Île de Nantes: A Tranquil Escape in the Heart of the City
Discover the enchanting Île de Nantes: a lush island brimming with art, culture, and scenic beauty in the heart of the Loire River.
Île de Nantes, a serene island in the Loire River, offers tourists a unique blend of nature and urban culture. With lush parks, scenic views, and artistic installations, it's perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing afternoon.
A brief summary to Île de Nantes
- Nantes, FR
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy a quieter experience and catch stunning light for photography.
- Don't miss the Les Machines de l'île; consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid long waits.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many parks while soaking in the views of the Loire River.
- Check the local event calendar for festivals and exhibitions that may be taking place during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the island's paths and parks is best done on foot.
Getting There
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Tram
From the city center, head to the 'Commerce' tram station. Take Line 1 (the yellow line) in the direction of 'François Mitterrand'. Stay on the tram for 3 stops and get off at 'Île de Nantes' station. From the tram stop, follow the signs towards the island. You'll find yourself at the entrance of Île de Nantes.
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Bus
If you are near the 'Place Royale', walk to the nearby bus stop 'Place Royale'. Take bus line 11 towards 'Les Couëts'. Get off at 'Île de Nantes' stop. The bus ride takes about 10 minutes. Once you disembark, follow the pedestrian paths that lead into the heart of Île de Nantes.
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Walking
If you are in the historic center of Nantes, you can enjoy a pleasant walk to Île de Nantes. Start from 'Château des Ducs de Bretagne' and head south towards the 'Pont de la Tortière' bridge. Cross the bridge, and upon reaching the other side, you will be on Île de Nantes. The walk takes approximately 30 minutes and offers beautiful views of the river.
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Bicycle
You can rent a bicycle at one of the many bike-sharing stations around Nantes. Head towards the 'Loire à Vélo' cycling route and follow the path leading to Île de Nantes. It is a scenic ride along the riverbank and takes about 15 minutes from the city center. Once you reach the island, park your bike at the designated bike racks.
Discover more about Île de Nantes
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Île de Nantes
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Discover the enchanting Île de Nantes: a lush island brimming with art, culture, and scenic beauty in the heart of the Loire River.
La Loire
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of La Loire, France's longest river, where nature, culture, and history intertwine in breathtaking landscapes.
Allée Lucie Randoin
0.8 km
Explore the captivating Allée Lucie Randoin in Nantes, a historical landmark showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Halle de la Madeleine
0.9 km
Explore the architectural beauty and vibrant market culture of Halle de la Madeleine in Nantes, a must-visit historical landmark rich in local flavors.
Jules Verne's Birthplace
1.2 km
Explore the birthplace of Jules Verne in Nantes, a historical landmark that celebrates the imagination of one of literature's greatest storytellers.
Square Élisa-Mercœur
1.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Square Élisa-Mercœur, a tranquil park in Nantes perfect for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying nature.
Éloge du Pas de Côté
1.3 km
Discover Éloge du Pas de Côté, an iconic sculpture in Nantes that beautifully blends art with urban life, inviting reflection and cultural engagement.
Musée d'histoire de Nantes
1.3 km
Explore Nantes' history at the Musée d'Histoire de Nantes, where captivating exhibitions and stunning architecture reveal the city's rich past.
Le Voyage à Nantes
1.3 km
Explore Nantes like never before at Le Voyage à Nantes, your ultimate guide to the city's art, culture, and hidden gems.
Passage Pommeraye
1.4 km
Explore the architectural beauty and diverse shopping experience of Passage Pommeraye, a historic gem in the heart of Nantes.
Pl. Royale
1.4 km
Explore the charm of Pl. Royale in Nantes, where history and vibrant culture meet amidst stunning architecture and lively local life.
Monument aux Morts de Nantes - Guerre de 1870
1.5 km
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Duchess Anne of Brittany Statue
1.5 km
Explore the Duchess Anne of Brittany Statue in Nantes, a historical landmark celebrating the legacy of one of France's most iconic figures.
Statue General Cambronne
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Explore the Statue General Cambronne in Nantes, a significant historical landmark celebrating a key figure in French military history amidst beautiful gardens.
Graslin Fountain
1.5 km
Discover the enchanting Graslin Fountain, a tranquil oasis in Nantes, surrounded by rich history and stunning architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pontons - Sainte-Madeleine
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Experience the tranquil beauty and rich history of Pontons - Sainte-Madeleine, a scenic attraction along the Loire River in Nantes, France.
Mur Royal de Luxe de Nantes
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Discover the mesmerizing murals at Mur Royal de Luxe in Nantes, where art and culture beautifully intertwine in this vibrant tourist attraction.
In a Silent Way
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Experience tranquility and reflection at 'In a Silent Way,' a unique tourist attraction in Nantes, perfect for peaceful moments amidst city life.
Place du Général Sarrail
1.1 km
Explore the enchanting Place du Général Sarrail in Nantes, a captivating square that offers a blend of history, beauty, and local culture.
temple du Goût
1.2 km
Discover the rich flavors and history of Nantes at the Temple du Goût, a unique tourist attraction and culinary landmark.
Le Mètre à Ruban
1.2 km
Discover the artistic brilliance of Le Mètre à Ruban, a vibrant installation celebrating Nantes' maritime heritage along the Loire River.
Miroir d'eau
1.2 km
Discover the stunning reflections of Miroir d'eau in Nantes, a captivating water feature that enchants visitors with its artistic beauty and serene ambiance.
Canal Saint-Félix
1.3 km
Explore the enchanting Canal Saint-Félix in Nantes, where picturesque views and local charm create unforgettable memories.
