Nantes Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Nantes
This itinerary focuses on maximizing free and low-cost activities while including key Nantes attractions that delight children. Consider purchasing a 'Pass Nantes' for potential savings on public transport and ticketed attractions like Les Machines de l'île and the Planetarium, depending on your family's planned activities. Public transportation (Naolib network) is efficient for getting around, but many central attractions are walkable. Note the potential for disruption at Les Machines de l'île due to a strike notice filed until March 1, 2026.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Jardin des Plantes Fun
Explore the beautiful Jardin des Plantes, a vast botanical garden in the city center.
Children will love the specially designed play areas and the whimsical artistic installations inspired by Claude Ponti, featuring giant benches and playful sculptures. Discover diverse plant collections and tropical greenhouses.
Suitable for all ages (3-12). Features playgrounds, animal sculptures, and artistic installations. Stroller-friendly paths available throughout the park. Allow 1.5-2 hours.
Easily accessible by public transport (tram/bus). Paid parking is available nearby on Rue Gambetta.
Dinner at Les Gamines
Enjoy a cozy and delicious family dinner at Les Gamines, a family-friendly restaurant that offers quality homemade French cuisine made from local and organic products.
The restaurant is well-known for its dedicated children's play area, allowing parents to relax while kids are entertained.
Catters specifically to families with children, offering smaller portions of adult dishes or child-friendly options. Reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity.
Located in central Nantes. Accessible by public transport or a short walk from many areas. Check for nearby street parking.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Talensac Market Stroll
Start your day with a visit to Marché de Talensac, Nantes' oldest and largest covered market.
Discover a vibrant array of fresh, local produce, cheeses, seafood, and other regional specialties. It's a great place to soak in the local atmosphere and gather ingredients for a picnic lunch.
Open until 1:30 PM on Saturdays. A sensory experience for children with many colorful stalls. Perfect for finding fresh, budget-friendly picnic items.
Centrally located and easily accessible by public transport.
Riverside Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a delightful and budget-friendly picnic lunch with the fresh local goods you purchased from Talensac Market.
Find a scenic spot along the Erdre River or in a nearby park like Jardin des Plantes for a relaxing meal outdoors.
Ideal for families with young children, allowing flexibility and space to move. Pack a blanket and enjoy the fresh air. Children can play after eating.
Walking distance from Talensac Market to several parks.
Machines de l'île Magic
Step into the whimsical world of Les Machines de l'île.
Visit the Galerie des Machines to see the extraordinary mechanical bestiary and watch the machinists at work. Then, experience the magnificent Carrousel des Mondes Marins, a three-story carousel featuring giant, moving sea creatures.
A strike notice is in effect until March 1, 2026; operations may be disrupted, so check their website on the day of your visit. Suitable for ages 4+. The Grand Éléphant ride is a separate ticket and not included in general entry or Pass Nantes. Allow 2-3 hours for both the Gallery and Carrousel.
Accessible by public transport (tram/bus). Paid parking available at Parking Les Machines or Parking Les Nefs.
Château Rampart Slide
Explore the impressive Château des Ducs de Bretagne.
While the museum inside is ticketed, the courtyard, rampart walk, and moat gardens are free to access. Kids will especially love the thrill of the 'Paysage glissé,' a giant slide descending from the ramparts.
The slide is a major highlight for children aged 3-12. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the ramparts. Allow 1-1.5 hours.
Centrally located, easily accessible on foot from many parts of the city. Public transport options nearby.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22Planetarium Star Show
Embark on an astronomical journey at the Planétarium de Nantes.
Choose a session tailored for children, such as 'PLANÈTES (juniors)' for 4-8 year olds or 'LA GRANDE AVENTURE DU SYSTÈME SOLAIRE' for 6-12 year olds, to discover the planets and wonders of our universe.
Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended as sessions often sell out. Sessions are primarily in French, but the visual experience is captivating for all ages. Not suitable for children under 3.
Accessible by bus, tram, or navibus.
Île de Versailles Oasis
Find tranquility at Île de Versailles, a charming artificial island featuring a beautiful Japanese garden with small waterfalls and lush greenery.
Children can enjoy the dedicated playground on the island. You can also rent a canoe or boat to explore the Erdre River from here.
A peaceful escape within the city, perfect for a relaxed family stroll. Playground available for children to play. Allow 1.5-2 hours.
Accessible by public transport or a pleasant walk from the city center.
Parc des Chantiers Play
Conclude your weekend with some free play at Parc des Chantiers.
This park, located near Les Machines de l'île, offers various green spaces and a dedicated playground within the Jardin des Voyages, complete with a zip line, providing a final opportunity for kids to run around and burn off energy before heading home.
An expansive outdoor area great for active children. Features a playground with a zip line in the Jardin des Voyages. Also offers a 600m² sandy beach area. Allow 1-1.5 hours.
Easily accessible by public transport; stops serving Les Machines de l'île area are nearby.
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