A Whirlwind Weekend in Nantes, France

Discover the artistic heart of France in Nantes.

03 May 2023

Experience the vibrant culture and history of Nantes, France as a tourist. Explore the medieval architecture of the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, visit contemporary art museums such as the famous Les Machines de l'Île, and enjoy traditional French cuisine at local restaurants. Take a stroll through the charming streets and immerse yourself in the beauty of this coastal city.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Get Lost in Nantes

  • Hotel: Hotel Mercure Nantes Centre Grand Hotel
  • Start with a cup of coffee and croissant at Café de la Bourse, watching the locals go about their day.
  • Head to the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, where history comes to life. Don't miss the cannonball embedded in the wall!
  • Stroll through Le Jardin des Plantes. Remember to smell the flowers, and look out for the giant rhinoceros sculpture!
  • Grab lunch at the trendy Oblik Café, known for their tasty, healthy bowls and funky decor.
  • Visit the quirky Machines de l'île, where you can ride a giant mechanical elephant or take a stroll in the "Marine Worlds Carousel".
  • Indulge in some French delicacies at Le Bistrot à Gilles. Try the escargots and a glass of Muscadet – you're in Nantes, after all!
Day 2

Art and Shopping in Nantes

  • Start the day with a visit to the Musée d'Arts de Nantes. The impressive collection features works from the 13th to the 21st century.
  • Walk through the Passage Pommeraye, a stunning 19th century shopping arcade. Window shop or splurge on something special.
  • Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre et Saint-Paul, a breathtaking Gothic church in the heart of the city.
  • Have lunch at La Cantine du Voyage, a funky restaurant housed in a converted shipping container. The creative dishes are made with local, organic ingredients.
  • Head to the trendy neighborhood of Bouffay, where you'll find bars, restaurants, and boutique shops. Stock up on souvenirs or grab a drink at Le Nid, a rooftop bar with bird's-eye views of the city.
  • For dinner, try L'Atelier de Jean, known for their inventive cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. Treat yourself to a glass of local Loire wine and enjoy the flavors of Nantes!

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Nantes on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Nantes, France offers plenty of affordable attractions, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers. You can explore the historic Château des Ducs de Bretagne, relax in the Jardin des Plantes, and visit the Machines de l'Île for a unique experience. To save money on food, take advantage of the city's many affordable cafes and markets.

A Whirlwind Weekend in Nantes, France

Experience the vibrant culture and history of Nantes, France as a tourist. Explore the medieval architecture of the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, visit contemporary art museums such as the famous Les Machines de l'Île, and enjoy traditional French cuisine at local restaurants. Take a stroll through the charming streets and immerse yourself in the beauty of this coastal city.

Fun-Filled Long Weekend in Nantes, France

As a tourist in Nantes, France, one can explore the city's rich cultural heritage through its numerous museums and historic sites such as the Château des Ducs de Bretagne and the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul. The city is also renowned for its vibrant arts scene, with a plethora of street art, theatrical productions, and musical performances taking place throughout the year. Visitors can also indulge in Nantes' culinary delights, with local delicacies such as crêpes, galettes, and Muscadet wine being must-tries.

Nantes-namic: A Whirlwind Family Adventure on a Budget

Nantes, France offers a perfect family-friendly destination with its fascinating blend of history, art, and entertainment. Explore the enchanting Château des Ducs de Bretagne, where kids can immerse themselves in medieval times through exhibitions and interactive activities. Don't miss a visit to the whimsical Les Machines de l'île, where giant mechanical creatures captivate young and old imaginations, making Nantes a truly unforgettable family getaway.