Nantes France Travel Guide: 17 BEST Things To Do In Nantes

This Nantes travel guide shares the best things to do in Nantes.

————–
How to find cheap flights and travel more: https://travelmorepayless.com

Recommended Tours in Nantes:

Visit to Saline – Guérande Salt Marshes: https://www.viator.com/tours/Nantes/Visit-to-Saline-Guerande-Salt-Marshes/d23883-477235P1?pid=P00104625&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector&campaign=yttj-Nantes

Private custom tour with a local guide: https://www.getyourguide.com/nantes-l296/nantes-private-custom-tour-with-a-local-guide-t469760/?partner_id=QE3VGN2&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=yttj-Nantes

Château du Bois-Huaut: Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting Class: https://www.getyourguide.com/nantes-l296/chateau-du-bois-huaut-cellar-tour-and-guided-wine-tasting-t389060/?partner_id=QE3VGN2&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=yttj-Nantes

Nantes: Panoramic Tour by Electric Bike: https://www.getyourguide.com/nantes-l296/panoramic-tour-of-nantes-by-electric-bike-t124937/?partner_id=QE3VGN2&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=yttj-Nantes
—————

Welcome to our video on the top things to do in Nantes, France. Located in western France on the Loire River, Nantes is a vibrant city with a rich history, cultural attractions, and a lively arts scene. Here’s a guide to the best experiences and sights in Nantes.

Start your visit at the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, Nantes’ most famous landmark. This medieval castle, once home to the Dukes of Brittany, is now a museum. Explore its historical rooms, ramparts, and the exhibits that tell the story of Nantes’ past and its role in Brittany’s history.

Next, head to the Machines of the Isle of Nantes (Les Machines de l’île). This unique attraction features giant mechanical creatures inspired by the works of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci. Don’t miss the Grand Elephant, which you can ride, and the Carousel of the Marine Worlds, a stunning multi-level carousel with fantastical sea creatures.

Visit Nantes Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that took several centuries to complete. The cathedral is known for its impressive stained glass windows, ornate façade, and the tomb of François II, the last Duke of Brittany. Take time to admire the architectural details and the serene interior.

Stroll through the Île de Versailles, a beautiful Japanese garden on an island in the Erdre River. This tranquil space features traditional Japanese landscaping, including a koi pond, bamboo groves, and a tea house. It’s a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Explore the Le Passage Pommeraye, a historic shopping arcade dating back to the 19th century. The Passage is known for its elegant architecture, with ornate details and a glass ceiling. It’s a charming place to shop for unique items or simply admire the architectural beauty.

Discover the Nantes Museum of Arts, which houses an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. The museum’s diverse collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from various periods and regions. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Take a walk through Jardin des Plantes, a large botanical garden located in the heart of Nantes. The garden features a variety of plants, beautifully landscaped areas, and sculptures. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Boulevard de la Liberté, a lively street known for its cafes, shops, and restaurants. This area is perfect for enjoying local cuisine, sipping coffee, and soaking in the city’s lively ambiance.

Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Le Quartier Bouffay, a historic neighborhood with narrow streets, medieval buildings, and a variety of dining options. It’s a great place to explore Nantes’ historical charm and enjoy traditional French cuisine.

Join us as we uncover the historic sites, cultural attractions, and scenic spots that make Nantes a fantastic destination. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more travel tips and guides. Thank you for watching!

Keep watching to see the top things to do in Nantes, top attractions in Nantes, places to visit in Nantes and France travel guides.

Subscribe for travel inspiration videos and travel guides! Inspired by Touropia, expedia, Wolters World, Beautiful Destinations, MojoTravels & Tourradar.

