Nantes is a city that rewards those willing to stretch their legs and explore on foot. With its blend of historic sites, innovative art, and lively neighborhoods, walking tours here are an excellent way to get to know the city intimately. We particularly like the private walking experiences that offer tailored insights into Nantes’s past and present — especially the Nantes Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide, which scores a perfect 5.0/5 and provides a personalized dive into the city’s highlights. Whether you’re interested in Celtic origins, the French Revolution, or modern attractions like Les Machines de l’île, these tours help bring Nantes to life in a way that bus tours just can’t match.
If you prefer a more flexible approach, the Nantes: Must-see Attractions Walking Tour offers a quick, engaging overview of the city’s top sights. And for those visiting for the first time, the Surprise Walk of Nantes with a Local combines popular spots with surprises and local tips. No matter your style or schedule, there’s a walking tour in Nantes that will fit your interests and help you see beyond just the guidebook.
1. Nantes Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
At number 1, this private tour offers a 1.5-hour stroll through the heart of Nantes, where your guide shares stories from its Celtic roots to significant moments like the Battle of Nantes and the French Revolution. For $351.17 per group (up to 15), it’s a cost-effective way to get a tailored experience, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family. The guide will customize the route based on your interests, so you might focus on landmarks such as St Peter and Paul Cathedral, Place Royale, or Passage Pommeraye.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and personalized attention. Reviews highlight the engaging storytelling and the ability to adapt the itinerary on the spot. It’s ideal for travelers who want in-depth context and a private, intimate experience. The walk covers key sites, but the real value lies in the guide’s ability to craft a narrative unique to your interests. The tour’s length makes it manageable even for a half-day. The bottom line: if you want a private, highly customizable introduction to Nantes, this tour delivers.
2. Nantes : Must-see Attractions Walking Tour
For just $44 per person, the Must-see Attractions Tour offers a 2-hour overview of the city’s most iconic sights. Starting from 7 Impasse Saint-Laurent, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick but thorough introduction to Nantes. It’s led by a knowledgeable local guide, which means you’ll learn about Nantes through a resident’s eyes.
Guests consistently praise the tour for its depth and engaging commentary. One reviewer mentions Gavin, an artist with years in Nantes, who shares insights about the city’s history, culture, and even local curiosities like the Petit LU biscuit. Another notes the comprehensive view of the port, architecture, and the city’s evolution. If you’re short on time but want a meaningful taste of Nantes, this tour hits the spot. It’s especially suitable for first-timers who want a snapshot of the city’s highlights while also picking up tips for exploring independently later.
The value is excellent, combining affordability with a knowledgeable guide. Bottom line: this is a great choice for travelers wanting a concise, friendly, and informative introduction.
3. Surprise Walk of Nantes with a Local
This surprise walk combines the best of seeing the city’s highlights with discovering hidden corners. Priced at $114.52 per person, it’s slightly more expensive but offers unique value. The 1.5-hour tour features top sights like the mechanical Elephant, Passage Pommeraye, and the Ile de Versailles, along with a few surprises that keep the experience fresh.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on giving first-time visitors a well-rounded taste of Nantes, blended with local insights. It includes tips on where to eat, drink, and shop, making it practical as well as fun. The small group size (max 8 people) ensures an intimate atmosphere. Reviewers love the personal touch and the guide’s passion for sharing Nantes’ story. An added bonus is the flexible departure times—morning, afternoon, or evening.
If you’re looking for a tour that balances sightseeing with insider tips and surprises, this one is a top contender. Bottom line: perfect for those who want a lively, personal introduction to Nantes.
4. Nantes Private Guided Walking Tour
At number 4, this private guided tour provides a 1.5-hour exploration of Nantes’ layered history, from the Gaulish era through the French Wars of Religion. Costing $366 per group (up to 15), it emphasizes the city’s diverse past, including its role in the Roman Empire and the Atlantic slave trade.
What makes this tour compelling is its focus on Nantes’s pivotal moments, such as the Edict of Nantes, and the impact of the French Revolution. The guide will walk you through the city’s evolving landscape, highlighting sites connected to these historical threads. The reviews note the guide’s expertise and ability to weave a compelling narrative. If you’re interested in the historical depth of Nantes and want a rundown, this tour offers that in a manageable format.
The tour is best suited for history enthusiasts or travelers eager to understand Nantes’s broader role in France’s story. The duration is short but packed with insights, making it a good value for those interested in history. Bottom line: a solid, educational way to see Nantes through a historical lens.
5. Nantes: Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes
This express tour is designed for busy travelers who want a quick taste of Nantes. At $81 per person, you get about an hour of guided exploration, focusing on major landmarks like Place Royale and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre. It’s ideal if your schedule is tight but you don’t want to miss the city’s core attractions.
