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Marshal Foch Square is one of the city鈥檚 most architecturally refined public spaces, originally designed in the 18th century. Known until 1929 as Place Louis-XVI鈥攁 name still used informally by many older residents鈥攊t features an elegant urban layout situated between the Cours Saint-Pierre and Cours Saint-Andr茅, near the Malakoff鈥揝aint-Donatien district. The square is lined with grand 18th-century mansions built from plans by Jean-Baptiste Ceineray, a key figure in Nantes' classical urban development.

At the center of the square stands the striking Colonne Louis-XVI, a 28-meter-high column erected in 1790 as a 鈥淐olumn of Liberty鈥� during the early days of the French Revolution. In 1823, during the Bourbon Restoration, the column was crowned with a statue of King Louis XVI, sculpted by Dominique Molknecht. The monarch is depicted in the style of a Roman emperor, holding a scroll and a baton of command. This statue is one of only five known public depictions of Louis XVI still standing in France, making it a rare and historically significant monument.

Surrounding the square are several important buildings that reflect different layers of Nantes' history. The H么tel Montaudouin, designed by Mathurin Crucy, and the H么tel d'Aux, where Napoleon I and Empress Josephine stayed in 1808, speak to the city's imperial connections. The H么tel de Charette, constructed in 1824, became notorious during the Nazi occupation as the headquarters of the Gestapo. Nearby, the Saint-Pierre Gate, a vestige of Nantes' medieval fortifications, adds further historical depth to this architecturally rich and politically symbolic square.

The Chapel of the Oratorians is a significant example of religious architecture from the era of the Catholic Reformation. Built in the 17th century, it reflects the influence of the Oratorian congregation, a Roman Catholic society founded in the 16th century by Saint Philip Neri and introduced in France by Cardinal Pierre de B茅rulle in 1611. Although the Oratorians were not a monastic order and did not take religious vows, they played a major role in education and preaching. After gaining a foothold in Nantes in 1619, the Oratorians were entrusted with the management of the Coll猫ge Saint-Cl茅ment in 1625, strengthening their presence and eventually controlling the Faculty of Theology by 1650.

Architecturally, the chapel embodies the Counter-Reformation ideals with a sober layout devoid of side aisles or ambulatory. Designed by Abel de Sainte-Marthe, then the congregation鈥檚 superior, its Baroque-inspired fa莽ade is adorned with pilasters, while the interior features Corinthian columns and sculpted angel heads. Despite its spiritual origins, the chapel saw many transformations following the French Revolution. Deconsecrated in 1791, it hosted a revolutionary tribunal, a political club, and even served as military barracks. Later, it became a museum space for the Archaeological and Historical Society of Nantes, which reused sculpted stones from the destroyed Saint-Thomas chapel to build a porch inside.

In more recent history, the chapel continued its varied secular uses, housing the Departmental Archives and serving intermittently as a concert venue or chapel of rest. Today, it forms part of the Nantes Museum of Arts, preserving both its artistic heritage and its complex past.

The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul of Nantes, commonly known as Nantes Cathedral, is a monumental Gothic structure that stands as a symbol of the city鈥檚 historical and spiritual heritage. Its construction began in 1434 with the laying of the first stone, a moment commemorated by a quatrain engraved on the back of the doors. One of the longest-running religious construction projects in France, the cathedral wasn鈥檛 fully completed until 1893. Its striking white-stone fa莽ade, rare for western France where granite is more common, is flanked by two imposing towers and features five richly adorned portals.

Inside, the cathedral reveals soaring vaults that reach 37.5 meters鈥攈igher even than those of Notre-Dame de Paris. It houses several major works of art, including the tomb of Francis II, Duke of Brittany, and his wife Marguerite de Foix, a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture created in 1507 by Michel Colombe at the request of their daughter, Anne of Brittany. Another notable monument is the cenotaph of General de Lamorici猫re, a papal tribute erected in 1878. The cathedral鈥檚 two crypts鈥攐ne Romanesque from the 11th century and a larger 19th-century addition鈥攄isplay liturgical treasures and a permanent exhibit on the building鈥檚 history.

