7 days in Nantes, France: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Ah, Nantes! A gem of a city that has it all – history, culture, and a progressive spirit. Located in the Loire Valley of western France, this beautiful city has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find yourself amid a vibrant atmosphere, where French charm meets modern innovation. Some of the many highlights include the exceptional Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, the fascinating Machines of the Isle of Nantes, and not to mention, mouthwatering French cuisine served in cozy bistros.
Things to Consider Before Arriving to Nantes
Rich in culture and history
Environment-friendly and bike-friendly city
Can be quite rainy throughout the year
Best for art enthusiasts, food lovers, and history buffs
What to Bring with You
• Umbrella or raincoat for the unpredictable weather
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city
• European plug adapter (type C or E)
Best Time of the Year to Visit
The best time to visit Nantes would be between May and September. This period brings warmer weather and a host of exciting festivals, such as Le Voyage à Nantes, an annual summer event celebrating the city’s art and culture.
How to Get into the City
1. By plane: Nantes Atlantique Airport is just 9 km from the city center, with several airlines offering both domestic and international flights. You can easily reach the city via the airport shuttle (Navette Aéroport), which runs every 20 minutes from the airport to the center.
2. By train: Nantes is well connected by train to Paris and other major French cities. The high-speed TGV Atlantique train takes just over 2 hours from Paris Montparnasse to Nantes Gare TGV, the city’s main railway station.
3. By car: Nantes is easily accessible by car, with major highways connecting the city to Paris, Bordeaux, and other parts of France. Keep in mind that some areas of Nantes city center are designated as pedestrian zones and have limited parking options.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Nantes, France
Day 1: Explore the Historic Center
Start your day exploring the historic center of Nantes, which is easy to navigate on foot. Visit the medieval Château des ducs de Bretagne and the nearby Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul. Enjoy a local lunch at Le Nid rooftop bar, which offers panoramic views of the city. In the evening, head to the Passage Pommeraye, a beautiful 19th century shopping arcade.
Day 2: Jules Verne Museum and River Cruise
Visit the Jules Verne museum, which pays tribute to the famous French author. Afterwards, take a scenic river cruise along the Loire River. In the evening, head to the Machines de l’île, which is an impressive artistic project that blends mechanical engineering with art.
Day 3: Day Trip to Clisson
Take a day trip to Clisson, a charming town known for its medieval castle and Italian-style architecture. Explore the winding streets, visit the Notre-Dame church and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local restaurants.
Day 4: Nantes Castle and Art Museums
Take another look at the Château des ducs de Bretagne, this time visiting the castle museum where you can learn about Nantes’ rich history. In the afternoon, visit the Musée d’arts de Nantes, which is home to a large collection of French paintings and sculptures.
Day 5: Les Machines de l’île and Île de Nantes
Spend a day exploring Île de Nantes, an island in the Loire River that is home to Les Machines de l’île. Visit the Marine Worlds Carousel and take a ride on the Grand Éléphant, a mechanical elephant that is truly a sight to see.
Day 6: Day Trip to Pornic
Travel to the seaside town of Pornic, which is known for its old harbor and charming streets. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch and spend some time relaxing on the beach before heading back to Nantes.
Day 7: Musée du Chocolat and Local Markets
Visit the Musée du Chocolat, a museum dedicated to all things chocolate, and indulge in some sweet treats. Afterwards, explore the local markets where you can find fresh produce, cheese, and other gastronomic specialties.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Nantes
La Baule
Just an hour away from Nantes by train, La Baule is a beautiful seaside town known for its long beach and upscale atmosphere. Enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea before returning to Nantes in the evening.
Angers
The city of Angers is just a 45-minute train ride from Nantes and is home to the impressive Château d’Angers, which is definitely worth a visit. The city is also known for its wine and local specialties, which can be enjoyed at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the city center.
