Nantes

General presentation

Overall presentation

Nantes stands out as a dynamic and cultural city in the west of France, known for its rich historical heritage and its commitment to urban innovation. Former capital of the Duchy of Brittany, it harmoniously combines tradition and modernity, offering visitors a variety of cultural, artistic, and gastronomic activities that contribute to its reputation.

Geographical situation

The city is located at the beginning of the Loire estuary, at the confluence of the Erdre and the Loire, approximately 50 km from the Atlantic Ocean. This strategic position, 342 km southwest of Paris and 100 km south of Rennes, makes it an important crossroads between northern and southern France.

Atmosphere and character

The atmosphere in Nantes is characterized by a unique blend of festivity and creativity. The city is recognized for its numerous festivals, its iconic artistic initiatives like the Machines de l'île, and its pioneering commitment to sustainable development. Historical neighborhoods harmoniously coexist with contemporary spaces, creating an authentic atmosphere that attracts visitors seeking innovation and tradition.

Climate

The region enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, providing pleasant weather conditions throughout the year:

• Mild and wet winters with average temperatures around 6 °C
• Moderately warm summers, nearing 20 °C
• Annual precipitation of about 820 mm, fostering lush vegetation in the many parks and gardens

Best season to visit

The optimal period extends from spring to autumn, from May to September. During these months, the climate is particularly pleasant and the city comes alive with various cultural events and festivals, offering an enriching experience to visitors.

Access

The city is easily accessible by different means of transport:

• Air: Nantes-Atlantique Airport located 12 km from the city center, with direct flights to several French and European cities
• Rail: TGV train connecting to Paris in just over 2 hours, Lyon and Lille in about 4 hours
• Road: A11 motorway connecting to Paris in about 4 hours

Internal transport

The TAN network (Transports de l'Agglomération Nantaise) offers a well-developed transport system including:

• Three tram lines
• Bus network
• Water shuttles (Navibus)
• Self-service bike scheme (Bicloo)

These options allow for easy movement within the city and its surroundings.