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Regularly voted as a great place to live, Nantes combines urban amenities with parks and riverside attractions, writes Karen Tait
Once part of Brittany, now the capital of the Loire-Atlantique département and the Pays de la Loire region, Nantes regularly ranks highly for quality of life. It offers a balance between urban amenities and natural beauty, with parks, green spaces, and the Loire River nearby, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, including the annual Voyage à Nantes art event, museums and historic sites like the Château des Ducs de Bretagne. Blending art, culture and technology, the Machines of the Isle of Nantes are a major tourist attraction, inspired by former resident French novelist Jules Verne.
Considered a safe city with a strong sense of community, well-regarded schools and university, and commitment to green living, Nantes is popular with families and students. Professionals are attracted by the city’s economic vitality, robust job market and efficient public transport (trams, buses and bike-sharing programme). Nantes is a gateway to the Atlantic coast, providing access to scenic coastal areas like Pornic and La Baule. It’s just a two-hour train journey to Paris, and Nantes Atlantique Airport offers flights to international destinations including the UK.
As with most cities, Nantes offers a range of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character. In the historic centre, Bouffay has medieval streets and vibrant nightlife; Graslin features elegant 19th-century architecture, luxury shops, restaurants and theatre. Districts like Dervallières-Zola offer more residential and green spaces, while Île de Nantes is known for its
