Nantes on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Explore Nantes without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Nantes, France offers plenty of affordable attractions, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers. You can explore the historic Château des Ducs de Bretagne, relax in the Jardin des Plantes, and visit the Machines de l'Île for a unique experience. To save money on food, take advantage of the city's many affordable cafes and markets.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Bienvenue à Nantes!

  • Check into the cute and colorful Hôtel Voltaire Opéra, located right in the heart of the city.
  • Stroll through the picturesque Jardin des Plantes, one of the oldest botanical gardens in France.
  • Pay a visit to the strikingly modern Machines de l'Île, featuring fantastical animal-inspired mechanical sculptures.
  • Indulge in a hearty and affordable French dinner at L'Écurie, a cozy bistro with rustic charm.
Day 2

Culture and Creativity

  • Wander around the historic Bouffay district, admiring its charming medieval architecture.
  • Explore the Musée d'arts de Nantes, home to works by French impressionists and contemporary artists.
  • Take in a show at the Théâtre Graslin, an ornate neoclassical venue with a diverse repertoire.
  • Grab some delicious street food at Le Camion Qui Fume, a funky American-style food truck parked by the Loire River.
Day 3

Island Adventure

  • Catch a boat to the Île de Nantes, a revitalized industrial island turned cultural hub.
  • Visit the quirky Les Anneaux de Buren, a series of colorful rings bringing a touch of whimsy to the urban landscape.
  • Learn about the city's seafaring history at the Musée naval Maillé-Brézé, a decommissioned warship.
  • Sample some of the region's best seafood at the trendy La Cantine du Voyage restaurant.
Day 4

History and Heritage

  • Take a day trip to the nearby Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne, a magnificent medieval fortress and museum.
  • Visit the impressive Lieu Unique, a former biscuit factory turned multi-disciplinary arts center.
  • Wander around the Sainte-Croix cemetery, a peaceful and picturesque final resting place.
  • Savor a traditional French meal at affordable prices at the charming Le Lieu Unique restaurant.
Day 5

Nature Escape

  • Head out of town for a day trip to the Parc Naturel Régional de Brière, a stunning wetland preserve with diverse flora and fauna.
  • Go bird watching, kayaking, or horseback riding in this natural paradise.
  • Have a picnic lunch in the great outdoors, surrounded by the tranquil landscape.
  • Return to Nantes for a farewell dinner at the cozy and charming Le Bistrot à Gilles, serving up classic French cuisine with a modern twist.

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

Fun-Filled Long Weekend in Nantes, France

As a tourist in Nantes, France, one can explore the city's rich cultural heritage through its numerous museums and historic sites such as the Château des Ducs de Bretagne and the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul. The city is also renowned for its vibrant arts scene, with a plethora of street art, theatrical productions, and musical performances taking place throughout the year. Visitors can also indulge in Nantes' culinary delights, with local delicacies such as crêpes, galettes, and Muscadet wine being must-tries.

Nantes, France: A Budget-Friendly Family Adventure!

Nantes, France is a perfect destination for a family friendly trip with plenty of attractions to keep visitors of all ages entertained. Explore the enchanting Machines de l'Île, home to larger-than-life mechanical creatures and interactive exhibits, or take a leisurely boat ride along the scenic Erdre River. Kids will love exploring the fairytale-like Château des Ducs de Bretagne and learning about the city's history through interactive displays, making Nantes an ideal destination for a memorable family adventure.

Nantes, France: A 4-day budget adventure

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.

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.