Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Nantes are late spring (May) and early autumn (September). These months offer mild weather with average highs around 18°C in May and 19°C in September, perfect for exploring the city without the summer crowds. If you’re into festivals, summer (June-August) is the peak time for events like the Le Voyage à Nantes art festival and Les Rendez-vous de l'Erdre jazz festival, but expect more tourists. Avoid the winter months if you’re after outdoor activities, as the weather can be cold and rainy.

Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE) is situated approximately 10 to 12 kilometres southwest of Nantes city centre, with travel times ranging from 17 to 25 minutes depending on the mode of transport and traffic conditions. The most convenient option for travellers is the airport shuttle bus, which operates daily between the airport, the city centre, and the main railway station. The journey takes about 25 minutes, with departures every 20 minutes during the summer months (April to October) and every 30 minutes in winter (November to March). Alternatively, taxis are readily available outside the terminal and car rental services are also represented at the airport for those wishing to explore the region independently.

Nantes boasts a comprehensive and efficient public transport network, making it a great option for visitors getting around the city. Run by Semitan under the TAN brand, the system includes three tram lines, two Busway (bus rapid transit) routes, a wide-reaching bus network, two Navibus river shuttles, and a night bus service. The network also connects with suburban trains in the Nantes Métropole area, and all services operate on a unified fare system for easy transfers. For travellers, there are several ticket options: single tickets valid for one hour, 24-hour passes, and group day tickets for up to four people. Public transport is also free every weekend—from midnight Saturday to the end of service on Sunday—excluding the airport shuttle and a few special routes. Tickets are available at tram and Busway stops, on board buses, in TAN agencies, or via the official TAN app. Having said that, Nantes is known for being a bike-friendly city, with an extensive network of cycle paths and a bike-sharing scheme (Bicloo), making it easy to explore the city on two wheels.

Finding taxis in Nantes is relatively easy, particularly around key locations such as the train station and major squares like Place Royale or Commerce. Licensed taxis can be hailed on the street, found at designated ranks, or booked by phone or app. Ride-sharing platforms such as Uber also operate in Nantes, offering a convenient alternative for short trips around the city.