Led by a local, the walk offers insider tips on the best cafes, bars, and spots to eat later. Reviewers emphasize the friendly guidance and efficient use of time. The group size is limited to 8, ensuring a personal experience. Although brief, it provides a solid overview and practical advice, making it a good option for those passing through or with limited time.
For those wanting a quick yet meaningful experience, this tour delivers a lot in a short span. Bottom line: an efficient way to get your bearings and pick up local tips for further exploration.
$81 per person
6. Nantes Private Custom Walking Tour With A Guide
This custom private tour offers unrivaled flexibility, with durations ranging from 2 to 8 hours. For $54.69 per person, it’s designed for travelers who want to shape their experience entirely. The guide will craft a route based on your interests — whether that’s art, architecture, food, or hidden spots.
What makes this tour stand out is its completely personalized approach, led by guides passionate about sharing their city. Reviewers mention the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge, making each experience unique. Since the itinerary is tailored, it’s ideal for travelers with specific interests or those who prefer a deeper dive into particular neighborhoods or themes.
The main advantage is total control over what you see and do. The potential drawback is the need for some planning; it’s best for those who arrive with ideas or are open to suggestions. Bottom line: perfect for independent-minded travelers wanting a custom, in-depth experience.
7. Nantes: Private Walking Tour with a Local
This more flexible private walk offers durations from 2 to 6 hours at $56 per person. It emphasizes discovering Nantes with a passionate local, focusing on hidden gems, authentic stories, and personalized insights. The tour skips the typical and dives into the real Nantes, including tips on local eateries and shops.
While reviews are mixed, the appeal lies in the personal connection and the chance to explore lesser-known parts of the city. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and personalized attention. If you’re interested in uncovering quirky stories and spots off the usual tourist trail, this tour can be very rewarding.
The value depends on how much time you want to spend and your interest in deeper local connections. Bottom line: a flexible, personal way to explore Nantes in depth.
$56 per person
8. Best of Nantes: Private Walking Tour with a Local
This best of Nantes tour offers a personalized route that highlights neighborhoods, hidden treasures, and the city’s history — all tailored to your interests. With durations from 2 to 6 hours and a typical fee of $107 per person, it’s ideal for those wanting an intimate, flexible experience.
The guide’s insider knowledge helps you navigate the city’s lesser-known spots while sharing stories that bring Nantes alive. Reviewers appreciate the friendly, relaxed approach and the chance to go beyond typical tourist paths. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, yet customized, walk with plenty of personal recommendations.
Bottom line: this tour is a great choice if you want to blend history, local culture, and offbeat discoveries with a flexible schedule.
$56 per person
9. Nantes: Family Quest Guided Walking Tour
Designed for families, this Family Quest combines history, fun, and discovery over 2 hours. For $346 per group (up to 2 people), it takes you through historic cathedrals, royal squares, and interactive marvels like the Machines of the Isle of Nantes.
What makes this tour special is its focus on engaging children and creating memorable moments. It combines sightseeing with interactive activities, making history accessible and fun. The itinerary includes visits to Place Royale, Passage Pommeraye, and the Machines of the Isle, with a focus on creating a lively, engaging experience.
Reviews note the tour’s ability to entertain both kids and adults, making it an excellent choice for families traveling together. It’s compact but packed with activities. Bottom line: if you’re traveling with kids, this tour makes history and art fun and memorable.
$346 per group up to 2
10. Nantes: Insta-Perfect Walk with a Local
Finally, for social media lovers, this Insta-Perfect Walk offers 90 minutes of capturing Nantes’ most photogenic spots for $116 per person. Led by a local, you’ll visit landmarks, scenic spots, and everyday scenes, all perfect for your social channels.
It’s ideal for travelers wanting to share their trip visually and learn about Nantes through a local’s lens. The small group size (max 8) guarantees personalized tips for the best angles and spots to photograph. Reviewers appreciate the cultural insights paired with practical photography advice.
If snapping Instagram-worthy shots is your priority, this tour combines sightseeing with content creation. Bottom line: a fun, practical choice for social media enthusiasts.
$116 per person
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in Nantes
Picking the best tour depends on your budget, time, interests, and fitness level. For a personalized experience and in-depth storytelling, the Nantes Private Walking Tour or the Private Custom Tour are excellent choices. If you’re on a tight schedule or want a quick overview, the Express Walk offers quality in a short time.
Families or those traveling with kids might prefer the Family Quest, which combines fun with education. For social media buffs, the Insta Walk ensures plenty of photogenic moments.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons like spring and summer. Consider your interests: history lovers will appreciate the Historical Tour, while culture seekers may favor the Must-see Attractions.
Nantes offers a variety of walking tours that suit every type of traveler. Whether you want an intimate private experience, a quick orientation, or a family-friendly adventure, you’ll find a route that brings the city’s stories and sights to life. For a deeper connection with Nantes, booking early ensures you get your preferred experience and can enjoy the city at a relaxed, unhurried pace.