tour quebec nantes

72 Hours in Québec City

Header image courtesy of Jeff Frenette Photography | Destination Québec cité

If you’re craving some old European charm—but you’re just not ready to commit to the hours-long plane ride—Québec City is the perfect summer destination for you.

Dripping with architectural delights and cobblestone streets, the city is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is the birthplace of French civilization in North America. The cultural heritage is impossible to overlook, seen in everything from cathedrals to perfectly tailored gardens. Below, we’ve compiled a three-day itinerary that will show you how to make the most of your time in Québec City.

View of Québec City, including Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Édifice du Bureau-de-poste, and the St. Lawrence River | Jeff Frenette Photography | Destination Québec cité

Day One: Old Québec City, Magnificent Architecture, and Delectable Eats

Checking in:.

There’s no better confluence of history and culture than the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac . Built in 1893, the castle-like hotel offers sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River from its hillside perch in Old Québec. In addition to luxe accommodations found in their 610 guest rooms, the hotel offers amazing on-site restaurants and bars. If you choose not to stay at the hotel, you can still book a tour of the historic site to take in its blend of old-world-meets-art-deco architecture. It’s also situated in perfect proximity to the town of Old Québec, which is the best place to start exploring on your first day in the city.

As the only walled city north of Mexico, Old Québec provides its visitors with the opportunity to step back in time. Head to Quartier Petit Champlain to explore one of the oldest shopping streets in North America. What’s more, it’s located at the bottom of a cliff directly under the Château Frontenac. For lunch, head to Le Lapin Sauté , where you can sit outside in their stunning outdoor terrace and enjoy one of the rabbit-based dishes (like the rabbit poutine!) for which they’re known.

After lunch, walk over to the Place-Royale where you can take a guided tour and peek inside the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church , which is one of the oldest churches in North America. If you still feel like sightseeing, the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral features a breathtaking neoclassical façade, including two eye-catching asymmetrical towers.

For dinner or an evening drink, head over to Bistrot le Pape Georges . Located inside a house that was built in 1668, the cozy stone-walled eatery offers live music from Thursday through Saturday. For dinner, Restaurant Le Continental is the oldest fine-dining establishment in Québec City, and an absolute must-see. At this traditional French eatery, staff members will offer you tableside Caesar salad, chateaubriand, and carved duck. When you’re done, enjoy the glittery lights framing the cobblestone streets as you meander back to your hotel. If you’re up to it, grab a drink at the 1608 Bar , which is located in the hotel and offers views of the St. Lawrence River.

Vineyard on Île d'Orléans near the Saint Lawrence River | Pierre-Nic Lessard | Destination Québec cité

Day Two: Lavender Fields, Wine Tastings, and Swoon-Worthy Dinners

With temperatures floating around the mid-70s for most of the summer months, it is the ideal time to visit the Île d'Orléans, which is a picturesque island right outside of Québec City. Here, you’ll find vineyards where you can indulge in a tasting, as well as Vignoble Ste-Pétronille, where you can stop in for a glass of wine with a sweeping view of Montmorency Falls from one of their three terraces. Then, make sure you grab an ice cream from Chocolaterie de l'Île d'Orléans to take with you on your walk along the Rue Horatio-Walker, where you’ll be met with stunning views of the city.

Before you leave, make sure you explore one of the five gardens at La Seigneurie de l'île d'Orléans . Here, you can walk through the stunning lavender fields, and even pick up some lavender essential oil to take home. For a snack, head back in time to the 17th century at Les Fromages de l'isle d'Orléans , which is home to the very first cheese made in America.

Shannon McMahon

Chris Schalkx

Mark Ellwood

Alex Erdekian

After exploring Île d'Orléans, head back into the city. Make sure you check for any seasonal exhibits, as Québec is routinely hosting culinary and cultural special events. For summer 2022, visitors can experience the immersive multimedia forest walk , as well as the plant sculptures exhibition on display at the Bois-de-Coulonge Park.

Cap off the day with a delectable meal in the historic cellars of La Tanière 3 . They serve Canadian cuisine through their blind tasting menus that will allow you to kick back and relax as you’re served delicious bites from traditional recipes.

Family-friendly culinary fun in Old Québec | Pierre-Nic Lessard | Destination Québec cité

Day Three: Brunch, Gardens, and Late-Night Boat Excursions

Start with brunch at Bistro Hortus , where locally-sourced and organic delicacies shape the perfect meal to start your day.

This would be the perfect day to indulge in a self-guided tour of the Plains of Abraham. Not only is this one of the world's most beautiful city parks, it was also the site of the battles between the French and English forces . The perfectly-groomed gardens offer up ample space for picnics and exploration. For a more structured tour, head to the Citadelle de Québec , which overlooks the city as well as the St. Lawrence River from atop the Cap Diamant. In addition to stunning views, the Citadelle offers guided tours of the impressive gardens and museum.

Finish the trip with a dinner cruise with Croisières AML , where you can choose between a number of traditional dinner cruises, as well as cruises that end with a stunning fireworks display (available from July 21st through September 1st). They also offer whale-watching tours if you’re hoping to immerse yourself in nature. You’ll also be able to experience the city views from the water, which just might be the perfect way to end your trip.

Every season of the year, there’s something special to do in Québec City. Plan your adventure HERE .

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• Québec City Sightseeing Tours

The  Old City  is like an open-air museum, and the best way to explore it is on foot with a local guide on a city tour. A variety of excursions and day trips are also available to take you easily and comfortably beyond the historic district to other local attractions such as Montmorency Falls, Île d’Orléans, Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine, whale watching, and more. Choose from a range of sightseeing tour options and explore Old Québec and the surroundings.

Walking Tours in Québec City

All kinds of walking tours are available, whether you prefer historical or theme visits. Let the local guides reveal the secrets of Québec City's fascinating history.

Bike Tours in Québec City

Guided bike tours allow you to visit must-see places in a different way and escape beyond the tourist limits. Go on a hassle-free ride in the company of a guide while discovering the culture and history of Quebec, regardless of your age or level.

Québec City Boat Tours

One thing’s for sure—the view of Québec City from the St. Lawrence River is spectacular in any season! A variety of boat tours  are offered in summer and fall. 

Bus Tours in Québec City

Interested in visiting the most popular attractions without worrying about the route or parking? Choose from a range of bus tour options. 

Food Tours in Québec City

One of the best introductions to Québec City’s culture is through its food. From fine dining to Québécois comfort, food tours highlight local terroir and add a dash of history along the way.  

Aerial Excursions in Québec City

Thrill to a bird’s eye view of the fortifications, the Citadel, and the Old City’s winding streets. Other attractions can be added to your itinerary, such as Montmorency Falls or the Jacques-Cartier River valley.

More Tours and Visits

7 Must-See Indoor Sites in Old Québec

The 5 Best Day Trips from Québec City

10 Best Things to Do in Old Québec City

Whale Watching Tours from Québec City

The Québec City Ferry

Explore québec with a guide.

• Self-guided Tours (Audioguides, Walking Tours)
• Aerial Tours (Plane, Helicopter, Hot Air Balloon)
• Guided Walking Tours and Theme Tours
• Guided Tours with Private Driver
• Tours by Water
• Excursion by Train

Excursions Maritimes Québec

Croisières Orléans

Quatre Natures - Île d'Orléans

Charlevoix Rail Transit

Croisières AML

Québec 1608 Tours

Lieu historique national des Forts-et-Châteaux-Saint-Louis

Tuque & bicycle expériences

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Nantes was our second stop on our trip to France and also the reason we were there in the first place:  Jeffrey’s little sister was studying there for the semester.  After spending a few days in Bordeaux (see our walking tour of Bordeaux here) , we took the SNCF INTERCITÉS train up to Nantes to spend a few days exploring the city and visiting his sister.

Nantes is the region of Brittany’s largest town and another large port, with a population of half a million people.  Nantes, though, felt way different than southern Bordeaux. In Bordeaux, it had been sunny and warm. Our entire stay in Nantes was filled with rainy days and the damp cold that comes with it. Maybe we just caught it at a bad time, but Nantes was lacking a bit of the bustle and energy that Bordeaux had. Right away, my preference leaned (just a little!) toward Bordeaux.

All that to say, we had a wonderful time in Nantes, exploring with Jeff’s sister and her boyfriend and drinking lots of vin chaud (hot wine).

Total distance : appx 4.5 miles (or 7.2 km) Time : You could power walk in less than 2 hours, but I’d say a  minimum of 4-6 hours  would be good and even better if you try to use all day. Day of the week : Avoid Mondays/Tuesdays as the following are closed: Les Machines de l’île, Natural History Museum of Nantes.

A. You might as well start your day off at the Gare SNCF Nord.  If you’re just stopping into Nantes for the day, this is likely where you’ll first land. I always like to visit the train station in any European city–it’s the lifeblood of city, full of life and hustle and bustle. 

B.  Hang a left out of the train station, following the tram line to its next stop (you could also take the tram, but it’s less than a 10 minute walk):   Château des ducs de Bretagne.  You won’t be able to miss this monstrosity. This is probably the highlight of Nantes. Their prized possession. A must-visit attraction. But don’t be disappointed that we’re bringing you here first; despite being the most popular attraction, Nantes has a lot more to offer!