Inspired by 10 Reasons to visit Nantes, France | Allthegoodies.com

Inspired by 15 BEST Things To Do In Nantes 🇫🇷 France

Inspired by Nantes, France Walking Tour (4k Ultra HD 60 fps) – With Captions

Inspired by What I’ve Learned in Two Months Living in Nantes, France

Inspired by Nantes France! One Of The Coolest Cities in Europe! 🇫🇷

(PG Clean, Family Friendly For kids, No Swearing)

So you want to know what are the 
best things to do in Nantes France? Great, you’re in the right place. In this video we’re gonna discuss 
the top things to do in Nantes. Number 17: Les Machines de l’Île Also known as the Machines of the Isle of Nantes, this former shipyard is now a steampunk paradise 
full of incredible mechanical creations. Kids and adults alike will be amazed by the giant 
sea creatures on the Carrousel des Mondes Marins, where you can ride enormous crabs and octopuses. You can also meet the world’s first 
“eco-friendly mechanical elephant,” which sprays water from its 
trunk as it moves around. You can explore giant herons and 
spiders in La Galerie des Machines. Number 16: Château des ducs de Bretagne The Château des Ducs de Bretagne, built in the 15th century, was once home 
to the beloved Duchess Anne of Brittany. Today, it houses the Nantes History Museum, 
which offers a deep dive into the city’s past. The museum covers a range of topics, from Nantes’ role in the slave trade to 
the city’s experiences during World War II. You can explore the castle’s ramparts, 
courtyard, and grassy moat for free. Number 15: Place Royale Place Royale in Nantes is a charming 
city square right in the heart of town. Surrounded by elegant 18th-century buildings, the square features a lovely fountain 
and the grand statue of Louis XVI. It’s a pedestrian-friendly area, so you can 
stroll around without worrying about traffic. Nearby, you’ll find the Basilique 
Saint-Nicolas and the Pommeraye shopping passageway, making it a perfect 
spot to start your exploration of Nantes. There are also several cozy cafes where you 
can relax and soak in the beautiful atmosphere. Number 14: Passage Pommeraye If you love shopping, you’ll enjoy a 
visit to Passage Pommeraye in Nantes. This historic shopping arcade, 
built between 1840 and 1843, is a charming place with a 
classic 19th-century feel. It features three floors of elegant shops, including boutiques, design 
stores, and trendy fashion outlets. The grand staircase in the middle and the 
ornate decorations add to the unique atmosphere. Originally created to connect the 
stock exchange with the post office, Passage Pommeraye still looks much 
like it did when it first opened. It was recognized as a historic monument in 1976! Number 13: Nantes Botanical Garden The Nantes Botanical Garden is one of 
the top botanical gardens in France. You can explore a wide variety of 
plant species from around the world, with over 10,000 types on display. The garden features the historic Palmarium, dating from 1895, which now serves 
as a center for ecological research. The garden is especially known for its 
impressive collection of camellias, a highlight that draws visitors from near and far. Number 12: Fine Arts Museum of 
Nantes (Musée d’arts de Nantes) Located in the center of Nantes, between the 
cathedral and the Jardin des Plantes, the Fine Arts Museum of Nantes houses a rich collection 
of art from the 13th century to today. You’ll find masterpieces from major art movements, with works by famous artists like 
Monet, Picasso, and Kandinsky. The museum combines the classic elegance 
of its 19th-century building with a modern extension called the Le Cube 
that’s dedicated to contemporary art. Number 11: Nantes Cathedral 
(Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul) The Nahntt Cathedral, or Cathedral 
of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, is a Gothic cathedral that has been a 
city icon since the fifteenth century. The cathedral’s striking white-stone 
façade features twin towers, and inside, the nave is an impressive 123 feet (37.5 m) 
high, even taller than Notre-Dame in Paris. One highlight is the tomb of François II and Marguerite de Foix, the 
parents of Anne of Brittany. Beneath the cathedral, you can explore 
an 11th-century Roman crypt and a larger 19th-century crypt that now hosts an 
exhibition about the cathedral’s history. Number 10: Clisson A fantastic day trip idea from Nantes is the town 
of Clisson, just 30 minutes away by train or car. This picturesque town is 
famous for its medieval castle, perched on a hill and offering stunning views. Once part of the Kingdom of Brittany, 
Clisson is now a delightful getaway. You can stroll across its historic 
bridge, enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the ruins of the château, or 
explore the 15th century market hall. Number 9: Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery This memorial is the world’s 
largest tribute to the slave trade. Situated by the Loire River, it honors 
Nantes’ role as a major slave-trading port from the 17th to 19th centuries, when over 
550,000 people were shipped to the Americas. The memorial features a quay with 2,000 crystal 
plaques that list slave ships and trading ports, and an underwater passage displaying the 
Universal Declaration of Human Rights. A path lined with quotes about slavery 
creates a reflective experience for visitors. By the way, check the links in the description 
for the ultimate guide on finding cheap flights, plus recommended tour operators in Nantes. Number 8: French destroyer Maillé-Brézé The Maillé-Brézé, a historic French 
destroyer turned naval museum, has been a key attraction in Nantes since 1991. This ship, built in the 1950s as part 
of the Surcouf class of destroyers, now serves as a floating museum. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about 
the ship’s past and its role in the French Navy. The tour includes climbing ladders 
and navigating through various sections of the ship, which may 
be challenging for some people. Number 7: Escal’Atlantic An hour’s drive away, an adventure in Escal’Atlantic takes 
place inside a former submarine base. Step back in time and experience what it 
was like to travel on a grand ocean liner. This immersive exhibition lets 
you walk in the footsteps of past travelers and discover the 
history of transatlantic voyages. You can explore the decks, cabins, 
and lounges of these historic ships. As you wander through the exhibits, 
you’ll find interactive displays and games that reveal what life and work 
were like aboard these majestic vessels. It’s a fascinating way to learn 
about the golden age of ocean travel. Number 6: Ile de Versailles In the heart of Nantes, Île de Versailles is a serene Japanese garden on a 
small island in the River Erdre. It’s a peaceful retreat from the city and 
is easy to reach from downtown Nantes. The garden features classic 
Japanese elements like bamboo, azaleas, and cherry trees, along with rock 
gardens, waterfalls, and traditional lanterns. Despite its small size, Île de Versailles 
is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a relaxing picnic, or a quiet moment 
of reflection in the center of Nantes. Number 5: Jules Verne Museum The Jules Verne Museum in Nantes is dedicated 
to the famous writer born here in 1828. Verne, known for his groundbreaking 
science fiction like “Around the World in Eighty Days,” spent 
part of his life in the city. Located in a grand red-and-white mansion from 1878, the museum features eight rooms 
showcasing Verne’s life and work. You’ll find replicas of his inventions, 
displays of his books and manuscripts, and various posters and games. Although most of the information is in French, 
you can use QR codes for English translations. Number 4: Puy du Fou Just an hour from Nantes, history comes alive 
through spectacular shows at Puy du Fou. You can watch thrilling performances that 
re-enact events from the Roman Empire, Viking raids, medieval battles, and the lives of 
figures like Joan of Arc and the Three Musketeers. Each show is a visual feast with 
impressive special effects and costumes. Between the shows, you can 
explore charming villages that represent different historical periods. These villages are filled with shops 
and inns styled to match their eras, and you can see craftspeople 
demonstrating traditional skills like stonemasonry and baking.

