Nantes travel guide

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Introduction to Nantes

Les Machines de l'Île, Château des ducs de Bretagne, and Botanical Garden have one thing in common - they're all three very good reasons to visit Nantes, France. Nantes has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. This city in Loire-Atlantique, Pays de la Loire, France is a travel destination everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Boasting a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of over 320.7 thousand people, the city of Nantes is truly one of the main highlights of France.

Easily accessible from Nantes Atlantique airport, Nantes is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in France any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Nantes as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Nantes is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Nantes below!

Top services in Nantes

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Nantes, France. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 338 airlines that fly to France. Browse the 31 top-rated tours available to you in Nantes. Compare the rates and services of the 5 types of places to stay in Nantes and the 7 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Nantes.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Nantes, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Nantes on your vacation in France.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Nantes from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Nantes!

Learn more about France

There are many reasons to visit the city of Nantes, but a trip to France needs no explanation.

Exploring France, which spans 643,801 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. France offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Les Machines de l'Île, Château des ducs de Bretagne, and the Botanical Garden, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in France.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about France.

Best time to visit Nantes

The best time to explore Nantes is from June to September, during the warm summer months. The weather is typically pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This period also coincides with the Voyage à Nantes, a city-wide art and cultural festival held from July to mid-August, transforming the city into an open-air museum. If you prefer avoiding crowds, consider visiting in the spring months of April and May. The weather is milder, but the city is less crowded and accommodation prices are generally lower. Additionally, the Nantes Carnival, one of the largest in France, occurs in April, offering a vibrant and unique experience. The fall season, particularly October, also offers a balanced blend of mild weather and fewer tourists. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers. In conclusion, timing your visit according to your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and local events will ensure you enjoy the best of Nantes.

Weather in Nantes

Nantes, a city situated in the western part of France, is characterized by a temperate oceanic climate. This results in mild temperatures throughout the year, with the average annual temperature being around 12°C. The city experiences four distinct seasons.

Winters in Nantes, from December to February, are generally mild with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing point. Snowfall is infrequent. Spring, from March to May, brings slightly warmer temperatures and increased rainfall. Nantes' summer season, from June to August, is warm and sunny, with temperatures typically ranging between 20°C and 25°C. Autumn, from September to November, often sees mixed weather, with sunny days quickly turning into rainy ones.

Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, but the city's location near the Atlantic Ocean can occasionally bring heavy rain or strong winds. Despite this, Nantes is generally considered to have a pleasant climate. Travelers are advised to check the forecast before their trip and pack accordingly.

Local tip for visiting Nantes

An insider tip for a distinctive experience in Nantes is to visit the city on a Sunday. As it is a typical French tradition to close shops and businesses on Sundays, most of the city will be quiet. However, the Isle of Nantes, where the Machines of the Isle are located, remains lively and buzzing. The local ‘Flea Market’ on the bank of the Loire attracts both locals and tourists with its array of second-hand items, from vintage clothing to antique furniture and unique trinkets. It's a unique opportunity to mingle with the locals, practice your French, and possibly find a unique souvenir. Additionally, the city organizes 'Dimanche à Nantes', when exhibitions, workshops, and concerts take place throughout the city, providing a cultural feast. Remember, while this Sunday tradition offers a relaxed, authentic experience, one should also be prepared for many shops and some restaurants to be closed.

What to see in Nantes

Photo of castle of the Dukes of Brittany (Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne) in Nantes, France.

Nantes has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Nantes.

Top attractions in Nantes

Home to plenty of top attractions, Nantes is more than just a wonderful city in France. Nantes is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of France.

One fascinating sight in Nantes is the unforgettable Les Machines de l'Île. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Nantes.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in France, check out our list of top attractions in Nantes below. Discover the best places to visit in Nantes, including the fascinating Les Machines de l'Île, Château des ducs de Bretagne, Botanical Garden, Ile de Versailles, and Parc de Procé.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Nantes.

Things to do in Nantes

Photo of Nantes aerial panoramic view.

Enrich your travel experience in Nantes by joining tours and activities. Nantes offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Nantes below.

Most popular experiences in Nantes

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Nantes.

Nantes offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, City Tours, and Walking Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in France.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Nantes by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Nantes

Travelers in Nantes can choose from 8 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Cultural Tours is the answer.

The most popular tour in Nantes is the fantastic Segway: "Inside the Historical Center of Nantes" - city tour Nantes - 1H00. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Nantes one of the best travel destinations in France.

Nantes also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Nantes Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour is the cheapest tour in the city. This experience costs around 6 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Nantes.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Nantes and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Nantes below.

