Discover Nantes: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in This Enchanting French City

Nantes, a vibrant and dynamic city nestled on the Loire River, offers an unparalleled blend of rich history, innovative art, lush green spaces, and exquisite culinary experiences. Often overlooked in favor of France’s more well-trodden destinations, Nantes is truly an up-and-coming gem, promising an authentic and laid-back visit without the bustling crowds. This makes it the perfect time to explore its charming streets and discover the myriad of fabulous things to do in Nantes, from magnificent châteaux and awe-inspiring cathedrals to whimsical mechanical creatures and serene botanical gardens. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, Nantes has something special in store for you, ensuring a memorable French adventure.

Explore the Best of Nantes: Top Attractions and Experiences

While Nantes is a city rich with history and culture, its manageable size means you can experience a significant amount in just two to three days. However, those who linger longer will uncover even more of its unique charm. Our curated list of things to do in Nantes caters to diverse interests, whether you’re drawn to grand castles, whimsical mechanical art, or the tranquility of botanical gardens. Get ready to explore the captivating sights of this fantastic French city.

Stroll through the Château des Ducs de Bretagne and Nantes History Museum

Dominating the city’s skyline, the Château des Ducs de Bretagne stands as a powerful symbol of Nantes’ historical importance. Built in 1207 by Guy of Thouars, Duke of Brittany, this magnificent fortress served as the primary residence for the Dukes of Brittany until 1862. Its formidable ramparts and beautiful inner courtyard invite visitors to step back in time. Following an extensive 15-year restoration project in the 1990s, the château was meticulously brought back to its former glory.

Today, the château houses the Nantes History Museum, offering a comprehensive journey through the city’s past, from its origins to its modern-day identity. The museum features over 1,150 exhibits, including multimedia installations and historical artifacts, detailing Nantes’ role in the slave trade, its industrial heritage, and its artistic evolution. Walking along the fortified walls provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city, making it a perfect spot for photography and reflection on centuries of history.

Immerse Yourself in the Machines of the Isle of Nantes

A true testament to Nantes’ innovative spirit, the Machines of the Isle of Nantes (Les Machines de l’île) is an extraordinary artistic and cultural project that breathes new life into the city’s former shipbuilding yards. Conceived by visionary artists François Délarozière and Pierre Orefice, this fantastical universe draws inspiration from Jules Verne’s imaginative worlds, Leonardo da Vinci’s mechanical inventions, and Nantes’ industrial heritage. It’s an absolute must-see, offering a unique blend of performance art and mechanical wonders.

The centerpiece is undoubtedly The Great Elephant. Standing at an impressive 39 feet tall and weighing 48 tons, this colossal mechanical pachyderm is a precise replica of the Sultan’s Elephant from the world-renowned street theatre company Royal de Luxe. Since 2007, it has captivated audiences by taking up to 49 spectators on a mesmerizing 45-minute journey around the island. Witness its lifelike movements, trumpeting sounds, and even its trunk spraying water, offering riders a unique perspective of the city and a truly unforgettable experience.

Another dazzling attraction is The Marine Worlds Carousel. This spectacular, three-tiered carousel stands at a staggering 65 feet tall and features a mesmerizing array of mechanical sea creatures that come alive as they move. From giant crabs and squids to flying fish and even a dedicated level for deep-sea monsters, visitors of all ages can climb aboard and control their chosen creature. The sheer scale and intricate detail of each marine inhabitant make this a truly enchanting experience, especially captivating for families.

Walk to Nantes Cathedral (Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul)

A striking example of Gothic architecture, Nantes Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul of Nantes, is an architectural marvel. Its construction began in the mid-15th century, in 1434, but due to various historical events and funding challenges, it wasn’t fully completed until an astonishing 457 years later, in 1891. This protracted construction period imbues the cathedral with a fascinating blend of architectural styles, primarily High Gothic.

Inside, visitors are greeted by soaring naves, intricate stained-glass windows, and impressive funerary monuments, including the majestic tomb of Duke Francis II of Brittany and his wife Marguerite de Foix. The cathedral offers a sense of profound history and spiritual tranquility, inviting contemplation and admiration for the craftsmanship that endured for centuries. Despite facing damage during World War II and a devastating fire in 2020, restoration efforts continue to preserve its grandeur for future generations.

