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

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

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

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Nantes Adventure: 5 Days of Fun, Culture, and Gastronomy!

Nantes, located on the Loire River in western France, offers a perfect mix of culture and entertainment for a family-friendly trip. Home to the stunning Les Machines de l'île, your family can marvel at giant mechanical animals and even take a ride on an enormous mechanical elephant. Explore the vibrant Bouffay district, filled with charming streets, shops, and restaurants, or take a boat ride along the river to discover the history and beauty of this captivating city.

3 Days of Art, Culture, and Fun in Nantes

A trip to Nantes on a limited budget is possible with plenty of cheap food options and free activities. The must-see attractions include the Jardin des Plantes botanical garden, the Château des ducs de Bretagne and the artistic Machines de l’Île. To save on accommodation, consider staying in a budget hostel or Airbnb outside the city center.

Romantic 5-Day Getaway in Enchanting Nantes

Nantes is a charming French city that offers romantic attractions and experiences for couples. With its picturesque historic center, exceptional architecture, and botanical gardens, you can take a leisurely stroll and have a picnic under the trees. Nantes also boasts enticing dining and nightlife options that cater to couples seeking a romantic getaway.