✈️ Closest Airport to Nantes

Nantes is easily accessible by air and serves as the main gateway to western France. The city’s airport is Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE). Located about 10 km southwest of the city center, this international airport offers direct flights to many major European cities, as well as some seasonal long-haul destinations. It’s a convenient entry point for travelers looking to explore the Loire Valley, Brittany, or the Atlantic coast.

The airport is connected to the city by shuttle bus, taxi, and rideshare services. A new airport tram line is also under construction to improve access in the coming years.

Nantes Atlantique airport
Photo by Bouguenaiscom under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Nantes train station
Photo by Marc Ryckaert under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

🚆 Coming to Nantes by Train

Train travel is one of the easiest and most comfortable ways to reach Nantes, especially from within France and neighboring European countries. While occasional delays or strikes can happen, the rail network remains reliable and efficient for most travelers.

Nantes Train Station (Gare de Nantes) is the city’s main rail hub, located close to the city center and well connected to public transport, including trams and buses.

There are also seasonal and international services, and Nantes makes a great starting point for exploring the Loire Valley or venturing south toward La Rochelle or Bordeaux.

🚗 Should You Drive to Nantes?

Unlike Paris, Nantes is relatively car-friendly, especially if you’re planning to explore the surrounding countryside or smaller towns in the Loire Valley. The city is well connected by highways and can be reached easily by car from cities like Rennes, Angers, La Rochelle, or even Paris (about 4 hours via A11).

That said, driving in the city center can still be tricky due to one-way streets, tram lines, pedestrian zones, and limited parking. If you’re staying in central Nantes, it’s best to choose accommodation with parking or use one of the many public underground car parks.

Once you’re in the city, you’ll find that walking and using the efficient tram network is often easier than driving.

Nantes
Photo by François de Dijon under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Tramway in Nantes
Photo by Smiley.toerist under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

🚋 Trams and Buways

Nantes boasts one of the best public transportation systems in France for a city of its size.

The Naolib network operates a reliable system of tramways and busways that connect the city’s major neighborhoods, cultural sites, and train station. With 3 tram lines and 2 busway lines, you can easily reach the historic center, shopping districts, and residential areas.

Trams are clean, punctual, and run from early morning to late at night. Tickets can be bought at machines in stations or via the Naolib mobile app, and are valid across trams, buses, and navibus within a 1-hour window.

🚌 Buses

In addition to its tram system, Nantes has a comprehensive bus network that connects the city center to the surrounding suburbs and towns in the metropolitan area — including Bouguenais, Saint-Sébastien-sur-Loire, Rezé, Orvault, Carquefou, and more.

These regular bus lines make it easy to stay outside the city center while still having quick access to tourist attractions, the train station, and the airport.

Operated by Naolib, the same tickets used for trams are valid on buses, and you can easily plan your routes using the Naolib mobile app or Google Maps. It’s a convenient and affordable way to explore beyond downtown Nantes without needing a car.

Bus transport in Nantes
Photo by Kevin.B under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Nantes city center
Photo by Avi1111 under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

🚶 Walking

Nantes is a highly walkable city. From the medieval Château des Ducs de Bretagne to the hip Île de Nantes and its mechanical elephant, most attractions are accessible on foot.

The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained sidewalks, plenty of cafés, and scenic riverbanks.

If you’re staying downtown, walking will likely be your primary mode of transportation, and one of the most enjoyable.

🚕 Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis are available but not always easy to flag down on the street, it’s best to use a taxi app or call one in advance.

Uber and other ride-sharing services also operate in Nantes and can be a convenient option for late-night returns or trips outside the tram zones.

Taxis in Nantes
Photo by Julien Lutt under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Bicloo bikes in front of Nantes’ train station
Photo by Hellotheworld under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

🚲 By Bike

Nantes is very bike-friendly, with hundreds of kilometers of cycling lanes and dedicated bike paths.

The city’s public bike-sharing service, Bicloo, makes it easy to rent a bike for a few minutes or a full day.

There are docking stations all over the city, and you can also rent bikes (including electric ones) from local shops. Biking is especially pleasant along the Erdre River or out to Trentemoult, a colorful former fishing village.

⛴️ Navibus (River Shuttles)

A fun and scenic way to travel, Navibus river shuttles are part of the public transport network.

You can take them across the Loire River or to places like Trentemoult, a quirky, colorful riverside neighborhood worth exploring.

Tickets are the same as for trams and buses, just hop on with a validated Naolib ticket.

