Nantes Travel Guide

Discover the fascinating city of Nantes in Pays de la Loire, France with this ultimate travel guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, food scene to local culture, find everything you need to know to plan your trip to Nantes.


The Ultimate Guide to Nantes: Explore the Best of Pays de la Loire, France

Located in the heart of Pays de la Loire in France, Nantes is a city that blends history, culture, and modernity in a unique way. From medieval architecture to contemporary art installations, from scenic views to outdoor adventures, Nantes has something to offer everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best of Nantes, including the must-visit attractions, the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the hidden gems of this beautiful city!

Introduction to Nantes

Nantes is a city with a rich history and an exciting future. It was once the capital of Brittany and a major port in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, Nantes is known for its vibrant cultural scene, its many museums and art galleries, and its beautiful parks and gardens. The city is also home to some of the best restaurants and bars in France, where you can taste the finest French wines and cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Nantes

Here is a list of the top attractions and places to visit in Nantes:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Château des Ducs de Bretagne: This castle is a major historical landmark in Nantes and has been beautifully preserved. It was a residence of the Dukes of Brittany and also served as a prison during the French Revolution.
  • Musée d’arts de Nantes: Located in the heart of the city, this museum is home to an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from the 13th to the 21st centuries.
  • Machines de l’Île: This unique attraction features a collection of mechanical animals and sculptures that showcase the ingenuity and skill of the people of Nantes.

Natural Attractions of Nantes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parc de la Beaujoire: This park is located on the outskirts of the city and offers plenty of green spaces, lakes, and walking trails.
  • Jardin des Plantes: This botanical garden features a wide range of flora and fauna and is a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
  • Île de Versailles: This small island is located in the middle of the Erdre river and offers stunning views of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nantes

If you love hiking and biking, Nantes has plenty of great trails to explore. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • Le Voyage à Nantes: This 12-km trail connects the different cultural attractions and hidden gems of the city.
  • Erdre River Valley: This 20-km trail takes you along the scenic Erdre river and allows you to explore the rich flora and fauna of the region.
  • The Loire à Vélo: This 900-km trail starts in Nantes and takes you through the stunning Loire Valley, passing by famous castles and vineyards.

Best Things to Do in Nantes: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the must-do activities and tours in Nantes:

  • Discover the Green Line: This self-guided tour takes you through the city and showcases its most interesting landmarks and hidden gems.
  • Wine Tasting: Nantes has some of the best wine regions in France. You can take a tour of the vineyards and taste some of the finest wines.
  • Canal Tour: Explore the city from a different perspective by taking a boat tour of the canals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nantes

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for Nantes:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Château des Ducs de Bretagne and the Musée d’arts de Nantes
Day 2 Visit the Machines de l’Île and take a boat tour of the canals.
Day 3 Hike or bike along the Le Voyage à Nantes trail and discover the city’s hidden gems.
Day 4 Take a day trip to the nearby vineyards and taste some of the finest French wines.
Day 5 Visit the Parc de la Beaujoire and the Jardin des Plantes
Day 6 Take a tour of the Erdre River Valley and explore its natural beauty.
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local food and nightlife scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Nantes

No visit to Nantes is complete without trying its delicious food and drinks. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crêpes: These thin pancakes are a specialty of Brittany and Nantes has some of the best crêperies in France.
  • Galettes: These savory pancakes are made with buckwheat flour and are often filled with ham, cheese, and egg.
  • Canard de Challans: This roasted duck dish is a local specialty and is served with potatoes and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Muscadet: This white wine is produced in the Nantes wine region and is known for its fresh and crisp taste.
  • Curé Nantais: This local cheese is made from cow’s milk and is often served with a glass of Muscadet.
  • Muscadet Jelly: This sweet jelly is made from Muscadet wine and is often served as a dessert.

Where to Stay in Nantes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nantes has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to affordable hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Radisson Blu Hotel: This luxury hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of the Loire river.
  • Hôtel François 1er: This boutique hotel is located in the historic center of Nantes and has been beautifully restored.
  • La Villa Hamster: This unique hostel is designed like a giant hamster cage and is a great option for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Nantes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Nantes has plenty of great souvenirs and local products that you can bring home, including:

  • Muscadet Wine: This local wine is a great souvenir to bring back home and makes for a perfect gift.
  • Crêpes and Galettes: These tasty treats can be bought from local markets and are a great way to relive your Nantes experience.
  • Curé Nantais: This local cheese is a great gift for cheese lovers and can be bought from local cheese shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Nantes

Nantes has a rich and unique culture that is worth exploring. Here are some of the local customs and traditions:

  • The Breton Language: Breton is a Celtic language that is still spoken in Brittany and is a part of the local culture in Nantes.
  • Fêtes de la Bretagne: This annual festival celebrates the Breton culture and features music, dance, and food.
  • Les Machines de l’Île: This unique attraction is a tribute to the industrial heritage of Nantes and showcases the creativity and ingenuity of the local people.

Best Time to Visit Nantes

The best time to visit Nantes is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and sunny. This is also the peak tourist season in Nantes, so make sure to book your accommodation and attractions in advance. The spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are also great times to visit Nantes, as the crowds are smaller and the weather is mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nantes

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Nantes:

Do:

  • Try the local specialties: Nantes has some of the best food and drinks in France, so make sure to try some of the local specialties.
  • Learn a few words of Breton: The Breton language is a part of the local culture in Nantes, so it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to learn a few words.
  • Respect the local customs: Nantes has a rich culture and history, so make sure to respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Overpack: Nantes is a small city, so it’s easy to get around. Avoid bringing too much luggage with you.
  • Be loud or disruptive: Nantes is a peaceful and quiet city, so make sure to avoid being loud or disruptive in public places.
  • Forget to tip: Tipping is not a common practice in France, but it’s always appreciated if you want to show your appreciation for good service.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nantes

Nantes is a safe city for travelers, with low levels of crime. However, it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions, such as not leaving your valuables unattended and staying in well-lit areas at night.

Health in Nantes

Nantes has a good healthcare system and plenty of hospitals and clinics. In case of an emergency, dial 15 or go to the nearest hospital.

Getting to Nantes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Nantes can be easily accessed by air, train, or bus. Here are some of the best transportation options:

Airports Near Nantes

  • Nantes Atlantique Airport: This is the main airport in Nantes and is located about 8 km southwest of the city.

Bus Stations Near Nantes

  • Gare Routière de Nantes: This is the main bus station in Nantes and is located in the city center.

Other Options

  • Train: Nantes is well-connected by train to other cities in France and Europe.
  • Car: If you prefer driving, Nantes can be easily accessed by car via the A11 and A83 highways.

How to Get Around in Nantes

Nantes is a small city that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. The city also has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a bicycle-sharing program called Bicloo.

Where to Go Next from Nantes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nantes is a great base for exploring the nearby regions of Pays de la Loire and Brittany. Here are some of the best places to visit:

  • La Baule: This seaside resort town is located only an hour away from Nantes and offers stunning beaches and clear waters.
  • Saint-Nazaire: This port city is located at the mouth of the Loire river and is known for its shipyards and naval history.
  • Vannes: This charming town is located in the heart of Brittany and is famous for its stunning medieval architecture.

Conclusion

Nantes is a city that will surprise and enchant you with its rich history, fascinating culture, and vibrant atmosphere. From exploring the historical landmarks to tasting the local specialties, there’s something for everyone in Nantes. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your next trip to Nantes and enjoy all that this stunning city has to offer!

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