Nantes - Discovering France

Travelling to Nantes

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Nantes, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Nantes and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Nantes, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Nantes for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Nantes

Nantes is a city located in western France, situated on the Loire River. It is the sixth-largest city in France and has a population of approximately 309,000 people. Nantes was historically an important port and was once the capital of Brittany. Today, it is known for its vibrant culture and progressive attitudes, with a focus on sustainability and innovation. Some of the city's top attractions include the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, the Machines de l’Île, and the Jardin des Plantes. Nantes is also famous for its local cuisine, including traditional dishes such as crêpes, galettes, and Muscadet wine.

What to visit in Nantes

1. Château des Ducs de Bretagne - A castle and museum that served as the residence for the Dukes of Brittany. It features exhibitions about the history and culture of the region.
2. Machines of the Isle of Nantes - A themed park with giant mechanical animals and structures such as a 12m tall elephant that carries passengers, a giant carousel, and a marine world with mechanized sea creatures like manta rays. 3. Jules Verne Museum - Housed in a 19th-century mansion, this museum provides insight into the life and achievements of the famous French sci-fi author Jules Verne. 4. Cathedral Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul - A Gothic-style cathedral with a history dating back to the 15th century. The cathedral features superb stained-glass windows and architectural details that are a must-see. 5. Nantes Natural History Museum - It showcases fascinating exhibits related to botany, geology, and zoology. 6. Île de Versailles - A beautiful Japanese-style garden offering a tranquil environment and a perfect escape from the bustling city. 7. Passage Pommeraye - A gorgeous 19th-century covered passage with elegant stores. It's an excellent place to shop and admire the beautiful architecture.
8. LU tower - A historic Nantes biscuit factory from the 19th century, it is now an art space that features fascinating exhibitions, including the history of the famous LU biscuit brand. 9. Radisson Blu Hotel - located inside the former courthouse building of Nantes, this historic luxury hotel offers stunning views of the city and features beautiful architectural details. 10. Place Royale - a grand square located in the heart of Nantes known for its beautiful fountain and historic architecture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Nantes.

When to go on holiday to Nantes

The best time to visit Nantes in France is from May to September. During these months, the weather is generally warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Additionally, there are many events and festivals that take place during the summer months, such as the famous "Festi'Neuch" and "Les Escales" that offer a great atmosphere and lots of entertainment. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so there may be crowds and higher prices for accommodations. If you prefer less crowded and more affordable travel, consider visiting Nantes in the shoulder season of April or October.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Nantes

There are several ways to get to Nantes, France: 1. By plane: Nantes Airport is served by various airlines offering both domestic and international connections. From the airport, you can take the shuttle bus, tramway or taxi to reach the city center.
2. By train: Nantes has a well-connected train station and is accessible from major cities in France and Europe. You can use the SNCF website (www.sncf.com) to find and book train tickets.
3. By car: Nantes is easily accessible by car as it is located at the intersection of major highways. You can also rent a car at either the airport or train station.
4. By bus: There are several bus companies that provide connections to Nantes from various cities in France. Flixbus and Ouibus are two popular options.
Overall, depending on your travel needs and budget, you can choose the most convenient option to travel to Nantes.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Nantes, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Nantes

Sure, here are some typical foods of Nantes, France, with a short description for each of them: 1. Gateau Nantais: This is a moist almond cake glazed with a layer of rum and sugar syrup. It is a favorite dessert in the region.
2. Rigolettes Nantaises: These are hard candy pieces made with mint and caramel. They are a popular treat that is often offered as a souvenir.
3. Moules Frites: This dish consists of mussels cooked in white wine, garlic, shallots and butter, and served with crispy fries on the side.
4. Râble de Lievre: This is a traditional rabbit dish that is often served in wine sauce with mushrooms and bacon.
5. Sandwich de La Marquise De Sévigné: This is a baguette sandwich filled with pork liver pâté, ham, cheese, mustard, and sweet and sour onions.
6. Beurre Blanc: This is a classic sauce from the Nantes region that is made with butter, shallots, and white wine. It is often served with fish or seafood.
7. Curé Nantais: This is a soft cheese that is aged with muscadet wine. It has a unique flavor that is slightly sour and salty.
8. Poiré: This is a type of sparkling apple cider that is produced in the Nantes region. It is a refreshing drink that is perfect for a warm summer day.
I hope this helps you plan your Nantes trip!
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Nantes an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other popular destinations in France such as Paris or the French Riviera, Nantes can be considered a more affordable option. However, it is important to keep in mind that the cost of your trip will depend on various factors such as your travel style, accommodation preferences, and activities.
Accommodation prices in Nantes can range from budget-friendly hostels to high-end hotels, with an average price of around €80-€120 per night for mid-range options. Food and drink prices in Nantes are generally reasonable, with many affordable restaurants and cafes throughout the city.
Overall, as long as you budget accordingly and plan your expenses ahead of time, Nantes can be a reasonably-priced destination for tourists.

