Nantes is a city that offers more than just its charming streets and historic sites. Its unique mix of maritime history, modern art, and local craftsmanship makes it a fantastic place to explore through guided tours. Whether you’re interested in learning about the traditional salt harvesting in Guérande, cruising the Loire River, tasting local wines, or discovering the city on an electric bike, Nantes has something for every type of traveler. We especially recommend the Visit to Saline – Guérande Salt Marshes for its immersive insight into the ancient craft of salt production, and the Nantes City Card Pass for those who want flexible access to multiple attractions.
Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Nantes’s tours promise memorable experiences that go beyond just sightseeing. Read on to find the perfect match for your travel style.
1. Visit to Saline – Guérande Salt Marshes
At number 1 on our list, the Visit to Saline – Guérande Salt Marshes is a wonderfully affordable and authentic way to connect with an age-old craft. For just around $11.52 per person, you’ll spend about an hour exploring the shimmering salt marshes with a passionate guide and salt worker. You’ll learn how salt is harvested using techniques passed down for centuries, set against the stunning landscape where sky and water reflect each other. The tour includes stops at the Marais Salants de Guérande and the family-run Le Natursel, where traditional methods and local products are showcased. This experience offers a fascinating glimpse into a craft still vital to the region. Reviews highlight the guide’s enthusiasm and depth of knowledge—“really interesting,” said one visitor—and it’s a perfect quick detour that’s both educational and scenic.
Bottom Line: Ideal for curious travelers who want a taste of local tradition without a big time or monetary investment.
2. Nantes City Card Pass: 24/48/72 Hours/7 Days Full Access
For those who want to explore Nantes comprehensively, the Nantes City Card Pass offers unlimited access to museums, public transport, cruises, and guided tours across 1 to 7 days. Costing about $34 per person, this pass is perfect for visitors who prefer flexibility. You can hop on buses, trams, or shuttle boats, and visit attractions like Les Machines de l’Ile—home to the famous Elephant—or enjoy river cruises and bike rentals. It’s especially good if you plan to spend a few days exploring the city at your own pace. With free access to numerous museums and attractions, it provides excellent value, especially for budget-conscious travelers who want convenience. Over 300 reviews give it a solid 4.3-star rating, confirming its popularity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for independent travelers aiming for a flexible, cost-effective way to see Nantes’s highlights.
3. One Hour Quad Ride Between Nantes and La Baule
If you’re craving a bit of adrenaline, the One-hour quad ride is a fantastic option. For about $91.36, you’ll enjoy a private adventure on a private domain outside Nantes, riding a CAN-AM OUTLANDER MAX quad. The tour is limited to small groups, ensuring a personalized experience, and is suitable for those over 16 years old, or over 18 if unaccompanied. The guide leads you through scenic natural surroundings, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Reviews praise the experience as “super fun,” with excellent instructions and friendly staff. The 1-hour duration means you get a good taste of off-road riding without a huge time commitment or a steep price tag.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a memorable, fast-paced outdoor adventure.
4. Château du Bois-Huaut: Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting Class
At number 4, the Château du Bois-Huaut offers a two-hour tour that combines vineyard walks, cellar visits, and a wine tasting of 8 different wines. For $38 per person, you’ll learn from a professional sommelier about wine production and tasting techniques, making it ideal for wine lovers. The vineyard’s picturesque landscape is complemented by the opportunity to discover the nuances of each wine—perfect for those wanting a deeper appreciation of local wines. Visitors often comment on the passionate guide and the quality of the wines, making it a valued experience. It’s especially suited for curious oenophiles eager for a hands-on, educational tasting.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for wine enthusiasts who want an in-depth tasting experience with professional guidance.
5. Jet-ski Session Near Nantes
For high-energy fun, the jet-ski session offered near Nantes is a standout. For about $34.69, you get a one-hour experience on a secure circuit on a large body of water. Supervised by qualified instructors, you can choose to ride solo or with a passenger. The reviews praise the “superb experience” and friendly staff, with many noting how exhilarating the ride is. No permit is required, making this activity accessible for most and perfect for thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline rush. Sessions are short but packed with action, making it a great choice for a quick and exciting activity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those looking for a fun, safe, and memorable water adventure.
6. Nantes: Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide
Number 6 on our list, this Private custom tour is a flexible way to explore Nantes on your terms. Costing around $55 per person, your local guide will tailor the 2- to 8-hour experience to your interests, whether that’s history, food, or hidden corners of the city. It’s perfect if you want a personalized itinerary, and the guide’s local knowledge ensures you won’t miss the best spots. Reviews highlight the guide’s friendliness and adaptability, making it a top pick for visitors who prefer an intimate, bespoke experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a personalized, in-depth exploration with expert insights.
7. Nantes: Panoramic Tour by Electric Bike
Seeing Nantes from a bike is a breeze with the Panoramic Electric Bike Tour. For about $59, this 2-hour outing covers the city’s highlights like the Elephant, the Loire tributary at Erdre, and the medieval Château des Ducs de Bretagne. Electric bikes make the terrain easy to navigate, allowing you to cover more ground comfortably. The guide shares interesting stories about the city’s monuments, making it both educational and fun. Tour reviews praise the smooth ride and scenic stops, making it ideal for active travelers who want a relaxed yet rundown.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous visitors who want to see a lot without breaking a sweat.
