Think you know France? Get ready for Nantes! This vibrant port city on the Loire River is less than an hour from the sea, so it’s a perfect getaway any time of year. As France’s sixth-largest city, it’s a cool mix of old and new—imagine centuries-old cobblestone streets alongside striking modern art and incredible restaurants. In the summer, the whole city comes alive with the “Le Voyage à Nantes” art event and cultural festivals like La Folle Journée.
The best part? All the magic is easily discovered on foot. Let’s start exploring!
Nantes walking tour
Getting your bearings in Nantes is a breeze, and a whole lot of fun. For a quick intro to the city, join a guided tour with Nantes Tourism.
Or, if you prefer to be your own guide, just follow the famous Green Line! This painted line winds through the city’s streets, leading you on an easy, self-guided adventure to all of Nantes’ must-see spots. It’s like having a playful breadcrumb trail that shows you the best of the city, one landmark at a time.
Wandering the districts
Nantes is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own charm.
- L’Ile de Nantes: Located right across the Loire, the Isle of Nantes celebrates the city’s industrial past while embracing a modern, artistic future. It’s a great place to see the city’s creative spirit in action.
- Bouffay Quarter: Step back in time in the Bouffay Quarter. Its narrow, winding medieval streets and remaining timber-framed houses from the 18th and 19th centuries give it a truly historic feel.
- Graslin Quarter: If you’re looking for a touch of luxury, the Graslin district is the place to be. With elegant 18th-century buildings, this posh area is home to the stunning Graslin Theatre and upscale boutiques perfect for an afternoon of window shopping.
- Feydeau Quarter: The elegant Feydeau Quarter has a fascinating and slightly spooky history. Its luxurious 18th-century mansions, built by former slave traders, began to crumble over time. While modern technology has helped preserve them, many still have a noticeable tilt.
- Trentemoult: Once a sleepy fishing village, Trentemoult has transformed into a colorful artists’ enclave. The buildings are painted in bright, cheerful hues and decorated with flowers and murals, making it one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the city.
Les Machines de l’Île
This incredible art project, born from the imaginations of François Delarozière and Pierre Orefice, is a fantastical blend of Jules Verne’s world, Leonardo da Vinci’s mechanical universe, and Nantes’ industrial past.
- The Great Elephant: This massive, 40-foot mechanical elephant is a sight to behold. As it moves, its 49 passengers feel like they’re on the fourth floor of a house. Watch out—it loves to spray water from its trunk at unsuspecting passers-by!
- The Gallery: In the gallery, you’ll find a lush tree canopy with real plants and mechanical animals. If you time it right, you might even get to ride a giant insect or see a massive spider emerge from the ground.
- The Carrousel des Mondes Marins is another highlight, a mesmerizing, three-level merry-go-round with intricate sea creatures that’s a true work of art.
Talensac Market
For a real taste of Nantes, head to Talensac Market, the city’s oldest and largest. Since 1937, this place has been a feast for the senses, overflowing with vibrant local fruits and vegetables, fresh-from-the-farm meats, and a dazzling array of seafood. It’s the perfect spot to mingle with locals and soak up the lively atmosphere. The market is open every day except Monday, so grab your biggest shopping bag and get ready to fill it with delicious treats!
Jardin Des Plantes
Want to escape the city for a bit? Head to the Jardin des Plantes, a giant, 7-hectare green playground right in the middle of Nantes. Since 1807, it’s been home to over 11,000 kinds of plants, so you’ll find everything from impressive tropical species to stunning camellias and magnolias. You can even step inside the old-school 19th-century greenhouses.
The garden is basically a living work of art, with a team of gardeners growing over a million new plants every year. As you wander around, keep an eye out for quirky contemporary art and whimsical sculptures tucked in among the trees. It’s the perfect place to get lost for a while and feel like you’ve stumbled into a fairytale.
Rue Crebillon shopping
Get your shopping shoes ready! Rue Crébillon is the place to be, a lively pedestrian street that connects two of Nantes’ main squares. It’s a goldmine for shoppers, packed with a fun mix of international brands and cool local boutiques.
But the real showstopper is just off the street: the Passage Pommeraye. This isn’t just a shopping mall—it’s a breathtaking masterpiece from 1843. With three floors of shops, you’ll be treated to a visual feast of ornate sculptures, a stunning glass roof, and a grand staircase that looks straight out of a movie. It’s the perfect spot to browse for beautiful fashion, unique jewelry, and specialty items, all wrapped in a spectacular piece of history.
