Nantes City Wonders and Highlights Private Guided Tour

Nantes , France

Nantes City Wonders and Highlights Private Guided Tour

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About this experience

Join us for a delightful guided tour through the charming city of Nantes, where history and culture come alive. Explore Place Graslin, an elegant 18th-century square with the impressive Théâtre Graslin and lovely cafés. Then, wander through Passage Pommeraye, a beautiful 19th-century shopping arcade filled with boutique shops and stunning architecture. Visit the neo-Gothic Basilique Saint-Nicolas, admired for its soaring spires and colorful stained glass windows. Stroll through Place Royale and the medieval Bouffay Quarter, known for its narrow streets, half-timbered houses, and vibrant eateries. As we pass by the breathtaking Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, admire its Gothic splendor. Finally, discover the courtyards of the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a majestic fortress with panoramic views and serene gardens. This tour offers a perfect blend of Nantes' rich history and lively atmosphere, making it an unforgettable experience.

Available options

Nantes City Wonders and Highlights Private Guided Tour

What's included

Private Tour

Professional Guide

Detailed itinerary

Meet your guide and begin your journey at Place de Graslin in Nantes, a vibrant, historic square renowned for its elegant 18th-century architecture. At its heart lies the majestic Théâtre Graslin, surrounded by charming cafés and shops, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and cultural immersion.

Enjoy the Passage Pommeraye, a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade, celebrated for its intricate architecture and glass-covered galleries. This historic passage is home to a variety of boutique shops and cafés, offering a unique and charming shopping experience.

Step into the Basilique Saint-Nicolas, a magnificent neo-Gothic basilica, known for its soaring spires and intricate stained glass windows. Built in the 19th century, it stands as a testament to Gothic revival architecture. Inside, you will marvel at the elaborate altar, beautiful sculptures, and vibrant rose windows that cast colorful light across the sacred space.

Stop 4

Stroll through Place Royale, a grand, historic square, renowned for its elegant 18th-century architecture and central fountain adorned with statues symbolizing the Loire River. This bustling square, surrounded by charming cafés and shops, serves as a lively hub for both locals and visitors.

Stop 5

Your guide will lead you to the medival quarter Bouffay, known for its narrow, winding streets and half-timbered houses. This vibrant district is filled with an array of restaurants, bars, and shops, offering a delightful blend of historic charm and modern amenities.

Admire the intricate façade of the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul de Nantes, also known as Nantes Cathedral. This is a breathtaking Gothic masterpiece with towering spires. Construction began in the 15th century and continued over 400 years, resulting in a harmonious blend of architectural styles.

Stop 7

Lastly, enjoy the views of Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a majestic fortress and former residence of the Dukes of Brittany, showcasing a blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Explore the expansive courtyard with your guide, walk along the ramparts for panoramic views of Nantes, and enjoy the exterior grounds, including the gardens and moat.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your guide in front of the Theatre Graslin. They will be holding a sign with your name on it.

About Nantes

Nantes is a vibrant city in western France, known for its rich history, innovative art installations, and picturesque setting along the Loire River. Often referred to as the 'Venice of the West' due to its numerous canals and bridges, Nantes offers a blend of medieval charm and modern creativity.

Top Attractions

Château des Ducs de Bretagne

This medieval castle was the residence of the Dukes of Brittany and now houses the Nantes History Museum. The castle's architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit.

Historical 2-3 hours €10.50

Les Machines de l'île

This unique attraction features giant mechanical creatures, including the famous Elephant, which visitors can ride. The site is a blend of art, science, and engineering.

Art/Entertainment 2-4 hours €18 for the Elephant ride, €10 for the Carousel

Jardin des Plantes

One of the oldest botanical gardens in France, the Jardin des Plantes is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. It features a variety of plant species, greenhouses, and a small zoo.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul

This stunning Gothic cathedral is a masterpiece of French architecture. It is known for its intricate details, beautiful stained glass windows, and historical significance.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Musée d'Arts de Nantes

Housed in a former convent, this museum showcases a rich collection of fine arts, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Museum 1-2 hours €8

Must-Try Local Dishes

Galettes de Sarrasin

Buckwheat crêpes, often filled with cheese, ham, or seafood. A staple of Breton cuisine.

Main Dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Moules-Frites

Mussels cooked in white wine or cream sauce, served with French fries. A classic seafood dish.

Main Dish Contains shellfish

Kouign-Amann

A buttery, caramelized pastry from Brittany, similar to a croissant but sweeter.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Cidre Breton

Traditional Breton cider, often served with galettes or seafood dishes.

Drink Alcoholic beverage

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby countryside Cycling along the Loire River Kayaking or canoeing on the river Picnicking in the Jardin des Plantes Strolling through the historic neighborhoods Enjoying a meal at a local café Visiting museums and art galleries Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Nantes, with warm weather and numerous festivals and events. The city is lively and bustling with visitors.

18°C to 25°C 64°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Nantes is generally a safe city for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, as with any urban area, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Nantes Atlantique Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Nantes Train Station

By bus

Nantes Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with four lines connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: G7, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Bouffay Île de Nantes Tanneurs Doulon

Day trips

Château de Clisson

25 km from Nantes • Half day

A medieval castle with a rich history and beautiful architecture. The castle is surrounded by a picturesque landscape and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Pornic

50 km from Nantes • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and fresh seafood. Pornic is a great place to relax, enjoy the sea, and sample local specialties.

Ancenis

30 km from Nantes • Half day

A historic town with a rich medieval heritage, Ancenis is known for its castle, charming streets, and beautiful views of the Loire River.

Festivals

Festival des 3 Continents • Late November to early December Nantes International Film Festival • June Nantes Jazz Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit the Château des Ducs de Bretagne early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
Explore the historic neighborhoods of Bouffay and Graslin on foot to discover hidden gems and charming streets.
Take a boat tour of the Loire River to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its history.
Try local specialties like galettes de sarrasin (buckwheat crêpes) and moules-frites (mussels with fries) at traditional Breton restaurants.
Visit the Jardin des Plantes early in the morning for a peaceful and beautiful experience, especially during the spring and summer months.