Located in western France, Nantes is the capital of Pays de la Loire with a population of over 300,000 residents. Nantes is a great city for a city trip or a day out during a holiday in Pays de la Loire. It’s a large city where you can easily spend a few days. The city is filled with unique artworks. Let yourself be amazed by the impressive Machines of the Isle of Nantes or the various animal sculptures in the Jardin des Plantes. Additionally, the city boasts numerous historical attractions such as the Château and the Gothic Notre Dame. In Nantes, you can enjoy shopping, delicious food, and strolling through its charming streets. In short, Nantes has plenty to offer!

Château des Ducs de Bretagne

One of Nantes’ most important landmarks is the castle, Château des ducs de Bretagne. This attraction is a collection of various fortresses and a magnificent castle. Built between the 15th and 18th centuries by the last Duke of Brittany, today the castle is open to the public for visits. You can freely explore the courtyard and castle gardens, while entry to the castle itself requires a ticket. Inside the castle, you can learn about the city’s history and major world events related to Nantes. Moreover, the castle houses over 850 historical items. If you’re visiting Nantes, Château des ducs de Bretagne is definitely a must-see!

Jardin des Plantes

A beautiful green space in Nantes is the Jardin des Plantes. This botanical garden features various flowers, trees, and plants where you can wander and enjoy over 10,000 different types of flora. It’s a beautiful piece of nature where you can escape the city’s hustle and bustle. Additionally, the park is home to several animal sculptures. On the lawns, you can admire green animal sculptures such as a chick and a dog. Moreover, visiting the park in the summer evenings is particularly delightful when various parts of the park are beautifully illuminated, creating a unique atmosphere.

Les Machines de l’Île de Nantes

Among the most bizarre attractions in Nantes are Les Machines de l’Île de Nantes. Located in former shipyards where large ships were once built, these warehouses now house various mechanical animals. These creations, inspired by Jules Verne, are incredibly impressive to behold. Inside the shipyards, you’ll find mechanical creatures including a dragon, caterpillar, and the most famous, the mechanical elephant. Le Grand Élephant is an impressive attraction standing over 12 meters tall, 8 meters wide, and 21 meters long. You can even take a ride on this elephant for a fee. During the ride, the mechanical animal flaps its ears, makes elephant sounds, and sprays water from its trunk. It’s a stunning attraction that never fails to amaze everyone.

Le Lieu Unique

Just outside the center of Nantes lies Le Lieu Unique, a beautiful building with a striking tower. This historic building was once the LU biscuit factory, where various biscuits and snacks were produced. Today, it has been transformed into a cultural center offering a range of activities. Here, you’ll find a cinema, a music venue for musicians, and several trendy bars. Additionally, you can wander through the exotic garden outside Le Lieu Unique. It’s a fascinating attraction where there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul

The Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul is a magnificent cathedral in the center of Nantes. The church’s bell tower rises above all the surrounding buildings. Built in the Renaissance Gothic style, the cathedral is open for free visits throughout the year. It’s a splendid cathedral both on the outside and inside. Inside the church, you can admire various tombs of dukes. After exploring the culture, relax completely in the Jardin de la Psallette, the cathedral’s garden.

Shopping and Markets

Nantes offers a diverse shopping experience, where markets and quaint boutiques coexist amidst historic surroundings. Every Saturday, the heart of the city pulses with a bustling market, offering a cornucopia of goods for locals and visitors alike. Here, one can browse through a myriad of stalls, sampling fresh produce, local specialties, and artisanal crafts. For a more structured shopping affair, the Marché de Talensac stands as a testament to Nantes’ dedication to quality and tradition. Open from Tuesday through Sunday, this covered market not only showcases the region’s freshest offerings but also invites patrons to immerse themselves in a sensory journey through its aromatic corridors.

Nantes’ retail charm extends beyond its markets. The Passage Pommeraye, an architectural gem dating back to 1843, offers a unique shopping experience with its elegant boutiques and quaint storefronts. Nestled near Place Royale, this historical passage is a testament to Nantes’ architectural splendor and a must-visit for those seeking a blend of history and modernity in their shopping ventures.

Dining in Nantes

No exploration of Nantes is complete without savoring its culinary offerings. From savory street food to Michelin-starred dining experiences, the city caters to every palate. For those craving a taste of authentic Breton cuisine, Creperie Le loup serves up delicious crêpes, both sweet and savory, in a cozy setting that embodies the essence of French gastronomy. Meanwhile, Taverne Royale beckons with its seafood delicacies and hearty meat dishes, complemented by a charming terrace that invites diners to linger and soak in the ambiance of Place Royale.

For a truly unforgettable dining experience, Le Bouchon stands as a beacon of culinary excellence in the heart of Nantes. This Michelin-starred restaurant promises an evening of gastronomic delights, where meticulously crafted dishes and impeccable service converge to create an atmosphere of indulgence and refinement.

Nantes is a city that captivates with its blend of history, culture, and culinary prowess. From exploring its historic landmarks and vibrant markets to indulging in its diverse culinary delights, every corner of Nantes offers a new discovery. Whether you’re strolling through the enchanting Passage Pommeraye, sampling fresh produce at Marché de Talensac, or savoring a gourmet meal at Le Bouchon, Nantes promises a journey that delights the senses and leaves a lasting impression. Embrace the charm of this French gem, where tradition meets modernity, and every experience tells a story of a city steeped in elegance and allure.