Top Day Trips from Nantes with iBestTravel
It’s difficult to tear yourself away from lively Nantes; however, thanks to its centrally located railway station, you can reach riverside villages, medieval towns, prehistoric art, and enchanting islands in under two hours – all without ever getting behind the wheel. Consequently, whether you prefer traveling by train, bicycle, or car, Nantes serves as a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding region.
1. Noirmoutier
Travel time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Noirmoutier boasts over a dozen stunning beaches, 80km (50 miles) of cycling trails, and five well-marked hiking paths. This coastal gem also features Europe’s longest submersible road, the Passage du Gois. Buses conveniently stop near the historic center, Noirmoutier-en-l’île. Here, you may rent a bike or enjoy a leisurely stroll along Jacobsen Jetty, past the island’s working salt pans where locals harvest salt by hand.
Families can explore the expansive nature reserve, Polder de Sebastopol, which is popular among birders and scientists worldwide. Visiting in late spring offers a chance to taste the rare Bonnotte potato, the world’s most expensive potato, priced at $600 a kilo. However, sticking with Noirmoutier salt makes a great souvenir instead.
How to get to Noirmoutier from Nantes: “Ligne 13” buses run directly from the ALEOP bus station behind Gare de Nantes Sud to Noirmoutier Gare Routière. If driving, ensure to check tidal information before crossing the Passage du Gois.
2. Pornic
Travel time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Arrive early in Pornic to enjoy a warm baguette and take a refreshing seaside stroll along the breathtaking Jade Coast. This region is famous for its picturesque wooden fishing huts and hidden shell-studded beaches.
Overlooked by the fairytale-like Château de Pornic, this postcard-perfect bay invites visitors to savor fresh moules marinière beside the marina or explore ancient windmills scattered throughout the area. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a fresh fruit sorbet from local vendors. Additionally, Pornic features the 5500-year-old megalithic tumulus of Les Mousseaux, an intriguing site tucked away from the main thoroughfare.
How to get to Pornic from Nantes: Trains to Pornic are available from Gare de Nantes.
3. Le Croisic
Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Being popular with visitors from Paris due to direct TGV trains, Le Croisic is a charming destination situated at the end of the Guérande peninsula. Enjoy sightseeing from your train window as it passes colorful salt pans and vibrant marshes bustling with seabirds.
This lovely Breton port town flourished during the 1700s, and wandering through its small shops is a delight. Here you’ll easily find a delicious meal featuring fresh-caught fish or regional crêpes. For an unforgettable experience, dine at Le Criée, where skilled chefs utilize the daily catch. After lunch, stroll along the scenic beach or walk along the narrow stone jetty leading out to sea, with views of the 19th-century Tréhic lighthouse.
How to get to Le Croisic from Nantes: Direct trains to Le Croisic leave from Gare de Nantes, followed by a brief ten-minute walk to town.
4. The Loire River Estuary
Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes round trip to a full-day excursion depending on choices
Two beautiful cruises glide down the Loire Estuary from Nantes, offering a glimpse into the city’s maritime history and industrial landscape. The 90-minute Croisiere Escapade en Loire and the three-hour Estuaire Nantes trip to Saint-Nazaire are both popular options. As you float past beautiful riverbanks adorned with egrets, take in the various permanent art installations lining the route.
If time permits, opt for the longer cruise and return by train from Saint-Nazaire. Visitors can explore notable attractions such as a real submarine, old ocean liners, and the shipyard responsible for constructing iconic vessels.
How to get to the Loire River Estuary from Nantes: Board Tram Line 1 to the Gare Maritime stop, where cruises depart from Quai Ernest Renaud.
5. Vannes
Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Vannes, with its 15th-century half-timbered buildings, is an authentic medieval port nestled on the scenic Gulf of Morbihan. Plan your visit around mealtime for an affordable lunch beside the city walls overlooking the marina. Alternatively, take a stroll along the city ramparts for stunning views and beautiful gardens. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the vibrant market held on Wednesday and Saturday mornings at Place des Lices.
Additionally, consider a trip to the Cairn de Gavrinis, a fascinating Neolithic monument located a short bus ride from Vannes, featuring intricate carvings dating back over 6000 years. Tours to this impressive site last up to two hours, and advance reservations are recommended.
How to get to Vannes from Nantes: Direct trains to Vannes are available from Gare de Nantes.
6. Clisson
Travel time: 30 minutes
A brief train ride to Clisson offers a peaceful escape from modern life. Stand on the Pont de la Vallée bridge to listen to the Sèvre Nantaise river rush by, and discover the little village’s hidden treasures. Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens at Domaine de la Garenne Lemot, an enchanting Tuscan-style villa dating from the early 19th century.
While exploring, pick up a snack at the medieval covered marketplace, Les Halles. Clisson’s storied 13th-century chateau, rich with historical intrigue, is certainly worth a visit. If you’re into rock music, consider timing your trip to coincide with Hellfest, the renowned summer music festival that attracts heavy metal fans from far and wide.
How to get to Clisson from Nantes: A direct TER train operates from Gare de Nantes to Clisson, with a short walk to reach town.
