More about Nantes
Why go to Nantes?
From history buffs to hipsters, there's something for everyone here -- medieval architecture, art galleries and more
Many attractions are closed on Mondays, which happens to be departure day for river cruises
Nantes is a quirky city with a rich history that blends modern with medieval
Nantes Cruise Port Facilities?
Ponton Belem lies right next to the Anne de Bretagne Bridge, which takes you straight across the river to Ile de Nantes, home to the spectacular new law courts, the revived dockyard areas and the fascinating Les Machines de l'Ile (see Don't Miss). It's also within very easy walking distance of the Abolition of Slavery memorial (also to the right, when you stand with the boat behind you). If you head in the opposite direction, a five-minute walk takes you to the ferries that cross the river to charming Trentemoult island.
Good to Know?
Traffic! As well as trams, cars, taxis and buses, Nantes is home to legions of cyclists, so -- as in Amsterdam -- you need to keep your wits about you and look out for zooming cyclists. Also look for art installations; follow the green line on the pavement and it will guide you round the Ile de Nantes and the city's main artworks. Museums and attractions are closed on Mondays -- the departure day for river cruises. But if you have a late-ish flight after disembarking on Friday, you'll have time to see the nearby Machines d l'Ile in the morning. Also bear mind the variable weather and cobbled streets -- wear sensible shoes and carry an umbrella.
Getting Around?
On Foot: You'll find Ile de Nantes and Les Machines d l'Ile an easy 10-minute walk from where the boat is moored, while the Place Graslin at the heart of the 18th-century city center is about a 20-minute walk (turn right outside the boat dock and keep going, then head inland at Allee de la Bourse (home of the old Stock Exchange).
Invest in a Pass Nantes if you want to go sightseeing, as this not only offers unlimited access to the city's trams and buses, but also free admission to museums, monuments and the TAN public transport network (excluding the airport shuttle). You also get discounts at some shops.
By Tram: Line 1 trams run to the right from Chantier Navals to the city center and beyond that, to the Botanical Gardens (which are just opposite the main railway station). Trains run regularly from the airport to the main station. From the station, catch a tram headed left and disembark at Chantiers Navals, where your boat is moored.
By Taxi: Taxis are freely available around Nantes. A taxi from the airport to Quai de la Fosse costs upward of €30, depending on when you travel (prices are higher on weekends and other off hours, so check the fare before you get in).
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The official currency is the euro (for the latest exchange rate, visit www.oanda.com or www.xe.com). There are no ATMs near where the boat docks but you will find plenty in town, around the main Rue de Strasbourg (near the Natural History Museum) and there's also an ATM at Nantes Atlantique Airport.
Language?
English is widely spoken and understood in Nantes, particularly at attractions and in restaurants. But don't assume everyone speaks it, as the French can take offense at people treating English as the universal language. Keep the locals happy with a few basic phrases, like...
| Good morning / evening | Bonjour / Bonsoir |
| My name is... | Je m'appelle... |
| How much is this? | Combien est-ce? |
| Do you speak English? | Parlez vous Anglais? |
| How can I get to...? | Comment puis-je obtenir de...? |
| Where is...? | Ou est ...? |
| Can I have the bill, please? | L'addition, s'il vous plait? |
| Thanks (very much) | Merci (beaucoup) |
| Goodbye / See you later | Au revoir |
| Pleased to meet you | Ravi de vous rencontrer / Enchante |
| Pier | Le port |
| Ship | Bateau de croisiere |
Where You're Docked?
CroisiEurope's paddle-driven riverboat Loire Princess -- which was specifically designed to navigate the shallow waters of the Loire and is the only riverboat regularly operating cruises along it -- docks at Ponton Belem on Quai de la Fosse, which lies opposite the Chantier Navals tram stop. This is an ideal spot from which to explore Nantes, as the 18th-century center is only a five-minute tram ride (or about a 20-minute walk) away to the right, while the railway station and the city's lovely botanical gardens are a further five minutes down the tramline.
