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Introduction
Nantes, the sixth largest city in France, is situated in the Loire-Atlantique department, 50 km from the Atlantic Ocean. Once the capital of Brittany, this historic city straddles the Loire and Erdre rivers, blending its rich past with modern innovation. Nantes boasts a compact, walkable city centre filled with architectural treasures, including the Gothic Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul and the 15th-century Castle of the Dukes of Brittany. The city's cultural scene is vibrant, with numerous museums, art galleries, and the unique Machines of the Isle, a mechanical wonderland inspired by Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci. Renowned for its quality of life and green spaces, Nantes was named a European Green Capital in 2013. The city offers excellent cuisine, particularly seafood paired with local Muscadet wine, and is well-connected by public transport, including a modern tram system.
Interesting Facts about Nantes
- Nantes is home to a 12-metre-tall mechanical elephant that offers spectacular city tours.
- The city is the birthplace of Jules Verne, whose imaginative spirit is reflected in its whimsical architecture and attractions.
- A green line painted on the pavement guides visitors to Nantes' architectural, artistic, cultural and historical highlights.
- Nantes is considered the birthplace of Surrealism, where André Breton met Jacques Vaché in 1916.
- The Château des ducs de Bretagne, once a ducal residence, now houses the Nantes History Museum.
- Nantes is the heart of Muscadet country, boasting the largest vineyards in the Loire Valley.
- The city's old river port has been transformed into a trendy district with cafés, art galleries, and a promenade along the Loire.
- Nantes features 18 illuminated rings by artist Daniel Buren that light up in red, green, and blue at night, reflecting on the river.
- The city has a 1.7-hectare artificial island that was transformed into a Japanese garden in 1983.
- Nantes played a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade during its history.
History
Nantes was already an important port in the Bronze Age and Iron Age, trading with all the Atlantic coast of Europe, from the British Isles to Iberia. During the Roman period, Nantes becomes the capital of the local Gaulish tribe, the Namnetes, under the Latin name of Condevincum. The city is renamed Portus Namnetum in the 3rd century, and becomes the seat of a bishopric in the 5th century.
Following the Frankish conquest, Nantes becomes the capital of the County of Brittany. Its most illustrious ruler was Roland, whose death the Battle of Roncevaux Pass (Basque country) in 778 became the subject of one of the greatest medieval epic story, The Song of Roland.
The city's importance grew further when it became the seat of the Dukes of Brittany in the 14th century, marking the beginning of its first golden age.
The 15th century saw Nantes flourish as a centre of commerce and culture. Under the reign of Francis II, the city underwent significant improvements, including the construction of the impressive Château des Ducs de Bretagne and the founding of the University of Nantes in 1460. This period of prosperity continued into the 16th century, with Nantes becoming a key port for trade with foreign countries, exporting salt, wine, fabrics, and hemp.
In the following centuries, Nantes played a crucial role in French history. The city was the site of the signing of the Edict of Nantes in 1598, granting rights to Protestants, which was later revoked in 1685. The 18th and 19th centuries brought further development, including the establishment of the Chamber of Commerce, the opening of the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the completion of the Nantes Cathedral. Despite facing challenges such as labour unrest and bombing during World War II, Nantes has continually reinvented itself, emerging as a vibrant cultural and economic hub in modern France.
Main Attractions
Château des Ducs de Bretagne
Located in the heart of Nantes, the Château des Ducs de Bretagne is a prominent historical landmark that dates back to the late 15th century. Originally built as a fortress and residence for the Dukes of Brittany, the castle is encircled by fortified ramparts and a moat. Visitors can freely access the courtyard and walk along the 500-metre-long rampart pathway, enjoying panoramic views of Nantes' historic centre. The castle's architectural style combines medieval defensive structures with Renaissance elegance, evident in its ornate façades and intricate stonework. Inside, visitors can explore various rooms that have been restored to reflect their historical significance. The château regularly hosts cultural events, temporary exhibitions, concerts, and festivals throughout the year, making it a lively cultural hub within the city.
Saint-Pierre Cathedral
Saint-Pierre Cathedral, also known as Nantes Cathedral, is an impressive example of French Gothic architecture. Construction began in the 15th century and continued over several centuries, resulting in a harmonious blend of architectural styles. The cathedral's façade is strikingly symmetrical, featuring two imposing towers standing at approximately 63 metres high. Inside, visitors can admire the cathedral's soaring vaulted ceilings and intricate stained-glass windows that illuminate the interior with colourful patterns. One of its most notable features is the tomb of Francis II, Duke of Brittany, and his wife Marguerite de Foix; this elaborate marble tomb is considered a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture. The cathedral also houses an impressive pipe organ dating back to the 17th century. Beneath the cathedral lies a Romanesque crypt that visitors can occasionally explore during guided tours.
