Self-Guided Walking Tour of Nantes (2025)

Start your day at the Jardin des Plantes, a peaceful botanical garden spanning over seven hectares. Established in the 19th century, the garden is home to more than 10,000 plant species, as well as whimsical sculptures and themed flowerbeds. It’s a refreshing green escape within the urban fabric of Nantes.

Highlights include the 19th-century palm house and seasonal art installations by artists like Claude Ponti, which bring playful fantasy to the natural surroundings. It’s also a great place to pause at the Café de l’Orangerie and enjoy a drink amidst the foliage before continuing your walk.

From the Jardin des Plantes, head west to the Musée d’Arts de Nantes, one of France’s finest regional art museums. Housed in a striking 19th-century palais with a contemporary glass extension known as “The Cube,” the museum offers an impressive chronological journey through European art from the 13th to the 21st centuries.

Visitors will find masterpieces by artists such as Delacroix, Ingres, Monet, Kandinsky, and Soulages. The museum’s layout weaves between classical galleries and avant-garde installations, offering rich contrasts and a dynamic visual experience. The natural light pouring through skylights enhances the dramatic presentation of the works.

The museum is also a cultural hub, offering frequent temporary exhibitions and educational programs. With its on-site café and bookstore, it makes for a relaxing and enriching stop, whether you’re an art aficionado or a curious traveler.

Porte Saint-Pierre is one of the few remaining gates from Nantes medieval fortifications and serves as a quiet yet evocative reminder of the city’s defensive past. Situated near the cathedral, this stone arch once marked the eastern entrance to the fortified town and dates back to the 15th century.

Today, the gate stands nestled among more modern buildings but retains its historic character. Visitors passing beneath its arch experience a tangible link to the city’s Middle Ages and the daily life of centuries past. Interpretive signage nearby explains its significance, making it a rewarding find for history enthusiasts.

Its position next to key landmarks like the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul makes it an easy and worthwhile stop on your walk. It is particularly atmospheric in the early morning or at dusk, when shadows play on the worn stones and echo the rhythms of old Nantes.

The Cathedral of Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, an awe-inspiring example of Gothic architecture. Begun in the 15th century, it took over 400 years to complete. Inside, the cathedral is filled with light from expansive stained glass windows, many of which were restored after wartime damage.

The highlight of the cathedral is the tomb of François II and Marguerite de Foix, a Renaissance masterpiece of white marble sculpted in the early 16th century. The space also features a remarkable crypt and the remains of earlier Romanesque structures, providing insight into centuries of religious devotion and architectural change.

The Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a fortified palace that once housed the Dukes of Brittany. The castle’s ramparts offer sweeping views of the old town, and its moat and inner courtyard provide a beautiful introduction to Nantes’ medieval past. Inside, the Nantes History Museum spans 32 rooms and delves into topics from the city’s early days through to its role in the transatlantic slave trade and beyond.

The museum’s modern multimedia installations bring historical narratives to life, from industrial development to World War II. Special attention is given to Nantes’ maritime legacy, and visitors gain a fuller understanding of how the city evolved into a regional powerhouse. Temporary exhibitions and interactive displays make it an engaging stop for all ages.

Jungle Intérieure, is a lush urban garden hidden in the courtyard of Passage Bouchaud. Created by artist Evor, this installation is part of Le Voyage à Nantes and showcases more than 2,300 exotic plants arranged in pots, balconies, and rooftops.

This miniature jungle thrives without fertilizers, sustained by a drip irrigation system and the artist’s daily attention. Wooden walkways and staircases provide multiple perspectives of the garden’s rich foliage and sculptural arrangements.

Jungle Intérieure is not just a botanical curiosity but also a work of living art. It transforms an ordinary space into a haven of tranquility, connecting visitors to both nature and creativity in the heart of the city.

Situated in the heart of the Bouffay district, Église Sainte-Croix is a remarkable blend of classical and Gothic architecture, reflecting Nantes’ rich historical tapestry. The church’s origins trace back to the 11th century, initially serving as a Benedictine priory. The current structure began construction in 1669, featuring a classical façade adorned with columns and an antique-style pediment. In 1860, architect Henri-Théodore Driollet added a distinctive bell tower, incorporating the clock from the former Bouffay Tower, a nod to the city’s medieval past.

