Southwestern France, France
NTE hosts a variety of airlines, providing connections to numerous European cities. For travelers from major global hubs outside Europe, connections typically involve a layover in Paris (CDG or ORY) or another major European capital.
Direct flight options from outside Europe are limited. Within Europe, direct flights are available from cities like:
Flight frequency and prices vary by season. High season (July-August) sees highest demand and increased prices. Book well in advance for summer travel. Dollar Flight Club for deals.
Shoulder season (April-June, September-October) prices are generally more moderate, and flight availability is good. This period often presents good value. Use Skyscanner for comparisons.
Low season (November-March) flight prices are typically lowest, with fewer crowds. Some routes might have reduced frequency or seasonal availability. Major holidays like Christmas can see price spikes.
If you arrive during peak traffic times, the Navette TAN Air offers a predictable journey length because it uses dedicated bus lanes for parts of its route.
DiscoverCars.com offers competitive rates for car rentals.
Nantes is a major hub on the French national rail network, SNCF. The main train station is Gare de Nantes, centrally located and well-connected to the city's public transport.
Intercity bus services present a budget-friendly alternative to trains, though journeys typically take longer.
France has an excellent network of highways (autoroutes), often tolled (look for "Péage" signs). Well-maintained national and departmental roads (N and D routes) offer scenic, toll-free alternatives.
French driving laws are standard European. Drive on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Speed limits are strictly enforced.
Nantes historically functioned as a significant river port on the Loire. Today, its port activities are mainly commercial.
If you arrive by an international ferry into a French port (like Saint-Malo or Cherbourg), you will go through French immigration and customs at that port. These procedures are similar to airport arrivals.
No specific exit fees or taxes are paid by departing passengers at French airports beyond what is included in your airline ticket price. Airport taxes are usually incorporated into your fare at booking.
Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE): Domestic Flights: 1.5-2 hours before. Schengen Flights: 2 hours before. Non-Schengen (International) Flights: 2.5-3 hours before. This time covers check-in, security screening, and passport control.
Gare de Nantes (Train Station): For high-speed or regional trains, 20-30 minutes before departure. Ticket validation machines ("composteurs") are typically at platform entrances; validate your paper ticket before boarding. E-tickets often do not require physical validation.
Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE) provides standard facilities for departing travelers.
Gare de Nantes offers amenities for your departure.
There are usually luggage storage facilities (consigne) for a fee at Gare de Nantes.
Check your flight or train status and terminal/platform information the day before and on the day of departure.
Airport websites and train apps (like SNCF Connect) provide real-time updates.