C. Leaving there, you’ll head north on Rue Mathelin Rodier , a narrow cobblestone street, to   the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul of Nantes ( Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul de Nantes). Crazy fact (!):  The construction of the cathedral began in 1434 and took 457 years to finish, finally reaching completion in 1891.

D. From here, if the weather is good and you’re up for a (minor) detour, we suggest a walk to the Île de Versailles , an island turned garden-oasis right in the middle of the city. It’s only a ~13 minute walk from the Cathedral and will be a great time to walk along the banks of the canal.

E. The next section is basically a walking tour down some great pedestrian-only roads through the middle of Nantes: Rue de Verdun –> Rue de la Marne –> Rue d’Orleans –> Place Royal.  Take your time, pop into the stores, grab a snack and enjoy yourself!   Leaving the canals, you’ll walk down Rue Strasbourg for about a 1/4 mile (~500 meters) and hang a right on  Rue de Verdun , the road will change names a few times but just continue straight until you reach Place Royal , a ~7 minute walk.

Bakeries and cafes galore: Looking down Rue des Carmes from Rue de la Marne

Place Royale in its natural habitat: rain.

F. From Place Royale, you’ll head down Rue Ruben/Scribe– somewhat of a back way– to take you to the next stop: Place Graslin. This is another of the main squares of Nantes, home to the Théâtre Graslin, a theatre/opera house.

F. Lucky for you, Place Graslin is also home to Le Molière ( http://www.lemoliere.fr/moliere-nantes.html ), a great brasserie that is worth a stop. We highly recommend the “vin chaud” or hot wine:

It was so cold that we had to stop every chance we got for some vin chaud… hot wine!

G. We can’t personally vouch for this next one (it was closed on our only opportunity to visit), but we’ve heard great things about the  Natural History Museum of Nantes (3.5€, closed Tuesdays), just a few blocks away from Place Graslin. They’ve apparently got some cool stuff from the region and it’ll only cost you 3.5€ to pop in and have a look.

Image source: Wikipedia

H. From here you’ll head to the Passage Pommeraye , a must visit if you’re in Nantes. It’s basically a 3 story arcade (no, the other arcade, there’s no Pacman here) covered with a glass ceiling. Built in the mid-1800s, it really transports you back in time to the Romantic/Belle Époque era.

I. After weaving all of the way through the Passage Pommeraye, you’ll wind up at the  Place du Commerce.  In the spring/summer, this should be a great place to grab a some food or drink at an outdoor cafe.

J. This next stop is a bit off the beaten path (about a 15 min walk), but is the most popular museum in Nantes, Les Machines de l’Ile. I remain confused to as what it actually is so I’ll sub in the Wikipedia definition:

“The project of Machines de l’île in Nantes aims to promote city’s image and tries to build an identity as a creative metropole of dream and of fantasy. In the warehouses of the former shipyards in Nantes, the Machines of the Isle is created by two artists, François Delarozière (La Machine) and Pierre Orefice (Manaus association), visualizing a travel-through-time world at the crossroads of the “imaginary worlds” of Jules Verne and the mechanical universe of Leonardo da Vinci.”

Source: cycling-loire.com

It’s a pretty fantastical place and will run you about 8 € for an adult ticket.

K. For our last stop on the walking tour, you’re going to head back across the river to the historic/shopping district to the Tour de Bretange. The 37-story tall skyscraper is the tallest building in Nantes and, best of all, has a rooftop bar where you can soak in the view over a cocktail or 2. If you’ve timed it right, you’ll be hitting this one up right at sunset.   Once you get to the Tour de Bretange, follow signs to “Le Nid – Rooftop Bar.”

source: levoyageanantes.fr

Source: rendezvousdeco.com

More Pictures

A close up of the vin chaud. Think warm sangria.

Crossing the moat of the castle: Chateau de ducs de Bretagne

Inside the castle grounds 

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Loire Lovers

To awaken your senses in the Loire Valley - Claire & Manu's Blog

Visit Nantes in 3 days: our itineraries (photos + tips)

by Emmanuel ROBINSON , Region Lovers | February 23, 2024 | no intrusive ads, no sponsored content, just some affiliate links - if you use them, we get a small commission (read more)

Visiting Nantes in 3 days means having time to discover the city's main museums, gardens, activities, hotels and restaurants. But it is also a way to feel the soul of this city with a rich port past that has reinvented itself to face this new millennium.

In this article, we offer you a detailed itinerary that will allow you to discover the city under its different facets: cultural, creative or gourmet.

But first of all, we give you some practical advice to avoid unnecessary inconveniences during your stay.

This guide is completely independent , based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.

Practical advice to visit Nantes in 3 days

1. getting around in nantes: prefer public transport.

Having some experience in this field, we can assure you that the city of Nantes is a nightmare to drive in . This is due to the growth of the city in recent years and to the Loire and its tributaries, the crossing of which is always a headache, the number of bridges being necessarily limited.

But Nantes is one of the French cities with the best public transport facilities. It was one of the first to reinstate the tramway , in 1984, and already offers 3 lines, 83 stations and 44 km of tracks. 3 other lines will be created by 2026.

It was also a pioneer in the development of the "Busway " or exclusive right-of-way bus system, with buses running on lanes that are exclusively reserved for them and with appropriate signage.

Finally, it has deployed a self-service bicycle solution with more than 120 stations and 1,000 bicycles available.

2. Opt for the city-pass

The city of Nantes provides city passes , called Pass Nantes, which exist in a 3-day package.

It will give you access to the public transportation network we just mentioned (including the airport shuttle), to the main museums and sites of the city (Dukes of Brittany castle, Art Museum, Elephant of Nantes...) and even to dedicated tours (Voyage à Nantes, Petit Train, CityTour bus)

We strongly recommend that you buy it in advance to avoid wasting time on site and waiting in line. See the conditions and book your City pass.

3. Weather: be prepared

During the 3 days in Nantes, it is more than likely that you will discover the joys of the Nantes weather! The city is indeed subject to the winds and rains that arrive from the Atlantic and that can in a few minutes transform a beautiful day into an intense shower.

On average, it rains 168 days a year for 89 days of sunshine, but in lesser amounts than in many French cities. It is common to say that in Nantes, the weather is nice several times a day!

In any case, bring something to protect yourself from bad weather . We don't recommend umbrellas, which can easily be turned over if the wind picks up!

OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire

• Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
• Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
• Think about full insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
• There is a lot of demand, book it early .

As you can see, there is no lack of beautiful addresses in Nantes and you should not hesitate to change hotels from one night to the next, if you have the courage to discover these beautiful places full of hope. Luggage storage facilities are available at these hotels so that you don't have to carry your luggage around with you during the day.

In any case, we strongly advise you to choose a hotel in the center , to avoid wasting time in traffic jams during office hours.

• Discover our list of the 12 best hotels and our advice on where to sleep in Nantes .

5. Make choices

You will see in this article, there is no lack of visits in Nantes, with a beautiful diversity and sites that require a minimum of time to visit .

We are really in favor of "less is more " so as not to overload your 2 days in Nantes and soak up the special atmosphere of the city.

6. The map of the main monuments and visits of Nantes

Finally, we offer you a simplified map of the main places to visit in the city, as well as the names of the districts that make up the city center.

Essentials of Nantes in 3 days - our itinerary

3 days may seem like a lot, but when you see all the things to do in Nantes, the days will be quite full. We have taken care to optimize travel time, which can be done either on foot (distances are reasonable) or by streetcar (when tired).

Are you ready? Let's go and discover the many treasures of Nantes .

Day 1 - 9h-11h: The Elephant of Nantes and the machines of the island

Your journey begins on the island of Nantes, in the heart of the city, between two arms of the Loire.

In less than 10 years, the Elephant of Nantes has become the emblem of the city . From an industrial and port city, it is becoming a creative and cultural city, without turning its back on its roots, its know-how and its history.

Located on the site of the former shipyards, this site immerses visitors in the fantastic world of the Nantes-based author Jules Verne , with its bizarre metal and wood machines, including the gigantic 12-meter-high Elephant (a 4-storey building).

The visit takes place in 3 stages:

• The Elephant's walk : several times a day, the Elephant goes out on the esplanade of the old building sites for a long stroll. It carries 52 visitors for each half-hour trip. If you want to go on board, we advise you to make a reservation or to try your luck when you arrive on site, as some tickets are only sold on site.

• The gallery of machines : a surprising visit in the bestiary of Jules Verne between heron, hummingbird and other monarch butterflies, but also a discovery of the know-how of the designers of these fantastic animals.
• The carousel of the marine worlds : find your childlike soul for a ride on the ingenious carousel that will take you 20,000 places under the sea.
• All our advice and many photos to prepare your visit to the Elephant of Nantes and the machines of the island .

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Day 1 - 11h-11h45: The Museum of Men and Technology

Installed in the historic building of the Ateliers et Chantiers de Nantes, this museum perpetuates the memory of the "shipbuilders " who settled on the island of Nantes for over 200 years.

More than 120 objects illustrate the know-how of the 7600 workers, technicians and engineers who worked on the site at its peak in 1954.

