Transportation in Nantes
The city centre and old quarters lie on the River Loire's north bank, beside Ile de Nantes island. Place du Commerce is the city's focal point. Most sights are within a small, walkable area around the Château.The historic Bouffay quarter, with bars and restaurants, lies between the Château and Cours des 50 Otages. South and west of it are the attractive former Feydeau Island and 18th-century Graslin quarter, the main shopping area. East are the sights of the 19th- and 20th-century city centre. When it's too far to walk, inexpensive trams and buses are easy to use.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Tram
Nantes has the longest tram system in France, with 90 stops on three modern lines that converge near Place du Commerce. Trams run 4am to 1am (3am Saturdays) and take just one minute between stops.
Bus
A network of comfortable modern buses serves the whole city, most routes connecting with the tram system. In addition, the BusWay, also called Line 4, is a fast high-quality central bus route with its own dedicated roadway.
Taxi
Taxis wait near Place du Commerce and the main train station, or can be hailed in the street. They can also be booked by phone from a dozen companies. Fares are metered, and inexpensive, with supplements at night.
Boat
'Navibus' riverbuses serve Nantes city centre. Navibus Loire links Gare Maritime on the north bank to the Loire's south bank. Navibus Erdre travels from the university campus to Nantes train station via 800-metre-long St Félix canal tunnel.
Rent your car
Several motorways lead to Nantes, and as you approach you’ll see signs for the city centre, Coeur de Ville. There are car parks in the centre but if you’re just going for a daytrip, you can opt for one of the park-and-ride sites outside the city to avoid traffic and ease your route.
Transportation Tips
Single tickets, available on buses or at tram stops, must be machine-punched on first use, and are valid on the whole transport system for one hour. Bargain-priced Pass Nantes, from Nantes tourist offices or online, gives discounts around town plus free access to museums, attractions and all public transport.
"TAN – Nantes Transportation website""Auto Partage Marguerite car hire website"
Special Transportation
Special Transportation
Among innovative transport options in Nantes are Bicloo, help-yourself public bikes for hire from 79 city centre 'bike stations', and Auto Partage Marguerite, local car hire by the hour, bookable online.
