Nantes: First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour

Nantes, a captivating French city, beckons visitors to explore its rich history and architectural wonders through a self-guided walking tour. Covering a 2.7 km route, the tour highlights iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of St. Peter and the Château des ducs de Bretagne. With the World City Trail app, travelers can navigate the path, learn about each attraction, and enjoy Nantes’ vibrant past and present at their own pace. This journey promises to unveil the city’s remarkable story, leaving one intrigued to uncover more.

Key Points

• A self-guided walking tour of Nantes, covering key landmarks like the Cathedral of St. Peter, Église Sainte-Croix, and Château des ducs de Bretagne.
• The tour duration is approximately 2.5 hours, covering a distance of 2.7 km, and visitors can use the World City Trail app for navigation and information.
• The tour allows visitors to explore Nantes at their own pace and learn about the city’s rich history, architecture, and cultural heritage.
• Highlights include the impressive Gothic architecture, ornate interiors, and panoramic views from the castle towers of the Château des ducs de Bretagne.
• The tour also includes a visit to the poignant Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery, which serves as a powerful reminder of the city’s complex history.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Walking Tour

The self-guided walking tour of Nantes allows visitors to discover the city at their own pace, lasting approximately 2.5 hours and covering a distance of 2.7 km.

The tour highlights the city’s key attractions, including the Cathedral of St. Peter, Église Sainte-Croix, Château des ducs de Bretagne, Basilique Saint-Nicolas de Nantes, Place Royale, Passage Pommeraye, and the Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery.

Visitors will receive download instructions for the World City Trail app, which provides navigation and information about the sights during the tour.

While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, it’s an excellent way for visitors to explore Nantes at their convenience, with the option to take breaks for coffee or lunch along the way.

Starting Point and Navigation

You can begin the tour at the recommended starting point of the Musée d’Arts de Nantes, or any other location of your choosing.

After booking the tour, you’ll receive instructions to download the World City Trail app, which will provide navigation and information about the attractions along the way.

The app will guide you through the 2.7 km walking route, ensuring you don’t miss any of the highlights.

Whether you start at the museum or elsewhere, the app will seamlessly direct you to the next stop on the self-guided tour.

With the app’s assistance, you can explore Nantes at your own pace, learning about the city’s history and architecture as you go.

Cathedral of St. Peter

Towering over the city center, the Cathedral of St. Peter stands as a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, dating back to the 15th century. Visitors can admire its intricate façade, complete with ornate stone carvings and stained glass windows.

The cathedral’s grand interior features:

• Soaring vaulted ceilings that create a sense of grandeur and awe
• Elaborately decorated side chapels showcasing the region’s religious heritage
• An impressive organ that fills the space with the rich tones of sacred music

As one of Nantes’ most iconic landmarks, the Cathedral of St. Peter offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past and continues to captivate all who step through its doors.

Église Sainte-Croix

Situated just a short walk from the towering Cathedral of St. Peter, Église Sainte-Croix stands as another architectural gem in Nantes’ city center.

This 15th-century church is renowned for its intricate Gothic design, featuring ornate facades and a striking steeple that dominates the surrounding skyline.

Visitors can step inside to admire the church’s impressive vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and elaborately carved altarpieces.

The Église Sainte-Croix has a long and storied history, having endured everything from fires to political upheaval over the centuries.

Today, it remains an important cultural landmark, drawing in both travelers and locals who come to marvel at its timeless beauty and rich heritage.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Château Des Ducs De Bretagne

As visitors stroll along the banks of the Loire River, the Château des Ducs de Bretagne emerges as a dominant presence, its imposing walls and towers standing as a testament to Nantes’ rich history. This magnificent castle, which once served as the residence of the Dukes of Brittany, now houses a museum that offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s past.

Highlights of the visit include:

• Exploring the castle’s intricate architecture, from the impressive Renaissance façade to the intricate carvings and ornate interiors.
• Discovering the museum’s extensive collection of artifacts, which range from medieval tapestries to ornate furniture and weapons.
• Climbing to the top of the castle’s towers for panoramic views of Nantes and the surrounding riverscape.

Basilique Saint-Nicolas De Nantes

From the grandeur of the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, visitors can continue their exploration of Nantes’ impressive architecture by heading to the Basilique Saint-Nicolas, a remarkable religious structure that has stood at the heart of the city for centuries.

This neo-Byzantine basilica, with its striking dome and ornate interiors, is a testament to Nantes’ rich religious heritage. Visitors can admire the intricate mosaics, stained glass windows, and ornate altars that adorn the church’s interior.

The Basilique Saint-Nicolas isn’t only a place of worship but also a cultural landmark, hosting concerts and exhibitions throughout the year. Its towering presence serves as a reminder of the city’s deep-rooted traditions and the enduring significance of faith in Nantes’ history.

Place Royale and Passage Pommeraye

The Place Royale, a picturesque 18th-century square, serves as a central gathering point in Nantes, drawing visitors with its harmonious architectural design and lively atmosphere.

Adjacent to the square is the Passage Pommeraye, a stunning three-level shopping arcade from the 19th century. The Passage Pommeraye is renowned for its ornate cast-iron and glass ceiling, creating a stunning indoor setting for shops and boutiques.

The Place Royale is lined with elegant townhouses and grand mansions, featuring intricate stonework and symmetrical facades.

Both the square and the passage offer ample opportunities for leisurely strolling, people-watching, and soaking in the vibrant ambiance of the city.

Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery

After exploring the elegant Place Royale and the ornate Passage Pommeraye, the walking tour leads visitors to the sobering Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery.

This poignant monument stands as a powerful reminder of the city’s complex history and its role in the global fight against slavery. Designed by the artist Joël Hubaut, the memorial features a striking bronze sculpture and a series of plaques that recount the tragic story of the transatlantic slave trade.

Visitors can reflect on this dark chapter and honor the millions of lives lost and impacted by the inhumane practice. The memorial serves as a solemn tribute and a call to continue the ongoing struggle for equality and social justice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Special Requirements for the Walking Tour?

The walking tour has a few special requirements. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues. A minimum of 2 participants is required. Visitors can take breaks for coffee or lunch during the tour.

Can I Start the Tour at a Different Location?

Yes, you can start the tour at a different location. The tour is self-guided, so you’re free to begin at any point along the 2.7 km route that suits your needs and preferences.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as it covers a distance of 2.7 km and the recommended starting point may not be accessible. Those with mobility issues should consider an alternative tour option.

Do I Need to Purchase a Ticket or App for the Tour?

No, you don’t need to purchase a ticket or app for this self-guided walking tour of Nantes. The app from GetYourGuide isn’t required, and there’s no ticket needed to complete the 2.5-hour, 2.7 km walking route at your own pace.

Can I Take Breaks During the Tour for Food or Rest?

Yes, you can take breaks during the tour for food or rest. The tour allows you to pause at any time, so you can enjoy a coffee or lunch break as needed.

Recap

Nantes’ self-guided walking tour allows visitors to enjoy the city’s rich history and architectural gems at their own pace.

From the Cathedral of St. Peter to the Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery, the tour showcases Nantes’ cultural and historical significance, inviting travelers to discover the city’s vibrant past and present through its renowned landmarks and landmarks.

You can check if your dates are available here: