Nantes, located on the banks of the Loire River in western France, is a city with a rich and varied heritage. Founded in Roman times as Portus Namnetum, Nantes quickly became a prosperous trading center thanks to its strategic position. In the Middle Ages, the city developed as a port and center of textile production. As part of the Duchy of Brittany, Nantes even became the capital of the Duchy before it became part of France in 1532.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, Nantes enjoyed a period of great prosperity thanks to triangular trade. However, this wealth was overshadowed by the slave trade. During the French Revolution, Nantes played an important role, but also suffered periods of violence, notably during the Terror.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Nantes was transformed by industrialization, becoming a major industrial and port center. Today, Nantes is a dynamic metropolis, renowned for its quality of life, rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit.

The Château des Ducs de Bretagne is one of Nantes’ most emblematic monuments. Built in the 15th century, this fortified castle served as the residence of the Dukes of Brittany before their integration into the Kingdom of France. Today, it houses the Musée d’Histoire de Nantes, with exhibitions on the history of the city, Brittany and the castle itself. The castle’s ramparts and moats also offer a pleasant walk and magnificent views over the city.

The Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, also known as the Cathédrale de Nantes, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Construction began in the 15th century and was completed in the 19th century. The cathedral is famous for its impressive façade, spectacular stained-glass windows and the tomb of Duke François II of Brittany and Marguerite de Foix, a remarkable work of Renaissance art.

Les Machines de l’Île is a unique artistic and cultural project, inspired by the worlds of Jules Verne, Leonardo da Vinci and the industrial history of Nantes. Located on the Île de Nantes, this park is home to gigantic mechanical creations, including the famous Grand Éléphant, a 12-metre-high machine that transports visitors around the site. Les Machines de l’Île is a must-see attraction for families and art and engineering enthusiasts alike.

The Passage Pommeraye is a 19th-century covered passageway in the heart of Nantes. This masterpiece of commercial architecture is renowned for its elegant three-level gallery, luxurious boutiques and refined decorations. It’s the ideal place for a shopping spree while admiring the city’s historic architecture.

La Folle Journée de Nantes is an internationally renowned classical music festival held every year in late January and early February. Founded in 1995, the festival offers a multitude of short concerts, featuring both classical and contemporary works. La Folle Journée attracts world-renowned musicians and ensembles, as well as music lovers from all walks of life.

Le Voyage à Nantes is a summer event that transforms the city into an artistic and cultural journey. From July to August, visitors can discover art installations, exhibitions, performances and events in various emblematic Nantes locations. It’s a unique opportunity to rediscover the city from an artistic angle and take part in a variety of cultural activities.

Les Rendez-vous de l’Erdre is a jazz and pleasure festival held every year at the end of August along the banks of the Erdre. The festival features open-air jazz concerts, boat parades and nautical activities. It’s a festive, convivial occasion that attracts renowned jazz musicians and boating enthusiasts alike.

Les Utopiales is an international science fiction festival held every November in Nantes. The festival explores the different facets of science fiction through conferences, film screenings, exhibitions, workshops and meetings with authors and scientists. Les Utopiales is a must for fans of science fiction and futurology.