  Rue de Verdun , the road will change names a few times but just continue straight until you reach Place Royal , a ~7 minute walk.

Bakeries and cafes galore: Looking down Rue des Carmes from Rue de la Marne

Place Royale in its natural habitat: rain.

F. From Place Royale, you’ll head down Rue Ruben/Scribe– somewhat of a back way– to take you to the next stop: Place Graslin. This is another of the main squares of Nantes, home to the Théâtre Graslin, a theatre/opera house.

F. Lucky for you, Place Graslin is also home to Le Molière ( http://www.lemoliere.fr/moliere-nantes.html ), a great brasserie that is worth a stop. We highly recommend the “vin chaud” or hot wine:

It was so cold that we had to stop every chance we got for some vin chaud… hot wine!

G. We can’t personally vouch for this next one (it was closed on our only opportunity to visit), but we’ve heard great things about the  Natural History Museum of Nantes (3.5€, closed Tuesdays), just a few blocks away from Place Graslin. They’ve apparently got some cool stuff from the region and it’ll only cost you 3.5€ to pop in and have a look.

Image source: Wikipedia

H. From here you’ll head to the Passage Pommeraye , a must visit if you’re in Nantes. It’s basically a 3 story arcade (no, the other arcade, there’s no Pacman here) covered with a glass ceiling. Built in the mid-1800s, it really transports you back in time to the Romantic/Belle Époque era.

I. After weaving all of the way through the Passage Pommeraye, you’ll wind up at the  Place du Commerce.  In the spring/summer, this should be a great place to grab a some food or drink at an outdoor cafe.

J. This next stop is a bit off the beaten path (about a 15 min walk), but is the most popular museum in Nantes, Les Machines de l’Ile. I remain confused to as what it actually is so I’ll sub in the Wikipedia definition:

“The project of Machines de l’île in Nantes aims to promote city’s image and tries to build an identity as a creative metropole of dream and of fantasy. In the warehouses of the former shipyards in Nantes, the Machines of the Isle is created by two artists, François Delarozière (La Machine) and Pierre Orefice (Manaus association), visualizing a travel-through-time world at the crossroads of the “imaginary worlds” of Jules Verne and the mechanical universe of Leonardo da Vinci.”

Source: cycling-loire.com

It’s a pretty fantastical place and will run you about 8 € for an adult ticket.

K. For our last stop on the walking tour, you’re going to head back across the river to the historic/shopping district to the Tour de Bretange. The 37-story tall skyscraper is the tallest building in Nantes and, best of all, has a rooftop bar where you can soak in the view over a cocktail or 2. If you’ve timed it right, you’ll be hitting this one up right at sunset.   Once you get to the Tour de Bretange, follow signs to “Le Nid – Rooftop Bar.”

source: levoyageanantes.fr

Source: rendezvousdeco.com

More Pictures

A close up of the vin chaud. Think warm sangria.

Crossing the moat of the castle: Chateau de ducs de Bretagne

Inside the castle grounds 

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Things to Do in Nantes (France)

15 Best Things to Do in Nantes (France)

Nantes will always be known as the capital of Brittany, even though it’s now in a different region. The Dukes of Brittany ruled their lands from here until the Duchy was united with France in the 16th century and their former seat of power is still one of Nantes most commanding buildings.

The Loire is Nantes’ lifeblood and has brought the world to the city’s doorstep, allowing trade and industry to flourish. Take the city’s Navibus shuttles to ride the marvellous machines on the Île de Nantes or lounge by the riverside in the bohemian village of Trentemoult on the left bank.

Lets explore the best things to do in Nantes :

1. Château des Ducs de Bretagne

The old seat of the Dukes of Brittany is the final château on the Loire before it empties into the Atlantic Ocean.

The fortified palace is in the eastern part of the old town, although it’s hard to miss the hefty walls and towers that encircle the refined Grand Logis where the dukes lived.

The castle was built in the 13th century and occupied for 300 years by the Dukes until becoming a French royal residence in the 1500s.

The courtyard and ramparts are free to enter, but you pay to visit the Nantes History, which reveals the different stages in the city’s evolution, from the slave trade to its time as an industrial port.

The green space by the deep moat, the  Douves du Château, is a spectacular spot for an afternoon break in summer.

2. Les Machines de l’Île

The west side of the Île de Nantes is inhabited by whimsical animatronic creatures inspired by Jules Verne’s writings and Leonardo da Vinci’s fanciful gizmos, and brought to life by the artist François Delaroziere.

