Nantes, although since 1941 part of the Loire Atlantique region, was historically the capital of
Brittany, and retains its deeply Breton identity. Dynamic and cultural, the city of
Nantes has culture and
festivals coming out of its ears.
Nantes has a long and colourful history, which you can discover at the
Château of the Dukes of Brittany. In the château you'll find a museum which explores the history of the city and the Dukes who reigned there.
In the city's old shipyards you will find some fascinating creatures at the
Machines de l'Ile art project: forged from industrial materials these articulated creatures come from the most fantastic imaginary world of Jules Verne, a native of
Nantes. The whole family will enjoy discovering the Great Elephant, the Marine Worlds and the Heron Tree. You can discover more about this famous man and his imagination, author of
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and
Around the World in 80 Days, at the
Jules Verne Museum.
The 19th century neoclassical
Passage Pomeraye is a great place to wander, browsing the
shops in Nantes. After a spot of shopping, stop for lunch and some celeb spotting at
La Cigale, the legendary art deco style brasserie is particularly recommended for its seafood.
Every five years
Nantes becomes the horticultural focus of Europe with its
Floralies Internationales which reunites the best botanical creations, with horticulturalists from all over the world showing off their best plants and tools, and offering advice. Around 500,000 visitors attend each year. The annual Nantes
Carnival is a colourful and fun event for all the family, while the "crazy day" or
Folle Journée de Nantes in January is a classical music festival for all. For all things cultural, whatever the time of year, don't miss paying the
Lieu Unique a visit. This converted LU biscuit factory is indeed a unique place, with theatre, dance, concerts, food festivals and contemporary art exhibitions going on, as well as a
bar and club in the evenings, its is a truly many faceted gem in the modern cultural landscape of
Nantes.