11:45-12:15 Buren's rings

A little after the Museum of Men and Techniques, at the tip of the island, is the lively Quai des Antilles with its many restaurants, its Voyage à Nantes canteen, and its theaters.

The French artist Daniel Buren , who made French cultural history by installing his 260 "columns" in the main courtyard of the Palais-royal garden in Paris, needs no introduction.

In Nantes, the artist invites you to see the city from a new angle in each of the 18 rings that punctuate the quay.

Each ring bears his visual and artistic signature , an alternating white and colored band 8.7 centimeters wide, which he has been carrying around the world since 1965.

Day 1 - 12h30-14h: lunch at the restaurant Le 1

We remain on the island of Nantes for the lunch, with the excellent restaurant Le 1.

For several years, it has symbolized the gastronomic revival of the city. It always offers a modern and creative cuisine that attempts to merge the 4 continents.

On sunny days, you can eat on the banks of the Loire for a magical moment.

Day 1 - 2:30-3:30 pm: Jules Verne Museum

We cross the Loire to discover the rebellious district of Chantenay. The family of the famous writer Jules Verne from Nantes owned a house in which he forged memories that would populate his work.

It is undeniable that Jules Verne's numbers are directly inspired by his youth in Nantes and continue to irrigate the city even today, like The Elephant of Nantes and The Machines of the Island.

The museum offers you a journey to the center of Jules Verne's work , from the sources of inspiration (railroads, travels...) to the publication of the novels (role of the publisher of the illustrated books Pierre-Jules Hetzel). This tour is proposed through manuscripts, illustrations or objects that belonged to the writer.

Day 2 - 3:30-4:00 pm: The Lookout Walk

Starting from the museum, discover the walk of the 7 belvederes which give you a beautiful view on the Loire and the city, as well as on the extraordinary garden for some of them. We particularly like the belvedere of the Hermitage designed by the Japanese artist Tadashi Kawamata, with its wooden overhang above the void.

16h-17h30: Exploration of the Extraordinary Garden

Installed in a former quarry in the rebellious district of Chantenay, this garden is an evocation of the dreamlike universe of the writer Jules Verne, populated by numerous animals and unusual plants.

The program includes a waterfall , cliffs of 25 meters high, tree ferns , banana trees or papyrus and lotus that enjoy the omnipresent water!

A change of scenery guaranteed...

Day 1 - 5:30-6:30 p.m.: Memorial of the Abolition of Slavery

On your way back to the city center, by foot or by streetcar, visit the discreet memorial of the abolition of slavery.

A long gallery of rough concrete, under the riverside of the Loire , takes you into the memory of slavery, but also to the discovery of the enlightened minds that led to its abolition.

A solemn and necessary place , in the heart of one of the main former French slave ports of the not so distant 18 th century. Admission is free.

Day 1 - 7-8:30 pm: dinner at imagine restaurant

Because creativity does not stop at the restaurant door, we invite you to taste the cuisine of the young chef Anne Lise GENOUËL who opened, at 28 years old, her restaurant Imagine 2 steps from Place Graslin in 2018.

In addition to the warm atmosphere, we liked this combination of incredible flavors where the spices come to divert our palates for our greatest pleasure.

Proof of the creativity of the chef, the menu changes every week at lunchtime and at least once a month in the evening!

• Discover our review and many pictures after our lunch at Imagine restaurant .

Day 1 - Your night, choose your hotel in Nantes

We have a full article with our selection of the 12 best hotels in Nantes , but we offer our top 4 options in relation to this itinerary:

• Sozo Hotel : 2 steps from the Jardin des Plantes, sleep in an authentic 19th century church converted into a 4 star hotel with a strong design. See our detailed article on the night we spent at the Sozo Hotel / see prices, photos and availability.

• Blu Radisson Nantes : housed in the former courthouse, an incredible neoclassical building, the Blu Radisson condemns you to a quiet night. See our detailed article on the night we spent at the Blu Radisson Nantes / see prices, photos and availability.

• Hôtel de France Océnia : The former mansion of Jean Joseph Graslin, modern builder of Nantes, became a mythical hotel of Nantes in the twentieth century and has been completely updated in 2014. See our detailed article on the night we spent at the France Oceania hotel / see prices, photos and availability.

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Day 2 - 9h-11h: Nantes Castle (Dukes of Brittany)

To start this second day, we went to the impressive castle of Nantes and the Dukes of Brittany . Built from the 13th century, it enters the history of France at the end of the 15th century, under the impulse of Anne of Brittany. Through her successive marriages to 2 kings of France (Henry VIII and Louis XII), she ensured the attachment of Brittany to France.

The castle can only be visited from the outside, but there is much to see:

• The defensive structures (towers, bastion, old keep ( XIIIth century), châtelet and enclosures) to be admired first from the moat and then by walking the covered way.
• From the courtyard, the royal dwelling with its tower of the golden crown and its beautiful loggias very richly sculpted, at the crossroads of Gothic and Renaissance styles.

• The great Government built by Louis XIV in a neoclassical style to replace part of the house destroyed by fire in the 17 th century.
• The other buildings of the castle: the conciergerie, the small government and the harnessing building.
• All our advices and many pictures to visit the castle of Nantes (Dukes of Brittany) .

Day 2 - 11am-12:30pm: Nantes History Museum

Located in the castle of Nantes, the Museum of the History of Nantes traces the history of the city, from prehistory to the most contemporary periods. No less than 1150 objects are presented in the 32 rooms (+1 dedicated to families) of the Museum.

The museum quality is really exceptional, with a lot of interactivity, beautiful settings, a comprehensible division...

Day 2 - 12:30 - 2:00 pm Lunch at the restaurant l'Amenité

After this very dense visit, we propose you to have lunch at the restaurant l'Amenité . Located in the Bouffay district, not far from the castle, it is for us one of the best restaurants in Nantes.

In the kitchen, the truculent Richard Cornet , also a London trader and psychotherapist, who had the happy idea to reconvert to cooking.

They offer a market cuisine with multiple flavors and a perfect mastery of cooking and textures, all for an unbeatable quality/price ratio in Nantes, in our opinion.

• Discover our opinion and many photos on the restaurant l'Aménité

Day 2 - 2pm-3pm Parc de l'île de Versailles

To digest your good meal, we suggest you to discover the small park of the island of Versailles which is surrounded by the river Erdre. On former swamps, a beautiful small Japanese garden , with traditional tea room, rockery composition and mini waterfalls.

The Maison de l'Erdre offers exhibitions on the ecosystem of this river which crosses Nantes before flowing into the Loire via the Saint-Félix canal.

Day 2 - 3:00-3:45 pm: Feydeau Island and Place Royale

On the way to your next visit, take the time to admire 2 surprising places in the city:

• The Royal Square : one of the largest squares in the city, with its Haussmannian and neoclassical quarter-circle buildings

• The Feydeau district : formerly an island, it has only been attached to the right bank since 1938 and has an impressive 18th century architectural heritage that we owe to the city's rich shipowners and merchants.

Day 2 - 16h-17h: Museum of Printing and Graphic Arts

Just a stone's throw from the Passage Pommeraye, discover the very surprising and enchanting Museum of Printing and Bookmaking . You can discover the machines that preceded our digital presses.

Far from being a dusty museum, the machines are still in working order and make art prints before your eyes! Numerous training courses allow to perpetuate the memory and the know-how of the printing trades: master printer, typesetter...

The icing on the cake is a small exhibition of printed works to conclude the visit. We were lucky enough to come across an exhibition of printed drawings by the talented Doctor Paper who reinterprets the world (almost the same passion as ours!).

Day 2 - 17h-17h30: Cours Cambronne

Formerly the seat of the Capuchin religious congregation, the Cours Cambronne was entirely redesigned under the impetus of the influential Joseph Graslin , who transformed the entire district of Nantes at the end of the 18th century.

A landmark of middle-class life in Nantes in the 19th and 20th centuries, it is bordered by 16 listed neoclassical buildings , and the park is home to rare Magnolia species , of which the city of Nantes preserves the national reference collection.

Day 2 - 5:30-6:30pm: Discover the Passage Pommeraye

Leaving La Cigale, go down the luxurious and commercial street Crébillon to reach the high entrance of the passage Pommeraye on rue de Santueil.

This magnificent covered shopping mall built between 1840 and 1843, is a jewel of neoclassical art that symbolizes the gentrification of the city of Nantes carried by its flourishing port activity in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Inspired by the many Parisian passages, it is unique in Europe because of its sloping plan, with a difference in level of more than 9 meters between its high and low points, which was to be easily climbed by the elegant ladies.

In addition to the magnificent decorations which borrow from the renaissance style but also baroque, we invite you to enjoy the incredible light which reigns in this place. We owe it to the impressive glass roofs and to the lighting, first gas, now led, which illuminate the passage advantageously.

• Our anecdotes and tips for not missing anything from the Passage Pommeraye

Day 2 - 7:30-9:00 pm: Dinner at La Cigale - Place Graslin

After this beautiful and dense 2nd day, let's go to a Nantes institution for your dinner, the brasserie La Cigale located on the beautiful Place Graslin .