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Discover the best things to do in Nantes. Choose from 31 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Nantes. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Nantes

Nantes, a city with a rich culinary tradition, offers a plethora of dining options ranging from street food to high-end restaurants. One of the best places to eat in Nantes is the Bouffay district, a vibrant area teeming with bistros serving traditional Breton crêpes and galettes. Don't miss out on trying 'muscadet', a local white wine that pairs perfectly with seafood, a staple in Nantes' cuisine. For those with a sweet tooth, 'berlingots nantais', small pyramid-shaped candies are a must. For street food lovers, 'Talensac market' offers a variety of local delicacies including cheeses, pastries, and fresh produce. High-end dining options include 'L'Atlantide 1874', which boasts a Michelin star and offers stunning views of the Loire River. Practical advice for exploring Nantes' food scene includes trying to reserve a table in advance for popular restaurants and trying local dishes to get a real taste of the city's culinary culture.

Nightlife in Nantes

Nantes, a pulsating city in western France, showcases a vibrant nightlife scene full of diverse options to suit every preference. The Bouffay district, with its charming historic streets lined with bars and pubs, is arguably the best area for bars in Nantes. Here, you'll find a blend of traditional Irish pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and vibrant dance clubs. Le Nid, located at the top of Tour de Bretagne, is a must-visit for its panoramic city views and unique bird-themed decor, perfect for starting the night with an aperitif.

The Hangar à Bananes on the island of Nantes offers another dynamic nightlife hub, with its converted warehouses now housing some of the city's hottest nightclubs and music venues. Don't miss Le Lieu Unique, a former biscuit factory turned cultural center, where you can enjoy a multitude of performances, from live music to DJ sets. The city's late-night transport services, including night buses and affordable taxis, make it easy to navigate this lively city after dark.

In Nantes, the night is not merely a time but an experience, a cultural phenomenon that reflects the city’s youthful energy and innovative spirit.

Best shopping in Nantes

Nantes is a haven for shoppers, offering a mix of trendy boutiques, traditional markets, and modern shopping centers. Passage Pommeraye, a stunning three-level shopping arcade from the 19th-century, is arguably the best place to go shopping in Nantes. It is not only an architectural marvel but also hosts unique boutiques with a distinct French fashion sense.

Head to Rue Crébillon for a selection of high-end brands, or explore the vibrant Talensac Market, Nantes' largest food market teeming with local produce and gourmet delights. The Erdre River Banks are an ideal spot for those seeking local craftsmanship, offering handmade jewelry, ceramics, and textiles.

Don't miss out on Nantes' specialty, the Petit Beurre biscuit, available at any grocery store. For an authentic shopping experience, visit the flea markets at Place Viarme or the trendy boutiques in the Quartier Graslin. Remember that most shops close on Sundays and during lunch hours, typically from 12 pm to 2 pm. With its rich shopping culture and diverse offerings, Nantes provides a memorable retail experience in every corner.

Best Free Things to Do in Nantes

Nantes, a vibrant city on the Loire River, is filled with an abundance of free activities that allow you to immerse yourself in its rich history and culture. One of the best free things to do in Nantes is to visit the Château des Ducs de Bretagne. While the museum inside has an entry fee, you can roam the grounds, admire the stunning architecture, and soak in the historical atmosphere at no cost. Another must-visit is the Jardin des Plantes, an exquisite botanical garden that houses thousands of plant species. Wander through its beautifully landscaped paths, marvel at the stunning flower displays, and relax by the tranquil ponds. Don't miss the Passage Pommeraye, a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade. Its grandeur and elegance make it more of a historical monument than a shopping center. Lastly, visit the vibrant Trentemoult district. Once a fishing village, it's now a kaleidoscope of colorful houses, quirky art installations, and waterfront cafes. All these places offer a rich and fulfilling experience without spending a penny.

Vacation packages in Nantes

Photo of view on the saint Pierre cathedral in Nantes city in France.

The best and easiest way to visit Nantes is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in France.

Booking a vacation package to Nantes means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Nantes to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Nantes is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 149 unique vacation packages to Nantes, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Nantes.

Popular types of vacations in Nantes

The most popular way to experience Nantes is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in France. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Nantes on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in France, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across France, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Nantes, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Nantes below.

Top vacation packages in Nantes

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in France. In fact, you can choose from as many as 149 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Nantes, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of France.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the city of Nantes.

For an epic vacation, discover Nantes and other top destinations in France on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day Relaxed France Road Trip from Nantes to Paris and Angers. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Nantes, but also in other top places to visit in France. If Parc de la Gaudinière, Les Machines de l'Île, Château des ducs de Bretagne, Château de Clisson, and Grand Patrimoine de Loire-Atlantique are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Nantes, book the popular Cheap 3-Day France City Break in Nantes and spend as little as 496 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Nantes, including the fantastic Miroir d'eau, Les Machines de l'Île, Botanical Garden, Château des ducs de Bretagne, and Ile de Versailles.