All these extraordinary machines are interactive: The Grand Éléphant for example is 12 metres tall and carries 52 passengers on its back for a walk in which you can feel the vibration of every step.

The Carrousel des Mondes Marins is a gigantic carrousel with moving marine creatures, and the Arbre aux Hérons is a climbable sculpture with ramps and stairways in the form of a vast tree.

The indoor Galerie des Machines has many more sculptures and shows you how they were designed and built.

3. Passage Pommeraye

Between Rue de la Fosse and Rue Santeuil, this shopping arcade from 1843 isn’t just a sophisticated place to shop but an ingenious piece of architecture and a photo-worthy sight.

The passage was built on a steep slope, and it adapted to the nine-metre height difference with a clever intermediate floor between the two street levels.

Passage Pommeraye is still as resplendent as 160 years ago, with neo-renaissance sculpture and stonework, iron and glass roofs that fill the galleries with natural light, wrought iron lamps and handrails – not forgetting its classy selection of luxury boutiques.

4. Jardin des Plantes

Classified as one of France’s “remarkable gardens”, the Jardin des Plantes packs 10,000 species into its seven hectares.

The gardens are right in the middle of the city, just ten minutes on foot from the Château des Ducs de Bretagne.

It’s no ordinary park: The Palm House here is a fabulous late-19th-century metal and glass structure with plants from tropical America, while the three greenhouses to the sides have orchids from Africa and Asia.

As you tread the paths you’ll see mature trees like the 220-year-old magnolia and two huge sequoias that were planted 150 years ago.

5. Île Feydeau

When you’re exploring Île Feydeau you may wonder why this district just south of the centre is called an island, or why streets have names like Quai Turenne when there’s no sign of water.

Well, it was an island up to the 1930s when one of the arms of the Loire was blocked off.

Before the 18th-century Feydeau had been uninhabitable marshland when a land reclamation project created a dignified quarter for the city’s wealthy merchants to live.

Their flat-fronted homes are beautiful, with iron balconies, mansard roofs and carved stone grotesques.

The ground beneath remains soft, which sets some of these townhouses at an endearing slant.

6. Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle

Nantes’ Natural History Museum has a fine setting in the city’s old mint, and has galleries for every branch of natural science: There are zoological, paleontological, mineralogical, ethnographical and a host of other collections from fields with long names, assembled since the 1700s.

The specimen guaranteed to turn heads is the fin whale skeleton in the zoology gallery, more than 18 metres in length and suspended from the ceiling.

The Vivarium, which was added in 1955, and was refurbished recently, has a set of terrariums with snakes and other exotic reptiles.

7. Nantes Cathedral

Begun in 1434, it took more than 400 years to build the city’s cathedral.

Construction continued through the 1600s in the flamboyant gothic design despite it being long out of fashion by then, because it matched the earlier work.

Another intriguing titbit is that Nicolas Fouquet, the high-living Superintendent of Finances in Louis XIV’s court, was arrested in front of the cathedral by d’Artagnan in 1661. He’d remain a prisoner for the last 20 years of his life.

You have to make time for the Tomb of Francis II, the Duke of Brittany, which is held as a French renaissance masterpiece . It dates to 1507 and has haunting sculptures from white Carrara marble.

8. Cours Cambronne

Part of a new city district built in the 18th century, Cours Cambronne is a magnificent square between two 180 metre-long terraces of neoclassical mansions.

Step along the regal central avenue to see the statue of Pierre Cambronne, a military general born in Nantes and injured in the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Sixteen of the glorious pilastered mansions on the square are listed in the inventory of French historic monuments.

One that deserves special mention is Hôtel Scheult,  towards the top by Rue Piron which has a newly restored facade.

9. Mémorial de l’Abolition de l’Esclavage

It helps to remember that much of Nantes’ Ancien Régime splendour was financed by the slave trade.

Nantes was the first city in France to ship slaves on an industrial scale and during the 18th century  the largest proportion of France’s slave ships departed from this port.

So the memorial commemorating the abolition of slavery next to the Loire on Quai de la Fosse is extra poignant.

Since the end of the 20th century the city has started confronting this chapter in its past, and in 2012 it unveiled a sombre and austere memorial.

In an underground corridor you’ll read about the many expeditions made from Nantes, and even the names of the ships involved.