On this square, a sign stands out, that of the chic brasserie La Cigale . Inaugurated in 1895, it is a real Nantes institution, as much appreciated for a tea with a small pastry in the middle of a shopping day, as for a dinner after a weekend by the sea.

But, even if its cuisine is of high quality, what makes it really unique is its art nouveau décor entirely created by Nantes artists and which humorously depicts the bourgeois mores of Nantes society at the end of the 19th century. You will notice that the cicada is a bit sulky, wearing a tutu and carrying a mandolin.

• Our opinion and many photos on the restaurant La Cigale in Nantes

Day 3 - 9:30am-12pm: Parc Floral de la Beaujoire in Nantes

For this third and last day, we suggest you to take the tramway, to get out of the city center and discover the magnificent floral park of Beaujoire .

On more than 14 hectares, they present 16000 varieties of roses (flowering mainly in May-June), but also 400 species of magnolias (flowering from the beginning of March to June) and a beautiful iris garden (flowering March-April).

This garden was created in 1971 to host one of the most important events for ornamental plants, the Floralies .

Day 3 - 12:30-14:30: Lunch at the Manoir de la Régate

Before returning to the center of Nantes, we suggest you prolong this moment of nature, by lunching at the excellent Manoir de la Régate . In a protected setting on the banks of the Erdre, this starred restaurant has been in the hands of the Pérou family since 1995.

It is the new generation, barely thirty years old, which offers you a gustatory and gastronomic journey just incredible , between beet bread, pike-perch of the Loire stewed in clay and Bottereau nantais with kiwi and mint!

The chef, Matthieu Pérou, flavors his dishes with wild flowers and herbs picked along the Erdre River. Another way to do botany!

• Back in photos on this exceptional dinner at the Manoir de la Régate in Nantes .

Day 3 - 3-6pm: Museum of Art

We hope you are not tired and that you are ready to fall under the spell of the incredible Nantes Museum of Art .

Created in 1801 and completely reinvented in 2017, it offers one of the most beautiful collections of paintings in France, in a setting that is just exceptional , both architecturally, but also in the quality of the hanging.

The ancient art , carried by the Italian painters and the religious painting, rubs shoulders with the treasures of the modern art , with in particular a very beautiful collection Kandinsky, without forgetting the emblematic painters of the XIXth century (Courbet, Monet, Delacroix).

A great moment for us, it was difficult to leave

Day 3 - 6pm-7pm: Lieu Unique

We suggest you finish your stay by discovering the Lieu Unique , which symbolizes the transition underway in Nantes. During your stay, you must have seen this art deco tower that seems to serve as a lighthouse in the old port city.

Today converted into a cultural place, the unique place was the headquarters of the famous cookie factory LU which closed its doors in 1986. There used to be 2 towers of 38 meters high , but only one survived the bombings of the 2nd World War.

In addition to the visit of the tower which will allow you to better know the history of the place, do not hesitate to take the time to visit one of the current exhibitions, the programming is of very good quality.

We invite you to have a drink or a coffee at the bar of the unique place , in the hall with the indus decoration or in the terrace. You will surely come across those who keep the cultural and bohemian life of Nantes alive.

A nice way to end these 3 days of visit in our company!

Option 1 - add tours

As there is not only one way to visit Nantes, we propose you below some original ideas to discover the city differently.

Follow the green line

The green line runs over 24 kilometers of sidewalks, stairs and other narrow streets in the city of Nantes.

Every summer since 2012, as part of the voyage to Nantes, she offers tourists an artistic stroll through the city. On the program, about forty places and monuments presenting a particular cultural interest or reinterpreted by artists.

Very innovative when it was launched, the green line is in the middle of an institutionalization phase, which makes it lose some of its vitality . Nevertheless, it remains a nice alternative for those who want to see the urban space through the eyes of artists.

Original tricks

• Private visit according to your expectations with a passionate Nantais - See prices and availability .
• Visit the highlights of the city by Segway : a mode of transport now well known in tourist cities and quite adapted to travel in Nantes, outside the hyper center - See prices and availability .
• Even if the traffic is not easy in Nantes, you can opt for a discovery of the city in a 2CV Citroën , the mythical French deuche - See prices and availability .
• Guided tour of the city with an audioguide directly accessible on your smartphone, to learn all about the history of the city - See the price of the audioguide of Nantes .
• Need to motivate your children to discover the city, opt for an outdoor escape game with the city as a playground - See price and conditions .

Option 2 - alternatives with children to spend 3 days in Nantes

If you can motivate your children for 3 days, you are very strong! But because we are realistic, we have provided you with some alternatives that might interest them and some ideas to motivate them:

Kid-friendly restaurants in Nantes

Even if your children are welcome in all the restaurants we have selected, we suggest 3 alternatives, easier for young palates, but in which we eat healthy.

Sugar Blu Restaurant

Our favorite canteen in Nantes, where everything is ultra-fresh and the atmosphere is definitely friendly , reminding us of the brown cafés in Amsterdam.

No doubt you'll find something to satisfy their sometimes fussy stomachs, and to please yourself as well! Quiches, salads, burrito... for the main course and a nice collection of desserts , each one more delicious than the other (guaranteed success): brownie, scone, carrot cake...

Restaurant "Le coin des crêpes

A sure value with children (and which does not displease the parents), a good creperie . Even if we are not quite in Brittany, we know how to make beautiful pancakes in Nantes and to marry the pancakes with the greedy tradition of the city (the cookie factories BN and LU testify it...).

So that they don't feel too cramped, we recommend "Le coin des crêpes ", Cours des 50 otages, not far from the Passage Pommeraye, where we enjoyed ourselves.

Restaurant Coq Monsieur

Another great classic of the kitchen for our children: the croque-monsieur ! At Coq Monsieur, it is available in 10 gourmet recipes and served with French fries (and salad).

Installed in one of the small pedestrian streets of Bouffay, it will satisfy everyone and in a good mood!

Where to have a snack break with your children in Nantes

For the snack break , you have a lot of choices. Our 2 favorites (of which Eugenie knows the map by heart):

• Near the castle, Chez Dinette , a very cosy tea room, with a brocante atmosphere, where you can taste home-made pastries: crumble (that we love...), carrot cake, banana caramel pie.

• We really like the tea-time proposal from the brasserie La Cigale, which we told you about earlier. You will have to face a formidable choice: gourmet ice creams (special mention for the nutcracker: caramel and hazelnut ice creams with cookie chips) or the terrible home-made pastries, including the famous Nantes cake.

Other places to visit with children in Nantes

The water mirror.

The water mirror is a must-see in any large French city and is located at the foot of the castle. They can either admire the beautiful reflections or refresh themselves while exercising.

Natural History Museum

The natural history museum is a sure bet with children and the one in Nantes is in the process of updating itself to continue to captivate them with its very rich collections.

Adventurers, ship owners and other naturalists have contributed over the last two centuries to make the Natural History Museum of Nantes one of the most important in France .

Between stuffed vertebrate animal specimens, vivarium with friendly live snakes and collection of minerals and rocks , they will not know where to turn!

Option 3 - alternatives for garden and botanical enthusiasts

As you are in Nantes for 3 days, take advantage of this time to discover some of the most beautiful gardens of the city of 100 parks (actually 101, according to the official count of the City Hall).

In addition to the Extraordinary Garden and the Garden of the Island of Versaille already included in our 3-day itinerary, we offer 2 alternatives depending on your botanical interests.

Garden of plants of Nantes

On 7 hectares , the plant garden, one of the largest in France, presents more than 10,000 living species , some of which are preserved in beautiful greenhouses, which can be visited with a city gardener.

You will also come across playful works of art , which we owe to the author and illustrator for young people, Claude Ponti, but also a funny greenhouse designed by the machines of the island.

Note that if you have not succumbed to the Fraiseraie you can opt for a gourmet break at the orangery .

Grand Blottereau Park

With 22 hectares, the Grand Blottereau park is the largest in Nantes and also one of the most amazing. Its exotic vocation , inherited from its first patron, the wealthy Nantes merchant Hyppolite Durand-Gasselin, and its pedagogical orientation (headquarters of the horticultural high school of Nantes), make it a place of experimentation and learning about plants in life size .

Throughout your journey, you will discover landscapes of different continents reconstituted, from the American bayou, to the hill of Suncheon (Korea) without forgetting the Mediterranean rock garden.

You can also discover the rich collection of exotic species in the dry greenhouse (jojoba, baobab and other kapok) and in the one reproducing a humid climate (ebony, mahogany, banana trees, cocoa trees...)

The best things to do in Nantes in video

And finally, a short video to inspire you!

PLAN YOUR STAY IN Nantes

Itineraries

• 5 thematic itineraries to visit Nantes in 1 day
• Our advice to visit Nantes in 2 days , or in 3 days

• 15 best things to do in Nantes
• 8 best museums to do in Nantes
• Our tips for the elephant and the machines
• Visit the castle of Nantes
• All about the village of Trentemoult

• 12 best hotels to stay in Nantes
• 15 best restaurants to eat in Nantes
• How to rent a car at Nantes airport

HE MADE THE TRIP AND WROTE THE ARTICLE Manu

The 10 commitments of region lovers.