Les Machines de l'Île
Les Machines de l'Île is an innovative artistic project located on Nantes' Île de Nantes district, occupying former shipyard warehouses. Inspired by Jules Verne's imaginative worlds and Leonardo da Vinci's mechanical inventions, this attraction features large-scale mechanical creatures crafted from wood and steel. The most famous creation is a giant mechanical elephant measuring approximately 12 metres high and weighing over 40 tonnes; visitors can ride on its back as it slowly walks around the premises. Other remarkable creations include a three-level carousel known as "Le Carrousel des Mondes Marins," featuring mechanical sea creatures that visitors can operate themselves. Workshops are open to visitors who wish to observe artisans at work designing new mechanical sculptures.
Place Royale
Designed by architect Mathurin Crucy in 1786 and completed in 1790 following the demolition of medieval ramparts, this elegant square exemplifies classical architecture and urban planning. At its centre sits a magnificent fountain, inaugurated in 1865, adorned with sculptures representing the Loire River and its tributaries—a nod to the waterway's importance to Nantes' prosperity. Unlike other royal squares in France, Place Royale never featured a statue of a monarch despite its name. Having survived significant damage during World War II and subsequently restored to its former glory, the square today serves as a vibrant hub for commerce and socialising, lined with shops, cafés and restaurants. Its open space provides a picturesque setting for cultural gatherings, artistic performances and leisurely strolls, making it an essential stop for visitors exploring the cultural heritage of Nantes.
Passage Pommeraye
This magnificent three-tiered shopping arcade that stands as one of Europe's most beautiful covered passages. Inaugurated in 1843 under King Louis-Philippe, this architectural masterpiece was the vision of Louis Pommeraye, a Nantes notary who sought to transform the area into an elegant commercial space. Connecting the city's upper and lower districts with a monumental staircase that overcomes a 9-metre height difference, the passage features exquisite Renaissance-style sculptures, ornate decorations and a stunning glass ceiling. Its lavish neo-classical and eclectic Louis-Philippe style showcases medallions of local celebrities and allegorical statues representing commerce, industry, agriculture and the arts. Despite financially ruining its creator, the Passage Pommeraye has flourished as a commercial hub, was classified as a historical monument in 1976, underwent renovation in 2015, and remains both a source of pride for Nantes residents and a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to experience its timeless elegance and historical significance..
Place Graslin
Place Graslin is a picturesque square in the heart of Nantes, renowned for its stunning 18th-century architecture. The square is dominated by the majestic Théâtre Graslin, an iconic neoclassical building designed by Mathurin Crucy and inaugurated in 1788. The theatre, with its imposing façade and Italian-style auditorium, hosts a variety of performances throughout the year. The square itself is a pedestrian-friendly area, largely paved and surrounded by elegant buildings. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, visit the nearby brasserie La Cigale, or explore the surrounding streets, which offer a blend of historical charm and modern shopping experiences. The area is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, and architectural beauty.
Top Museums
History and Culture
Château des Ducs de Bretagne - Nantes History Museum
Located in the heart of Nantes, the Château des Ducs de Bretagne is a 13th-century architectural gem that houses the Nantes History Museum. This museum provides a comprehensive overview of Nantes' history, from its medieval roots to its role in the maritime trade and industrial era. It features a significant collection of objects related to the Atlantic slave trade and colonial slavery, making it a museum of international reference. The museum's exhibitions are designed to engage visitors with interactive displays and immersive experiences.
Dobrée Museum
Named after a prominent shipowner and merchant, the Dobrée Museum houses an extensive collection of archaeological artifacts, stamps, sculptures, and autographs. Although currently undergoing renovations, it promises to be a significant cultural destination upon reopening. The museum's collection includes items from ancient civilizations and rare historical documents, offering a glimpse into Nantes' rich cultural heritage.
The Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery
This memorial is a poignant tribute to the victims of the transatlantic slave trade. Located on the Quai de la Fosse, it features a series of plaques and sculptures that commemorate the history of slavery and its abolition. The memorial serves as a powerful reminder of Nantes' complex past and its role in the slave trade.
Art Museums
Nantes Museum of Art (Musée d'Arts de Nantes)
Situated near the city centre, the Nantes Museum of Art is renowned for its extensive collection of artworks spanning from the 13th century to the present day. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, complemented by a modern extension known as the Cube. It showcases works by famous artists such as Picasso, Kandinsky, and Monet, offering a rich panorama of French and European art movements. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that highlight contemporary art trends.
Museum of Fine Arts of Nantes (Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nantes)
This museum is part of the broader Nantes Museum of Art, focusing on fine arts. It features an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures from various periods, including works by renowned artists. The museum's exhibitions often highlight specific art movements or themes, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of artistic evolution.
