Hôtel Le Beaujoire The Originals City

A formidable fortress protected by wide, deep floodable moats, the Ducs de Bretagne Castle, a masterpiece of the 15th century, now houses the Nantes History Museum, with a dedicated collection focusing on the transatlantic slave trade. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, the historic heart of Nantes also invites you to explore the stunning Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul Cathedral with its striking Gothic architecture, the charming Bouffay district with its timber-framed houses, and the beautiful merchant mansions on Île Feydeau.

The closure of Nantes’ shipyards could have led to the decline of the island, but the city's vision was to transform the area into an "urban laboratory." Today, the Création District is home to prestigious schools and companies connected to the cultural world, while the Parc des Chantiers has become a popular spot for leisurely strolls. The Nefs now house the Machines of the Isle Gallery and the famous Grand Elephant, offering a unique experience that blends the worlds of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci.

A true hub of activity and life, Hangar à Bananes owes its name to its original purpose as a storage and ripening facility for bananas imported from Guadeloupe, Guinea, and Ivory Coast. This operation continued for nearly five decades, starting in 1929. After a period of dormancy, the Hangar was revitalized in 2007 with the opening of its first bars, followed by the addition of restaurants, a nightclub, an art gallery, and even a theater! Today, it stands as one of the city's most vibrant and eclectic spaces, offering something for everyone.

Some places seem frozen in time, and Passage Pommeraye is one of them. Named after the notary who conceived it, this historic passage has been capturing the imagination since 1843. Classified as a historical monument in 1976, it enchants visitors with its grandeur, featuring a wooden and metal staircase adorned with mouse carvings on its risers, fluted columns, airy balustrades, and statues of children crowned with torches. A stroll through this stunning covered gallery, home to both shops and residences across three levels, is a must for anyone visiting Nantes.

If you spot a green line on the streets of Nantes, follow it! This urban trail guides you through the city, connecting historical landmarks with works of art over 12 km and 34 must-see (and sometimes unexpected) stops. For those looking to extend the experience, the Estuaire-Nantes-Saint-Nazaire artistic route is a perfect next step. A fascinating walk along the Loire estuary, it takes you through around thirty art installations scattered between Nantes and Saint-Nazaire, set amidst industrial buildings and protected natural areas.