The cathedral has endured significant trials over the centuries, particularly devastating fires in 1972 and 2020. The 2020 blaze destroyed the great organ, the 15th-century stained-glass window, and much of the choir stalls鈥攅lements that had survived the earlier fire. Although currently closed for major restoration, visitors can explore an outdoor exhibition on the forecourt that documents the reconstruction and ongoing conservation work.

In the heart of Nantes' medieval quarter stands the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, a historic fortress that once served as the residence of Brittany's dukes from the 13th to 16th centuries. Built by Francis II and his daughter Anne of Brittany鈥攖wice Queen of France鈥攖he castle later became a royal residence and now holds pride of place as one of Nantes' most iconic landmarks. On the city-facing side, visitors are met with imposing granite ramparts and seven towers linked by curtain walls. In contrast, the courtyard side reveals refined Renaissance architecture with white tuffeau stone fa莽ades, elegant Gothic detailing, and calm inner courtyards. The site has been listed as a Historical Monument since 1840.

Today, the ch芒teau is home to the Nantes History Museum, offering a rich, immersive journey through the city鈥檚 past. Housed in the beautifully restored Grand Logis, the museum鈥檚 contemporary displays span over 1,000 objects and interactive multimedia exhibits. The permanent collection is divided into seven themes, from the castle鈥檚 ducal past and Nantes鈥� port and industrial history to the city鈥檚 role in the Atlantic slave trade, both world wars, and its development into a modern cultural hub. Since 2016, new rooms have extended the timeline to the present day, making the museum a dynamic space for reflection and learning.

The castle grounds are equally engaging. Visitors can stroll freely along 500 meters of ramparts, wander through the moat garden, or enjoy views from the towers. Children can enjoy activity booklets, while adults can deepen their visit with multilingual audio guides and guided tours. The Harness Building regularly hosts major temporary exhibitions and cultural events, including concerts, talks, and evening openings. After your visit, stop by the caf茅 nestled in the Old Keep or explore the gift shop housed on site鈥攁 fitting end to a journey through five centuries of history.

The Basilica of Saint Nicolas is a striking example of neo-Gothic architecture and one of the city鈥檚 most significant religious landmarks. Built between 1844 and 1869, the basilica replaced an older church that dated back to 1287, which had become too small and dilapidated by the early 19th century. Due to the narrow plot available, the basilica was built on a rare north-south axis instead of the traditional east-west alignment. The first stone, laid with a commemorative medal, marked the beginning of what would become the first major Gothic Revival project in France. Designed primarily by Jean-Baptiste Lassus and later completed by architects Henri-Th茅odore Driollet and Gustave de Bourgerel, the church was consecrated in 1876 and elevated to basilica status in 1882.

The basilica was heavily damaged during World War II bombings in 1943, prompting a long period of reconstruction from 1953 to 1974. In recognition of its architectural and historical value, it was classified as a historic monument in 1986. This designation led to extensive restorations beginning in 1996, which revealed and enhanced some of its most beautiful features. Notable elements include the large southern portal and tympanum, adorned with a statue of Saint Nicholas blessing visitors鈥攁 work by sculptor Vallet that bears the likeness of Abbot Fournier, the driving force behind the basilica鈥檚 construction. Excavations during urban redevelopment in 2017 also uncovered traces of earlier residential buildings, shedding new light on the area鈥檚 layered past.

Architecturally, the basilica is impressive in scale and detail. It stretches 86 meters in length and 32 meters in width, with a vaulted ceiling reaching 24 meters high. Its 100-meter spire, supported by a square and then octagonal tower, is crowned by gilded angel statues and recalls the grandeur of Renaissance palaces. The building's use of granite and tufa stone gives it a luminous white appearance, while decorative gargoyles, stained glass windows, and intricate balconies contribute to its visual richness.