Get more Nantes vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in France that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Nantes

Discover and compare 149 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Nantes.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Nantes get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in France. Your customized holiday package to Nantes is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Nantes

To get to the city of Nantes the fastest way possible, travelers from outside France can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Nantes by booking flights with any of the 49 airlines that offer direct flights to Nantes Atlantique airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Nantes Atlantique airport are Ryanair, United Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Air China, and Azul. Go to this page to compare all flights to Nantes.

To reach the city of Nantes, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Nantes Atlantique airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Nantes, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Nantes Atlantique airport and Nantes below.

Find cheap flights to Nantes

Photo of Jardin des plantes de Nantes is a municipal botanical garden in Nantes city.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Nantes, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in France. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Nantes, France, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Nantes costs around 16 EUR and is offered by the airline Vueling. The flight leaves on October 21 at 3 and departs from Málaga airport in Málaga, Spain.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Nantes cost approximately 105 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on May 28 and the return flight is scheduled on May 2. The flight time is around 2 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Charles de Gaulle Airport.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to France and the city of Nantes from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Nantes

Travelers visiting Nantes in France can fly to Nantes Atlantique airport directly from 1721 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Nantes Atlantique airport and the city of Nantes in France depart from Nantes Atlantique airport in Nantes, France, Albany International airport in Albany, the United States, and Greenville–Spartanburg International airport in Greenville, the United States.

Travelers can fly to France by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Nantes; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Albany; and from 2 weekly flight(s) from Greenville.

The airline that operates most flights to France is Cambodia Airways. Cambodia Airways offers 12 scheduled flight routes to France.

Discover the most popular flights to Nantes below. Click to view flights to Nantes, France from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Nantes

Photo of tourist in France- the Erdre river in Nantes.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Nantes is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Nantes usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Nantes offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Nantes and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Nantes planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Nantes, you'll find 5 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in France can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Nantes. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Nantes.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Nantes in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Nantes

A trip to the fascinating Nantes, France, means opportunities to relax at any of the 5 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 110 vacation rental apartments, 100 hotels, 8 cottages, 1 bed & breakfast and 0 guesthouses. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Nantes provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, Campanile Nantes Centre - Saint Jacques is one of the top picks of travelers in Nantes.

The hotel is located at 16 Boulevard Emile Gabory, Nantes, France and boasts many great utilities, including Air conditioning, Restaurant, and Free Wi-Fi.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Nantes. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Nantes, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Appart'City Nantes Viarme. For approximately 45 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular vacation rental apartment.

Below is a list of all 5 different types of places to stay in Nantes. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Nantes

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Nantes for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 219 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Nantes provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Nantes are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Nantes.

If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Aparthotel Adagio Nantes Centre, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Nantes, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Campanile Nantes Centre - Saint Jacques, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Nantes. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Nantes

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Nantes on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Nantes that match the information provided.

Car rental in Nantes

Photo of aerial view of castle in Nantes in France.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Nantes. Nantes has 7 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Nantes start from 31.19 EUR per day or 218.34 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Fiat 500E Electric.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Nantes, starting from 20.99 EUR per day or 146.96 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Nantes, France, below.

Popular types of car rental in Nantes

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Nantes to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Nantes can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore France at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Nantes is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Nantes is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Nantes.

Check out all options available in Nantes and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in France below.

Search for car rental in Nantes

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Nantes. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Nantes, France, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Nantes

Photo of autumn colors along the canal from Nantes to Brest.

The city of Nantes is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in France. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that France has it all.

France is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in France that are as magical as the city of Nantes. The most popular travel destinations in France are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in France

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in France. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Nantes

Photo of boats and yachts on the Erdre river dock in Nantes city, France.

A taste of France through a visit to Nantes can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Nantes to another remarkable destination in France.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Nantes to other spectacular locations in France, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Nantes

Travelers in France can catch flights to domestic airports in Perpignan, Nîmes, Nice, Montpellier, and Marseille. Domestic flights in France are operated by 7 airlines: Volotea, Ryanair, easyJet, Transavia France, and Vueling. There are around 38 scheduled flight routes operating to Nantes on a weekly basis.

From Nantes, travelers can book scheduled flights to 27 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Nantes depart to many top-rated destinations in France and are offered by Volotea, Ryanair, and easyJet.

Search domestic flights from Nantes

Traveling to another city or region in France? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Nantes to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in France on the selected dates.

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