Taste the Strawberry Sorbet at La Fraiserie

For a delightful culinary stop, seek out La Fraiserie, a true institution in Nantes. As its name suggests (“fraise” means strawberry in French), this beloved establishment specializes in all things strawberry. They are particularly renowned for their exquisite homemade strawberry sorbet, a refreshing and intensely flavorful treat that captures the essence of fresh, ripe strawberries. The region of Pays de la Loire, where Nantes is located, is indeed known for its excellent fruit production, making the local strawberries exceptionally sweet.

We highly recommend pairing their signature strawberry sorbet with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a classic combination, or for a more indulgent experience, try it with a rich chocolate hazelnut ice cream. This vibrant dessert is the perfect pick-me-up on a warm day as you explore the city, offering a taste of local sweetness that you won’t soon forget.

Smell the Flowers in the Jardin des Plantes de Nantes

Escape into a botanical paradise at the Jardin des Plantes de Nantes. This spectacular garden, established in the early 1800s, is recognized as one of France’s four major botanical gardens. Home to over 11,000 species of plants, it is a living museum of flora from around the world. Stroll through its diverse sections, from ornate French-style flowerbeds to exotic plant collections housed in impressive greenhouses.

Among its many treasures is the venerable Magnolia d’Hectot, a truly gorgeous and ancient magnolia tree that has graced the garden for centuries. The garden is particularly breathtaking in spring when a riot of colors and fragrances fills the air as countless plants burst into bloom. It’s a wonderful place to unwind, take leisurely photographs, and simply reconnect with nature amidst the urban landscape. Keep an eye out for artistic installations and playful sculptures that often dot the grounds, adding another layer of charm to your visit.

Take a Walk through the Cours Cambronne

Discover one of Nantes’ most elegant promenades, the Cours Cambronne. This magnificent rectangular square is surrounded by grand neoclassical buildings with ornate façades and beautiful iron balconies, creating a harmonious architectural ensemble. Named after General Pierre Cambronne, a local hero of the Napoleonic Wars, the Cours is a tranquil oasis in the city center.

Lined with meticulously maintained greenery, vibrant flower beds, and shaded benches, it’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or to simply sit and absorb the refined atmosphere. The symmetrical layout and classical statues contribute to its timeless beauty, making it a favorite among locals and a picture-perfect location for visitors. It’s easy to feel at home here, enveloped by the charm and serenity of French urban design.

Visit the Jules Verne Museum

Nantes proudly claims one of the world’s most imaginative writers as its own: Jules Verne. To celebrate his legacy and connection to the city, the Jules Verne Museum was established in 1978, commemorating the 150th anniversary of his birth. Housed in a charming 19th-century bourgeois house overlooking the Loire River, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the life, work, and fantastical visions of the author of “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seas” and “Around the World in Eighty Days.”

Inside, you’ll find an array of exhibits that bring Verne’s world to life. Explore some of his original furniture, manuscripts, first editions of his celebrated “Voyages Extraordinaires,” and captivating replicas of the incredible machines and inventions he imagined, such as models of the Nautilus submarine or his various flying machines. The museum also showcases memorabilia from his life and adventures, alongside personal items and even a collection of china gifts he received from foreign journalists. It’s a wonderful pilgrimage for fans of science fiction and literary history alike, offering a glimpse into the mind of a prophetic genius.

Spend a Couple of Hours at the Art Museum of Nantes (Musée d’Arts de Nantes)

Art lovers will find a rich collection at the Art Museum of Nantes (Musée d’Arts de Nantes). Following extensive renovations between 2011 and 2017, the museum now boasts a stunning expansion that seamlessly blends historic architecture with contemporary design. The building itself is a work of art, with a grand, luminous central atrium that is worth a visit for its architectural beauty alone.

The museum’s collection spans from ancient art to contemporary masterpieces, featuring a diverse range of paintings, sculptures, and installations. You can explore works by old masters, delve into 19th-century realism, impressionism, and symbolism, and then transition to modern and contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Key artists like Monet, Picasso, Kandinsky, and Buren are represented, offering a comprehensive overview of European art history. Allow a couple of hours to fully appreciate the breadth and depth of its impressive holdings.

Enjoy a Meal and Shopping at Le Lieu Unique

For a taste of Nantes’ innovative cultural scene, head to Le Lieu Unique. This former LU biscuit factory, identifiable by its iconic tall tower, has been ingeniously transformed into a vibrant social and artistic hub. It’s a space designed to inspire creativity, foster community, and offer a wide range of experiences, making it a truly unique destination in Nantes.