10. Musée de l’Imprimerie

Nantes has had a long relationship with the printing press since publishing its first title, Les Lunettes des Princes by the Breton poet Jean Meschinot, in 1493. This museum was founded in 1986 by master printer Sylvain Chiffoleau and typesetter Robert Colombeau, and has built up an astonishing collection of manual and mechanical printing presses.

There are also intaglio plates, lithography plates, dyes and historic typesetting moulds.

And if all that sounds baffling to you then you can take the tour to get the inside track on the printing industry in Nantes, and see how all this arcane equipment was used.

11. Place du Bouffay

This square is at the centre of Bouffay, the oldest district in Nantes.

The place names, “Place du Pilori” (pillory) or Rue de la Juiverie (Jewry), give you an sense of the age of this district.

On the pedestrian streets you’ll come across half-timbered houses from the 1400s side by side with restaurants, crêperies and some of the city’s liveliest nightspots.

The square as you see it now is from the 1700s, but there are evocative remnants of a more distant past: On the  corner of Rue des Échevins there’s a gothic fireplace poking right out of the wall and dating to the 15th century.

12. Jules Verne Museum

Jules Verne was born in Nantes in 1828 and spent most of his first 20 years around the city, although he didn’t hold the place in the highest esteem after a woman he courted in his late-teens was married off by her parents to one of Nantes’ rich landowners.

The museum devoted to Jules Verne is in a large bourgeois mansion from 1878 and though it has no connection to Verne it isn’t far from where his parents lived in Bas-Chantenay.

In the galleries you can inspect an engaging jumble of books, games, manuscripts, portraits, documents belonging to the writer and bequeathed to the museum by his heirs.

13. Trentemoult

On the left bank of the Loire, Trentemoult is a former fishing village belonging to the town Rezé.

It’s only a few moments from the centre via the Navibus ferry, and many hipsters, artists and well-off families from the city have settled in Trentemoult.

You can navigate the maze of scurrying streets with brightly painted cottages from the 18th and 19th centuries.

The houses have a curious design, set over three floors, with the lowest used only for storage as the Loire would burst its banks regularly.

On the quayside are trendy vintage shops, restaurants and crêperies with terraces next to the river.

14. Tour Bretagne

At 144 metres Tour Bretagne is one of France’s tallest buildings outside the capital.

It’s just north of Nantes’ Centre-Ville and the unapologetic rectangular outline is visible almost anywhere you go.

The tower clashes with old Nantes and hasn’t always been a popular addition to the skyline, but the vistas from the top are superb.

If you have the Nantes Pass you can go up to the panoramic bar and outdoor observation deck for free; if not it only costs €1. You can pause there for a little while to identify all the landmarks below.

The bar, Le Nid (The Nest), is a nice surprise with seats and tables designed like eggs and a soft sculpture of a kind of stork-heron hybrid snaking through the space.

15. Food and Drink

The cuisine in Nantes can be quite difficult to pin down because the city is at a meeting point between Brittany and the Loire Valley, and is both inland and served by the Atlantic Ocean.

But without a doubt seafood and fish should be part of you plans: Mussels, lobster, crabs, king prawns, mullet and seabass are all as fresh as can be.

The oysters in Nantes are divine, and even better when paired with a light Muscadet, which is produced in the countryside outside the city.

For afters, Gâteau Nantais is a soft pound cake made with a decadent measure of rum.

15 Best Things to Do in Nantes (France):

• Château des Ducs de Bretagne
• Les Machines de l'Île
• Passage Pommeraye
• Jardin des Plantes
• Île Feydeau
• Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle
• Nantes Cathedral
• Cours Cambronne
• Mémorial de l'Abolition de l'Esclavage
• Musée de l'Imprimerie
• Place du Bouffay
• Jules Verne Museum
• Trentemoult
• Tour Bretagne
• Food and Drink

How to Spend a Weekend in Nantes Travel Itinerary

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 3rd March 2023

Categories France , Itineraries

Last Updated on 3rd March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Located in Western France, on the fringes of Brittany and not far from the Western coastline, the French city of Nantes is not only one of the largest in France, but also one of the most overlooked. Here’s an itinerary for an incredible weekend in Nantes .

Home to a dazzling array of eateries, a fantastic selection of museums, and more things to do than you would have thought possible from an off the beaten path French destination, spending a weekend in Nantes couldn’t be easier as an easy excursion from Paris.

And that’s not all! Instead, Nantes is home to its own international airport, which serves plenty of major European cities, as well as some smaller airports across the region.