Number 3: Le Lieu Unique Le Lieu Unique in Nantes is a transformed 
biscuit factory that now hosts performances, alongside a bar, restaurant 
and even a Turkish bathhouse. Originally known for producing Nantes’ famous LU 
biscuits, only one of the original towers remains. The gold and blue tower, with its unique 
windowed dome makes for a great photo. Inside, you’ll find a small exhibit on the 
history of the LU factory on the ground floor. Number 2: Trentemoult In just under 10 minutes, you can 
escape the city and reach Trentemoult, a charming fishing village on the Loire River. Hop on the Navibus, a boat that will whisk 
you away to this colorful, car-free haven. Trentemoult feels like a step back in time, 
with its colorful houses and peaceful alleys. Enjoy a relaxed drink, lunch, or dinner at one 
of the many riverside cafes and restaurants. The village’s serene atmosphere 
and picturesque views make it a perfect spot to unwind and savor the sunset. Number 1: Planète Sauvage Planète Sauvage, located in 
Port-Saint-Père near Nantes, is a one-of-a-kind zoo where you can 
experience a drive-through safari. From the comfort of your car, you 
can observe animals like elephants, giraffes, tigers, and lions in environments 
that closely resemble their natural habitats. For an extra special experience, consider 
staying overnight in one of the park’s lodges, which offer views of antelopes and giraffes. Evening feedings provide a unique 
chance to see giraffes up close. Click here to watch this video.