Located at one of the lowest points in central Nantes, Place Royale is a striking example of 18th-century urban planning and classical architecture. Designed by architect Mathurin Crucy in 1786 and laid out in 1790 after the demolition of the medieval ramparts, the square forms a key part of a harmonious ensemble of buildings. Its distinctive 鈥渢oilet mirror鈥� shape鈥攃ombining a rectangular and semicircular layout鈥攊s paved entirely in granite and bordered by nine streets, making it a prominent crossroads in the city. Despite the grandeur implied by its name, Place Royale has never hosted a statue of a monarch. Instead, it has functioned as a civic space deeply connected to commerce, culture, and community life.

At the center of the square stands its most iconic feature: a monumental fountain inaugurated in 1865. Designed by city architect Henri-Th茅odore Driollet, the fountain is a visual homage to Nantes鈥� maritime identity and its ties to the Loire River. Its pyramidal structure comprises three granite basins and a series of bronze and marble allegorical sculptures. The city of Nantes is personified by a crowned woman in white marble, holding a trident and overseeing the square. Around her are representations of the Loire and its tributaries, each portrayed by reclining figures pouring water from amphorae.

In addition to honoring the rivers, the fountain features sculpted genies symbolizing industry and commerce. These mythic figures blow water through shells while riding dolphins that spout water through their nostrils鈥攁n artistic nod to the economic importance of Nantes鈥� historic port. These sculptures were crafted by artists Daniel Ducommun de Locle and Guillaume Groota毛rs, with bronze casting by Jean-Simon Voruz, also known for his work on the city's famous Pommeraye Passage staircase.

Place Royale has weathered dramatic events over the centuries, including extensive damage during World War II, after which it was carefully restored between 1945 and 1961. In the early 21st century, a renovation transformed it into a fully pedestrianized zone, enhancing its role as a vibrant gathering space for artistic, festive, and political events.

Tucked into the heart of Nantes, the Passage Pommeraye is one of Europe鈥檚 most beautiful and architecturally significant shopping arcades. Completed in 1843 and remarkably preserved ever since, this elegant 19th-century gallery is a striking example of neoclassical and Renaissance revival architecture. Named after its developer Louis Pommeraye, the passage was built to bridge a 9.4-meter height difference between two streets, resulting in a unique three-level structure connected by a grand central staircase.

The arcade features elaborately sculpted details, balustrades, and columns, all designed by architects Jean-Baptiste Buron and Hippolyte Durand Gasselin. The passage鈥檚 light-filled atrium and decorative stairway, flanked by boutiques and artful storefronts, have inspired artists and filmmakers alike. Its timeless charm and cinematic ambiance have made it a cultural icon as well as a shopping destination.

More than just a commercial space, the Passage Pommeraye is a living monument to 19th-century urban design and has been officially listed as a historic monument since 1976.

Cr茅billon Street is one of the most prestigious and iconic shopping streets in Nantes. Stretching 240 meters through the city center, it links the Royal Palace to Graslin Square and intersects several notable streets, including Santeuil Street and Gu茅rande Street. Since 2011, the street has been fully pedestrianized, allowing visitors to stroll freely along its gently sloping path while admiring luxury storefronts such as The Kooples, G茅rard Darel, Lacoste, and Mauboussin. The street was fully repaved in 2017鈥�2018 and is lined with tempered glass porticoes designed in 1985 by architect Bernard Barto, which double as public lighting thanks to diffused neon.

Cr茅billon Street is also notable for its elegant architecture and historical buildings, such as the H么tel de France at number 24. Just twenty meters from the Graslin Theatre, this 4-star hotel occupies an 18th-century mansion that once belonged to Jean-Joseph-Louis Graslin, the visionary behind the district鈥檚 urban planning. The hotel, established after World War II, features 72 rooms and a refined Louis XVI-style reception hall. Between numbers 18 and 20 lies the Cr茅billon-Scribe Passage, a commercial arcade opened in 1961 that connects to rue Scribe and houses several ready-to-wear boutiques, blending modern commerce with historical charm.

