Nantes
France · Pays de la Loire · 8 m
Description
Nantes is a dynamic and creative city in western France on the Loire River and an important center of culture, history, and commerce. Once a residence of the Dukes of Brittany, the city is known for the imposing Château des Ducs de Bretagne, the extraordinary “Machines de l’Île” with their giant mechanical elephant, and its vibrant arts and cultural scene. Nantes combines historic heritage with contemporary art, green urban spaces, and innovative architecture. The Loire, an imaginative art trail running through the city, and the nearby Muscadet wine region give Nantes its distinctive character and make it an appealing base for exploring western France.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: May – June
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Les Machines de l'Île and the Great Elephant
- Château des ducs de Bretagne and Nantes History Museum
- Passage Pommeraye
- Bouffay Quarter and Nantes Old Town
- Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul Cathedral
- Le Voyage à Nantes Art Trail
- Musée d'arts de Nantes
- Jardin des Plantes
- Île de Nantes
- Carrousel des Mondes Marins
- Grue Titan and Loire Riverfront
- Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery
- Quai de la Fosse
- Trentemoult
- Japanese Garden on Île de Versailles
- Erdre River and Boat Trips
- Tour LU and Lieu Unique
- Musée Jules Verne
- Clisson(Day trip)
- Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Nantes
- Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Port Church
- Talensac Market
- Muscadet Wine
- Muscadet Vineyards(Day trip)
- Nantes Seafood and Loire Estuary Cuisine
- Estuaire Contemporary Art Trail(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- NTE
- Train stations:
- Nantes, Rezé - Pont-Rousseau, Saint-Sébastien Pas Enchantés
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry