Known for its rich maritime heritage, architectural beauty, and thriving cultural scene, Nantes offers an exciting blend of the past and the future. Nestled along the banks of the majestic sweep of the Loire River in western France, which stretches over 1,000 kilometres from the Massif Central to spill out into the Atlantic Ocean in Nantes. Historically, it’s been a vital trade route, shaping the region’s culture and economy and creating a pride its in history, where grand ships once sailed. Today, the Loire's serene waters reflect picturesque bridges and quaint quays, while bustling with river cruises, local fishermen, and vibrant festivals. A string of charming riverside restaurants sit along the banks of the Loire River, providing stunning views of the river from elegant outdoor terraces. Diners savour fresh seafood, local Loire Valley wines, and regional specialties while watching boats glide by. Some restaurants are housed in historic buildings or on floating barges, adding to the unique dining experience in a picturesque tranquil setting.

Nantes is also home to some particularly grand châteaux, beautiful leafy parks, and the renowned Machines of the Isle of Nantes. Whether you're exploring the historic centre, enjoying a peaceful walk along the river, or discovering the creativity that fuels Nantes, there is always something new to discover. Most visitors arrive at Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE) and pick up a hire car from the hire car desk once they’ve hauled their luggage from the belt. To truly immerse yourself in Nantes and beyond, renting a car gives you the ultimate flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace. By picking up a pre-booked hire car from you can hit the road as soon as you land to explore the city’s beautiful parks or drive to the coastal towns of the Atlantic in style and comfort. Nantes enjoys superb connections to major cities around the world, with direct flights arriving from cities such as United Kingdom capital city London, the Dutch city of Amsterdam, Spain’s royal city of Madrid, the fine Portuguese city of Lisbon, sophisticated Doha in Qatar and the USA’s buzzing east coast city of New York. If your plans revolve Nantes, a compact or economy car is ideal for navigating the city's historic streets, which can be narrow and winding, particularly in the city centre. For longer road trips, a mid-sized sedan or an SUV offers added comfort and space, perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes of the Loire Valley or heading to the beaches of La Baule.