Navibus
Photo by François de Dijon under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Dukes of Brittany’s castle
Photo by JoévinB under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

1. Château des Ducs de Bretagne

This beautifully restored medieval castle is the historical heart of Nantes.

Once the residence of the Dukes of Brittany, it now houses the History Museum of Nantes.

Tickets: https://chateaunantes.fr

Useful Info:

• Free access to the courtyard and ramparts

• Audioguides available in multiple languages

• Closest tram stop: Duchesse Anne – Château des Ducs de Bretagne (Line 1)

2. Les Machines de l’Île

This incredible steampunk-inspired attraction brings giant mechanical creatures to life on the former shipyards of Nantes.

The star is the Grand Éléphant, a massive 12-meter-tall mechanical elephant you can ride through the site. There’s also the whimsical Carrousel des Mondes Marins, a three-level carousel filled with fantastical sea creatures.

Tickets: https://www.lesmachines-nantes.fr

Useful Info:

• Book your elephant ride in advance (it sells out fast)

• Closest tram stop: Chantiers Navals (Line 1)

The Mechanial Elephant of Nantes
Photo by Guilhem Vellut under licence CC BY-SA 2.0

Passage Pommeraye
Photo by Tgllyn under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

3. Passage Pommeraye

A masterpiece of 19th-century architecture, this elegant covered shopping arcade connects three levels through a grand central staircase.

With its wrought-iron railings, sculpted statues, and natural light filtering through the glass roof, it’s both a shopping destination and a must-see historical site.

Even if you don’t plan to shop, it’s worth a visit just for the atmosphere, especially on a rainy day.

Tickets: Free entry

Useful Info:

• Open daily, including Sundays

• Hosts a mix of independent boutiques and luxury brands

• Located between Rue Santeuil and Rue de la Fosse

• Closest tram stop: Commerce (Lines 1, 2, and 3)

4. Jardin des Plantes

This beautiful 7-hectare botanical garden is one of the most peaceful spots in the city.

Featuring themed gardens, rare plants, fountains and sculptures, it’s ideal for families, nature lovers, or a quiet picnic.

Tickets: Free entry

Useful Info:

• Open year-round, daily from 8:30 AM to dusk

• Right next to the Nantes train station

• Closest tram stop: Gare SNCF Nord (Line 1)

Jardin des plantes
Photo by Chabe01 under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Île de Nantes
Photo by Jean-Pierre Dalbéra under licence CC BY-SA 2.0

5. Île de Nantes & Quartier de la Création

Once an industrial zone, this island in the heart of the city has become a symbol of Nantes’ creativity and innovation.

Stroll along the Loire River, admire bold contemporary architecture, discover street art, and enjoy the relaxed vibe of repurposed shipyard buildings.

You’ll also spot the Titan Yellow Crane, a preserved monument to the city’s shipbuilding past, towering over the riverside like a modern sculpture.

Highlights include the HAB Galerie, Les Machines, and quirky installations scattered throughout the area.

Tickets: Free access to the area – some exhibitions may charge entry
Website: https://www.iledenantes.com

Useful Info:

• Perfect for walking, biking, or lounging by the water

• Hosts events, food trucks, and festivals throughout the year

• Closest tram stops: Chantiers Navals (Line 1) or Vincent Gâche (Line 2)

6. Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul

This stunning Gothic cathedral took over 450 years to complete, and its massive white façade dominates the surrounding old town.

Inside, you’ll find towering vaulted ceilings, beautiful stained-glass windows, and the richly decorated tomb of François II, the last Duke of Brittany, and his wife Marguerite de Foix. The peaceful crypt beneath holds archaeological treasures and a small museum.

Although it suffered fire damage in 2020, it has since reopened and remains one of Nantes’ most important historic landmarks.

Tickets: Free entry

Useful Info:

• Open daily (check exact hours before visiting)

• Often used for concerts and cultural events

• Located just steps from the Château des Ducs de Bretagne

• Closest tram stop: Duchesse Anne – Château (Line 1)

Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Nantes
Photo by Guillaume Piolle under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

Art Museum of Nantes
Photo by François de Dijon under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

7. Musée d’Arts de Nantes

Its collection spans from the 13th century to today, featuring works by Monet, Picasso, Kandinsky, Delacroix, and many more. Whether you’re an art lover or just curious, this museum is a must-visit for a cultural deep dive into French and European art.

