Nantes Pays De La Loire, France Travel Guide
A structured approach for a stress-no-cost exit and arrival.
Focus on major bookings and document readiness.
Ensure passport expiration six months beyond your Schengen Area return date. Renew immediately if it expires sooner.
Determine if your nationality needs a Schengen visa. Begin the application process as it spans several weeks or months.
If renting a car, acquire an IDP from your local automobile association. It supports your home country's license.
Secure your international and major domestic flights to and from Nantes. Early booking often brings better prices.
Make a reservation for your main hotel or apartment. Well-liked spots during high season or festivals fill quickly.
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance. Coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and misplaced baggage is standard. Consider World Nomads.
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations to avoid alerts for fraud and card suspensions.
Research international roaming options or plan to acquire a local French SIM card upon arrival or activate an ESIM.
Familiarize yourself with Nantes' TAN public transport system and consider purchasing a Nantes Pass if it aligns with your itinerary.
Finalize itinerary and specific bookings.
Confirm logistics and make sure you have the essentials.
Final touches for your home and travel documents.
For non-EU residents, completing VAT refund forms requires careful attention. Allow ample time at the airport to show purchases and documents at customs ahead of checking luggage.
Steps for a smooth transition when the plane lands in Nantes.
Have your passport and any required visa or documentation ready for inspection.
Collect your checked bags from the baggage claim area.
Purchase a Navette TAN Air (airport shuttle bus) voucher or arrange a taxi/ride-share.
Settle into your room and unpack your belongings.
Identify the closest tram or bus makes stops at easy commuting.
Take a short walk around your block to discover pharmacies, grocery stores, and ATMs.
Complete your souvenir shopping in the days leading up to your leaving.
Inquire about shipping services from retailers for large or fragile items.
Weigh your luggage before heading to the airport.
Avoid overweight baggage fees by repacking or shipping excess items.
If eligible (non-EU resident, purchases over €100), complete VAT refund forms (détaxe).
Present items, passport, and forms at customs (PABLO kiosk) when you get to the airport before confirming luggage.
For Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE), be at the AIRPORT a minimum of 2 hours before domestic/Schengen flights, and 2.5-3 hours before non-Schengen international flights. For Gare de Nantes (Train Station), arrive 20-30 minutes prior to leaving.
Final actions for a seamless trip home.
Always leave ample time for airport check-in and security procedures, notably for foreign flights.
Unforeseen delays can occur, and arriving early reduces stress.
