Nantes

About this tour

Nantes offers an interesting case for studying the complexity of contemporary urban areas. Nantes is the sixth biggest city in France, located on the Loire river in Pays de la Loire in the western part of the county. For the last three decades, it has undergone large transformations from an industrial center and port to a vibrant, modern city with a rich history, and is today preserving both mediaeval and industrial heritage and everything in between.

In its transformation, it has become an attractive place to live and work for young people. Nantes is an example where place branding strategies have effectively revitalized the city, which has become an important tourist destination in the region, known for its public art, cultural events, and lively food culture. Nantes is the birthplace of the visionary writer Jules Verne, whose imagination is also a part of the city’s identity.   

Nantes’ location on the river Loire allows for us to experience the area on foot, on public transport, and by boat from the river. The city and the surrounding area offers several interesting site visits, including the post-industrial river island Île de Nantes, which connects the north and souths parts of the city, the historic fishing village Trentemoult, the more industrial location of Saint-Nazaire, a port city with the fourth biggest harbor in France, and the coastal towns of Pornic, a popular holiday destination for the locals.

Through walking tours, lectures from local historians, meetings with urban planners, and visits to various museums, you will deepen your knowledge of the history, development, and possible futures for Nantes.