Pl. du Bouffay
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Nantes at Pl. du Bouffay, a charming square filled with cafes, shops, and stunning architecture.
Tour LU
1.3 km
Explore Tour LU in Nantes, a historic biscuit factory turned cultural hub, offering a unique blend of heritage, art, and spectacular city views.
Le Lieu Unique
1.3 km
Explore the eclectic blend of art, gastronomy, and community at Le Lieu Unique, Nantes' premier cultural center along the Loire River.
Douves du Château
1.3 km
Explore the enchanting Douves du Château in Nantes, a historical gem surrounded by picturesque views and rich heritage waiting to be discovered.
Le Grand Éléphant
1.3 km
Immerse yourself in a world of wonder at Le Grand Éléphant, a mechanical masterpiece in Nantes that brings art and engineering to life.
Les Machines de l'Île
1.3 km
Explore the magical world of Les Machines de l'île in Nantes, where art and engineering come alive through giant mechanical wonders and interactive experiences.
Nymphéa
1.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Ti Lichous
0.3 km
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République Côté Jardin - Restaurant Nantes
0.6 km
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A Table Naturellement
0.6 km
Experience the best of Nantes' culinary scene at A Table Naturellement with fresh ingredients and inviting ambiance.
Maison Baron Lefèvre - Restaurant Nantes
0.7 km
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Le Lion et L'agneau
0.8 km
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Les Chants d'Avril
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Experience authentic French cuisine at Les Chants d'Avril, a charming bistro in Nantes offering seasonal delights and warm hospitality.
SEPIA
1.1 km
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LuluRouget
1.1 km
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A Cantina
1.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and an exquisite wine selection at A Cantina in Nantes, where every meal is a culinary adventure.
La Poissonnerie Et Pas Que
1.2 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at La Poissonnerie Et Pas Que in Nantes – where exquisite oysters and French culinary traditions come together.
Le Lieu Unique Restaurant
1.3 km
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Ginette’s Grocery
1.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Ginette's Grocery in Nantes – where local flavors meet charming ambiance.
Lê Bö Vins
1.3 km
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Prison Du Bouffay - Restaurant et Grillades 7/7
1.3 km
Discover the rich flavors of Nantes at Prison Du Bouffay, offering exquisite barbecue and chophouse dining in a historic setting.
Restaurant Brasserie LUS'IN du Bouffay
1.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Brasserie LUS'IN du Bouffay in Nantes - where tradition meets modern culinary art.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Custom Legend
0.5 km
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StreetShop Nantes: CBD Shop, Accessoires pour fumeurs & Graines de collection
0.7 km
Discover a vibrant hub for smoking culture at StreetShop Nantes, featuring premium hookahs, accessories, and collectibles in the heart of the city.
Little OCTOPUS Vintage
0.9 km
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Centre Commercial Beaulieu
1.0 km
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Want for Japan - The Manga-Café
1.3 km
Experience the unique blend of Japanese culture, manga, and entertainment at Want for Japan - The Manga-Café in Nantes, a must-visit for every tourist.
Le Printemps de Marnie
1.3 km
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Malice
1.3 km
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Boutique - Librairie des Machines de l'île
1.3 km
Explore the Boutique - Librairie des Machines de l'île in Nantes for unique books and gifts celebrating the Machines of the Isle's creative spirit.
Pylones
1.4 km
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Le Flamant Bleu
1.4 km
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Le Flamant Bleu - Boutique de créateurs français -
1.4 km
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Chéri Chérie
1.4 km
Explore Chéri Chérie, a delightful gift shop in Nantes offering unique fashion pieces and accessories that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Saint Market
1.4 km
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LES PIPELETTES
1.4 km
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Nature and Discoveries
1.4 km
Discover eco-friendly gifts and unique treasures at Nature and Discoveries in Nantes, a charming gift shop celebrating nature and creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
BB'O
0.1 km
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Bar Ile
0.1 km
Experience the essence of French cuisine at Bar Ile in Nantes, where tradition meets innovation in a charming setting.
44 Tours
0.6 km
Discover the fusion of music and relaxation at 44 Tours, Nantes' charming bar and record store that promises an unforgettable experience.
Zygobar
0.7 km
Experience the best of Nantes nightlife at Zygobar, a live music bar where great performances meet a vibrant atmosphere and delicious drinks.
Bras de Fer
0.8 km
Discover Bras de Fer in Nantes: a delightful wine bar blending exquisite wines with live music for an unforgettable evening experience.
L'Embuscade
1.1 km
Discover the charm of L'Embuscade in Nantes, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere await every visitor.
Bootlegger
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of Nantes at Bootlegger, where creativity meets flavor in every drink.
Le Tiki bar
1.1 km
Experience a slice of paradise at Le Tiki Bar in Nantes, where exotic cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
L R de Rien
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Nantes at L R de Rien, a live music bar with an unforgettable atmosphere and diverse performances.
The Green Sheep
1.2 km
Discover the charm of Nantes at The Green Sheep, a cozy bar offering exquisite drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Les Berthom
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and extensive beer selection at Les Berthom, the ultimate bar and beer hall in Nantes.
Le Jungle Bar
1.2 km
Discover the tropical paradise of Le Jungle Bar in Nantes, where exotic cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Le Chat noir
1.2 km
Discover vibrant nightlife at Le Chat Noir, Nantes' premier live music bar serving cocktails and brasserie delights in a lively atmosphere.
NIGHT L / Tb bar bouffay
1.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance and delectable cuisine at NIGHT L / Tb Bar Bouffay, a top destination for nightlife enthusiasts in Nantes.
Ruin Bar Bouffay
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Nantes at Ruin Bar Bouffay, where signature cocktails and live music create an unforgettable atmosphere.
