Nantes is our favorite city in northern France. Though the city is the 6th largest in France, it is considered the third one in quality of life, behind Paris and Lyon.
We visited the city countless times. The last time there, we spent two weeks. There’s so much to do and see in Nantes that we felt it was not enough.
The city is spread out in a fairly big area and is very diverse. Its neighborhoods cater to different tastes and fancies. Follow our tips and you will find the right place for you.
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Bouffay
Bouffay is in the city center. Locals call it Old Nantes. The neighborhood is full of medieval buildings. We love it because most of it is pedestrian.
The epicenter and most iconic landmark in Nantes is here. We are talking about the incredible Castle of the Dukes of Bretagne. The massive castle dates back 6 centuries.
The park around the Castle is splendid. Nantes Cathedral is nearby. If you think the 7th Century temple looks amazing from outside wait till you get inside.
We Recommend These Hotels in Bouffay:
Okko Hotels Nantes Château
The Okko Hotel Nantes Chateau has an unbeatable location just one block from the castle. You can walk everywhere in no time. The hotel has super comfy rooms and impeccable service.
L’Hôtel
L’Hotel is our favorite hotel in Nantes. It’s in front of the Castle. In fact, the best rooms have views over the castle. Book in advance because it’s small!
Graslin
Graslin is next to Bouffay, west. It’s the fanciest area in the city. The 200 foot (85 meter) tall Saint Nicolas Basilica towers above the neighborhood. Visiting the 1854 temple is a must.
The Royal Square is in front of the Basilica. We love having a bite and coffee in the pedestrian plaza. The incredible 1840s Passage Pommeraye is nearby. Continue walking and you’ll reach Graslin Square.
The 1788 Graslin Theatre presides over the plaza. The lovely Cambronne Park with its statues and plants starts here. We strongly recommend visiting the 200 year old Natural History Museum.
We Recommend These Hotels in Graslin:
Oceania l’Hôtel de France Nantes
The best hotel in Graslin is the Oceania l’Hôtel de France Nantes. It’s on pedestrian Rue Crébillon. The 18th Century mansion has top notch facilities. Its rooftop terrace is amazing.
Radisson BLU Hotel Nantes
The Raddison BLU Hotel used to be the city’s courthouse from 1842. Today, it’s a luxurious hotel with an elegant lobby. The plush rooms have designer furniture and high ceilings.
Madeleine – Champ de Mars
This neighborhood is south of Bouffay and next to La Loire River. Madeleine – Champ de Mars is the result of a major revamp done in the 1990s. Today, the former industrial borough combines old and new buildings.
The riverfront Cité des congrès Palace is here. It’s a super cool contemporary building with theatres and bars. The river front is our favorite spot. We always sit on the grass and admire the river.
The former cookies LU factory is here too. The 1895 factory operated for 100 years. Today, it’s a hip cultural center.
We Recommend These Hotels in Madeleine – Champ de Mars:
Hôtel de la Cité
We love the Hotel de la Cité because it has a splendid garden and a terrace. It’s in the middle of the neighborhood on a quiet street. The best rooms have balconies with views.
ibis Nantes Centre Gare Sud
If you know the French brand you know what to expect. The Ibis Centre Gare Sud is next to the LU factory. You can see Nantes’ Castle from the best rooms.
Ille de Nantes
The Ille de Nantes is the island (ille in French) in the middle of the Loire River. It used to be an industrial and port area. Today, it’s famous around the world for its Les Machines de Ille.
The place is on the western tip of the island. You will see giant mechanical animals, including an elephant that walks about shooting water.
We gravitate towards the riverfront. There are several bars and restaurants along the river quay. The islands biggest park is on the eastern tip. The best contemporary architecture in Nantes is on the island.
We Recommend These Hotels in Ille de Nantes:
Seven Urban Suites Nantes Centre
Considering its class and location, the Seven Urban Suites is great value for money. It’s near the bridge that takes you to the center. The rooms are big and comfy.
Novotel Nantes Centre Bord de Loire
The Novotel Nantes Centre Bord de Loire faces the river. You can walk to the center in no time. It’s a contemporary building with plush rooms.
Saint Donatien – Malakoff
If you are looking for an authentic experience, stay in Saint Donatien – Malakoff. The neighborhood is east of the center and north of the river. We love it because of its parks.
The Botanical Gardens are here. The 1688 park will take your breath away. The Bouteillerie Cemetery is behind the gardens. Nantes’ biggest Mosque is nearby.
You have to visit the Nantes Art Museum. Napoleon Bonaparte himself established the museum. The 1893 building is an attraction in itself. The collection inside will leave you speechless.
We Recommend These Hotels in Saint Donatien – Malakoff:
SOZO Hotel
The Sozo Hotel is a 19th Century Chapel. How cool is that? The stunning property boasts modern rooms and a hip bar. You will love it here.
Residhome Nantes Berges De La Loire
The Residhome Nantes Berges has the best studios and apartments in Nantes. The hotel faces the river. Every unit comes with a fully equipped kitchenette. The 1 bedroom apartments are perfect for families.
How Long to Stay in Nantes
Nantes is so cool that we even thought about living there. To us, the city combines perfectly historic architecture, contemporary buildings, and splendid parks. Besides, it’s got a very relaxed vibe.
That said, we all have time constraints and a huge world to discover. Therefore, we believe you should spend at least 3 nights in the city.
You will have to rush, but you will see most of its attractions. If you have more time, go to Vannes. The gated city is a sight to behold!
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