• Visit all the places we tell you about.
• For each city, sleep in at least one hotel, visit the ones we recommend.
• For each city, eat in at least one restaurant, visit the ones we select.
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• Update our articles periodically, with the help of our readers.
• Enrich our articles with our on-site experiences.
• Use 99% of our own photos
• Have a reasoned and transparent use of the AI tool, which we feed with our locally verified information.
• Inform about the traveler/writer pairing that gave birth to the article.
• Tell you what we do, and do what we tell you!

Claire and Manu

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Nantes – What to Visit: 1 day itinerary (map included)

• March 12, 2023

Home > France > Nantes – What to Visit: 1 day itinerary (map included)

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Nantes is one of the most populated cities in France, and is often overlooked on itineraries around the country. But you’re reading this post, which means you’re probably planning to visit Nantes 😉.

The city of Nantes was once the largest port in France, becoming one of the country’s most important sites for the slave trade during the 18th century. With the French Revolution, the city went into decline, but eventually re-established itself with a strong industrial presence.

Nantes has reinvented itself over the years and is now a cosmopolitan city and one of the cities with the best quality of life in France.

Throughout this post, you will find all the information you need to visit Nantes : when to visit, how many days to spend in the city, what to visit, suggestions for accommodation/restaurants and much more.

What is the best time of year to visit Nantes?

Located in the Brittany region, the weather in Nantes can be a bit uncertain. The warmest time of the year and most likely to have good weather is from May to September, so I recommend visiting Nantes at this time.

However, this does not mean that you should not visit Nantes at other times of the year. For example, I visited Nantes in mid-February and, although it was a bit chilly, it was quite sunny.

How many days do you need to visit Nantes?

Nantes is a city with a few points of interest and, some of them, a bit distant from others. Although it is possible to visit Nantes in just one day (that’s what I did), if you want a calmer visit and include some of the city’s museums in your itinerary, then I suggest spending 2 days in the city.

How to get to Nantes?

Nantes has one airport – Aéroport Nantes Atlantique , which has several connections to countries in Europe and beyond. Some of the major cities in Europe with direct flights from Nantes include :

• France (Paris, Marseille, Nice, Toulouse, Strasbourg, …)
• Portugal (Porto, Lisbon, Faro, Madeira)
• United Kingdom (London, Bristol, Birmingham, …)
• Spain (Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Malaga, …)
• Geneva (Basel, Zurich, Geneva)
• Italy (Naples, Milan, Florence, Venice, Rome, …)
• Belgium (Brussels)

Outside Europe, there are some direct connections with Turkey, Canada, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Senegal.

However, there are other ways to get to Nantes , namely from other cities in France. For example, there is a train that connects Paris to Nantes and takes only 2 hours. In my case, I travelled by Flixbus bus from Rennes (the journey takes about 1h20 and costs only 6 €).

How to get from Nantes airport to the city centre?

The simplest and quickest way (except for taxis, of course!) to get from Nantes airport to the city centre is by shuttle bus . The service is available daily and costs 9 € (the ticket can be purchased from the driver).

There are buses every 20 minutes during the week and every 30 minutes at the weekend. There are 3 stations available in the city, which you should choose depending on what is most convenient for you:

• Lieu Unique

However, there are other options combining trams and buses:

• bus no 38 to Pirmil + tram no 2 or 3
• bus no 38 to Grenaraie + tram no 4
• bus no 98 to Neustrie + tram no 3

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: I suggest you check the most up-to-date information, available on thi s website .

How to get around Nantes?

Some of the main points of interest in Nantes are far away, which means that it can sometimes be quite useful to use the public transport available in the city.

Individual tickets for each journey cost 1.7 € (bought from the machines) and a 24-hour ticket costs 6 €. I opted for the latter because the number of trips I was going to make did not make up for the use of individual journeys.

Tickets are valid on the entire transport network in the city (including tram, bus and ferry). However, they are not valid on the shuttle bus that runs between the airport and the city centre.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION : For more information on public transport in Nantes, I suggest you check this site .

How to save some money in Nantes?

Depending on what you plan to visit in Nantes, it may make sense to buy the city pass which gives free access to various attractions in the city, as well as the public transport network and the shuttle bus from the airport 😉.

💡 EXTRA TIP: In my case, I chose not to buy the Pass Nantes , as it was not worth it. The best way to see if it pays off is to calculate the price of all the public transport journeys you plan to make and the attractions you will visit.

There are options for several journey durations. You can check the most up-to-date information here .

• 24 hours: 26€
• 48 hours: 35€
• 72 hours: 45€
• 7 days: 90€

Accommodation in Nantes

I chose to stay in a relatively centrally located flat – Cosy à Guist’hau . The flat was very spacious and had everything you need for a longer trip (kitchen, dishwasher, washing machine, coffee machine, microwave, …).

Despite being in an older building, it is clearly visible that the flat had been refurbished and was in excellent condition.

However, there are other accommodation options available in Nantes:

Activities & tours in Nantes

💼 TRAVEL INSURANCE: Unexpected events happen anywhere in the world, so I always recommend getting travel insurance. I regularly use Heymondo , which offers some of the highest coverages on the market at very competitive prices. As well as covering medical expenses, Heymondo’s insurance also covers the loss or theft of luggage, electronic equipment and more. They also have a 24/7 customer service through their App. As A Ticket to Take Off reader, you get a 5% discount when purchasing Heymondo insurance . The purchase must be made using this link , and the price shown on the website already includes the discount.

What to visit in Nantes?

So that you can better plan your trip to Nantes, I’ll share with you a map of what to visit in Nantes:

» Île de Versailles

This itinerary in Nantes starts at the Île de Versailles, a small island in the river Erdre which passes through Nantes. The island was artificially created in the 19th century and is 1.7 hectares in size.

Originally used by naval carpenters, the island was transformed into a Japanese-style garden in 1983. The island is quite small but worth the visit.

» Botanical Garden

We moved on to another garden, this time a bit bigger. Also known as the Jardin des Plantes, the Botanical Garden is a pleasant space in the city.

On a Monday morning, there were several locals enjoying the sunny winter day that was 🥰. Walking around the garden, we can find some funny figures, making the visit even more fun!

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION : Admission to the garden is free, with opening times varying according to the time of year. The opening times can be found here .

» Saint-Clément Church

The church of Saint-Clément Church wasn’t even on my original itinerary, but I decided to include it here on the post. Although I entered this church by chance, I thought it is worth a quick visit. It’s the first gothic-style church to be built in Nantes.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION : Entry into the church is free!

» Castle of the Dukes of Brittany

The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany is a must-visit in Nantes. It is a fortress with 500 metres of ramparts and seven towers, linked together. The castle was built at the end of the 15th century by the last Duke of Brittany.

In fact, one of the activities I most recommend in the castle is walking around the ramparts. Entering through the main door into the walls, just climb the ramparts and follow the directions of the visit.

This is one of the best viewpoints in the city 😍.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION : The visit to the ramparts of the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany is completely free and can be done any day of the week from 8.30 am to 7 pm (or 8 pm in July and August).

On the premises, you can also visit the Nantes History Museum , which tells the history of the city. However, you need to buy a ticket to visit this part of the castle. The museum is closed on Mondays.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION : The ticket to visit the museum costs 8 € (+2 € with an audio guide or +4 € with a guided tour), but is free with the Nantes Pass . There are some cheaper tickets for those under 25 years old or the City Museums Pass. You can find the most up-to-date information here .

» Water Mirror

As soon as you leave the Dukes of Brittany Castle, I suggest you visit the Water Mirror, located right in front of the castle. The thin layer of water there creates the ideal conditions for a beautiful photo of the castle reflected in the water.

» Cathedral of Nantes

Built in the 15th century, St. Peter’s Cathedral in Nantes is one of the most important religious monuments in the city.

Unfortunately, the Cathedral suffered a serious fire in July 2020, which caused severe damage. Thus, the building is closed to the public indefinitely while restoration work is carried out.

Anyway, it is still possible to admire part of the exterior of the Cathedral from the street where it is located.

» Sainte-Croix Church and Passage

It’s time to head for another church – Sainte-Croix Church . Built in the 17th century, this is another of the city’s churches. However, there is an important detail: it is in this church that Jules Verne was supposedly baptized in 1828.

Right next to the church, we find the entrance to the Sainte-Croix Passage . It is a covered passage of about 70 metres long. Currently, there are some art exhibitions inside.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION : Admission to the church is free, and to the passageway as well. However, the passageway is only open from Tuesday to Saturday from 12 pm to 6.30 pm.

» Saint-Nicolas Basilica

The next thing to visit in Nantes is the Basilica of Saint-Nicolas. It is a neo-Gothic style basilica, whose construction began in 1844. However, the site where the basilica was built had already had other religious temples throughout the ages.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION : Entry to the basilica is free!

» Place Royale, Place du Commerce and Place Graslin

We continue this itinerary towards 3 of the most important squares in the city. Right next to the Basilica of Saint-Nicolas, we find Place Royale . It was designed in the 18th century and its main point of interest is the monumental fountain located in the centre of the square.

Another square is Place du Commerce , where many people gather, as this is the location of one of the main public transport stations in the city.