8. Towed Buoy Session in Loire Atlantique
For pure fun and a bit of daring, try the Towed buoy session on the water. At $27.66, you get about 10 minutes of high-speed thrills being pulled behind a water ski boat. It’s safe, supervised, and suitable for groups or families. The reviews note how “super fun” and “exciting” it is—an activity that’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping. It’s a quick, action-packed experience that’s great if you want a memorable splash of excitement during your stay in Nantes.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups wanting an energetic, safe water activity without a big time commitment.
9. Nantes Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
Number 9, this Private walking tour offers a 1.5-hour deep dive into Nantes’ key sites, including St Peter and Paul Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Passage Pommeraye. Its focus on personalized storytelling makes it perfect for history buffs or those wanting a tailored experience. The guide’s expertise shines through, making it easy to understand Nantes’s complex past. Reviewers mention how “knowledgeable” and “engaging” the guide was, making it a worthwhile investment for a compact, informative sightseeing session.
Bottom Line: Perfect for visitors wanting an intimate and educational overview of Nantes’ main attractions.
10. Private Transfer from Airports to Nantes
Number 10, the Private transfer is a no-hassle way to start your trip. At about $64, a professional driver will meet you at the airport and get you to your hotel comfortably. It’s a discreet, reliable service, especially valuable if you’re arriving late or with luggage. Travelers appreciate the helpfulness, with reviews calling the driver “very helpful and nice.” The service is quick, usually taking 5-35 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a smooth start or end to your visit.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers valuing comfort and efficiency during their initial arrival or departure.
11. Nantes: Must-see Attractions Walking Tour
The Must-see Attractions Walking Tour offers a 2-hour exploration of Nantes’ essential sights, starting at Impasse Saint-Laurent. It’s a concise way to grasp the city’s history and architecture, ideal for first-timers. The guide’s storytelling brings sites like the Cathedral and Place Graslin to life. Reviewers appreciate the “informative and pleasant” walk, with a compact schedule perfect for fitting into a busy day. This tour suits travelers who want a quick yet meaningful introduction.
Bottom Line: Great for a focused, well-rounded overview of Nantes’ most iconic landmarks.
12. Surprise Walk of Nantes with a Local
The Surprise Walk is an excellent way to discover Nantes through a local’s eyes. For approximately $114.52, a small group (up to 8 people) explores highlights like the Giant Elephant, Iles de Machines, and Jardin des Plantes. The tour’s secret is its spontaneous nature—your guide adapts to your interests, sharing stories and tips you might not find in a guidebook. Visitors love the personalized touch and the insider knowledge, making it perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a flexible, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a customized, authentic exploration of Nantes.
13. The Muscadet Experience: a Fun Sensory Tour and Tasting in Nantes
Wine lovers should not miss the Muscadet Experience. For 2 hours, you’ll enjoy a sensory tour of this iconic local wine region, culminating in a tasting of five different wines or artisanal juices. It’s a lively, interactive way to learn about Muscadet’s unique characteristics, perfect for curious palates. The venue features a bar-guinguette with local products, making it a welcoming spot to unwind. Reviews note the fun atmosphere and “delicious” wines, making it especially suitable for wine enthusiasts or those interested in local terroir.
Bottom Line: A delightful experience for tasting and learning about Nantes’ famous Muscadet wines.
14. Nantes Private Guided Walking Tour
Number 14 is a Private Guided Walking Tour that covers Nantes’ layered history from Celtic times through the French Revolution. Lasting about 1.5 hours and costing around $366 for a group, it’s ideal for those who want an in-depth, personalized exploration. Your guide will share stories about Nantes’ role in the Atlantic slave trade, the Battle of Nantes, and the city’s architectural evolution. The tour is especially recommended for history buffs wanting a comprehensive, tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best for curious travelers eager for an extensive, personalized history lesson.
15. City Game The Alchemist’s Elixir – Nantes Jardin des Plantes
Lastly, the City game offers a playful way to explore the Jardin des Plantes while uncovering its secrets. For just over $22, this 2-hour interactive adventure combines puzzles, riddles, and mechanisms to reveal the garden’s fascinating plants and history. It’s a fun choice for families or groups who enjoy a little challenge and discovery amidst beautiful surroundings.
Bottom Line: Suitable for active, puzzle-loving visitors seeking a different kind of sightseeing.
$22.11 per group (up to 4)
How to Choose the Right Tour in Nantes
When selecting the best tour, think about your interests, time availability, and budget. Want an immersive, hands-on experience? The Visit to Saline offers a quick cultural fix. Looking for flexibility? The City Card lets you craft your own adventure. For adventure lovers, the quad ride or water sports sessions provide excitement, while history and art buffs will enjoy the private walking tours. Budget travelers will find value in the salt marshes and [city card], whereas those seeking personalized experiences should consider the private guided tours.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular activities like the jet-ski or private tours, particularly in peak season.
To sum it up, Nantes offers a wide array of tours tailored to different interests—from cultural explorations and wine tastings to adrenaline-pumping water sports and personalized guides. Whether you prefer a quick highlight tour or an in-depth private experience, there’s something here for everyone. We recommend planning ahead and booking your favorite activities early to ensure you make the most of your visit to this lively city.