Museum of Decorative Arts (Musée des Arts Décoratifs)
Located within the Nantes Museum of Art complex, the Museum of Decorative Arts showcases a wide range of decorative arts, including furniture, ceramics, and textiles. It offers insights into the evolution of design and craftsmanship over the centuries, with pieces from both French and international artists.
Literature and Science Fiction
Jules Verne Museum
Dedicated to the life and works of Nantes' most celebrated writer, the Jules Verne Museum invites visitors into the imaginative world of science fiction. Located in a charming 19th-century house, the museum features original manuscripts, personal artifacts, and models inspired by Verne's stories. It provides a unique glimpse into the author's creative process and the era in which he wrote. The museum's collection includes rare editions of Verne's books and memorabilia that reflect his influence on popular culture.
The Elephant and the Machines de l'île
While not strictly a traditional museum, this attraction is a must-visit for its unique blend of art and technology. Inspired by Jules Verne's works, it features fantastical machines and animals, showcasing the city's creative revival and its connection to Verne's imaginative legacy. Visitors can explore the mechanical elephant, a 12-metre-tall walking machine, and other inventions that blend science fiction with engineering.
Science and Nature
Museum of Natural History (Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle)
Inaugurated in 1810, the Museum of Natural History is one of France's most important institutions of its kind. It boasts a diverse collection of specimens and artifacts related to animals, geology, and plants, reflecting Nantes' historical role as a major port for scientific expeditions. The museum's exhibits include taxidermied animals, fossils, and minerals, offering insights into the natural world and its evolution.
The Planetarium of Nantes
For those interested in astronomy, the Planetarium of Nantes offers an immersive experience with its digital projections of the night sky. It hosts various shows and events that explore the universe and its mysteries, making it an engaging destination for both children and adults.
Specialized Museums
The Museum of Printing and Graphic Design (Musée de l'Imprimerie et de la Communication Graphique)
This museum is dedicated to the history of printing and graphic design. It features a collection of old printing presses and exhibits that trace the evolution of communication technologies. Visitors can learn about the development of typography and the impact of printing on society.
The Castle of Goulaine
While not in Nantes proper, the Castle of Goulaine is nearby and worth mentioning. This medieval castle houses a museum that showcases the history of the region and the castle itself. It features a collection of artworks and artifacts related to the castle's past, offering a glimpse into the lives of its former inhabitants.
Nantes' museums collectively provide a rich cultural tapestry that reflects the city's historical significance, artistic heritage, and scientific contributions. Whether you're interested in history, art, science fiction, or natural history, Nantes has something to offer every kind of visitor.
Local Cuisine
Nantes boasts a rich culinary heritage that blends coastal flavours with regional specialities. Seafood lovers will delight in the city's proximity to the Atlantic, with fresh oysters and other shellfish often paired with the local Muscadet wine. The iconic beurre blanc sauce, a buttery concoction, perfectly complements the sandre (pike-perch) from the Loire River. For a true taste of Nantes, try the gâteau nantais, a rum-soaked almond cake, or nibble on Petit Beurre biscuits. Sweet tooths will appreciate the colourful Berlingot boiled sweets and the fruity rigolettes. Cheese enthusiasts shouldn't miss the pungent Curé Nantais, whilst meat lovers can savour the flavoursome Nantes duck. For a quick bite, sample the lard nantais, a local take on bacon sandwiches. Round off your culinary journey with a glass of Muscadet, the perfect accompaniment to the city's gastronomic delights.
Shopping
Nantes boasts a varied retail landscape, from modern shopping centres to historic arcades and charming boutiques. The city centre features popular shopping streets like Rue Crébillon and Rue du Calvaire, home to high-street brands and designer shops. The 19th-century Passage Pommeraye, a stunning architectural gem, houses unique stores across three floors. For larger retail complexes, Centre Commercial Beaulieu on l'île de Nantes and Centre Commercial Atlantis in Saint-Herblain offer extensive selections. The medieval Bouffay district is ideal for vintage finds and local designers, while markets like Talensac provide fresh produce and gourmet treats. Nantes also has a thriving scene of independent shops, selling everything from artisanal chocolates to handcrafted jewellery and locally-designed fashion.
Nature in and around Nantes
Nantes and its surrounding area offer a diverse range of natural attractions for visitors to explore. Within the city, there are over 100 parks and gardens, including the Jardin des Plantes, a 7-hectare botanical garden with more than 50,000 flowers planted each season. The Jardin Extraordinaire, created in a former granite quarry, features a 25-metre waterfall and exotic plants. Just outside Nantes, nature enthusiasts can visit the Brière Regional Natural Park, a vast wetland area rich in biodiversity, located about an hour away. The wild coast of Pornic, approximately 50 kilometres from Nantes, offers stunning cliff views and sandy beaches. Further afield, the colourful salt marshes of Guérande present a unique landscape shaped by centuries of salt harvesting, while the island of Noirmoutier, accessible by bridge or the famous Passage du Gois, boasts pristine beaches and dunes.