More than just a shopping destination, Cr茅billon Street holds cultural significance in Nantes. It pays tribute to the 18th-century French playwright Prosper Jolyot de Cr茅billon and has the rare distinction of giving birth to a local verb鈥攃r茅billonner, meaning "to window shop" or "to browse aimlessly." This playful term reflects the street鈥檚 deep-rooted role in the city鈥檚 social life and shopping culture. As noted by local writer St茅phane Pajot, it is the only known case in France where a street name has inspired a verb in common use.

The Angers-Nantes Opera was established in 2003 through the merger of the opera companies of Angers and Nantes, aiming to strengthen and expand operatic offerings across western France. Performances take place in several venues throughout the region, but the company鈥檚 main stages are the Grand Theatre in Angers, which seats 728, and the Graslin Theatre in Nantes, which accommodates 784 spectators.

The Graslin Theatre is a landmark of neoclassical architecture and a cultural centerpiece of the city. Designed by architect Mathurin Crucy in the late 18th century, the theater was part of a broader real estate and urban development initiative spearheaded by Jean-Joseph-Louis Graslin. Graslin aimed to transform farmland into a prestigious neighborhood anchored by public buildings, including a grand theater to attract the city's elite. Despite opposition from merchants and clergy, the theater and the nearby H么tel de France were realized, establishing the Place Graslin as a vibrant cultural and social hub.

The theater's design reflects a blend of French and Italian influences. Crucy drew inspiration from the Teatro Olimpico and the Od茅on Theatre in Paris, while adapting the structure to the acoustic needs of French opera. The interior layout, with an oval auditorium and partially enclosed boxes, enhanced visibility and sound circulation, especially for the popular works of composers like Lully and Rameau. Though initially conceived with modest decor, the theater ultimately received more elaborate ornamentation, including allegorical representations of the arts replacing the simpler garlands first proposed.

Tragically, the original Th茅芒tre Graslin was destroyed by fire in 1796 during a performance of Z茅mire et Azor by Andr茅 Gr茅try. The blaze was caused when a candle ignited part of the stage set, and strong winds accelerated its spread. Although the building suffered extensive damage, it was later rebuilt under Crucy鈥檚 guidance, and reopened in 1813.

La Cigale is a celebrated brewery, housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building that has been a listed historic monument since 1964. Designed by architect and ceramicist 脡mile Libaudi猫re and adorned by sculptor 脡mile Gaucher and painter Georges Levreau, it first opened its doors on April 1, 1895. From its inception, La Cigale attracted the city鈥檚 bourgeoisie and artists from the nearby Graslin Theatre, eventually becoming a favorite haunt of surrealists like Jacques Pr茅vert and Andr茅 Breton. Over the decades, it has also featured in French cinema, with notable appearances in Jacques Demy鈥檚 Lola and Agn猫s Varda鈥檚 Jacquot de Nantes.

Though transformed into a self-service restaurant in the 1960s and threatened with closure in the 1970s, La Cigale was saved by its protected status and returned to its original function as a brasserie in 1982. Its richly ornate d茅cor鈥攆eaturing intricate ceramics, gilded mirrors, and sculptural flourishes鈥攔emains a dazzling example of 19th-century French opulence. The ambiance alone makes it one of Nantes鈥� most iconic cultural landmarks, where visitors can enjoy not only a meal but a sense of historical continuity and artistic grandeur.

Today, La Cigale continues to offer a full brewery experience from breakfast through dinner. The menu features refined classics such as oysters, skate wing with Espelette butter, and hand-cut beef tartare, complemented by fresh juices, signature cocktails, and fine wines. Whether as a brasserie, caf茅, or tea room, La Cigale remains a beloved meeting place for locals and travelers alike鈥攁 place where one can savor French cuisine in an unforgettable setting.