Nantes travel guide

An insight into Nantes France Overview

Location:  Nantes, a city in the North Western corner of France on the banks of the Loire River is approximately 55 km. from the Atlantic coast. It is the capital of Pays de la Loire region and is a prime city in the Brittany which is currently amalgamated with the modern Pays de la Loire region. Culturally, Nantes is still linked to Brittany culturally and is the sixth largest city of France with a population of 8,047,833 inhabitants (2008).

History:  The city owes its origin to the Gallic tribe, named Namneti who founded the town back in 70 B.C.  This city was the capital of slave trading in the 18th century and the first port of France which transformed Nantes into a wealthy urban center.  In 1826 the city witnessed the initiation of the first omnibus service and construction of the first railroad in 1851 which led to industrial development and modernization of the port city.  

Geographical Background:  The city encompasses an area of approximately 65.19 sq. km. It is segregated into 11 neighborhoods, mostly concentrated on the banks of the Loire River.

Climate:  Nantes has cool winters and warm summers.

Transport:  The first public transit system was omnibus followed by tramways. It launched its first bus way in 2006. The city is well connected to distant countries as well as locally via Nantes airport. The rail routes and road network are diverse which connects Nantes to all the major cities of France.

Places of Interest:  Nantes is the center of several tourist attractions. Some of the most reputed places include LA Cocotte, Bateux Nantais, the Church of Saints Paul and Peter, Chateau des Ducs, Rue de la Fosse and Andubom Marshland. LA Cocotte and Bateux Nantais are places where tourists can view the mansions of the bygone era.  The gothic Church of Saints Paul and Peter holds a religious museum enshrined in the basement of this church.

The Chateau des Ducs is being restored where a historical museum is under construction. Very close to this castle is the quaint shopping arcade of Rue de la Fosse which also offers numerous interesting cafes. Andubom Marshland houses the aviary where birds of various species are kept. It also contains a historical museum where pre-historic and biological collections are displayed. Nantes abounds in heritage sights such as cathedrals, castles, game sanctuary and reserves.

Nightlife: This city boasts of bars, discos, clubs and theatres catering to the diverse tastes of tourists.

Accommodation:  Nantes has numerous star hotels, motels, apartments and guest houses to suit all segments of tourists and business travelers. Fish, seafood, especially oysters, and cheese are very popular Nantes cuisine.