Where to Stay in Nantes

Nantes is a historic city in northwestern France, located on the Loire River. This charming place is known for its rich history and tourist attractions. One of the highlights of the city is the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, famous for its 15th-century castle ruins and old houses. The castle also hosts the Nantes History Museum, offering a deep look into the city’s past.

Nantes is a great destination for art and culture lovers. Les Machines de l’île is one of the city’s main attractions. This unique place is an interactive art space with giant mechanical animals and fantastic machines. Visitors can ride on the back of a giant mechanical elephant and see the amazing mix of art and technology.

Nantes also stands out with its colorful street art. As part of the Le Voyage à Nantes project, murals and installations are spread across the city, bringing the energy of art to the streets.

Best Area to Stay in Nantes

The best areas to stay in Nantes are Centre Ville, Ile de Nantes Palais des Congrès, Hauts Pavés Saint Félix, and Nantes Chateau – Gare.

• 💖 Best area for a first-time visit: Centre Ville
• 💎 Best luxury hotel: SOZO Hotel
• 🏨 Best mid-range hotel: Résidence Odalys Nantes Cité des Congrès
• 💰 Best budget hotel: Logis Hotel Chateaubriand

Nantes offers visitors a memorable travel experience by combining rich history with the fascinating world of contemporary art. For those planning to stay in the city, we’ve listed the best areas and hotels to help you choose.

Centre Ville

“Centre Ville,” which means “city center” in French, is the heart of Nantes and offers visitors a charming atmosphere with its historic character. In this central area, you’ll find old buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic squares that reflect the city’s past. Walking along Cours Cambronne, you can discover lovely side streets filled with shops and cafés.

One of the main attractions in Centre Ville is the Château des Ducs de Bretagne. This impressive royal castle features Gothic architecture and a rich history. Inside, the museums offer a detailed journey through Nantes’ past.

Centre Ville is also home to cultural spots like Le Lieu Unique. Once a biscuit factory, this unique venue now hosts exhibitions, concerts, and theater performances. Art lovers can experience the city’s creative energy up close while exploring Centre Ville’s cultural scene.

Mercure Nantes Centre Passage Pommeraye ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Located near popular spots like Place du Commerce, this hotel offers easy access to many attractions. It has a bar, dry cleaning service, breakfast, and a 24-hour reception. Rooms include air conditioning, a private bathroom, a TV, and a coffee machine.

L’Hôtel ⭐⭐⭐ – Just a short walk from the city’s cathedral, this hotel is centrally located. It offers private parking, a 24-hour front desk, and a bar. Rooms come with private bathrooms, soundproofing, and TVs.

Maisons du Monde Hotel & Suites – Nantes ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Located in the city center near attractions like Cathedral Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, this hotel offers breakfast and a 24-hour reception. Rooms feature air conditioning, a coffee machine, soundproofing, and private bathrooms.

Okko Hotels Nantes Château ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – A 5-minute walk from Saint-Pierre Cathedral, this hotel stands out with its modern design. It offers a gym, private parking, a bar, and a 24-hour reception. Rooms are soundproofed and include a coffee machine, private bathroom, TV, and air conditioning.

Hotel Voltaire Opera Nantes Centre ⭐⭐⭐ – Just steps from the Natural History Museum and Théâtre Graslin, and within walking distance of Machines de l’île. The hotel offers dry cleaning, a shared lounge, and breakfast service. Rooms come with private bathrooms, TVs, coffee machines, soundproofing, and ironing facilities.

Best Western Hotel Graslin ⭐⭐⭐ – Close to the Château des Ducs de Bretagne and just a 2-minute walk from Graslin Theatre. The hotel features a bar, breakfast service, and free Wi-Fi. Soundproofed rooms include private bathrooms, coffee machines, TVs, and balconies.

Ile de Nantes Palais des Congrès

Île de Nantes Palais des Congrès is a major convention and event complex located on the island part of Nantes. Known for its modern design and functionality, this venue hosts a wide range of large-scale events. It’s not only ideal for big congresses and conferences, but also for concerts, theater performances, and other public gatherings. This makes the venue and its surroundings an attractive area for accommodation.

The impressive architecture of Palais des Congrès adds a modern touch to the Île de Nantes district. With its transparent façade and contemporary style, the building stands out as one of the highlights of the island. It’s not only a business venue but also an architectural point of interest that attracts visitors. Île de Nantes Palais des Congrès brings a modern atmosphere to the city and offers a contemporary experience.

The Île de Nantes area, where Palais des Congrès is located, is not only known for its events but also for its wide green spaces and walking paths. The open areas around the venue offer a peaceful escape for visitors who want to take a break and enjoy nature.

