Long Weekend Love: A Romance in Nantes

Fall in love all over again in the romantic city of Nantes, France.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Getting to Know Nantes

  • Check-in to the cozy Le Grand Hotel de Nantes located in the heart of the city
  • Stroll through the famous Jardin des Plantes, the city's botanical garden
  • Explore the historical Château des ducs de Bretagne, a medieval fortress turned museum
  • Visit the quirky Machines de l'Île, a mechanical wonderland featuring giant animatronic animals
  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at the elegant La Cigale restaurant known for its seafood dishes and Belle Époque decor
Day 2

Nautical Adventures

  • Grab breakfast at the funky Les 3 Petits Cochons café before heading out to the port
  • Take a boat tour along the Loire River, passing by the striking modern architecture of Île de Nantes
  • Learn about the city's maritime heritage at the Musée Naval de Nantes
  • Take a relaxing afternoon walk along the riverbanks, stopping at the Jardin des Berges for a picnic lunch
  • Enjoy a romantic sunset dinner at the cozy and intimate L'Atlantide 1874, known for its inventive cuisine and extensive wine selection
Day 3

Art and Architecture

  • Start the day with a croissant and coffee at the charming La Bôite à Café
  • Visit the Musée d'Arts de Nantes, a contemporary art museum housed in a historic 19th-century palace
  • Take a walking tour of the city's impressive architecture, including the ornate Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul and the stunning Opéra de Nantes
  • Indulge in a lunch of classic French fare at the cozy Chez Franklin
  • Spend the evening at the lively Le Lieu Unique, a cultural center housed in a former biscuit factory, featuring everything from music and theater to art installations and trendy bars
Day 4

Wine and Dine

  • Start the day with a delectable breakfast at the charming Le Boudoir café
  • Take a day trip to one of the nearby vineyards in the Loire Valley, trying some of France's finest wines
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many winery restaurants, such as Les Caves de la Loire
  • Return to Nantes for a romantic evening at the sleek and modern L'Atelier des Augustins, where you can indulge in gourmet French cuisine and an extensive wine list
  • Bon voyage!

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.

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Nantes in 48: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

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