15 Best things to do in Nantes, France, in 1 to 2 days

Introduction

Nantes is France’s 6th largest city, home to around 310,000 people. Located in the western part of the country, it serves as the capital of both the Loire-Atlantiques department and the Pays de la Loire region. Historically and culturally, however, Nantes has deep roots in Brittany—a former duchy and province—making its exclusion from the modern administrative region of Brittany a long-standing point of debate.

The city’s past is rich and layered. It became the seat of a bishopric during the late Roman era before falling under Breton rule in 851. By the 17th century, with the rise of the French colonial empire, Nantes had grown into the country’s largest port and played a central role in the French Atlantic slave trade, accounting for nearly half of the country’s transatlantic voyages in the 18th century. The French Revolution marked the beginning of a period of economic decline.

If you’re arriving from Paris by car, we suggest stopping in Chartres—a charming medieval town well worth a visit on your way west.

Here are all your accommodation options in Nantes

Getting there

Located in western France, Nantes is a vibrant and historic city that’s easy to reach whether you’re arriving from Paris, another French region, or abroad. Its accessibility makes it a perfect stop on a west France road trip or a standalone city break.

• By Train: The fastest and most convenient option from Paris is the TGV (high-speed train). Departing from Paris Montparnasse, it takes just over 2 hours to reach Nantes’ central train station, located near the city center.
• By Plane: Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE) serves several European destinations. Once you land, it’s about a 20-minute journey into town by shuttle bus or taxi.
• By Car: Driving offers flexibility and scenic stopovers. From Paris, the drive takes around 4 hours. If you have time, we highly recommend a stop in Chartres, a beautiful medieval town with a UNESCO-listed cathedral.
• By Bus: Budget bus lines like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus connect Nantes with major French cities, including Paris. The journey takes between 5 to 6 hours—an affordable option for longer stays or spontaneous getaways.

Check all your transportation options online — from buses to trains and ferries — it makes planning so much easier.

Moving Around

Getting around Nantes is easy and enjoyable, thanks to its well-connected public transport and walkable city center. Whether you’re exploring historical landmarks, riverside paths, or quirky neighborhoods, here’s how to move around:

• By Foot: The heart of Nantes, including the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, Île de Nantes, and the medieval Bouffay district, is compact and best explored on foot. Expect charming streets, street art, and lots of surprises along the way.
• By Tram and Bus: Nantes has an excellent tram and bus network operated by TAN (Transports de l’Agglomération Nantaise). There are 3 tram lines and several frequent buses that make it easy to move between neighborhoods. Tickets can be bought at machines or via mobile apps and are valid on all TAN services.
• By Bike: Cycling is a great way to discover Nantes. The city is bike-friendly with many dedicated lanes. You can rent bikes through Bicloo, the city’s self-service bike-sharing system.
• By Navibus (River Ferry): Want to cross the Loire in style? The Navibus is a public river shuttle that connects different parts of the city via the river, including the creative Île de Nantes.
• By Car: Parking can be tricky in the center, so if you’re arriving by car, it’s better to leave it in one of the city’s park-and-ride lots (P+R) and take public transport from there.

Tip: If you’re planning to use public transport a lot, consider a day pass—it’s cheaper and more convenient.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

When to Visit

Nantes is a year-round destination, but each season offers a different way to experience the city’s vibrant culture and natural charm.

• Spring (March to May): Spring brings milder weather, blooming parks, and fewer tourists. It’s an ideal time for strolling along the Loire, discovering the Jardin des Plantes, or enjoying the first events of the season like floral markets. Average temperatures range from 10°C to 18°C.
• Summer (June to August): This is the liveliest time in Nantes, with warm temperatures around 20°C to 27°C and long days. The city hosts the “Le Voyage à Nantes” art trail, turning public spaces into creative playgrounds. Perfect for open-air cafes, concerts, and river cruises.
• Autumn (September to November): With crisp air and vibrant foliage, autumn is a beautiful and quieter time to visit. Expect temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. It’s also wine harvest season in the nearby vineyards of the Muscadet region—ideal for a local tasting tour.
• Winter (December to February): While cooler (3°C to 10°C), winter in Nantes has its charm. The Christmas market lights up the city, museums are peaceful to explore, and cozy cafés offer a warm welcome. Rain is more common, so bring a coat and umbrella.

Tip: The best time to visit Nantes is from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is most pleasant and the city’s cultural life is in full bloom.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

Nantes offers a great selection of hotels for all budgets, whether you’re looking for charm, style, or location. For ease and the best rates, we recommend booking through Booking.com, which also gives you the flexibility of free cancellation on many options.

• (€) Best Western Hotel Graslin: A comfortable and affordable option in a central location, just a short walk from the Graslin Theatre and Passage Pommeraye. Ideal if you’re looking for convenience and value.
• (€€) Maisons du Monde Hotel & Suites – Nantes: Stylish, modern, and infused with chic French design. This hotel is perfect for travelers who love boutique charm with thoughtful details and great service.
• (€€€) Radisson BLU Hotel Nantes: Set in a former courthouse, this luxurious hotel combines elegance with history. Spacious rooms, top-notch amenities, and one of the most unique hotel atmospheres in town.