The bus from the airport to the city centre is under an hour and reasonably priced, while the Nantes main train station offers great transport links to the rest of France and beyond.

And, when it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of places to stay in Nantes , meaning that the city is suitable for near enough every budget (this is especially the case during the European shoulder seasons when the prices are lower- i.e. in the spring and autumn) .

I personally stayed in Hotel La Perouse and was soon enough charmed by this four-star hotel’s central location and the charming views from my bedroom window- which were particularly beautiful come sunset time! Other great hotel choices in Nantes include this boutique hotel and this luxurious accommodation .

Is 2-3 days enough time to visit Nantes?

Friday evening in nantes, visit the château des ducs de bretagne, step inside nantes cathedral, wander around the bouffay district, head to machines de l’ile.

• Enjoy a drink at Le Nid Nantes [permanently closed]

Explore the hidden gems which Nantes has to offer

Go shopping for new and vintage books, take a day trip to clisson, watch the nantes vlog, enjoyed reading about the perfect weekend in nantes itinerary and guide pin this article now, read it again later:.

Yes, I would personally say that two or three days is more than enough time to enjoy all that Nantes has to offer, and even take a short excursion from the city.

The western French city is quite small and compact, with all of the major attractions grouped together within walking distance so everything can be enjoyed over the course of 72 hours.

Arrive on Friday evening and allow yourself a couple of hours to refresh and check in to your accommodation for the weekend. Unpack your things and relax before heading out into town!

To find the best food in Nantes, my recommendation would be to head to the Bouffay district, where you’ll soon discover that this largely pedestrianised area offers a wide range of eateries, cafés, and bistros where you can grab a bite to eat.

When I visited the city, I personally started off my Friday evening by heading to the Café du Passage (1 Place Félix Fournier) , where I enjoyed a crisp glass of rosé in the shadow of the stunning Basilica and by watching the world go by.

Even if you’re visiting Nantes on your own, you should know that it’s not unusual in France to sit in a café on your own (though here are my best tips for dining alone) .

Afterwards, you can’t go wrong by heading to the cobbled rue de la Juiverie or rue du Château, which both offer restaurants serving a wide range of cuisines.

If you’re veggie like me, then the noodles at My Little Warung (8 Rue du Château) are particularly delicious! I also particularly loved the food at Oncle Pho (9 Rue Saint-Léonard) .

Saturday Morning in Nantes

The first thing you must do while in the city is to head to the Château des Ducs de Bretagne (Castle of the Dukes of Brittany) . Once upon a time, Nantes was the city where the Dukes chose to rule their Kingdom.

Though the settlement is now administratively in the Pays de la Loire region of France, Nantes retains a distinctively Breton feel and is also where Anne of Brittany (twice Queen of France) resided.

To illustrate my point about the Brittany ambience of the city, when I was on a guided tour of Nantes (a must if you’re looking to learn more about its history) , our guide for the afternoon asked us each to describe our first impressions of Nantes in just three words.

The gentleman to my right answered with a simple “Brittany… or not?” !! The ramparts of the Château itself are free to visit, meander along, and offer one of the best views of Nantes.

During your time at the Château des Ducs, you should also pay a visit to the Nantes History Museum, which is housed within the Castle walls.

Spanning several rooms, the museum explores the city’s history, from Roman times right up until the present day. One part of the museum aims to educate visitors as to the part that Nantes played in the slave trade.

Today, visitors can gain a sobering insight into the role the city played; Nantes was responsible for over 40% of France’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade, a fact that the city has found it hard to come to terms with.

Around a ten minute walk away, along the banks of the River Loire, Nantes now has a Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery. Free to visit, this humbling underground urban path memorial has facts, figures, maps, and a timeline. More details about the Nantes slave trade can be found here.

Free to visit and easily one of the best cathedrals in France , Nantes Cathedral is unique in that it pretty much burnt down during restoration works in the mid-twentieth-Century.

As a result, much of what you see today is actually a reconstruction, including most of the magnificent stained glass which showers the ecclesiastical building in various hues.

Luckily for the history buffs among us, some of the Cathedral survived the bombing of WWII and the subsequent (but unrelated) fire which happened during restorations.

What has survived includes some impressive medieval doors, several chest tombs depicting effigies of those who lie beneath, and of course, the crypt which has Roman roots.

