Nantes is a city of western France famed for its quality of life. Settled on the banks of the mighty Loire River, 50 km from the Atlantic Ocean, it’s a kind of ‘surf and turf’ city that links bountiful agricultural lands with coastal areas. Named after a tribe of Ancient Gaul, it’s almost an understatement to say that the city has a long history. From the Place du Bouffay (Bouffay Square) in Old Nantes to the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany to the Passage Pommeraye, historical landmarks abound in the city center.
Labeled a European Green Capital in 2013, Nantes is also home to lively art, culture and dining scenes. The Muscadet white wine produced here is a perfect match to the seafood caught along the neighboring coast. The bygone industrial heritage of the city can still be seen in the Machines of the Isle of Nantes, a splendid family-friendly attraction boasting undeniable creativity. Home city of Jules Verne, one of the most popular French science fiction writers, Nantes has a lot to seduce and surprise you.
What to see & do in Nantes
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10 Best Things to Do in Nantes
The best things to do in Nantes take full advantage of the city's long history, which has left many historical sites to discover. The industrious spirit of its inhabitants makes the capital city of the Pays de la Loire region...
Nantes is packed full of history and a thriving culture, and you can explore it all by visiting the resident museums covering local history and beyond. You'll find museums showcasing art, both historic and modern, along with history museums focused...
The best local dishes from Nantes epitomize French cuisine that’s celebrated all over the world. Some of them are also popular must-tries when visiting the city. Nantes’ location in the Loire estuary makes for unique dishes, and you won’t find...
The best places to go shopping in Nantes range from huge and modern malls to tiny local shops around the city centre. They all add up to the impressive shopping landscape of this charming city on the banks of the...
Nantes is a lovely city with one of the best performing economies in France, but you'll still find local markets that let you shop like a resident. These local markets offer a wide variety of different items, with vibrant fresh...
Looking for things to do after dinner in Nantes? The fun continues way after the sun goes down and the city's lively nightlife can be found everywhere. From old warehouses repurposed as clubs and bars to dignified period buildings housing glam cocktail joints, Nantes's after-dark scenes are well-varied.
Get a dose of art and culture at a late open museum night,...
Our Nantes Travel Essentials lays out the essential information you need to help planning your trip to one of the most popular destinations in France. No matter how frequently you travel, some questions will always need answers: What’s the weather like? How can I get from the airport to my hotel? What currency and type of plug do I need?...
10 Best Things to Do in Nantes
10 Best Museums in Nantes
10 Things to Do in Nantes on a Small Budget
10 Best Family Things to Do in Nantes
10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Nantes
10 Best Local Dishes from Nantes
10 Best Local Restaurants in Nantes
10 Great Restaurants in Nantes
10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Nantes
10 Best Markets in Nantes