Here are all your accommodation options in Nantes

What to Eat

Nantes has a rich culinary identity rooted in both land and sea. Whether you’re strolling through a local market or sitting down at a traditional bistro, here are a few local specialties to try:

• Les Rigolettes Nantaises – These vintage candies have a crisp sugar shell and a soft marmalade center. The original flavors include pineapple, raspberry, lemon, blackcurrant, and mandarin. A nostalgic treat you can pick up from old-fashioned sweet shops around the city.
• Le Petit Beurre – A buttery biscuit that originated in Nantes and became a symbol of French snacking. It’s simple but delicious—perfect with coffee or tea.
• Le Curé Nantais – A semi-soft, washed-rind cheese with a strong personality, made in the village of St-Julien-de-Concelles near Nantes. A must-try for cheese lovers.
• Muscadet (AOC) – The local white wine made from Melon de Bourgogne grapes. Crisp, dry, and perfect to pair with seafood, especially the Atlantic oysters you’ll find on many menus.
• Nantes Lamb’s Lettuce (Mâche) – Grown extensively in the Pays de la Loire, this delicate green salad is often served with a drizzle of walnut oil and some local cheese. France’s best comes from here.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Things to do in Nantes

Discover the Nantes Botanic Garden

Our favorite spot in the city! The Nantes Botanic Garden is a peaceful, lush oasis right in the heart of town. Spanning 7 hectares, it’s home to over 10,000 plant species and welcomes more than 5,000 seasonal flowers each planting season. The 800-square-metre greenhouses house rare tropical and exotic plants, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Recognized with the prestigious “Remarkable Garden” label, the Jardin des Plantes is also one of the top four botanical gardens in France. Whether you’re visiting for a quiet stroll, a picnic, or to admire the imaginative plant sculptures and whimsical installations scattered across the grounds, it’s a must-see in Nantes.

Explore the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany

Step into history at the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, the iconic landmark at the heart of Nantes. This impressive fortress features 15th-century ramparts and a series of buildings dating from the 14th to 18th centuries, blending medieval and Renaissance architecture.

You can freely explore the castle grounds, stroll along the ramparts for panoramic views of the city, and relax in the courtyard. Inside, don’t miss the Nantes History Museum, housed within the castle walls—it offers a fascinating insight into the city’s past, from the Duchy of Brittany to the present day.

Here are all your accommodation options in Nantes

Admire Le Lieu Unique from the Castle

Just across from the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, you’ll spot Le Lieu Unique, a striking cultural space housed in a former LU biscuit factory. While it’s not a must-visit for every traveler, it’s worth admiring from the castle ramparts. Opened in the early 2000s, this center for contemporary culture regularly hosts exhibitions, performances, and events that reflect Nantes’ creative spirit.

Even if you don’t step inside, the building itself is a symbol of the city’s blend of industrial heritage and modern art.

Visit the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul of Nantes

Step inside one of Nantes’ most iconic landmarks — the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul. It took more than 500 years to complete this masterpiece, which rivals Notre-Dame-de-Paris in size.

Its striking white stone façade is framed by two imposing towers, and if you’re up for it, you can climb to the terraces for a panoramic view over the city. Inside, the vast Gothic nave is a peaceful space to explore.

Don’t miss the crypt and the tombs of François II and Marguerite de Foix, beautifully sculpted and steeped in local history.

Discover the Tranquility of Île de Versailles

Take a peaceful break in the heart of Nantes at the Île de Versailles, a 1.7-hectare artificial island on the Erdre River. Originally home to tanners and shipwrights in the 19th century, the island was transformed into a serene Japanese garden in 1983.

Wander through its beautifully designed rockeries and cascading waterfalls, and admire the three buildings inspired by traditional Japanese architecture.

Don’t miss the Maison de l’Erdre, surrounded by a Zen garden, where exhibitions about the river and its ecosystem offer an educational and calming pause. It’s a perfect spot to unwind during your city explorations.

Stroll Through Place Royale and Rue Crébillon

Make a stop at Place Royale, one of Nantes’ most iconic squares, framed by elegant 18th-century buildings and centered around a striking fountain symbolizing the city and its rivers. It’s a lovely spot to pause, snap a few photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

From here, continue your walk along Rue Crébillon, one of the main pedestrian shopping streets in Nantes, filled with boutiques, local shops, and classic French charm. It’s the perfect blend of history, culture, and a little retail therapy.

Step Into the Timeless Charm of Passage Pommeraye

Don’t miss Passage Pommeraye, one of the most elegant and photogenic spots in Nantes. This 19th-century shopping arcade, named after its developer Louis Pommeraye, connects Rue Santeuil and Rue de la Fosse, which are nearly 10 meters apart in height.

Its stunning architecture, ironwork, and glass ceilings make it a perfect place to snap a photo, browse unique boutiques, or simply admire the atmosphere of a bygone era. It’s not just a passage—it’s a little piece of Nantes’ history.