After exploring all that the Château and its museum have to offer, take the time to explore all that the Bouffay District has to offer during the daytime. Asides from the winding streets, independent shops, and hidden and forgotten courtyards, one of the top things to discover is the Église Sainte-Croix.

Boasting one of the most impressive belfries of any ecclesiastical building in the city, this church is free to enter and happens to be the place where Jules Verne was baptised, as well as the location where his parents were married just a year prior.

Step inside at any given moment, and you’ll soon also discover plenty of stunning stained glass windows as well as a 19th-century traditional French Organ.

Nearby, the Passage Sainte-Croix is easily one of the  best-kept secrets of Nantes and hosts unusual art exhibitions on a regular basis. If you’d rather do a more adventurous activity at this time, then you might consider booking a segway tour like this one.

Saturday Afternoon in Nantes

To truly discover all that the Machines de l’Ile area of the city has to cover, you’ll want to dedicate an entire afternoon to this weird and wonderful tourist destination.

So unique is this Nantes attraction, that it’s singlehandedly places Nantes on the tourist map, with visitors from all around the world arriving in the city with the primary intention of discovering the Machines of the Isle of Nantes.

Since 2007, the La Machine production company has been producing impressively large constructions and fantastical mechanical creations on the former shipyards of Nantes.

Particularly impressive projects of note include the 12-metre elephant on which 49 passengers can be transported across the island (just be sure to book your tickets in advance) and the almost 25 metres high Marine Worlds Carousel.

Saturday Evening in Nantes

Enjoy a drink at le nid nantes  [permanently closed].

Please note that as of May 2020, the Nid Nantes is permanently closed.

End your day the right way by soaking up the best view in Nantes . Located at the very top of the Tour Bretagne, Le Nid Nantes offers an indoor bar, as well as a wrap-around terrace which offers panoramic 360-degree views of the entire city.

Though the drinks are a little pricier than at other venues across the city (and you’ll have to pay €1 for the privilege of using the lift up and entering the bar) , the view more than makes up for the fact! Standing at a dizzying height of 32 floors, from the top you can enjoy a bird’s eye perspective of the Cathedral, the typically Nantes architecture, and more.

Sunday Morning in Nantes

If you truly want to make the most of your weekend in Nantes, then you might consider delving a deeper into the city on a more local level. What this may well mean is to be on the lookout for some of the best-kept secrets and hidden gems which the French settlement has to offer.

Among my favourite off the beaten path places to discover include the hidden courtyard and garden of La Psalette (a medieval mansion and secluded courtyard close to Nantes Cathedral) , La Porte Sauvetout Medieval Gate (all that’s left of the once-grand medieval fortifications surrounding the city- nearby you can grab some of the best coffee in Nantes at GLAZ), and the free to visit secret gardens on the Ile de Versailles.

After you’ve wandered through Passage Pommeraye and discovered some of the lesser-known gems that the city has to offer, why not dive into some new and used bookshops and discover the city from a new perspective (and to purchase some souvenirs to bring back home!)

During my solo trip to Nantes, I was particularly enthralled to discover an abundance of historic, quirky, and unique bookshops in Nantes, and even managed to pick up several local history books for a very reasonable price!

A personal favourite of mine was Coiffard Books, which is set across two sides of a pedestrian-only street. Boasting features such as oak panelling and books stacked from floor to ceiling, I was particularly enthralled by the expansive travel section! Find all the details for opening times here.

Sunday Afternoon in Nantes

For those who wish to experience the beginning of the Loire Valley, an easy day trip from Nantes is that of Clisson. Pretty, picturesque and with its own set of crumbling ruins and wealth of medieval history, this beautiful town has more than enough to entertain any traveller over the course of an afternoon.

From Nantes, it takes just under half an hour to reach Clisson (should you opt to take the fast train). Otherwise, the journey will remain the same price and take under an hour in each direction.

However you reach Clisson, once there, some of the top highlights include exploring the Italianate style Domaine de la Garenne Lemot & La Villa Lemot & La Maison du Jardinier and soaking up the quiet ambience of the town.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Best Things to Do in Nantes, France

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Visit Nantes, France

Nantes is an unmissable destination in north-western France. Located along the Loire River, Nantes was the capital of the Duchy of Brittany, and it has a rich history that dates back to Ancient Roman times. Today, Nantes is the capital of the Pays de la Loire region and offers incredible attractions.