Tickets: https://museedartsdenantes.nantesmetropole.fr

Useful Info:

• Free entry on the first Sunday of each month

• Closest tram stop: Saint-Clément (Line 1)

8. Trentemoult

Just across the Loire River, Trentemoult is a former fishing village turned artsy enclave filled with charm.

Its narrow alleyways, brightly painted houses, vintage shops, and riverside cafés make it feel like a hidden gem far from the bustle of the city. Street art and quirky details abound, and the atmosphere is both laid-back and full of personality.

Take a stroll, enjoy a drink by the water, and soak in the slower pace of life.

Tickets: Free access
How to get there: Take the Navibus (public ferry) from Gare Maritime, the ride only takes a few minutes and is included with a standard Naolib ticket.

Useful Info:

• Ideal for lunch or an afternoon walk

• Popular on weekends — go early to avoid crowds

Trentemoult
Photo by Chabe01 under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Le Lieu Unique and the LU Tower
Photo by Selbymay under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

9. Le Lieu Unique

Housed in the former LU biscuit factory (of Petit Beurre fame), Le Lieu Unique is now Nantes’ premier contemporary arts center.

It offers a bold mix of exhibitions, concerts, theater, dance, and performance art, all in a raw, industrial space full of character.

You can climb the LU tower for a panoramic view of the city or relax in the on-site café and restaurant, which draws locals and creatives alike.

It’s edgy, unexpected, and distinctly Nantes.

Tickets: https://www.lelieuunique.com

Useful Info:

• Open daily, free access to many exhibits

• Open late, check the calendar for nighttime events

• Closest tram stop: Duchesse Anne – Château (Line 1)

10. Parc de Procé

A local favorite, Parc de Procé is a park west of the city center, perfect for a moment of calm and greenery.

With vast lawns, waterfalls, flower beds, century-old trees, and winding paths, it’s ideal for jogging, reading, or a picnic.

Tickets: Free entry

Useful Info:

• Open year-round, sunrise to sunset

• Accessible by bus from the city center (Line C3 or 54)

Parc de Procé
Photo by Selbymay under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

Church of Sainte-Croix
Photo by Velvet under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

Explore the Crypt of the Church of Sainte-Croix

Hidden beneath the Sainte-Croix Church in the historic Bouffay district lies a quiet and little-known crypt that transports visitors to a different era.

This atmospheric space reveals remnants of early Christian architecture, old tombs, and stone walls steeped in centuries of history.

It’s a peaceful and moving experience, perfect for those who enjoy sacred sites or want to escape the crowds, and most tourists walk right past it.

The crypt itself adds a fascinating layer to your visit. It’s dimly lit and relatively untouched by modern renovations, which makes it feel authentic and slightly mysterious.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious, stepping into this space offers a powerful contrast to the busy, modern streets of central Nantes just above.

Tip: Check opening days in advance, it’s not open daily.

Tour the Jules Verne Museum

Nantes is the birthplace of Jules Verne, and his spirit lives on in this charming museum located in a 19th-century mansion overlooking the Loire River.

Inside, you’ll find first editions of his novels, antique globes, illustrations, and personal memorabilia that reveal the genius behind Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and Around the World in 80 Days. The setting itself, on a hill in the peaceful Sainte-Anne neighborhood, makes it feel like a secret discovery.

Tip: The terrace nearby offers one of the best views over the city and the river.

Jules Verne Museum
Photo by Alainauzas under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Ile de Versailles, Nantes
Photo by Balise42 under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Visit the Japanese Garden on Île de Versailles

Tucked away on a small man-made island in the middle of the Erdre River, the Japanese Garden on Île de Versailles is a tranquil haven that most visitors miss. It features waterfalls, bamboo groves, stone lanterns, and a traditional Japanese-style tea house.

It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing or to enjoy a quiet morning stroll away from the buzz of the city center.

Tip: You can also rent a small electric boat nearby and explore the Erdre River at your own pace.

La Cigale

Opened in 1895, La Cigale is one of the most iconic and historic brasseries in Nantes.

Located on the lively Place Graslin, this Belle Époque gem is known for its ornate interior, with painted ceilings, grand mirrors, and ceramic tiles that transport you back in time. Today, it offers classic French brasserie dishes in a stunning setting. Whether you’re stopping for lunch or just a coffee, it’s an unforgettable experience.

We recommend: Try the seafood platter or their signature profiteroles!

Address: 4 Place Graslin, 44000 Nantes

Website: www.lacigale.com

La Cigale
Photo by François de Dijon under licence CC BY-SA 4.0