Things to do in Nantes
Discover the best attractions and experiences Nantes has to offer
Historic Monuments
Nantes’ historic core is filled with medieval fortifications, grand castles and riverside churches.
Château des Ducs de Bretagne
A commanding fortress at the heart of the historic quarter, now hosting the city’s history museum and offers views from its towers.
Cathédrale Saint-Pierre et Saint-Paul de Nantes
A striking Gothic cathedral with slender spires that dominates the old town skyline.
Église Sainte-Catherine
A renowned wooden church set by the river, famed for its ship-like interior and brick exterior.
Museums
From fine art to natural history, Nantes’ museums offer stories for every traveler.
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nantes
One of France’s finest art collections, spanning from the Renaissance to the 19th century.
Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Nantes
Engaging natural history exhibits with interactive displays for all ages.
Le Lieu Unique
A cultural center in a converted factory offering contemporary exhibitions and performances.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites in Nantes showcase medieval craftsmanship and riverside charm.
Église Sainte-Catherine
A renowned timber-framed church known for its spacious interior and riverside setting.
Porte Saint-Pierre
A historic city gate that once guarded the approach to Nantes’ old town.
National & Theme Parks
Nearby parks and whimsical attractions make for memorable day trips from Nantes.
Planète Sauvage
A wildlife park near Port-Saint-Père, where you can see diverse animals in open enclosures.
Les Machines de l’Île
A fantastical mechanical world on Île de Nantes featuring giant creatures and inventive rides.
Neighborhoods
Explore the different faces of Nantes by wandering its distinctive districts.
Île de Nantes
A modern riverfront district known for public art, the Machines, and a creative atmosphere.
Bouffay
Historic medieval core filled with narrow streets, cafes, and lively squares.
Trentemoult
A picturesque former fishermen’s village on the south bank, famous for colorful houses and a laid-back vibe.
Free Things to Do
Some of Nantes’ best experiences are free, from water mirrors to green spaces.
Miroir d’Eau
A reflective shallow pool that creates stunning mirror-like views of nearby landmarks.
Jardin des Plantes de Nantes
A peaceful botanical garden perfect for a relaxed stroll among plants and statues.
Promenade le long de l’Erdre
Stroll or bike along the Erdre river for pleasant scenery and swans.
Gastronomy
Nantes offers a tasty snapshot of Loire-Atlantique flavors and regional specialties.
Gâteau Nantais
A buttery rum cake that’s a beloved local treat with a soft, moist crumb.
Muscadet
Crisp white wine from nearby vineyards, perfect with seafood and sunny afternoons.
Crêpes et galettes
Savory and sweet crepes are a staple of casual meals in Nantes.
Nightlife
Nantes comes alive after dark with riverside bars, retro venues, and lively clubs.
Hangar à Bananes
A historic riverfront venue with bars and music that draws locals for evenings out.
Le Lieu Unique
A cultural hub offering performances, cinema, and vibrant night events.
Le Nid
A stylish bar perched atop Tour Bretagne with panoramic night views of the city.
Entertainment
From mechanical marvels to performing arts, Nantes hosts a diverse calendar of entertainment.
Les Machines de l’Île
Watch giant mechanical creatures perform and ride on imaginative machines.
Théâtre Graslin
A historic theatre offering performances and operatic nights in an elegant hall.
Opéra de Nantes
The city’s opera house presenting classical and contemporary productions.
Sports
From football to river activities, there are plenty of ways to move in Nantes.
Stade de la Beaujoire
Home of FC Nantes, where passionate fans cheer on match days.
Kayak sur l’Erdre
Paddle or paddle boat along the Erdre for a refreshing outdoor experience.
Loire à Vélo
Cycle along the scenic Loire valley path with easy day trips from Nantes.
Off the Track
For something different, niche spots and quaint corners await beyond the main sights.
Trentemoult
Colorful riverside hamlet just across the water, ideal for a scenic wander.
Passage Pommeraye
A grand 19th‑century shopping passage with ornate arches and boutiques.
Jardin japonais de Maulévrier
A tranquil Japanese garden nearby, a peaceful escape from the city.