Inside, visitors are greeted by a harmonious blend of artistic elements from various periods. The nave’s right altar, a relic from the 17th century, stands as a testament to the church’s enduring legacy. A Louis XV-style pulpit, crafted from solid mahogany, showcases intricate design, while the wrought iron railing is recognized as a historic monument. The stained glass windows, some restored after World War II bombings, cast colorful patterns across the stone floors, creating an ethereal atmosphere.

Église Sainte-Croix is not only a place of worship but also a sanctuary of peace amidst the bustling city. The church’s connection to the Benedictine tradition is still evident, with the Fraternity of Apostolic Benedictines having been based here until recently. Visitors can take a moment to reflect in the tranquil interior, where the play of light and shadow creates a serene ambiance. Its central location makes it an excellent addition to any itinerary, easily accessible for those exploring nearby attractions.

A short walk from the art museum brings you to Place Royale, a prominent square in central Nantes. Designed by Mathurin Crucy in the late 18th century, this elegant plaza is a showcase of classical architecture, with harmonious facades and symmetrical proportions. At the center stands a grand fountain inaugurated in 1865, featuring allegorical statues representing the city and its surrounding rivers.

Historically, Place Royale symbolized the city’s economic ambitions during its expansion in the 1700s. It was not dedicated to a monarch but rather intended as a civic space for public life and commerce. Despite damage during World War II, the square was restored and today remains a popular gathering spot surrounded by shops, cafés, and bustling pedestrian zones.

The square’s lively atmosphere makes it a perfect place to pause and soak in the rhythm of the city. Sit at a café terrace, admire the neoclassical backdrop, and observe the dynamic flow of locals and visitors that pass through this elegant urban stage.

Just steps away lies the Passage Pommeraye, a 19th-century shopping arcade that is widely considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Built between 1840 and 1843, this covered gallery spans three levels connected by a majestic central staircase. The interior features marble columns, wrought-iron railings, and skylights that bathe the space in natural light.

The arcade was an innovative architectural response to the sloped terrain between Rue Santeuil and Rue de la Fosse. Today, its timeless design still inspires wonder. Boutiques lining the passage range from high-end fashion to fine chocolate shops, offering a luxurious shopping experience in a museum-like setting.

Beyond its commercial appeal, Passage Pommeraye has been a backdrop for films and a symbol of Nantes’ bourgeois refinement. It provides a smooth transition between historic Nantes and its stylish, contemporary identity.

Continue to Place Graslin, an 18th-century square anchored by the neoclassical Théâtre Graslin. This cultural venue has hosted generations of opera lovers and continues to serve as one of Nantes’ premier performance spaces. Its Corinthian columns, statues of muses, and elegant facade make it a striking architectural highlight.

Adjacent to the theater, La Cigale brasserie is a local institution known for its ornate Art Nouveau interiors and celebrated history. The entire square exudes a refined ambiance, with symmetrical buildings and open space inviting visitors to linger.

Place Graslin is not just for culture lovers. It’s a social hub where people gather for concerts, screenings, and casual strolls. Whether you’re catching a performance or enjoying a drink at a terrace café, it encapsulates the graceful charm of historic Nantes.

​The Natural History Museum of Nantes (Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle de Nantes) is a captivating destination for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. Established in 1793, it stands as one of France’s oldest natural history museums. Located at 12 Rue Voltaire, the museum has evolved over centuries, expanding its collections and facilities to offer a comprehensive exploration of the natural world. Its galleries encompass zoology, earth sciences, and a vivarium, providing visitors with a diverse and immersive experience.

One of the museum’s highlights is the grand zoology gallery, which showcases over a thousand specimens, including an impressive 18-meter-long fin whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling. The earth sciences section features an extensive collection of minerals, rocks, and fossils, offering insights into the planet’s geological history. The vivarium houses a variety of live reptiles and amphibians, allowing visitors to observe these creatures up close and learn about their habitats and behaviors.​

Beyond its permanent exhibits, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of natural sciences. Its commitment to accessibility and engagement makes it a valuable resource for both locals and tourists seeking to explore the wonders of the natural world.

