Top 6 activities in Nantes

Nantes is an enigmatic, dynamic city that will surprise you culturally. Outdoors, opt for the great classics, like a cycle ride along the Loire towards the ocean. Alternatively, go for a bucolic walk in the heart of nature, to observe the birds of the Marais de Brière, for example.

The Nantes region seems to be an inexhaustible source of sporting and water sports activities of all kinds. Choose from canoes, kayaks, dinghies or authentic old sailing boats.

The gastronomy of Nantes also offers almost endless possibilities. Winegrowing – from production to small group wine tastings – will delight fans of Nantes IGP crus. Nantes is also the perfect playground for rediscovering some cult delicacies: berlingots, Petit Beurre and gâteau nantais… You’ll soon find out all about their history when you visit one of the artisanal factories.

What to do in Nantes? 6 ideas for activities

Suggestions for leisure activities in Nantes are legion. As many activities are notorious or unmissable, so to speak, we’ve put together a list of the more discreet ones. One thing’s for sure, whether you’re a couple, a family or a group of friends, you’ll have the time of your life in the City of the Dukes!

1 – Climb aboard the great mechanical elephant

photo credit pixabay

Category: € / Unusual

Description: Twelve metres high, eight metres wide and twenty-one metres long – these are the imposing dimensions of Nantes’ famous mechanical elephant! Treat yourself to a ride on this technical and artistic marvel. On its back, you’ll enjoy a unique view of Nantes’ former shipyard district. Inside the animal, you’ll discover the secrets of how it works, up close to the gears and controls of all kinds!

2. Try a street food tour

Category: €€ / Unusual / Gastronomic

Description: Join two true experts in Nantes street food on a memorable food tour! A gourmet stroll punctuated by delicious sweet and savoury twists and turns, bearing witness to the know-how and creativity of Nantes’ chefs. After taking in the sights for over 3 hours, you’ll go home with a belly as full as your Nantes address book.

3. Board a boat for the ocean

Category: €€ / Cultural

Description: Treat yourself to a round trip on the Loire estuary as far as Saint-Nazaire! During a trip of around two and a half hours, you’ll discover the landscapes and sights along the banks of the Loire estuary, including the “Maison dans la Loire”, a reproduction of a real house in the port of Valau-sur-Loire.

4. Explore Nantes on a segway

Category: €€ / Cultural

Description: With its extensive network of cycle paths, the city of Nantes is the perfect place to stroll around on a bicycle or other soft mobility means such as the Segway! Starting from the Place Royale, there are several routes through the historic centre or on the Ile de Nantes. Accompanied by a guide, you can explore the City of the Dukes with your family or friends at the gentle pace of a Segway.

4. Blind chocolate tasting

photo credit unsplash

Category: €€ / Gastronomic

Description: Who hasn’t dreamt of entering the fantastic, gourmet world of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”? The cocoa professionals in Nantes will take you on a breathtaking gustatory journey. For around 1 hour, you’ll follow the transformation of France’s favourite delicacy. From the tree to the bar, in squares of varying strength, you’ll be able to travel all the way from Nantes to taste flavours straight from Mexico.

5. Go on a detective hunt in the secret places of Nantes

Category: € / Unusual / Cultural

Description: Immerse yourself in an investigation full of enigmas and make Nantes your playground by taking part in a treasure hunt in the city centre or on the Ile de Nantes! Solve a crime or go in search of a stolen object, and explore Nantes’ heritage through a series of incredible scenarios!