Finally, we have Place Graslin , where we find the theatre that gives it its name (Graslin Theatre). The theatre is undoubtedly the centre of attention in the square. However, I recommend you also admire the facade of La Cigale.

Of the three squares, I have to admit that my favourite was Place Royale!

» Passage Pommeraye

Passage Pommeraye was, for sure, one of the places I most enjoyed visiting in Nantes 😉. It is a small 19th-century shopping gallery and its name comes from its founder (Louis Pommeraye).

The passage connects two streets (Rue Santeuil and Rue de la Fosse), and there is more than one entrance to the gallery.

Apart from a visit to the various cute shops there, I also suggest going up to the upper floors for the best photo opportunities.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION : Admission to the Passage Pommeraye is free and opening hours are Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 8 pm and Sunday from 9 am to 8 pm. You can check the most up-to-date information here .

» Trentemoult

Even though I didn’t visit this point on the itinerary (the ferry wasn’t operating the day I visited), I decided to include it as I believe it must be quite interesting.

Trentemoult is an area connected to Nantes via a ferry ride. Although the journey between the centre of Nantes and Trentemoult is short, this area of the city is entirely different from the rest of the town. It’s a great place to get lost while admiring the colourful small houses there.

» Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery

Returning to the centre of Nantes, I suggest a brief stop at the Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery. Nantes was once one of France’s most important ports for the slave trade during the 18th century.

Thus, this memorial was created in 2012, in order to remember the past and to leave a warning for the future. Next to the river, we can see several plaques reminding us of all the slave ships that departed from Nantes. We can also visit an underground part of the memorial.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION : Visiting the memorial is free and opening hours are 9 am to 7 pm from 16 May to 15 September and 9 am to 6 pm from 16 September to 14 May. You can find the most up-to-date information here .

» Les Machines de l’Île

It’s time to cross the Anne de Bretagne Bridge to visit another of Nantes’ islands – Île de Nantes. It is on this island that we will find Les Machines de l’Île .

Les Machines de l’Île is an entertainment and exhibition area which opened in 2007. In the place where we can now spend a good few hours enjoying everything this part of Nantes has to offer, there used to be shipyards.

Here we find several (mostly representing animals) robotic machines. The best known is the elephant, where it is possible to travel on its top on a small route on the island.

In my opinion, I thought this part of the itinerary was more suitable for those with children. I believe there are adults who may be interested in this kind of visit, but it was not my case at all. Even because the only thing we can do for free is to watch the elephant walk around.

📝 USEFUL INFORMATION : Prices for each activity vary: Elephant ride (9.5€), Galerie des Machines (9.5€), Carousel of the Maritime World (9€). However, there are combined tickets for those who want to take part in more than one activity. All the information is available here .

💡 EXTRA TIP: The Nantes Pass has many advantages for visiting Les Machines de l’Île. So, if you want to visit this part of Nantes, it may be worth it to buy the Nantes Pass.

» Quai des Antilles

The last point I recommend visiting in Nantes is the Quai des Antilles. This quay results from the rehabilitation of the old port areas on this island of Nantes.

It is a very pleasant walk with one of the best views over the centre of Nantes. And this is where we also find Les Anneaux de Buren.

These rings, which light up at night, were created for a festival in 2007 and accompany part of the promenade on the Quai des Antilles.

Even though I didn’t visit any museums on my trip to Nantes, I thought I would include here 3 of the most important museums in the city for anyone who is interested. They are:

• Natural History Museum (admission 4 €)
• Jules Verne Museum (admission 3 €)
• Nantes Museum of Arts (admission 9 €)

Restaurants in Nantes

I had the opportunity to try two restaurants in Nantes, which I really enjoyed:

• Chez ta Mère (€€): pleasant space and had a daily menu for lunch, although with few dishes available, making it a more accessible option.

• L’Entrecôte (€€€): The restaurant usually has a queue, so it’s best to arrive before it opens (I arrived at 6.50 pm and there were almost 20 tables ahead of me). They only have one dish (entrecôte) that comes served with fries, but it’s really delicious. In addition, the service was very friendly.

Disclaimer : this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊

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I am Mariana from Porto, Portugal . I am truly passionate about traveling and all things travel related. And that’s exactly what led me to create this page: so I can inspire others to travel and help plan all those trips with my tips and itineraries.

Click here to find out more about me.

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The grand tour: To capture the essence of Quebec City

Enjoy a unique experience with one of our guides , a tailored discovery, a 360 o immersion into quebec city’s history, discover quebec city with a local professional guide                                                                                           .

Tours Voir Quebec offers you guided walking tours of Old Quebec with an experienced, local professional guide. Discover the history, the architecture and the food that make Quebec a UNESCO's World heritage destination. We are proud ambassadors of Quebec City and we provide visitors with a unique and unforgettable experience.  Tourism plays an essential role in the development of places to be preserved for future generations.  With us, you will discover the best of what Quebec has to offer. 

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Private 3-hour Walking Tour of Nantes with official tour guide

• Official tour guide for 3 hours in Nantes
• Meeting point in your hotel centrally located or central meeting point
• Local Taxes
• Private Tour
• Food and Drinks
• Entrances Fees
• Entry/Admission - Chateau des ducs de Bretagne
• Entry/Admission - Theatre Graslin
• Pick up in the main entrance of Nante's Cathedral or hotel centrally located (walking distance).
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Chateau des ducs de Bretagne
• Passage Pommeraye
• Theatre Graslin

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Statue Anne de Bretagne Stop: 10 minutes See details
• 2 Chateau des ducs de Bretagne Stop: 20 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 3 Passage Pommeraye Stop: 20 minutes See details
• 4 Theatre Graslin Stop: 15 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• bobbybK7200NU 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Customer focused The champagne trip from Paris was fantastic . Our driver was super kind and accommodating. The van was super comfortable and plush. The tours of VC and Moët were truly amazing . Thank you so much for everything! Read more Written March 26, 2024
• N5366MQclareg 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Very interesting tour Many thanks. We enjoyed a wonderful tour today with Brigitte. We will definitely be returning and recommending your company. Read more Written February 17, 2024
• napolicat 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles This hotel is the best! This hotel is clearly the best stay for visiting Mont St Michel. Incredible room with a separate living area. Lovely bath with high end finishes. The best part, though, is the incredible restaurant! Wonderful menu, wine list and service. Couldnt have a better experience! Read more Written October 18, 2023
• alepravia 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing 1st time in Paris It was my 1st time in Paris, and it couldn't have been better. The driver arrived 10 minutes early to start the tour. He showed us hidden places around all the different monuments. The guide also provided us with super interesting facts about each place. And the best part was that they always had huge smiles; both of them were very friendly. It is worth every cent! Read more Written October 3, 2023
• 702lamiah 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great day!!! Guide and driver were great! Picked up on time, clean and such a nice driver. The guide showed us the most important sites of the city. We can’t wait to come back again! 4 hours were short. Thank you once again Tour Travel &More Read more Written October 3, 2023
• glentro 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A fabulous 3 hours Our enthusiastic, informed guide Cecile was absolutely wonderful. She gave us a wonderful overview to Toulouse. Excellent English and we enjoyed all the little known antidotes of BBC the people and places. A well paced tour and we weren’t rushed as Cecile was always considerate to our needs. Highly recommended. Read more Written August 24, 2023
• daveR4349IK 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Private Paris Excursion from Le Havre - much better than booking through Cruise Ship Our family of 5 (Grandma, Parents, 2 kids -12 &15) booked a private excursion to Paris when our cruise ship stopped for the day in Le Havre in Aug 2023. Our driver (Kemel) was waiting for us when we got off the ship. His van was comfortable, clean and had snacks and bottled water. Kemel was polite, knowledgeable and friendly and drove us to Paris. We met our English-speaking guide (Isabelle) at the Arc de Triomphe. She was also extremely knowledgeable, flexible, and friendly. She discussed with us what sites we wanted to visit and learn about and structured the day to meet our choices. We had a wonderful day visiting Paris and were so happy we booked with Kemel and Isabelle. For barely more than the cost of the ship’s excursion, where we would have been put on a bus with 50 other people and been on their agenda, we were ablet to totally customize and get a personalized and private tour. I highly recommend this experience. Read more Written August 14, 2023
• Andre D 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Why would they book a tour for a closed museum? Terrible experience and heartbreaking results. I contacted Tour Travel & More three months in advance of our trip to Europe. I had three tours that I wanted to book and shared dates and itinerary. They booked the tours and received payment at time of booking. I called two days before arriving in Paris to confirm the three tours and was told there was a problem, that the Louvre was closed on Tuesdays and we would not be able to tour the museum as planned on our Itinerary. WHY WOULD YOU BOOK A TOUR ON A DAY THE MUSEUM IS CLOSED???? The reason we used the service is because this is allegedly their area of expertise. HOW DO YOU MAKE THIS KIND OF A MISTAKE? We had firm travel plans and could not rearrange our days due to hotel, trains etc. What a complete and utter failure on the part of Tour Travel & More. Also, Maya never called us back as promised. It has been three weeks and not a peep from her as she said. I don't know when or if we will be in France again and if we will ever be able to tour the Louvre. Sadly our family was robbed of this experience due to the incompetence of Tour Travel and More. DO NOT USE THIS AGENCY. Read more Written July 18, 2023
• Valerie C 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Very friendly and informative tour! Loved it!! Claire, our tour guide, was fantastic! She was very informative and friendly. It was the best way to start our visit to Annecy. Read more Written July 14, 2023
• nancyk872 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Three Days in Toulouse in June 2023 Highly recommend the city of Toulouse to anyone craving a true French experience , but without the"big city" woes of Paris! Toulouse is full of gorgeous churches to explore, a fantastic museum called Guy Depuy, a fascinating and beautifully curated space of his various collections like amazing antique time pieces, pottery , film nostalgia, holy art ..it was a wonder to explore! Also you'll find outstanding restaurants, lovely strolling along the Garonne riverfront, plenty of shopping streets ( but not the frantic crowds of Paris), plenty of accommodation choices too. We drove into town, dropped bags at our hotel then returned car to the airport and took public transport back into the city center which was easy and cheap. Hoteliers speak English of course, but you'll get to practice your French with waiters and others who were always friendly and eager to communicate as best they ( and we) could! Oh if you like Food Halls they have one there that is lots of fun to browse. Everything is easy walkable distances , think 2-mile radius . Train schedules were not very convenient for us so we flew from T'town to Paris on Air France which was a lovely 50 minute experience. Read more Written July 1, 2023
• Happiness220589 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unforgettable!! Great Tour - unforgettable! Evelyne, the guide at Mont Saint Michel, is AMAZING (knowledge, energy, charisma)!! Thank you! Read more Written June 19, 2023
• 482cherylp 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Personalized, knowledgeable and excellent service We had an amazing custom tour arranged for us of the Normandy beaches and memorials. The focus was on Juno and the Canadian history however our guide ( Adrian) was able the quickly adjust and accommodate a request to cover Omaha beach in our time frame. The guide Adrian was extremely knowledgeable and provided many insights on the strategies of both sides ( allies and Germans). Our driver Alain, was an excellent drive, he was on time and was quick to respond to me on the day of our arrival to arrange a meeting place. Maya was also very helpful and answered my many questions before the tour. I would highly recommend Tour Travel and More especially for personalized tours! Thank you agin for making our experience so memorable! Read more Written June 15, 2023
• Toby1960 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Our driver was on time and got us to Paris on time. Our 4 hour visit to Paris was fantastic and we were all very pleased with this tour. We would do it again! Read more Written June 7, 2023
• Visitallthespots 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Monet bucket list, check! We had a wonderful trip to Monet's house in Giverny. Although it rained on us, the gardens were beautiful and so worth the trip! Both our tour guide and driver were great. Our guide was knowledgeable and helpful. If you are a Monet fan, check this off your bucket list! Read more Written May 25, 2023
• Dana H 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Private tour to Monet’s gardens It was so nice to be picked up at our hotel and be whisked off to Giverny with our guide. It did take longer as planned to arrive only because of heavy traffic but the trip home was quick. Kris, our tour guide told us many things about Monet and his life on the way there as well as tidbits about the countryside we were traveling through. She was very pleasant and knowledgeable. We had tickets that skipped the normal line for entrance and that was nice because the lines to get in looked to be hours long. The driver was professional and his car was very clean. It was a very special day for us and I’m glad we used this group. Kris was very helpful in dining suggestions as well! Read more Written May 24, 2023

