Once France’s largest port — and Brittany’s foremost city — Nantes has an intriguing history as a trading hub at the confluence of the mighty Loire and Erdre Rivers. First settled during the Bronze Age, this bustling metropolis is now a fascinating university town with a rich cultural life — and a wonderful destination for a French city break as a couple, or with friends and family. History buffs, art lovers and foodies will delight in the city’s museums, galleries, restaurants and bars, whilst outdoorsy travellers can go cycling, sailing or hit the beach. Whether you’re dreaming of cosy farmhouse hideaways just out of town or hip city hotels, our selection of the best places to stay in Nantes has it all.
Get your bearings with a visit to the imposing 15th-century Cathédrale St-Pierre et St-Paul and discover the city’s history at the Château des Ducs de Bretagne or the sobering Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery, close to the old port. The Jules Verne Museum and the Nantes Printing Museum will thrill literature lovers of all ages, whilst Musée d’Arts and Le Cale 2 Créateurs are must-sees for art enthusiasts. Nature-focused families will adore the Natural History Museum and the Garden des Plantes — one of France’s most exquisite botanical gardens. To immerse yourself in a quirky, whimsical world, head straight for the magical Les Machines de l’Ile de Nantes.
Stroll Nantes’ attractive streets to savour fantastic food, sip crisp Muscadet wine in trendy hole-in-the-wall bars, and party the night away in the city’s hottest hangouts. Admire the mansions of Ile Feydeau, the architecture of La Place Mellinet and the fishing cottages of Trentemoult on your wanderings. Boat trips on the river are wonderful, too, and there are opportunities to cycle, walk and horse ride — as well as to enjoy wine tastings — in the area, before returning to the best places to stay in Nantes.