Here are all your accommodation options in Nantes

Play Among Giants at Les Machines de l’Île

Let your imagination run wild at Les Machines de l’Île, a whimsical and creative attraction set on the former shipyards of Nantes. This unique world brings together art, engineering, and fantasy, inspired by the worlds of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci.

The star of the show? The Great Elephant — a towering 12-meter mechanical elephant that strolls around the area, spraying water and delighting children and adults alike. You’ll also discover the Marine Worlds Carousel, the beginnings of the Heron Tree, and the fascinating Machine Gallery, where prototypes and creatures come to life.

It’s one of the most unforgettable things to do in Nantes, especially for families and curious minds.

Reflect at the Miroir d’eau

This modern water mirror sits just outside the Château des Ducs de Bretagne and adds a touch of playfulness to the historic setting. The shallow pool reflects the castle’s façade, creating a picture-perfect moment—especially at sunset. Kids splash through the mist in warmer months, and it’s a peaceful place to sit and watch life go by.

Step Inside Église Saint-Clément

Often overlooked by visitors, this neo-Gothic church charms with its slender spire and elegant stained-glass windows. Tucked away from the bustling streets, Église Saint-Clément is a quiet sanctuary in the heart of Nantes—ideal for a contemplative break between stops.

Wander Through the Bouffay District

Step into the historic heart of Nantes by wandering through the Bouffay District. With its medieval streets, half-timbered houses, and lively atmosphere, this pedestrian zone is a must for anyone wanting to feel the city’s old soul. It’s also the best area to grab a bite or sip on Muscadet in a cozy café. Don’t miss the mix of traditional crêperies and international eateries scattered across the cobbled lanes—it’s where history meets modern local life.

Spot the Colonne Louis XVI

Hidden in plain sight in Place Maréchal-Foch, this column pays tribute to Louis XVI. It’s one of the few such monuments in France, making it a unique historic stop. Surrounded by classical façades, this lesser-known landmark offers a quick yet interesting detour during your city wander.

Admire 8 rue Sully – Bâtiment Jean-Baptiste Daviais

Architecture fans will love this eye-catching residential building at 8 rue Sully. Designed in the early 20th century, it’s a gem of urban design with beautiful lines and decorative elements. Slow down, look up, and enjoy the charm that lives in the details.

Here are all your accommodation options in Nantes

Dive into Urban Art at Blockhaus DY10

Tucked just behind the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, the Blockhaus DY10 is a former WWII bunker turned into a colorful urban art space. Graffiti artists and street creatives have taken over this concrete structure and transformed it into a living canvas. It’s unexpected, raw, and absolutely worth a quick detour if you enjoy edgy art and offbeat history.

Admire the Théâtre Graslin

Located in the heart of Nantes, the Théâtre Graslin is one of the city’s most elegant landmarks. Built in the late 18th century, this neoclassical theater impresses with its columned façade and statues of the Muses. Even if you don’t attend a performance, it’s worth stopping by to admire the building from the lively square in front, surrounded by cafés and local life. The interior is equally majestic, so check for any upcoming shows if you’re staying overnight.

Nantes Itinerary

If you’re visiting Nantes in just one day, it’s absolutely possible to soak in the city’s charm and highlights with a well-paced itinerary. Here’s a suggested route to make the most of your time:

1. Château des Ducs de Bretagne – Start your day with a visit to this iconic castle in the heart of the city. Walk along the ramparts and, if you have time, explore the museum inside.
2. Reflect at the Miroir d’eau – Just outside the castle, stop for a moment at the water mirror. It’s a relaxing spot and offers a great photo opportunity with the château’s reflection.
3. Le Lieu Unique – Cross over to this cultural space housed in a former biscuit factory. Grab a coffee or take a quick look around the modern art exhibitions.
4. Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul of Nantes – Visit one of the city’s most impressive churches. Don’t miss the crypt and the panoramic terraces.
5. Step Inside Église Saint-Clément – Just a few minutes from the cathedral, this peaceful neo-Gothic church is worth a quick visit, especially for its stained glass.
6. Spot the Colonne Louis XVI – Swing by Place Maréchal-Foch and check out this rare monument surrounded by beautiful façades.
7. île de Versailles – Head north and enjoy a peaceful stroll in the Japanese gardens on this small island in the middle of the Erdre River.
8. Place Royale – Walk back toward the center to admire this lively square before heading into the bustling shopping streets nearby.
9. Take a Shot at Passage Pommeraye – Explore this elegant 19th-century shopping arcade that connects two streets on different levels.
10. Admire 8 rue Sully – Bâtiment Jean-Baptiste Daviais – On your way toward the Machines, pass by this architectural gem for a quick photo.
11. Have Fun at Les Machines de l’Île – End your day with the most fun and surprising attraction in Nantes. Ride the giant elephant, visit the machine gallery, or just enjoy the creative madness of it all.
12. Dive into Urban Art at Blockhaus DY10 – Take a quick look at this transformed WWII bunker covered in graffiti and contemporary murals.
13. Our Favourite Spot: The Botanical Garden – If time allows, end your day with a relaxing stroll through this award-winning garden filled with seasonal blooms and rare plants.

Here are all your accommodation options in Nantes