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Private 3-hour Walking Tour of Nantes with official tour guide provided by Tour Travel & More

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La Toue de Nantes - Cruise on a traditional boat

A trip on the Loire or the Erdre on board the "Libellule", a pretty and comfortable traditional boat.

Traditional boat trip and tasting.

In the company of 12 passengers at the most, enjoy commentary on history, as well as local fauna and flora, with your guides : Olivier and Thibaud … while tasting the available local products on board !

In a friendly atmosphere, make the experience of an original journey in the heart and around Nantes on a comfortable traditional “toue cabanée” (cabined flat-bottomed barge). La “toue cabanée” is a river fishing boat containing a hut and used in particular by the fishermen on roadblocks to salmons of the Loire.

Comments only in french .

48, Quai Malakoff 44000 Nantes How to get there?

Parking(s) nearby: Parking Gare Château , Parking Gare limité 1h , Parking Cité des Congrès , Parking Gare Sud 3 , Parking Gare Sud 4 , Parking Château , Parking Baco-LU 1 côté gare

Public transport: Gare Sud , Lieu Unique , Cité des Congrès

Self-service bicycles: Gare De Nantes Sud (n°70) , Gare De Nantes Nord (n°60) , Lieu Unique (n°61) , Cité Internationale Des Congrès (n°54) , Stade Saupin (n°59) , Gare De Nantes Nord 2 (n°62) , Duchesse Anne (n°49) , Baco (n°52)

T. +33 (0)6 81 87 64 49 Website E-mail Facebook

Closed today.

From february 10th 2024 to november 11th 2024

Click here for detailed dates and times

Free for PASS Nantes holders Book PASS Nantes Pass Nantes : 1 Erdre river cruise to choose (between la Toue de Nantes "Voyage au Cœur de Nantes" tasting not included, les Bateaux Nantais "Erdre et ses Châteaux", or le Bateau Ouch ). Booking required, contact our advisers from 20€ per person from 10€ per child (-12 years old) + 10€ for a salty or sweet tasting

Libellule can accommodate up to 3 people in a manual wheelchair. A ramp allows access from the dock to the boat deck and then to the terrace. Reservation at La Toue de Nantes on 06.81.87.64.49

Continuing the journey

Since 2015 • Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence • Locally owned and operated

1-418 906-0768

MY QUEBEC CITY SIGHTSEEING TOURS

Why tour with me.

I specialise in Quebec City tours for those that want to discover the real Quebec’s Capital. I have an individual approach: I love to tailor my guided tours to my guests specific needs or interests. Each of my tours are unique. Having my own tour company, Nomad Tours Quebec, it gives me the freedom to be extra flexible. Nomad Tours Quebec is about discovering things you’ve never noticed before, I am so lucky to live in a city with layers of incredible history and culture. Join me on a private tour and I’ll show you why Quebec City is the best city in the world!

Get a local perspective

I was born and raised in beautiful Québec City. I am proud to call Quebec City my home.

Professionalism

I am a certified Québec City tour guide and I have a degree in Tourism. I'm very proud of it!

Get personalized recommendations

I know every single restaurant, café, microbrewery and all things to do in Quebec City. I’ll be happy to share my favorite picks and help you plan your stay here!

My Quebec City Guided Tours

All my tours are made to custom. I also offer special rates for group and tour operators.

Quebec City 101 Tour

Private Quebec City Photo Tour

5-Course Quebec City Gourmet Food Tour

Custom Tour

Full Day Private Tour

“Step On” Customized Local Bus/Coach Tours

Quebec City Private Shopping Tour

Off-the-Beaten Path Quebec City Tour & Distillery Visit

What makes your tours so different .

There are many tour guides and tour companies out there. Here's how my Quebec City tours are unique and different.

More sights included

We cover the Parliament Building, Tourny Fountain, Citadelle and Fortifications. These are 4 sights most tour companies don’t cover.

Private Guide

I offer private tours. That means more flexibility from me and therefore a better experience for you.

Insider Tips

Your tour guide, Marie, is also a blogger. I will be delighted to give you recommendations and help you plan your stay.

Shore Excursions

Will you be visiting Quebec City with a cruise?Awesome! When possible, I will meet you directly at your cruise terminal.

From my Quebec City Blog

Get insider tips and recommendations for things to do and see in beautiful Quebec City.

Amazing winter activities to do in Quebec City

… Read More

Quebec City free tours: an interview with business owner Sam Dubois

Best shopping streets in Quebec City

Kayak de mer à l’Ile d’Orléans

Afternoon Tea at the Château Frontenac [2024 Update]

5 tips to get ready for an amazing walking tour in 2024

Evening Gourmet Tour in Quebec City: My 2024 Review

Canvases and cobblestones: how to navigate Nantes’ arts and culture scene

The French city of Nantes has spent the last two decades quietly transforming itself into one of country’s most important artistic and cultural centres — these are just some of the showstoppers not to miss.

The long green line twists and turns on Nantes’ city pavements for 14 miles. Why? It’s leading visitors to more than 100 different outdoor artworks, standout monuments, parks, buildings, architectural features and artistic playgrounds for both adults and children. Every summer, with this green line as its focal point, the city stages a cultural festival, Le Voyage à Nantes , during which artists, architects, designers, gardeners and DJs are invited to place new works and stage new events along the trail. This year’s festival is scheduled to run from 6 July to 8 September.

Le Voyage à Nantes offers an ideal way of discovering the city's artistic side, but there are plenty of other ways to explore its creative culture throughout the year. Just outside Nantes, there’s also a 75-mile wine trail, the Voyage dans le Vignoble , which leads visitors on a boozy loop through the local vineyards, from Nantes to the Italianesque town of Clisson. Along the way are works of art, recreational spaces, castles, a museum, windmill and numerous wine cellars. The art on display comes in a plethora of forms — from shops signs to statues — with a mixture of both temporary and permanent installations.  

