Things to do
HISTORY
Nantes’ history lies in the water that flows through it – truly the city’s lifeblood. Once a thriving port, by the late 20th century the docks fell silent and the city reinvented itself as a cultural and creative hub. Revel in this pioneering spirit, captured in the spell-binding art, architecture and sustainable urban design that’s evident throughout Nantes today. Wander the streets and you can’t fail to be enthused and inspired by the city’s vibrant energy and endless imagination.
LANDMARKS
Make your way inside the medieval walls of the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a beautifully restored castle at the heart of the city. Then promenade the Passage Pommeraye, an exquisite 19th century shopping arcade that marries antique architecture with boutique shopping. Not to be missed, Les Machines de l’île – a mechanical menagerie that will leave you spellbound and pinching yourself. Ride the spectacular Grande Éléphant along the banks of the Loire or spin on the Carrousel des Mondes Marins, three carousels stacked inside an intricate concrete lacework, that will have you feeling as though you’ve wandered into a Baz Luhrmann film.
CULTURE
Grab a coffee and enjoy a slow stroll through Le Jardin des Plantes, a peaceful, slightly whimsical botanical garden with installations by artist Claude Ponti. For a taste of local gastronomy, head to Marché de Talensac, Nantes’ main food market and the perfect spot for oysters and local wine. Francophile readers will enjoy getting lost in Librairie Coiffard – one of France’s oldest independent bookstores. Or plan your visit to coincide with Le Voyage à Nantes, a city-wide summer art trail which sees installations pop up in unexpected places, from rooftops to rivers.
