Key Takeaways:
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Nantes offers an exciting mix of art, innovation, and medieval history, making it a top destination year-round.
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From giant mechanical animals to castle tours and island gardens, Nantes blends imagination with heritage.
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The city’s festivals, public art, and riverside charm keep travelers inspired every season.
Nantes, located along the Loire River in western France, is a city that reinvents itself while honoring its roots. Once a powerful port during the Age of Exploration, it later became a hub of industry and innovation. Today, Nantes is celebrated for its bold art installations, green spaces, historical architecture, and quirky attractions like mechanical elephants. It’s one of France’s most forward-thinking cities and a magnet for creatives, families, and explorers.
What makes Nantes especially enjoyable is its balance—where castles meet sci-fi machines, and cobbled streets lead to vibrant modern spaces. With a lively cultural scene, walkable city layout, and welcoming energy, Nantes invites you to slow down and savor everything from crêpes to curiosity-driven adventures.
Table of Contents
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Ride the Mechanical Elephant at Les Machines de l’Île
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Visit Château des Ducs de Bretagne
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Explore the Jules Verne Museum
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Stroll the Trentemoult Riverside Neighborhood
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Follow the Green Line on the Le Voyage à Nantes Art Trail
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Cruise the Erdre River or Take a River Shuttle
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Experience Nantes Digital Week or the Scopitone Festival
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Relax in Jardin des Plantes Botanical Garden
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Tour the Passage Pommeraye Historic Shopping Arcade
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Enjoy the Creative Events at Île de Nantes
1. Ride the Mechanical Elephant at Les Machines de l’Île
One of Nantes’ most iconic attractions, Les Machines de l’Île is a surreal art-meets-engineering playground on the Île de Nantes. Inspired by the worlds of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci, this former shipyard now houses massive mechanical animals and fantastical machines. The star of the show is the 12-meter-tall mechanical elephant that carries visitors on a slow, trumpeting walk across the grounds. Watching it move is mesmerizing—and riding it feels like stepping into a dream.
Inside the complex, you can also explore the Machine Gallery and take a peek at future projects under construction. The whimsical atmosphere is perfect for kids and adults alike, with hands-on exhibits and live demonstrations. Whether you’re into steampunk, design, or just want a completely unique experience, this is a must-visit. It perfectly captures Nantes’ creative spirit and makes for unforgettable memories.
2. Visit Château des Ducs de Bretagne
Located right in the city center, the Château des Ducs de Bretagne is a beautifully preserved medieval fortress surrounded by a moat and green lawns. Once the residence of the Dukes of Brittany, the castle now houses the Nantes History Museum, which traces the city’s past from its early days through its colonial history and World War II. You can walk along the ramparts for panoramic views and explore interactive exhibits inside. The contrast between ancient walls and modern design makes it both educational and visually stunning.
The castle grounds are free to visit, and the courtyard is often filled with families relaxing or enjoying events. At night, the exterior is lit up, giving it a fairytale-like appearance. Whether you’re a history lover or just want to picnic near a piece of the past, this site is one of the best places to experience Nantes’ heritage. It’s grand, accessible, and right in the heart of the action.
3. Explore the Jules Verne Museum
Dedicated to Nantes’ most famous literary son, the Jules Verne Museum is perched on a hill overlooking the Loire. It features first-edition books, manuscripts, and objects that reflect Verne’s futuristic imagination. Through immersive displays and multimedia exhibits, you’ll dive into the worlds of “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea” and “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” Even the building, with its old-world charm and river views, feels like a setting from one of his novels.
This museum is great for travelers interested in science fiction, maritime history, and the evolution of technology. The displays are in French, but there are English guides available, and the visuals are universal in appeal. It’s a quiet, reflective spot where literature and fantasy merge with the city’s identity. Plan a visit during the late afternoon to catch beautiful views as the sun sets over the river.
4. Stroll the Trentemoult Riverside Neighborhood
Just across the river from central Nantes, the former fishing village of Trentemoult is a colorful escape from the city bustle. Its narrow alleys, brightly painted houses, and bohemian cafés give it a relaxed, artistic vibe. You can get there easily by river shuttle, which adds to the charm of the visit. Once there, stroll along the quay, explore vintage shops, and enjoy a crêpe or seafood meal with a view.
Many artists live and work here, and the creative energy is visible in the street art and handcrafted details on every corner. There’s even a little beach where locals gather in summer. Whether you’re people-watching, sketching, or just enjoying the fresh air, Trentemoult is one of Nantes’ hidden gems. It’s slow, scenic, and effortlessly cool.
5. Follow the Green Line on the Le Voyage à Nantes Art Trail
Each summer—and with many installations staying year-round—Nantes transforms into a living museum with the Le Voyage à Nantes art trail. A green line painted on the ground leads visitors through the city to public art installations, architectural curiosities, and cultural venues. From a giant picnic table to quirky sculptures and interactive exhibits, every stop invites you to see the city differently. It’s a self-guided tour that feels like a scavenger hunt for imagination.
This is one of the most unique ways to explore a European city, blending tourism, walking, and surprise. Perfect for travelers who enjoy art, photography, and the unexpected. Many installations are temporary, so each visit is a little different. It turns the whole city into a playground—and rewards those who follow the line with creativity around every corner.