Is Nantes worth visiting? The answer is YES! From a gorgeous château and a stunning cathedral to the unique Machines de L’lle, Nantes is a paradise for art and architecture lovers. The city is also an eclectic creative hub with a vibrant atmosphere, thanks to the presence of many university students. Nantes is also popular for its picturesque riverbanks and world-class vineyards producing Muscadet white wine.

In July and August 2024, Nantes will host football competitions during the  Paris Summer Olympics 2024 . Keep reading to discover our suggestions for things to do in Nantes, France, for an unforgettable holiday.

Are you planning a trip to Nantes last minute?

Below are some of the best Nantes tours, hotels, and more!

• Book your flight tickets to Nantes Airport (NTE); Book your train tickets to Nantes
• Book your transfer from Nantes Airport to the city

Looking to travel around Nantes independently? Click here for the best car rental rates in Nantes .

Top Experiences and Tours in Nantes

• Nantes Walking Tour
• Panorama Tour of Nantes with E-bike
• Nantes Traditional Food Tour

Want to save money at museums & attractions in Nantes? Get your hands on a  Nantes City Card !

Top Nantes Accommodation and Lodging

• Hotel Voltaire Opera Nantes Centre (best location, close to the Théâtre Graslin)
• SOZO Hotel (an incredible hotel set in a 19th-century chapel)
• L’Hotel (central hotel with wonderful views of the castle)
• Click here for the full list of favorite hotels in Nantes

Don’t leave for Nantes without travel insurance!

Compare plans, prices, and coverage with  Travel Insurance Master , a comparison site that will find the perfect fit for you amongst the world’s leading programs.  Travel Insurance Master is also the best place to look for senior travelers .

What to Do in Nantes, France

What to do in Nantes for a day or a weekend getaway? Here is the list of the things to do in Nantes, France, for an unforgettable holiday. If you need some tips on how to combine them, check out our Nantes 2-day itinerary .

1. Château of the Dukes of Brittany

The Château of the Dukes of Brittany (Château des Ducs de Bretagne) is one of the top attractions in the city. The old seat of the Dukes of Brittany, this fortified château lies in the historic heart of Nantes. Built from the 14th to the 18th century, it has been listed as a historical monument since 1862.

Château de Nantes is one of the best castles in Brittany , or at least former Brittany! Stroll around the Château’s courtyard and ramparts before entering to explore the different rooms and the Nantes History Museum. The museum displays nearly 1150 collector’s items and hosts numerous temporary exhibitions.

DID YOU KNOW? Anne de Bretagne , one of the most famous Duchess of Brittany and born in Nantes, was married to two Kings of France!

The best part of the château is the 500-meter path at the top of the ramparts, from which you can see Nantes from every angle. Even more awesome? Access to the ramparts is free! Château des Ducs de Bretagne: Place Marc Elder, Nantes; Opens from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8.30 am to 7 pm.

2. Saint-Pierre Cathedral

Nantes’ stunning Cathedral is just wonderful. Its construction has spanned over 400 years and boasts flamboyant Gothic architecture.

About the size of Notre-Dame-de-Paris, Saint-Pierre Cathedral features a white stone façade surrounded by two massive towers with terraces from which you can admire the city.

One of the top Nantes attractions, you will love its interior. Step inside the church to see the central arched nave with beautiful ornaments, a grand pipe organ, and the tomb of Francis II, the last Duke of Brittany, considered a French Renaissance masterpiece. Then descend to the Romanesque crypts to discover its treasure and learn about the church’s history.

Following the fire of 2020, the Cathedral is under re-construction works and will be closed until the beginning of 2025

3. Machines de l’Ile

If you are looking for Nantes tourist attractions for all the family, head to the Ile de Nantes . Once home to Nantes’ shipyards, the west side of the Ile de Nantes has today a unique attraction you shouldn’t miss.

The Machines de l’Ile are articulated interactive machines representing giant animals inspired by the imaginative writings of Jules Verne and the fanciful gizmos of Leonardo da Vinci.

These extraordinary machines are a Nantes must-see and were brought to life by a group of artists and machinists. The most famous ones are the Carrousel des Mondes Marins , l’Arbre aux Hérons (the Heron Tree), and the Grand Elephant , 12 meters tall, which can carry 52 passengers. You can also see how the machines are built and repaired in one of the hangars of the former shipyard.

