Nantes, France: A 4-day budget adventure

Discovering Nantes on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

Nantes, located in western France, offers plenty of attractions for travelers on a budget. The city boasts stunning medieval architecture, beautiful public parks and gardens, and interesting museums with affordable admission fees. Visitors on a budget can also enjoy delicious local food at budget-friendly restaurants and explore the city's vibrant nightlife without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check-in at Hotel Chateaubriand, a cozy and affordable hotel in the heart of Nantes
  • Visit the majestic Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne for some history and stunning views
  • Explore the quaint Bouffay district, home to old buildings, trendy boutiques and local cafes
  • Indulge in a crepe at La Cigale, a historic brasserie adorned with Art Nouveau decor
  • Stroll along the Erdre River and admire the lush greenery and charming houseboats
Day 2

Art and Gardens

  • Get inspired at the contemporary art museum, Le Lieu Unique, housed in an old cookie factory
  • Discover the amazing illustrative art of Jules Verne at the Jules Verne Museum
  • Relax at the serene Japanese-inspired Jardin des Plantes, boasting verdant gardens and a lovely aviary
  • Admire the futuristic structure of the Machines de l'Ile, featuring innovative mechanical creatures and rides
  • Savor the local specialty, petit beurre biscuits, at quirky tea shop, Maison Grimaud
Day 3

Seafood and Castle

  • Take a train to the coastal town of Pornic and indulge in some of the freshest seafood at Le Bistrot du Pêcheur
  • Hike up to the medieval fortress, Château de Pornic, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean
  • Visit the unique and interactive Musée du Pays de Retz, which showcases the local heritage and traditions
  • Head back to Nantes and unwind at the Guinguette, a lovely riverside venue with live music and cocktails
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth at artisanal chocolatier, Vincent Guerlais Chocolate Shop
Day 4

Wine and Canals

  • Embark on a peaceful canal tour and marvel at the picturesque scenery of Nantes from the water
  • Visit the underground wine cellar of the 16th-century Château de Goulaine and indulge in some fine wine tastings
  • Wander around the trendy Machines de l'Ile, home to a vast array of restaurants, cafes, and quirky stores
  • Savor some local favorites such as beurre blanc and rigolettes at the cozy and historic Le Petit Boucot restaurant
  • Enjoy a nightcap and view of the city skyline at the chic and vibrant Sky Bar atop the Radisson Blu hotel.

Length of stay

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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

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