6. Cruise the Erdre River or Take a River Shuttle
Nantes is surrounded by waterways, and one of the best ways to enjoy the city is from the water. The Erdre River, often called “the most beautiful river in France” by King Francis I, winds through lush landscapes dotted with châteaux, historic estates, and nature reserves. You can take a peaceful cruise from the city center or rent a kayak or small boat to explore at your own pace. The river is calm and scenic—perfect for photos and slow travel.
Alternatively, the Navibus river shuttle system provides a practical and picturesque way to move around Nantes. It connects different parts of the city, including the famous Île de Nantes and Trentemoult. Whether you’re commuting or cruising, these water routes turn transportation into an experience. It’s a great way to see Nantes from a fresh perspective and appreciate how its geography shapes its charm.
7. Experience Nantes Digital Week or the Scopitone Festival
Nantes has become a hotspot for innovation and creativity, and nowhere is this more evident than in its cultural events. Nantes Digital Week, held every September, showcases the intersection of tech, design, and art with workshops, exhibitions, and public installations. It’s a chance to see how the city supports cutting-edge ideas in digital culture, often in interactive or hands-on formats. From VR demos to maker spaces, it’s as informative as it is fun.
Scopitone, held around the same time, is a festival of electronic music and digital arts that lights up venues across the city. Expect light shows, immersive sound experiences, and multimedia exhibitions that turn traditional venues into tech-powered spectacles. These events are perfect for creative minds and future-focused travelers. If you’re in Nantes during September, these festivals offer a thrilling look at where culture meets technology.
8. Relax in Jardin des Plantes Botanical Garden
A peaceful oasis near the train station, the Jardin des Plantes is one of France’s oldest botanical gardens and a favorite year-round destination. Its paths wind through exotic plant collections, flowerbeds, ponds, and shaded lawns where locals come to picnic and play. The garden also features whimsical sculptures by Claude Ponti, making it as playful as it is picturesque. You’ll even find animal-shaped topiaries and cartoon-like benches that delight kids and adults alike.
In spring, the garden blooms with color, while fall offers quiet golden walks among the trees. It’s an ideal stop before or after a train journey, or just a relaxing escape from urban energy. Entry is free, and there are greenhouses to explore if the weather turns. Whether you want a moment of calm or an Instagram-worthy walk, Jardin des Plantes delivers.
9. Tour the Passage Pommeraye Historic Shopping Arcade
The Passage Pommeraye is one of Nantes’ most elegant and photogenic landmarks. Built in the 1840s, this glass-roofed arcade spans multiple levels and combines 19th-century architecture with upscale boutiques and art galleries. Ornate statues, dramatic staircases, and golden lighting create an atmosphere of timeless luxury. It’s a popular stop for both shopping and sightseeing.
Whether you’re browsing fashion, hunting for gifts, or simply admiring the interior design, the Passage is an experience in itself. During the holidays, it’s beautifully decorated and feels like a scene from a period film. It’s a great place to pause and soak in the refined side of Nantes. And even if you don’t buy anything, walking through it is a treat.
10. Enjoy the Creative Events at Île de Nantes
The Île de Nantes is the city’s experimental playground, home to modern architecture, startup incubators, and large-scale art installations. This former industrial zone has been transformed into a hub of design and creativity—featuring everything from shipping-container offices to outdoor performance spaces. Art festivals, concerts, and food events are often held here, particularly in the warmer months. It’s where Nantes really lets its imagination run wild.
The area also hosts urban farms, skate parks, and innovative housing projects that redefine what city living looks like. Come here to see the future of urban space, or simply to enjoy a street concert or riverside drink. Whether you visit day or night, Île de Nantes always feels alive with possibility. It’s a dynamic end—or beginning—to your city journey.
What to do if you have kids?
Nantes is one of the most family-friendly cities in France, with a long list of things to do for travelers with children. Kids will love riding the mechanical elephant, exploring the Jardin des Plantes, and following the green line through public art installations. Many museums offer interactive exhibits and family discounts, while parks and playgrounds are spread throughout the city. River shuttles and bike paths also make it easy to explore together at a relaxed pace. With surprises around every corner, Nantes turns every outing into an adventure for young travelers.
Where can I find free events in Nantes France taking place this weekend?
To discover free concerts, art exhibitions, pop-up markets, and community festivals happening in Nantes this weekend, visit PlanMyWeekend.ai. This tool helps you uncover real-time events tailored to your location and interests. Whether you’re looking for family outings, nightlife, or cultural experiences, PlanMyWeekend gives you a curated guide to make the most of your trip—without spending a cent.
Final thoughts
Nantes is a city that thrives on creativity, community, and curiosity. It’s a place where castles sit next to machine-driven elephants, and history walks hand-in-hand with innovation. Whether you’re wandering through gardens, chasing street art, or catching a riverside concert, you’ll find something that speaks to your sense of wonder. Year-round, Nantes offers more than just things to do—it offers ways to see the world differently. Come for the adventure, stay for the inspiration, and leave with a story only Nantes could write.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
