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.

Save and get deals

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!

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.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Nantes in a Day: A Steampunk Adventure

Nantes is a charming city located in western France, known for its rich history, unique culture, and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore the charming medieval quarters, stroll along the picturesque Loire River, and visit several fascinating museums and art galleries. The city also boasts numerous green spaces and delicious local cuisine, making it an ideal destination for a relaxed and enjoyable holiday.

Nantes in 48: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

Explore the beautiful city of Nantes on a budget-friendly trip with endless attractions to visit. Start by visiting the stunning Castle of the Dukes of Brittany and the unforgettable mechanical elephant at Les Machines de l'Ile. With affordable transportation options and budget-friendly dining, save money while experiencing unforgettable French culture.

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.