Where to find accomodation in Nantes

There are a few different areas of Nantes where it is best to find accommodations depending on what you are looking for in your trip: 1. City Center: The city center is home to many of Nantes' main attractions, such as the Château des ducs de Bretagne and the cathedral. It is also a great location for shopping, bars, and restaurants.
2. Graslin: Graslin is a neighborhood that is known for its theaters and its lively nightlife. It is a great area if you want to be close to the action.
3. Ile de Nantes: This is an up-and-coming neighborhood that is home to various cultural attractions like Les Machines de l'île and the Hangar à Bananes. If you are interested in arts and culture, this could be a great area to stay.
4. La Beaujoire: La Beaujoire is a suburb located on the outskirts of Nantes. It is well-connected by public transportation and is a great option if you are looking for a quieter place to stay with easy access to the city center.
You can check hotel prices at Nantes here:
Booking.com

Is Nantes a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Nantes is generally a safe place for tourists. It is a popular tourist destination and crime rates are relatively low compared to other French cities.
As with any destination, however, it is important to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding isolated areas at night, and keeping your valuables secure. It is also a good idea to follow any safety advice provided by local authorities or your accommodation.
Overall, Nantes is a charming and welcoming city for tourists to explore.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Nantes.

What type of travelers will enjoy Nantes the most?

Nantes, France is a great destination that will appeal to a range of travelers. Here are some types of travelers that will enjoy the most: 1. Couples: Nantes is a beautiful and romantic city that offers plenty of opportunities for couples to have a truly special time together. Some ideas for romantic activities can include visiting the Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne, strolling through the beautiful Botanical Gardens, enjoying a romantic dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in the city, or simply taking a walk along the beautiful River Loire.
2. Families: Nantes is a fantastic destination for families with young children. The city has some great attractions like the Jardin des Plantes, Machines de l’île, or the Planetarium where both parents and children can have fun while learning. Additionally, the city has many child-friendly parks with playgrounds where kids can run around and enjoy the fresh air.
3. Young travelers: Nantes is an attractive destination for young people as well. It boasts a vibrant nightlife with bars, pubs, and nightclubs. In addition, there are many festivals, exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the year that are perfect for young people interested in exploring the city's vibrant art and culture scene.
In summary, Nantes is a versatile city that will please both people looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an exciting trip with friends.

How to get around Nantes

In Nantes, you can use various modes of transportation to move around the city, including buses, trams, and bicloo bikes. The public transportation system is well-connected and efficient, so you can easily get around the city using it. If you prefer, you can also explore the city on foot or by renting a car or taxi.

What to see around Nantes

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Nantes: 1. Clisson: A beautiful town located about 30 km south of Nantes. It is known for its medieval castle and gothic-style church.
2. Pornic: A charming coastal town located about 50 km west of Nantes. It has a lovely beach, a castle, and a picturesque old port.
3. La Baule: A popular seaside resort town located about 80 km southwest of Nantes. It has a long sandy beach, a casino, and many restaurants and shops.
4. Guérande: A fortified medieval town located about 80 km southwest of Nantes. It is known for its well-preserved walls, gates, and towers, as well as its salt marshes.
5. Le Puy du Fou: A historical theme park located about 100 km southeast of Nantes. It offers spectacular shows and attractions related to French history and culture.
I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Nantes!
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