Nantes: TOP attractions

In the Old Town, you can wander through the narrow streets, admiring the historical buildings of the XVI-XVIII centuries. The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul is located here - a majestic Gothic temple, which is one of the symbols of Nantes. Nearby is the Ducal Castle, the former residence of the Dukes of Brittany, which today has been converted into a museum.

Along with the medieval center, Nantes impresses with its modern architecture. A vivid example is Nantes Island - a former industrial zone that was reimagined and turned into a cultural and entertainment center of the city. Here you can see futuristic buildings, attend concerts and exhibitions.

An important part of Nantes is its promenade along the Loire. There are cozy cafes, restaurants and shops, as well as picturesque parks that offer great places for walks and relaxation.

Current railway connection with the city of Nantes, France

What is worth visiting in the city of Nantes?

Theater in Nantes

This theater was built in 1803-1811 by architect Mathurin Crozat and is one of the most beautiful classical theater buildings in France. The facade of the theater is decorated with columns of the Corinthian order and sculptural compositions. Above the entrance to the theater is the inscription "Aux Muses".

The interior of the theater is no less impressive. The main hall impresses with its majestic dimensions and magnificent decoration. The walls are decorated with paintings, and the ceiling with frescoes. The auditorium can accommodate up to 800 spectators who can enjoy performances in comfortable conditions.

Nantes Island

Nantes Island is a unique and dynamic part of the city of Nantes, located on the Loire River. Over the years, this island has undergone large-scale transformations, turning from an industrial zone into a modern cultural and entertainment center.

Today, the island of Nantes impresses visitors with its architectural heritage, which harmoniously combines ancient industrial buildings with modern constructions. The island is filled with various cultural and entertainment facilities. It is home to numerous museums, art galleries, concert venues, restaurants and bars that attract people from all over the region.

Park Les Machines de l'île

Located on the island of Nantes, the "Les Machines de l'île" complex is a unique cultural project combining art, engineering and fantasy. This amazing park, created by artists and engineers, has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Nantes.

The central attraction of the complex is a giant mechanical elephant that moves slowly, transporting visitors to the world of fabulous creatures. In addition to the mechanical elephant, you can see other mechanical creatures on the premises of "Les Machines de l'île" - from sea creatures to fantastic birds. In addition to viewing mechanical wonders, visitors can take part in a variety of interactive activities. For example, you can climb to the observation deck of a giant elephant or take a trip on a mechanical ship floating on an artificial lake.

Castle of the Dukes of Brittany (Château des Ducs de Bretagne)

Located in the heart of old Nantes, the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany is a true gem of a city that preserves the region's centuries-old history. This majestic medieval castle was the seat of the rulers of Brittany and witnessed many important events.

Built in the 15th century, the castle impresses with its stone walls and powerful towers. Passing through the main gate, visitors enter a courtyard surrounded by a magnificent Gothic building. You can see high spiers, pointed arches and other architectural details that give the castle a truly royal look.

Today, the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany is one of the most famous museums in Nantes. Its exhibits show the rich history of Brittany, from the Middle Ages to the present day. Visitors can learn about life at the princely court, the history of the reign, and see valuable artifacts, tapestries and furniture from the era.

Royal Square with a fountain

Place Royale in Nantes is one of the most beautiful and famous places in this French city. It is a spacious rectangular square surrounded by majestic buildings in the classicism style, which give it special dignity and elegance.

The central element of the square is a majestic fountain, which was installed here in 1865. It is a complex composition of sculptural figures symbolizing the elements of water. Streams of water gushing from the fountain give this place particular freshness and attractiveness.

Trade Passage

Passage Pommeraye is a unique architectural landmark and one of Nantes' most famous pedestrian galleries. This elegant shopping arcade was built in the 19th century and is a true masterpiece of the neoclassical style.

Located in the heart of the old town, Passage Pommeraye impresses with its luxurious facades, decorated with columns, arches and decorative elements. A two-story gallery with wooden stairs and openwork balconies creates a special atmosphere of the past.

In addition to entertainment and shopping, Passage Pommeraye is also interesting for its history. This unique structure was designed by the famous architect Passe and built in 1843 on the initiative of a local entrepreneur. It became a symbol of the prosperity and fashion of Nantes in that period.

Marshal Foch square with Louis column

It is a wide, spacious square surrounded by majestic buildings in the style of French classicism. In the center of the square stands the Column of Louis, a majestic monument erected in honor of King Louis XVI. The column is topped by a full-length statue of the king. Around the column are four sculptural groups symbolizing different provinces of France.

The square is surrounded by elegant buildings, among which the Palace of Justice stands out with its austere facades and colonnades. Other notable architectural landmarks are located here, such as the Nantes Opera House and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Botanical garden - Jardin des Plantes

Jardin des Plantes is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in France, which is a real oasis of peace and harmony in the heart of Nantes. This green corner of the city was founded back in the 18th century and for more than 200 years of its existence has become a real treasure for connoisseurs of plant life.

Located on the banks of the Loire River, the botanical garden in Nantes impresses with its grandeur and diversity. Alleys lined with century-old trees lead visitors to numerous thematic compositions and greenhouses. Here you can see collections of rare plants from all over the world - from tropical palms to aromatic herbs.

A special pride of the garden is its rose garden, where hundreds of varieties of roses bloom. In spring and summer, these flower compositions fascinate with their beauty and fragrance. The collection of alpine plants, placed on a specially created mountain landscape, is no less impressive.

Notre-Dame de Bon-Port is a Roman Catholic basilica

This basilica is one of the most outstanding architectural masterpieces of the region and an important center of the religious life of the local community. Built in the 15th century, the basilica impresses with its majestic Gothic forms.

The interior of Notre-Dame de Bon-Port is no less impressive. The spacious nave, supported by slender columns, is filled with soft light penetrating through the stained glass windows. The altar, made in the traditional Gothic style, is decorated with luxurious carvings and golden elements.

Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul

The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul is a majestic Catholic cathedral, which is one of the most outstanding architectural monuments of Nantes. The construction of the cathedral began in the 15th century and lasted more than 400 years, leaving an imprint of various architectural styles on its facades. The appearance of the cathedral impresses with its grandeur and sophistication of details - slender spiers, steep arches, whimsical sculptures and reliefs.

The majestic doors of the cathedral open the entrance to its spacious interior, which also fascinates visitors. High vaults, decorated with graceful ribs, rise to the heavens, creating a sense of grandeur and spirituality. The walls of the cathedral are covered with luxurious frescoes, stained-glass windows and carvings, which fill the room with incredible light and color.