The Musée Thomas Dobrée, located in the Graslin district of Nantes, is a testament to one man’s passion for art and history. Thomas Dobrée, a 19th-century collector and heir to a shipowning family, dedicated his life to amassing a vast array of artifacts spanning from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. His vision culminated in the construction of a neo-Romanesque palace designed to house his collections, which he bequeathed to the Department of Loire-Atlantique upon his death in 1895.​

The museum complex comprises three main buildings: the Palais Dobrée, the Manoir de la Touche, and the Voltaire building. The Palais Dobrée serves as the primary exhibition space for Dobrée’s personal collection, featuring rare manuscripts, coins, sculptures, and decorative arts. The Manoir de la Touche hosts temporary exhibitions, while the Voltaire building accommodates visitor services and administrative offices. The museum’s extensive gardens provide a serene backdrop, enhancing the overall visitor experience.​

After a comprehensive renovation, the Musée Thomas Dobrée reopened on May 18, 2024, unveiling modernized facilities and refreshed exhibits that honor Dobrée’s legacy while embracing contemporary museography. Among its most renowned artifacts is the reliquary containing the heart of Anne of Brittany, a symbol of the region’s rich heritage. The museum continues to serve as a cultural beacon, inviting visitors to delve into centuries of art and history.

Not far from the Île de Nantes, along the Quai de la Fosse, lies the Mémorial de l’Abolition de l’Esclavage—a deeply moving site that acknowledges Nantes’ central role in the transatlantic slave trade. Designed by architect Julian Bonder and artist Krzysztof Wodiczko, the memorial features 2,000 glass plaques bearing the names of ships and ports involved in the slave trade.

Descending beneath the riverwalk, visitors enter a contemplative corridor lined with texts from abolitionists, human rights documents, and historical accounts. The experience is sobering, reflective, and powerfully designed to encourage remembrance and vigilance.

The memorial stands as a model for how cities can confront painful histories with honesty and dignity. It invites both locals and international visitors to reflect on human rights and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.

Perched on the hillside overlooking the Loire River, the Musée Jules Verne offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and imagination of one of Nantes’ most celebrated literary figures. Although Verne never lived in the building itself, the 19th-century mansion closely resembles his childhood home and houses an extensive collection dedicated to his works. Its location provides an inspiring backdrop, with river views that echo the maritime adventures depicted in Verne’s novels.

The museum’s exhibits are organized thematically, allowing visitors to journey through Verne’s life, from his youth in Nantes to his literary success. Original manuscripts, letters, first editions, and personal items are displayed alongside models of the fantastical machines and vehicles that populate his stories. These artifacts offer insight into the scientific curiosity and storytelling genius that defined Verne’s work.

Beyond its collections, the museum celebrates Verne’s legacy with multimedia presentations and artistic interpretations of his most famous tales. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea or discovering his visionary worlds for the first time, the Musée Jules Verne invites you into a realm of imagination deeply rooted in the city’s history.

N.B. To Return you can take the Navibus N2

Cross the Loire to reach Les Machines de l’Île, a groundbreaking artistic and mechanical project located on the former shipyards of the Île de Nantes. Inspired by the worlds of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci, this interactive installation features massive moving sculptures, most famously the Grand Éléphant—a 12-meter-tall mechanical creature that carries visitors on a lumbering walk along the riverfront.

The project was developed by François Delarozière and Pierre Orefice as part of the city’s creative renewal strategy. The Galerie des Machines showcases prototypes and creatures from the imagined marine worlds, while the Carrousel des Mondes Marins brings three tiers of sea-themed mechanical rides to life.

More than an attraction, Les Machines de l’Île is a symbol of Nantes’ inventive spirit and cultural rebirth. It draws families, artists, and tourists alike, offering a fusion of engineering, imagination, and playful wonder.