Nantes

France

Friday, August 29, 2025

Sunrise

7:20 AM

Sunset

8:53 PM

About

Nantes is a historic city located in the Loire Valley of France. It is known for its stunning architecture, including the impressive Château des Ducs de Bretagne. The city is also famous for its cultural offerings, with a lively arts scene and many museums and galleries. Visitors can stroll along the beautiful banks of the Loire River or explore the vibrant shopping and dining districts. Nantes is a must-see destination for those seeking history, culture, and beauty in the heart of France.

30 Best Places to Visit

1. Château des ducs de Bretagne

This Renaissance fortress in the heart of Nantes is a great place to learn about the city's history.
2. Jardin des Plantes

This botanical garden is home to a variety of plants and animals, including rare species from around the world.
3. Les Machines de l'île

This unique attraction features giant mechanical creatures, including a 40-foot-tall elephant, which can take visitors on a ride around the island.
4. Musée d'arts de Nantes

This museum showcases both classic and contemporary art from around the world.
5. Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul

This stunning cathedral is known for its Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
6. Passage Pommeraye

This 19th-century shopping arcade is an architectural masterpiece with its stunning staircase and ornate details.
7. Île de Versailles

This small island in the center of Nantes is home to a beautiful Japanese garden and a restored 18th-century house.
8. Place Graslin

This gorgeous square is surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the ornate Théâtre Graslin.
9. Musée Jules Verne

This museum is dedicated to the life and works of the famous French author and features exhibits on his science fiction novels.
10. La Cantine du Voyage

This food hall is a great place to sample some of the best local cuisine, including seafood, cheese, and wine.
11. Église Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Port

This Gothic church is one of the oldest in Nantes and features beautiful stained glass windows.
12. Tour LU

This former biscuit factory now serves as a cultural center and museum, showcasing the history of the famous LU brand.
13. Parc de la Beaujoire

This park is home to Nantes' largest stadium and hosts concerts and events throughout the year.
14. Passage du Gois

This unique causeway is only passable at low tide and leads to the island of Noirmoutier.
15. Hôtel-Dieu

This historic hospital now serves as a museum, featuring exhibits on the history of medicine in Nantes.
16. Musée Dobrée

This museum is home to a collection of art and artifacts from ancient civilizations around the world.
17. Place Royale

This beautiful square is home to several important buildings, including the monument to Louis XVI.
18. La Cité des Congrès de Nantes

This modern convention center hosts events and concerts throughout the year.
19. Les Anneaux de Buren

These giant steel rings are a modern art installation located on the Île de Nantes.
20. Musée de l'imprimerie

This museum showcases the history of printing and bookbinding in Nantes and features a working letterpress.
21. Place Mellinet

This beautiful square is home to several historic buildings, including the Palais de Justice.
22. Château de Goulaine

This beautiful castle dates back to the 13th century and is now home to a wine museum.
23. Place du Bouffay

This historic square is home to several bars and restaurants, as well as the remains of the city's medieval castle.
24. Esplanade des Riveurs

This park along the Loire River is a great place to relax and take in the views of the city.
25. Basilique Saint-Nicolas

This beautiful basilica is known for its impressive organ and stunning stained glass windows.
26. Cale de la Duchesse Anne

This former shipyard is now a cultural center, featuring exhibitions, concerts, and other events.
27. Musée naval de Nantes

This museum is dedicated to the history of the French navy and features exhibits on shipbuilding, navigation, and maritime history.
28. Parc de Procé

This beautiful park is home to several species of birds and other wildlife, as well as a small lake and several hiking trails.
29. Cours Cambronne

This pedestrian street is lined with shops and cafes and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
30. Musée des Beaux-Arts

This museum features art from the 14th to the 20th century, including works by Monet, Delacroix, and other famous artists.