Nantes: A Journey into the Heart of a City of History and Modernity

Cover photo credit © Getty Images

Nantes, the birthplace of Jules Verne, is an invitation to travel, a place where history, culture, and imagination intertwine to offer a unique experience. With its rich heritage, striking art installations, and exceptional green spaces, the capital of the Pays de la Loire promises a fascinating journey. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply in search of a city break, Nantes is sure to charm you.

Discover Nantes’ heritage

A true medieval gem, the Château des Ducs de Bretagne (Castle of the Dukes of Brittany) is a must-see for anyone interested in the city’s history.

Listed as a historic monument in 1862, the castle now houses the Nantes History Museum. It was also here that the Edict of Nantes was signed by Henry IV in 1598, a landmark text guaranteeing religious freedom. As you walk along its ramparts, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, while the museum’s exhibitions trace the major chapters of Nantes’ history, from the slave trade to its industrial boom.

Le Voyage à Nantes: an artistic and historical immersion

Marked by a green line winding through the city, Le Voyage à Nantes invites you to discover the city from a fresh perspective. The route leads you through iconic landmarks and contemporary artworks, blending architectural heritage with both temporary and permanent installations. From historic buildings to bold modern creations, each stop reveals a unique facet of Nantes.

Among the major new features: the route can now be explored in both summer and winter. A unique night-time experience will let visitors discover the installations under special lighting, transforming the city after sunset. The banks of the Loire, the Feydeau district, and even some hidden corners of the city will host temporary performances, light projections, and interactive displays. Les Machines de l’Île will also join the festivities with a mechanical surprise still under wraps, adding to the fantastical world of this iconic site. The 2025 edition of Le Voyage à Nantes will turn the city into a living art laboratory, where heritage and contemporary creation come together to offer a truly unique experience.

Travelling to Nantes: ‘Neptune favours those who travel’

The first references to the port of Nantes, once known as Portus Namnetum, date back to ancient times. At its peak, it employed up to 6,000 people, making it one of the most important ports in France.

Although port activity ceased in 1987, traces of this rich past remain. Among them, the Titan cranes, listed as historic monuments since 2005, still dominate the Nantes skyline, serving as a reminder of the vital role water has played in the REGION’s development.

Experience Nantes from a different perspective

Les Machines de l’Île: a mechanical and fantastical universe

Blending Jules Verne’s imagination, Leonardo da Vinci’s engineering genius, and the city’s industrial past, the Défilé des Machines de l’Île (The Island’s Machine Parade) has become an iconic attraction. This lesser-known theme and entertainment park showcases spectacular mechanical creations that captivate visitors of all ages. One of the most impressive is the Grand Éléphant, a 12-metre-high mechanical creature that roams the city, carrying passengers on its back. Legend has it that it was on an elephant that the keys to Nantes were handed to Anne of Brittany in 1489, making the elephant a lasting emblem of the city.

Discover the history of the legendary Machines de l’Île in a new way at the Workshop. Step into the Machine Gallery, a real laboratory where engineers and craftsmen bring extraordinary mechanical creatures to life. Go behind the scenes and explore the workshops where these spectacular creations take shape. A unique place where imagination and engineering meet to offer an unforgettable experience.

The LU Tower: A symbol of Nantes transformed into a cultural space

The former LU biscuit factory’s advertising tower, built in 1909, has been transformed into an arts venue. Restored in 1998, it now houses Le Lieu Unique, a cultural centre that brings together theatre, music, dance, and exhibitions.

This successful renovation invites visitors to explore the history of LU biscuits through archival exhibits and a historical tour. From the top of the tower, the panoramic view over Nantes’ rooftops is simply spectacular.

The Jardin des Plantes: a green oasis in the city centre

Just steps from Nantes railway station, the Jardin des Plantes spans seven hectares and is home to over 10,000 plant species.

This botanical garden, one of the richest in France, is full of curiosities: the Wollemi pine, an extremely rare species from Australia discovered in 1994; and the majestic Magnolia grandiflora, first introduced to Europe in Nantes in 1711. Be amazed by the 600 varieties of camellias that have adapted to the Nantes climate, and admire the Virginia tulip tree, planted 200 years ago and recognised as France’s 1000th Remarkable Tree. Don’t miss the stunning tropical greenhouse, home to exotic orchids and carnivorous plants. An ideal haven of peace for a nature break in the heart of the city.

Whether you’re passionate about history, an art lover, or simply seeking nature, Nantes has something for everyone. With its historic castle, maritime heritage, monumental artworks, and peaceful green spaces, the city reveals unexpected treasures around every corner.

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By Emilie Fallot Nguyen