Novotel Nantes Centre Bord de Loire ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Located across from the Loire River, Novotel Nantes Centre Bord de Loire stands out with its beautiful views. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, private parking, and a 24-hour reception. Rooms include air conditioning, a minibar, private bathroom, and a seating area.

Résidence Odalys Nantes Cité des Congrès ⭐⭐⭐ – Close to popular spots like Château des Ducs de Bretagne and Nantes Botanical Garden, this centrally located hotel offers a gym, laundry facilities, and private parking. Studios include a private kitchenette, bathroom, soundproofing, fridge, and dining area.

Le Bahia ⭐⭐⭐ – With stunning lake views, Le Bahia offers a peaceful stay. The property features free parking, free Wi-Fi, and a terrace. The apartment includes a private kitchen, bathroom, balcony, fridge, seating area, dining area, and dressing room.

Hauts Pavés Saint Félix

Hauts Pavés Saint Félix is a central and historic neighborhood in Nantes, known for its charming streets, old buildings, and unique shops. With its bohemian atmosphere and rich heritage, this area is perfect for visitors who want to explore the city’s history and local character. The streets of Hauts Pavés Saint Félix reflect the soul of Nantes and offer a true sense of its past.

The area is not only known for its historic architecture but also for its boutique stores and art galleries. While walking around, you’ll come across galleries showcasing works by local artists. From antique shops to design boutiques, there are plenty of places for shopping lovers to find unique and original items. Hauts Pavés Saint Félix serves as a cultural and commercial hub, offering a one-of-a-kind shopping experience for both locals and tourists.

Beyond history and shopping, the area is also famous for its lively cafés, restaurants, and street performers. Squares like Cours des 50 Otages are great places to taste local food and soak in the city’s energy. The neighborhood is also active at night, with a variety of cultural events and nightlife options. Hauts Pavés Saint Félix is a great choice for anyone wanting to experience the vibrant side of Nantes.

Hôtel Coeur De Loire ⭐⭐ – Surrounded by many cafés and restaurants, this hotel is close to attractions like Parc des Capucins. It offers a garden, terrace, breakfast service, and free Wi-Fi. Rooms come with a private bathroom, minibar, TV, and coffee machine.

Aparthotel Adagio Access Nantes Viarme ⭐⭐⭐ – Located within walking distance of popular places like Square Étienne Destranges, this aparthotel offers a comfortable stay. Facilities include a shared lounge, garden, and free Wi-Fi. Studios feature a private kitchen, bathroom, soundproofing, microwave, and dining area.

Logis Hotel Chateaubriand ⭐⭐ – Just a 5-minute walk from Ile de Versailles, this hotel has a central location with easy access to many attractions. It offers private parking, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast service. Rooms include a TV, private bathroom, and hairdryer.

Nantes Chateau – Gare

Nantes Chateau – Gare is an important area that blends the city’s rich history with modern life. It stands out for hosting historical landmarks like the Château des Ducs de Bretagne and the Nantes History Museum. The Château des Ducs de Bretagne is a stunning royal castle with Gothic architecture, offering an ideal starting point for those who want to explore the city’s past. The Nantes History Museum, located inside the castle, brings history to life through interactive exhibits and rich collections, providing a unique experience for visitors.

This area is also at the heart of modern Nantes. Known for its proximity to the main train station, Chateau – Gare is easy to reach and close to contemporary attractions like Les Machines de l’île. This creative space features giant mechanical animals and fantastical machines. Visitors can witness the amazing fusion of art and technology and experience the city’s innovative spirit.

Nantes Chateau – Gare is also a great spot for shopping and dining. Place Bouffay is famous for its stylish shops, cafés, and restaurants. This square offers a modern atmosphere surrounded by history. Visitors can shop at trendy boutiques, try local flavors, and enjoy the lively vibe of the city. Chateau – Gare is a district where the past and future of Nantes come together, offering a well-rounded experience for every traveler.

Aparthotel Adagio Nantes Centre ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Conveniently located with easy access to the city, this hotel is close to attractions like the Château des Ducs de Bretagne. It features private parking, 24-hour reception, and breakfast service. Studios include air conditioning, a private kitchenette, bathroom, and fridge.

Mercure Nantes Centre Gare ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Near popular tourist spots, this hotel offers a comfortable stay. Facilities include private parking, a restaurant, bar, and airport shuttle. Rooms come with air conditioning, private bathroom, coffee machine, and soundproofing.

SOZO Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Located across from the city’s Botanic Garden, SOZO Hotel is set in a 19th-century chapel. The hotel offers a spa and wellness center, private parking, bar, and garden. Rooms include a seating area, soundproofing, private bathroom, minibar, and coffee machine.

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