The Ultimate 5-Day Nantes Adventure

Experience the enchanting art and culture of Nantes, France.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Wanderlust on the Island

  • Check into Hotel Oceania Nantes, a chic property with art deco flair, and soak in the ocean views from balcony.
  • Hop on a bus to Île de Nantes, a former shipyard turned creative hub. Walk along the Loire River, admire the whimsical Machines de l'Île and browse the quirky boutiques and galleries.
  • Satisfy your appetite at Le Lieu Unique, a cultural center with a bohemian vibe and a restaurant serving seasonal fare. Try the homemade terrine and local Muscadet wine.
Day 2

Castle Hunting and Contemporary Art

  • Take a tram to Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a magnificent castle with a moat, ramparts and a museum of Nantes' history. Climb up to the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of the city.
  • Have a coffee break at La Cantine du Voyage, a trendy café with a terrace overlooking the river. Try the lemon cake and the homemade iced tea.
  • Head to the art museum Le Voyage à Nantes, which showcases avant-garde works by international artists. Don't miss the luminous installations by Dan Flavin and Félix González-Torres.
  • Dig into classic French cuisine at La Cigale, a belle époque brasserie with ornate decor and a festive ambiance. Order the seafood platter and a glass of champagne.
Day 3

Nature Retreat and Gastronomy

  • Rent a bike from Bicloo and cycle along the Erdre River, a picturesque waterway lined with mansions, parks and gardens. Stop for a picnic at Parc de la Beaujoire, which hosts cultural events and a botanical exhibition.
  • Discover local delicacies at the covered market Talensac, where you can sample artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, chocolates, and more. Buy some Breton butter cookies and Andouille sausages to bring home.
  • Treat yourself to a Michelin-starred dinner at L'Atlantide 1874, a refined restaurant with a maritime decor and a modern twist. Savor the lobster ravioli and the veal tartare with truffles.
Day 4

Cultural Immersion and Nightlife

  • Immerse yourself in the world of Jules Verne at Maison Jules Verne, a historic house where the visionary writer lived and wrote many of his novels. Admire the exotic decor and the collection of objects from his travels around the world.
  • Have a pre-dinner drink at Le Nid, a rooftop bar with a giant bird sculpture and panoramic views of the city. Try the signature cocktail with kiwi and vodka.
  • Indulge in local beers and live music at Le Ferrailleur, a rock venue with a riverside terrace and a raw industrial vibe. Watch the sunset over the Loire and mingle with the locals.
Day 5

Artisanal Shopping and Farewell Brunch

  • Stroll around the charming district of Graslin, known for its eclectic boutiques, antique shops and flower markets. Buy some vintage postcards and an artisanal leather wallet.
  • Brunch at La Belle Équipe, a cozy café with a garden terrace and a menu featuring homemade jams, French toast, and organic smoothies. Chat with the friendly staff and plan your next trip to 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.

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