Nantes, France: A Whimsical Adventure on a Budget!

Experience the charm of Nantes - where family fun meets French culture!

19 July 2023

Nantes, located on the Loire River in western France, offers a fantastic family-friendly trip filled with culture and fun. Explore the whimsical attractions of Les Machines de l'Île, where you can ride mechanical animals and marvel at giant steampunk-inspired creations. Discover the historical Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a castle with interactive exhibits that will entertain both kids and adults, and enjoy the beautiful parks and gardens scattered throughout the city.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Nantes: Art and Adventure

  • Start the day at Les Machines de l'île, a whimsical world where carousels meet steampunk and gigantic mechanical creatures come to life!
  • Visit the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a medieval castle with interactive exhibitions that will transport you back in time.
  • Don't miss the Jardin des Plantes, a charming botanical garden filled with vibrant flowers, hidden pathways, and even resident peacocks!
  • Grab a delicious lunch at La Cigale, a historic brasserie known for its ornate art nouveau decor and mouthwatering seafood dishes.
  • Embark on a journey to the stars at the Planétarium, where fascinating shows will awaken your inner astronaut.
  • Head to Ile de Nantes in the evening for a stroll along the Loire River, admiring the stunning architecture and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Day 2

Gastronomic Delights and Hidden Gems

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at La Boulangerie d'Antan, a cozy bakery serving freshly baked croissants and pastries.
  • Explore Passage Pommeraye, a charming 19th-century shopping arcade with elegant boutiques and unique shops.
  • Delight your taste buds with a culinary masterpiece at L'Atlantide, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exceptional seafood dishes.
  • Discover the vibrant street art scene in the creative neighborhood of Île de Nantes, where colorful murals and sculptures adorn the walls.
  • Take a relaxing boat ride along the Erdre River, often referred to as the most beautiful river in France, and soak in the picturesque views.
  • End the day with a visit to the Puy du Fou, a historical theme park located just outside Nantes, where spectacular shows and reenactments will leave you in awe.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Nantes by plane is to fly to Nantes Atlantique Airport from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. The flight is operated by Air France and takes approximately 1 hour.

Car

The best way to get to Nantes by car is to take the A11 motorway from Paris. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Train

The best way to get to Nantes by train is to take the TGV from Paris Montparnasse to Nantes train station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Boat

There is no direct boat route to Nantes. However, it is possible to take a boat to nearby Saint-Nazaire and then take a train or bus to Nantes from there.

Bus

The best way to get to Nantes by bus is to take the Ouibus from Paris Bercy to Nantes. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Destination

Nantes

Nantes, a city where history and innovation collide like two bumper cars at a carnival. Get ready to be charmed by its narrow streets and quirky art installations, and keep an eye out for the giant mechanical elephant wandering around.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Weekend Escapade: Fun-Filled Nantes Travel Guide

A trip to Nantes, France as a tourist can be a delightful experience as it offers a perfect combination of arts, culture, and history. Visitors can explore the picturesque Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne, the exquisite artwork at the museum of fine arts, and the whimsical mechanical animals at the Les Machines de L'ile. Moreover, one can enjoy the local French cuisine and stroll through the charming streets surrounded by Renaissance-era architecture.

Discovering Nantes: A 2-Day Romantic Escape

A romantic trip to Nantes, France promises to be a memorable experience with its enchanting blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. Tour the charming streets with your loved one, explore the medieval castle of Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and admire the breathtaking architecture of the Île de Nantes. Indulge in delectable French cuisine and wine at local cafes and restaurants, and end your days with strolls along the Loire River, gazing up at the starry night sky.

Long Weekend Love: A Romance in Nantes

Nantes, France is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway filled with stunning views, historic architecture, and delicious French cuisine. Take a stroll through the historic streets, visit the famous Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and catch a sunset over the Loire River. End each evening with a glass of wine and a romantic dinner at one of Nantes' many charming restaurants.

Nantes, France: A Budget-Friendly Family Adventure!

Nantes, France is a perfect destination for a family friendly trip with plenty of attractions to keep visitors of all ages entertained. Explore the enchanting Machines de l'Île, home to larger-than-life mechanical creatures and interactive exhibits, or take a leisurely boat ride along the scenic Erdre River. Kids will love exploring the fairytale-like Château des Ducs de Bretagne and learning about the city's history through interactive displays, making Nantes an ideal destination for a memorable family adventure.