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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
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!

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.

More travel plans

The Ultimate 5-Day Nantes Adventure

Nantes, France is a charming city located on the Loire River that offers something for every type of tourist. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the beautiful Jardin des Plantes, exploring the impressive Château des Ducs de Bretagne or checking out the unique Machines de l’île exhibit. Nantes also boasts delicious cuisine and a vibrant nightlife, making it a perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

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.

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.

Nantes on a Budget: A Fun-Filled Day Trip Guide

A trip to Nantes, France on a limited budget is possible by taking advantage of free attractions like the Jardin des Plantes and Parc de la Beaujoire. Staying in budget-friendly accommodations, such as hostels or Airbnb apartments, can also help reduce expenses. The city's public transportation system is affordable and reliable, making it easy to explore the city without spending a lot of money.