Machines de l’Ile: Parc des Chantiers, Boulevard Léon Bureau; Opens from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 6 pm (10 am to 7 pm on Saturday and Sunday)

4. Passage Pommeraye

Built in 1843, this shopping center is where to shop in style. Located between Rue de la Fosse and Rue Santeuil, the Passage Pommeraye has stunning architecture. Similar to the covered passages of Paris, the one in Nantes boasts a monumental decorative staircase, neo-Renaissance sculptures, and an iron and glass roof that fills the venue with natural light.

The Passage Pommeraye is a photo-worthy sight, so you should check it out during your Nantes sightseeing, even if you are not a shopaholic. But if you want to spoil yourself with some French shopping, you will be thrilled to know that Passage Pommeraye features luxury and classic boutiques.

5. Théâtre Graslin

Located in the square with the same name, Théâtre Graslin is one of the oldest and most beautiful theaters – opera houses in France. Built in the late 18th century in the Italian neoclassical style, the Théâtre Graslin has a gorgeous main façade adorned with sculpture. The Theater’s most striking characteristic is the waterfall cascading down from its rooftop.

The venue is even more spectacular at night when the building is illuminated and creates a magical environment.

Once inside, you will see an elegant auditorium with blue velvet seats, wall embroidery, and a fresco-painted ceiling.

The Théâtre Graslin is an iconic landmark, and there are countless cafés, bars, and restaurants around it. If you wonder what to see in Nantes with beautiful architecture, you can’t miss Place Graslin and its opera house!

6. Stroll along the Banks of the Loire River

One of the features that make Nantes so beautiful is the Loire River . Taking relaxing walks along its banks is one of the best activities to do in the city. Perfect in every season, locals spend their late afternoons after work and Sundays strolling along the Loire River.

On the River’s left bank, you will find the Musée de l’Esclavage , one of the most important memorials in the world devoted to the slave trade and its abolition, which is free to visit. It is a solemn reminder of Nantes’ history as the most active slave-trading port in 18th-century France, paying tribute to those who struggled – and still struggle – against slavery in the world.

The river also creates a neighborhood island called Ile de Nantes , which is completely surrounded by its waters. While on the island, don’t miss the Quai des Antilles, where you will find wide paths for strolling, bar terraces, and art installations.

Musée de l’Esclavage: Quai de la Fosse – Passerelle Victor-Schœlcher, Nantes; Opens everyday from 9 am to 8 pm.

7. Jardin des Plantes

Nantes’ Jardin des Plantes is among France’s most remarkable gardens thanks to its 10,000 species of plants. Located in the heart of Nantes, just a stone’s throw away from the Château of the Dukes of Brittany, the Jardin des Plantes is nearly seven hectares and is among France’s four largest botanical gardens.

A visit to the Jardin des Plantes is one of the best things to do in Nantes, France, for a relaxing day. Stroll around to marvel at the colorful and fragrant flowers and tall trees like a 220-year-old magnolia and two giant sequoias that are 150 years old. The best parts of the Jardin des Plantes are the Palm House , with plants from tropical America, and the Greenhouse , displaying orchids from Africa and Asia.

8. Musée Jules Verne

If you are a Jules Verne books fan, you cannot miss his museum when you visit Nantes. The famous Jules Verne was born in Nantes in 1828 and spent a part of his life in the city. This French writer, playwright, and poet was a pioneer of science fiction, and among his most famous works is the novel “Around the World in Eighty Days.”

Visiting the Jules Verne Museum is one of the best things to do in Nantes. Housed in a large red-and-white bourgeois mansion from 1878, the Musée Jules Verne is divided into eight rooms where you can learn all about the life and works of the French writer.

The museum’s top exhibit is the library displaying Verne’s extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and illustrations. Musée Jules Verne: 3 Rue de l’Hermitage, Nantes; Opens from Saturday to Wednesday, from 10 am to 7 pm.

9. Take a Day Trip

What to do in Nantes, France, if you have an extra day? Nantes is surrounded by beautiful towns that you should consider visiting.

A great day trip idea is the charming Clisson , a picturesque town about 30 minutes from Nantes. Clisson is easily reachable by train and car, and among its main attractions is its medieval castle that sits atop a hill and from which you can admire stunning views.

Another wonderful day trip from Nantes is to Pornic , located 50 km southwest. Within easy reach by train and car, Pornic is a popular resort town on France’s Atlantic Coast. It’s a great getaway during which you can relax, explore the medieval town, lie at the beach, and taste flavorful seafood. Check out our article with the best day trips from Nantes .

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