Heading further west along the Loire River is a 37-mile-long artistic trail called Estuaire Nantes < > Saint-Nazaire which showcases 33 sculptures, installations and architectural projects. The variety of works on show is astounding: a human foot the size of a lorry; a giant yellow tape measure; a series of bright, luminous rings and, perhaps the most striking of all, Le Serpent d'océan — a 425ft-long aluminium skeleton of a sea serpent, installed on the foreshore of the Loire estuary so that it emerges and submerges according to the tides. From April to October, a two-and-a-half hour river cruise follows a similar route. Read on for seven of the city's most striking cultural hotspots.  

1. Les Machines de l’île

It’s the Grand Elephant that strikes you first. Constructed of wood and steel, 40ft high and weighing nearly 50 tonnes, it’s become something of an emblem of Nantes. It’s powered by a motor, and with space on board for 49 passengers, it regularly takes walks along the Loire riverside, trumpeting loudly and spraying water from its trunk. The giant pachyderm forms the centre of this vast exhibition of mechanical art — on the Île de Nantes in the Loire River, specifically in the city's former shipyard area — that’s dedicated to mechanical animals. Think a spider, a heron, a giant ant, a chameleon and a whole carousel of creatures from the deep. In fact, there's an entire workshop where the mechanical animals are created and tested which is open to the public. Much of this mind-bending attraction pays homage to the futuristic drawings of Leonardo da Vinci and the sci-fi stories of Nantes’ most famous son, Jules Verne. Not only can visitors get up close to the machines, some, like the Grand Elephant, can be boarded for rides.

2. The Château des ducs de Bretagne

Built in the late 15 th century, this castle in Nantes’ medieval quarter is a stout fortress from the outside but has an elegant palace within the ramparts. Inside, you’ll find the Musée d’Histoire de Nantes, which charts the city’s complicated history from medieval times through to the slave trade and the two world wars.

3. Musée d’arts de Nantes

Situated right in the heart of the city, between the cathedral and the botanical gardens, this museum holds more than 13,000 works dating from the 13 th century all the way up to the present day, with contributions from the likes of Delacroix, Monet, Picasso, Kandinsky and Kapoor. The gallery was renovated and reopened in 2017, and now includes the Cube — four storeys dedicated to contemporary art — created by British architecture firm Stanton Williams.

4. HAB Galerie

This contemporary art gallery — on the western tip of the Île de Nantes — regularly features paintings, sculptures, videos and installations from a wealth of fascinating artists. The 15,070sq ft space is usually dedicated to just one artist per season, and is also home to a bookshop covering contemporary art, architecture, design and graphic novels. HAB stands for Hangar à Bananes, a nod to the building’s previous incarnation as a banana-ripening warehouse.

5. Musée Dobrée

Musée Dobrée — in the upmarket Graslin neighbourhood of Nantes — has been closed for the past 13 years, but is set to reopen in May 2024 in a 15 th -century manor house and neo-medieval palace. More than 2,000 artworks, from prehistorical times to the 20 th century, will be displayed across more than half an acre of exhibition space. The museum was originally built by local ship owner and art-lover Thomas Dobrée who, during his life, amassed a collection of more than 10,000 pieces of art.

6. Le Lieu Unique

Housed in a former biscuit factory on Nantes’ Canal Saint-Félix, this convivial arts centre showcases live music, DJs, theatre, cinema, dance, circus acts, literature and visual arts. There’s also a bar, a restaurant and a Turkish bath. Past and present exhibitions include theatre productions by celebrated actor and director Olivier Martin-Salvan and Italian playwright Romeo Castellucci.

7. Mémorial de l'Abolition de l'Esclavage

This memorial to the abolition of slavery , which opened in 2012 on the riverside Quai de la Fosse, is located on the very spot from which many ships involved in the Atlantic slave trade originally set sail. As the curators explain: ‘It pays tribute to those who have fought and those who are still fighting against human trafficking and slavery around the world. It’s not intended as a historical exhibit, but as a place to remember, to act as a warning and to send out a universal message.’

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES

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Thinking of stopping by our office to book a tour?

While you’re here, you might like to beware of the ghost that lives inside… it’s been known to throw our top hats at our employees and momentarily break our printer… In fact, in September 2020, paranormal activity investigators have even captured his voice on one of their devices capable of recording voices from the afterlife. Very strange, right?

Notice the little boy in the staircase. Folks in the 1900s were as excited to experience our ghost tour as you!

a unique experience

As the skies begin to darken over Quebec City, the costumed guides of Ghost Tours of Quebec strike a match and light their lanterns. Eager ticket holders wait in anticipation, for they know they will be led on a 90-minute walking tour through the streets of Old Quebec, to hear 400 years of stories of murder, executions, mysterious ghost sightings, tragedies and hauntings. The cobblestone streets and ancient buildings of Old Quebec set the stage for a truly unique experience. Hear the stories that history books have tried to forget. Goosebumps guaranteed!

Wondering what to do next in Old Quebec? How about a lovely evening walk with a paranormal twist! Our Ghost Tours are great for families, couples, groups, or solo travellers.

Member of Office du tourisme de Québec and Coopérative de solidarité du Quartier Petit Champlain.

English tours run most evenings at 8:00pm from May 1st until October 31st. Please be on site at least 10 minutes prior to departure.

Additional departures and off-season tours may be available, contact us to inquire.

The departure location is situated across from 94, rue du Petit Champlain (La petite cabane à sucre de Québec).

Please note that tours run rain or shine and we cover a distance of around 2km with an elevation gain of 50m.

Price per person

• Adults: $25
• Students and seniors (65 and over): $23
• Children 10 and under: free

All of our prices include tax.

 Prices are subject to change during peak periods.

Inquire about our special group rates for groups of 15 people or more!

Buy your tickets on our web site, in person at our office, or on site before the tour. We accept Visa, Mastercard, debit and cash. Reservations are strongly advised.

What the customers say

• 34 Bd Champlain, Québec, Canada
• (418) 692-9770
• moc.e 1715398260 motna 1715398260 ftsoh 1715398260 g@ofn 1715398260 i 1715398260

Les recettes du Québec pour intégrer ses migrants

• Lire dans l’app
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ENQUÊTE - La Belle Province a opté pour une «troisième voie», entre l’assimilation à la française et le multiculturalisme pratiqué dans le reste du Canada. Les clés de cette réussite sont multiples mais reposent sur un respect mutuel.

Au cœur du Vieux-Montréal , à quelques centaines de mètres de la basilique Notre-Dame, là même où l’icône québécoise Céline Dion épousa René Angélil, une immense file de demandeurs d’asile, attend patiemment l’ouverture des bureaux de Service Québec, l’organisme chargé de traiter leurs dossiers. Un vigile d’origine algérienne les fait entrer au compte-gouttes dans le vieil édifice en pierre de taille. Il y a là des Africains, des Asiatiques, des Haïtiens…

Nicolas est péruvien. Il est arrivé au Québec en décembre. « J’ai acheté un billet d’avion Lima-Cancun, au Mexique, puis voyagé en bus jusqu’à Mexicali, où j’ai traversé la frontière des États-Unis. Comme une partie de ma famille vit en Arizona, les policiers américains m’ont libéré assez vite. J’ai poursuivi mon chemin jusqu’à la frontière entre l’État de New York et la province du Québec, que j’ai franchie illégalement. J’ai été détenu pendant trois jours par les agents des services frontaliers canadiens. Ma famille, qui vit à Montréal…

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le 08/05/2024 à 00:39

En lisant l’article, qui ne contient qu’un discours à sens unique et AUCUNE trace de nuance, on se dit, soit c’est le paradis là-bas, soit c’est une propagande (pourtant, pas AFP pour une fois) mal faite. Puis, à la lecture des commentaires, dont de nombreux témoignages de personnes y ayant vécu, on comprend que c’est la 2ème option !

le 07/05/2024 à 20:47

Je suis allé à Vancouver, de l’autre côté du Canada. Beaucoup n’en peuvent plus … des Chinois. Il faut toujours penser au seuil de tolérance, un des points clé de la sociologie.

le 07/05/2024 à 20:44

Le sujet en France, c’est qu’il n’est pas question de transiger sur les valeurs de la République. Les nouveaux arrivants n’ont qu’à repartir s’ils ne sont pas d’accord. Et s’ils ne repartent pas, dehors !

Sous pression des États-Unis, Xi Jinping en tournée pour «neutraliser» l’Europe

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Guerre en Ukraine: Moscou menace de frapper des cibles militaires britanniques en Ukraine «et au-delà»

LE POINT SUR LA SITUATION - La diplomatie russe a déclaré avoir «prévenu» l'ambassadeur britannique Nigel Casey, convoqué lundi par Moscou après des déclarations du ministre britannique des Affaires étrangères David Cameron «sur le droit de l'Ukraine à frapper le territoire de la Russie à l'aide d'armes britanniques».

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Le service de renseignement allemand aurait alerté plusieurs pays dont la France sur de prochains attentats à la bombe, incendies et cyberattaques de la part de Moscou, selon le journal britannique The Financial Times .

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