Within its industrial-chic walls, you’ll find a concert venue hosting diverse musical acts, art galleries showcasing contemporary exhibitions, a bustling café perfect for people-watching, and an excellent restaurant serving modern French cuisine. There’s also a record shop for music enthusiasts, a bookshop, a Turkish bath (hamam) for relaxation, and even a nightclub for evening entertainment. Le Lieu Unique perfectly encapsulates Nantes’ identity as a city that cherishes its industrial past while embracing a forward-thinking artistic future, making it an ideal spot to spend an afternoon or evening.

Visit the Cherry Blossoms at Île de Versailles

Perhaps one of the most serene and enchanting places in Nantes is the Île de Versailles. This small artificial island on the Erdre River has been transformed into a breathtaking Japanese garden, offering a peaceful and authentic escape from the city bustle. It’s a true hidden gem, inviting visitors into a world of tranquility and aesthetic beauty.

When we visited, the garden was in full bloom, adorned with delicate cherry blossoms and fragrant magnolia flowers, creating an absolutely dreamy atmosphere. Take your time to walk along the traditional Japanese bridge, admire the meticulously sculpted rock gardens, listen to the gentle flow of water features, and relax by the riverbanks. You can even stop at the charming tea house for a moment of quiet contemplation, completing the perfect Zen experience. The Île de Versailles is not only a visual delight but also a haven for peace-seekers. Plus, it’s a wonderfully dog-friendly spot, which we greatly appreciated, allowing our furry friends to enjoy the serenity with us.

Related : Cherry Blossoms at the Parc de Sceaux (1 hour from Paris)

Spend the Afternoon in the Centre-Ville de Nantes

No visit to Nantes is complete without exploring its beating heart, the Centre-Ville de Nantes. This historic city center, one of Nantes’ eleven distinct neighborhoods, is a charming labyrinth of pedestrian streets, vibrant squares, and beautifully preserved architecture. Here, you’ll find a delightful mix of traditional French cafes where you can enjoy a coffee and watch the world go by, alongside contemporary boutiques and local shops.

Take a leisurely stroll to admire the elegant Haussmannian buildings, discover hidden courtyards, and soak in the lively atmosphere. The Centre-Ville is perfect for impromptu exploration, allowing you to stumble upon local markets, street performers, and unexpected architectural gems. It’s the ideal place to experience the everyday rhythm of Nantes life and truly take in the charm of this gorgeous city.

Visit the Église Sainte-Croix de Nantes

For those who appreciate historical religious architecture, the Église Sainte-Croix de Nantes is a worthy stop. Dating back to the 17th century, this Baroque-style church is known for its distinctive features and central location. Originally built on the site of an earlier medieval church, its construction showcases the architectural preferences of the period, with a focus on grandeur and ornate decoration.

Though its windows and statues suffered significant damage during World War II, dedicated restoration efforts following the end of the war meticulously rebuilt and preserved its artistic heritage. Inside, visitors can admire its beautifully restored altars, sculptures, and perhaps catch a glimpse of its unique carillon, adding to the spiritual and historical depth of a visit to Nantes.

Go Shopping in the Passage Pommeraye

Indulge in a unique shopping experience at the Passage Pommeraye, a magnificent 19th-century shopping arcade that is a true architectural masterpiece. Dating back to the mid-1840s, this passage is celebrated for its opulent design, stunning glass roof, and intricate sculptures that adorn its multiple levels. It is one of Europe’s most beautiful covered passages, recognized as a historical monument, and offers a glimpse into the elegance of a bygone era.

As you ascend or descend its grand staircases, you’ll be treated to a visual feast of neoclassical statues and elaborate carvings. The Passage Pommeraye is home to a curated selection of chic boutiques, specialty shops, and artisanal stores, making it a delightful place for both serious shopping and casual browsing. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, it’s worth a visit just to admire the grandeur and unique atmosphere. A pleasant bonus for pet owners: we were delighted to find that our dogs were welcome to join us during our visit, making it an inclusive experience.

Plan Your Unforgettable Nantes Adventure

Nantes truly is a city that delights and surprises at every turn. From its grand historical landmarks to its whimsical artistic creations, its serene gardens to its lively urban spaces, there are countless experiences to savor. We hope this comprehensive guide inspires you to visit Nantes and discover all the enchanting things to do in Nantes for yourself. Whether you’re planning a short city break or a longer exploration, this dynamic city promises an authentic French adventure, rich in culture, history, and innovation. Enjoy your journey to this magnificent city!

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