Things to see and do Nantes

After being used as a set in 2016 for a Hollywood blockbuster(Dunkirk, by Christopher Nolan), the Maillé-Brezé is enjoying peaceful days in the port of Nantes. Its imposing gray silhouette can be seen from afar on the Quai de la Fosse (132.5 m long, 12.7 m wide). It is located a stone's throw from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Classified as a historical monument in 1988, it is the first naval museum afloat in France. Seventh military escort of a series of 18, it was built after the war and commissioned in 1957. After serving in the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, she was transformed into an anti-submarine warfare ship. She was then handed over to the Nantes Marine Tradition association which takes care of her maintenance and organizes visits on board. She was towed to Nantes in 1988.

Nestled between Place Royale and Rue du Calvaire, Saint-Nicolas stands massive and carved in a neo-Gothic style. The building was built three times between 1844 and 1869 by the architects Jean-Baptiste Lassus, Henri-Théodore Driollet and Gustave de Bourgerel, the church became a basilica on 28 October 1882 and was classified as a historic monument in 1986, major restoration work was undertaken. The esplanade, completely renovated in 2017, is a pleasant place to pass between terraces and small shops. 86 metres long, 32 metres wide, 24 metres high under the vaults, an arrow piercing the sky at 100 metres, the monument proudly stands out in the landscape. Smart tip: on the Good Shepherd's terrace, the view is unique on one side of the façade and its pretty rosettes.

Run by Mireille Nicou, president of the association C.A.P.L. (Créations Artistiques des Pays de Loire), this gallery aims to promote the Métiers d'Art. You can visit the gallery and discover the artistic creations of various artists. For art and culture lovers, the Galerie d'art Mireille Nicou is a must-see during your stay in Nantes.