Things To Do
in Nantes
Nantes is a vibrant city located on the Loire River in western France. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and thriving cultural scene. The city has a mix of medieval buildings and modern structures, creating a unique blend of old and new.
Nantes also boasts picturesque parks, gardens, and a lively waterfront area that make it a charming destination for visitors.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $60
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the ChĂąteau des Ducs de Bretagne, where you can stroll through the impressive courtyard. Don't forget to visit the museum inside to learn about Nantes' rich history.
Head to the stunning Les Machines de l'Ăźle and marvel at the whimsical mechanical animals. Take a ride on the Grand ĂlĂ©phant for a unique experience.
Wind down with dinner at a local bistro in the Bouffay district. Enjoy some traditional French cuisine while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Visit the Musée d'Arts de Nantes to admire its vast collection of art spanning from the 13th to the 21st centuries. Spend time wandering through the beautiful galleries.
Relax in the nearby Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful botanical garden perfect for a quiet afternoon. Don't miss the unique plants and sculptures scattered throughout the park.
Check out a local theater performance or concert at Le Lieu Unique. Experience the vibrant arts scene while enjoying a drink in this cultural hub.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history with numerous museums and historic sites.
- Vibrant arts scene with festivals, music events, and theater performances.
- Excellent public transportation system, making it easy to navigate the city.
- Proximity to the Loire Valley, known for its beautiful landscapes and vineyards.
- A strong emphasis on sustainability and green spaces, making it a pleasant place to live.
- Variable weather with a lot of rain, especially in the winter months.
- Housing prices can be high in desirable areas, making affordability a concern.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
- Limited job market in certain sectors compared to larger cities like Paris.
- Some areas may experience less nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities.
Best Activities in Nantes
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the botanical gardens and enjoy a leisurely walk
Take a scenic boat tour to admire the picturesque surroundings
Enjoy a bike ride along the beautiful Loire River
Relax and have a picnic in the peaceful park setting
Tours
Uncover the best of Nantes with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nantes
Visit one of these nice places.
A unique artistic project located at the crossroads of Jules Verneâs âinvented worldsâ, the mechanical universe of Leonardo da Vinci, and the industrial history of Nantes.
A castle located in the city center with stunning architectural features and beautiful surrounding gardens.
A beautiful and historic shopping arcade with a stunning glass roof and ornate decorations that provide a picturesque photo opportunity.
Food in Nantes
Nantes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory buckwheat crepe filled with an array of delicious ingredients such as cheese, ham, and mushrooms. Be sure to try the classic 'Galette complĂšte' with ham, cheese, and a perfectly cooked egg. Head to 'La Cigale' or 'Creperie Heb Ken' for authentic galettes.
Must-Try!
This iconic buttery white wine sauce is a staple in Nantes' cuisine, often served with fresh fish or seafood dishes. It's a must-try for seafood lovers, and you can savor this delicacy at 'Le Nid' or 'La Civelle' for an authentic experience.
A delightful dish featuring tender duck meat marinated in local Muscadet wine and accompanied by seasonal vegetables. For an exceptional rendition of Canard Nantais, visit 'L'Atelier Jean Bloy' or 'La Maison des 3 Plats.'
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nantes better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Head to Talensac Market to explore a bustling array of fresh produce, local cheeses, seafood, and aromatic spices. This is a perfect spot to sample regional specialties and indulge in delightful street food offerings such as oysters, artisan cheeses, and freshly baked bread.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nantes, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close when interacting with others.
When meeting someone in Nantes, it's customary to greet with a kiss on the cheek, particularly among friends and acquaintances.
At the dining table, it's polite to keep your hands on the table, refrain from starting the meal before the host, and engage in conversation during the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nantes with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nantes
Ensure a smooth experience
In Nantes, France, it is customary to leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants and cafes if you received good service. Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated and considered a gesture of appreciation for the service provided.
In Nantes, France, most businesses including restaurants, hotels, and shops accept major credit and debit cards such as Visa and Mastercard. Contactless payment methods are also widely accepted. Cash is still commonly used, especially for smaller transactions and at local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nantes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Nantes, with the city coming to life as flowers bloom and the weather becomes mild. You can expect various outdoor events and festivals during this time, including the famous Nantes Wine Festival.
Summer in Nantes brings warm weather and long daylight hours, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions such as the Jardin des Plantes and the Loire River. The city also hosts numerous outdoor concerts and cultural events during the summer months.
Autumn in Nantes offers beautiful foliage as the city's parks and gardens transform into a sea of vibrant colors. This season also marks the harvest time, with local markets showcasing an abundance of fresh produce and regional specialties.
Winter in Nantes is a magical time, with the city adorned in festive decorations and holiday lights. Visitors can enjoy traditional Christmas markets, ice skating, and seasonal performances, creating a cozy and enchanting atmosphere.
Nantes at Night
Hiking in Nantes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park located just outside Nantes, ideal for short hikes and walks through nature, featuring trees, ponds, and a variety of trails.
A lovely forest area offering scenic walking paths, perfect for hikers looking for a peaceful escape from the city.
While primarily known for its shipbuilding history, the surrounding area offers trails for hiking along the riverbanks with picturesque views.
Located a short drive from Nantes, this regional park features a mix of marshland and wooden paths, great for hiking and bird watching.
An island park in Nantes, featuring serene paths along the water, Japanese gardens, and lush greenery ideal for gentle hikes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nantes through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nantes by plane.
Main airport serving Nantes, France, with international and domestic flights.
Located about 100 km from Nantes, serving regional and limited international destinations.
Approximately 200 km from Nantes, serving a variety of domestic and some international flights.
Located around 150 km from Nantes, offering mainly domestic flights with some international services.
About 200 km from Nantes, providing seasonal flights mostly to domestic destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, encompassing various ethnic backgrounds and cultural identities within France.
A significant immigrant group in Nantes, primarily due to historical labor migration.
Comprising individuals originating from countries like Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, often linked to post-colonial migration.
Includes various ethnic groups from countries south of the Sahara desert, contributing to the city's diverse culture.
A smaller demographic group that includes individuals from various countries, such as Vietnam and China.
Includes smaller communities and recent migrants from various countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
The Soul of Nantes
Discover the essence of Nantes through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Nantes, with FC Nantes being the city's prominent professional team competing in Ligue 1.
Rugby has a strong following in Nantes, with teams like Nantes Rugby Atlantique participating in national competitions.
Basketball is also popular, with clubs such as Hermine Nantes Basket competing in the French professional leagues.
Handball enjoys popularity in Nantes, with various local clubs and events promoting the sport.
Cycling is a favored pastime, supported by the city's infrastructure for bikes and events like the Tour de France passing through or nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nantes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Nantes boasts a growing number of restaurants and cafes that cater to vegetarians and vegans. 'Veg-O-Resto' and 'Rainbow Cantine' are popular choices offering a fantastic array of plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can explore 'Le Grand Appetit' and 'Obiwi' for delectable gluten-free offerings that showcase the best of Nantes' culinary scene.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nantes with these cultural adventures.