Jardin des Plantes
The Jardin des Plantes in Nantes is a magnificent botanical garden spanning 7 hectares of verdant space in the heart of the city centre. Established over 150 years ago, this remarkable garden is home to an impressive collection of more than 10,000 plant species, with 50,000 flowers planted each season and 800 square metres of elegant 19th-century glasshouses. Recognised as one of France's four major botanical gardens and awarded the 'Jardin Remarquable' label, it is internationally renowned for its unique camellia collection, cultivation of epiphyte plants, and commitment to reintroducing rare species. Visitors can explore the tropical greenhouses, admire century-old trees including the magnificent Magnolia d'Hectot and 35-metre Virginian tulip tree, discover the whimsical art installations by Claude Ponti, or simply relax in the Serre de l'Île de Palmiers. With its enchanting landscape featuring cascades, ponds, fountains and sculptures, plus a children's playground and a café, this botanical paradise offers a serene escape from the bustle of urban life and attracts approximately 2 million visitors annually.
Jardin Extraordinaire
The Jardin Extraordinaire in Nantes is a stunning public garden created in an old granite quarry, inaugurated in September 2019. Spanning 3.5 hectares, this luxuriant oasis features a dramatic 25-metre waterfall cascading into a large pond, surrounded by steep cliffs that create a unique microclimate up to 4° warmer than the surrounding area. This sheltered environment allows for exotic planting inspired by Jules Verne's fantastical worlds, with over 200 species including tree ferns, banana palms, lotus flowers, and other tropical vegetation. Visitors can explore the garden via a network of paths and walkways crossing the pond, or ascend the impressive metal staircase with its four belvederes offering magnificent views of both the garden and the Loire River. The garden is free to enter and accessible year-round, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers seeking an extraordinary landscape within the city.
Île de Versailles
The Île de Versailles is a charming artificial island situated on the Erdre River in Nantes, France. Created in 1831 during the excavation of the Nantes to Brest canal, this 1.7-hectare island has a fascinating history, transforming from a marshy area to an industrial hub housing various artisans and craftsmen until the mid-20th century. By 1987, it was reimagined as the serene Japanese-inspired garden we see today, featuring meticulously maintained gardens, koi ponds, stone sculptures and traditional Japanese architecture, including the Maison de l'Erdre which hosts exhibitions about the river's ecosystem. As one of Nantes' most visited parks with 1.2 million visitors annually, it offers a peaceful retreat just steps from the city centre, where visitors can enjoy seasonal foliage displays, particularly the stunning autumn colours, and various water activities on the surrounding river.
River Erdre Cruises
Experience the enchanting beauty of the River Erdre, once described by Francis I of France as "the most beautiful river in France," with a scenic cruise through the heart of Nantes. Bateaux Nantais offers year-round sightseeing tours that take visitors on a memorable journey spanning approximately 12 kilometres, showcasing the river's stunning landscapes where rural settings gradually give way to urban views. As you glide along this serene waterway, you'll discover magnificent châteaux, pleasure palaces and 18th-century "Folies" (country houses built by wealthy merchants), whilst also appreciating the exceptional fauna and flora of this Natura 2000 protected area. The 90-minute guided cruise provides fascinating commentary on the historical heritage of the region, making it an unmissable experience for visitors to Nantes who wish to combine relaxation with cultural discovery.
Getting There & Around
Nantes boasts an efficient and diverse public transport network, making it easy to navigate the city and its surroundings. The Naolib system operates three tram lines, numerous bus routes including eight Chronobus lines, and two Busway lines, all intersecting at the central Commerce stop. Visitors can take advantage of free public transport on weekends, whilst the Nantes Pass offers unlimited travel on all modes, including the airport shuttle. For eco-friendly exploration, Nantes is a bike-friendly city with dedicated lanes, and bicycles are permitted on trams during off-peak hours. Those arriving by air can utilise the airport shuttle, which runs frequently between the city centre and Nantes Atlantique Airport. For intercity travel, Nantes is well-connected by high-speed TGV trains, with direct services to Paris taking just over two hours. Whether you're a resident or a tourist, Nantes' comprehensive transport options ensure seamless mobility throughout the city.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Nantes is during the summer months from June to August, when the city offers pleasant weather with average temperatures around 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, this period is also the peak tourist season, meaning higher accommodation rates and larger crowds. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. These seasons provide a lovely backdrop for exploring Nantes' historical sites and enjoying the city's cultural events without the peak-season hustle.