Organize a day trip from Nantes is an excellent way to discover all the richness of the Pays de la Loire and neighboring regions, without the constraints associated with individual travel.
Whether you're planning a club outing, a company seminar, a school trip, a sightseeing excursion, or a getaway with friends, choosing a coach hire in Nantes or a bus with driver in Nantes allows you to travel comfortably, with complete peace of mind and at a particularly advantageous cost for groups.
Thanks to its privileged location between the Atlantic Ocean, the Loire Valley, the Nantes vineyards and the Vendée bocage, Nantes is an excellent starting point for organizing a road trip around Nantes or set off to discover the most beautiful sites in Western France.
What to do around Nantes? Where to go around Nantes for a day trip? FranceBus presents the best destinations accessible in less than two hours by road, perfectly suited for group excursions.
Discover 10 must-see day trips from Nantes!
Why organize a day trip from Nantes?
Located at the crossroads of historic Brittany, the Pays de la Loire region, and the Atlantic coast, Nantes enjoys an ideal geographical position for organizing a variety of excursions. In less than two hours by car, it is possible to reach charming villages, renowned seaside resorts, prestigious vineyards, natural parks, or even one of the best theme parks in the world.
For groups, the bus rental in Nantes This constitutes a particularly attractive solution. It avoids traffic congestion, parking hassles, and the costs associated with multiple vehicles, while offering a pleasant experience during the journey. With a coach with driver, Everyone can fully enjoy the day without having to worry about driving.
The advantages of a coach trip from Nantes:
- Optimal comfort thanks to modern, air-conditioned and spacious coaches.
- A friendly trip that encourages interaction between participants.
- Budget controlled thanks to sharing transport costs.
- Schedules and route are fully customizable.
- Pick-up directly at the group's starting point.
- No problems with traffic or parking.
1. Clisson: a true taste of Tuscany on the outskirts of Nantes
35 minute drive
Just about thirty kilometers southeast of Nantes, Clisson is undoubtedly one of the most surprising excursions in the region. With its houses with colorful facades, Roman tile roofs, stone bridges, and Mediterranean gardens, This small town on the Loire River is more reminiscent of Tuscany than western France.
A former medieval stronghold, Clisson owes its current identity to the Cacault brothers who, at the beginning of the 19th century, decided to rebuild part of the town in a style inspired by their travels in Italy. Today, its unique architectural heritage, its castle, and its natural setting make it a particularly popular destination for a day trip from Nantes.
Things to do in Clisson:
- Visit Clisson Castle, an imposing medieval fortress overlooking the Sèvre Nantaise valley.
- Stroll through the historic center, between cobbled streets, ancient bridges and Italian-inspired architecture.
- Discover the medieval market halls, one of the city's iconic buildings.
- Taking a walk along the Sèvre Nantaise and enjoy the many green spaces.
- Lunch in a traditional inn accompanied by a glass of Muscadet produced in the neighboring vineyard.
An ideal destination for the cultural groups, associations, businesses and school trips.
2. The Nantes vineyards: between Muscadet, heritage and the art of living
40 minute drive
It's impossible to talk about the best excursions around Nantes without mentioning the Nantes vineyard. Birthplace of the famous Muscadet, This wine-growing region offers rolling landscapes, family estates, authentic villages and a genuine local culture that appeals to both wine lovers and heritage enthusiasts.
The vineyards warmly welcome groups and offer educational tours that reveal all the stages of winemaking. This region also provides an excellent opportunity to borrow part of the Wine Route and to discover several typical villages along the banks of the Loire.
Things to do in the Nantes vineyards:
- Visiting a vineyard and meet local producers.
- Participate in a guided tasting around the different appellations of Muscadet.
- Explore the Wine Route between Vallet, Le Pallet, Mouzillon and Monnières.
- Discover the wine villages and their traditional heritage.
- Lunch at a local inn showcasing local products.
This excursion is perfectly suited to works councils, associations, groups of friends and incentive trips.
3. Guérande: medieval town and salt marshes
1 hour 10 minute drive
Surrounded by remarkably well-preserved ramparts, Guérande figure among the most beautiful medieval cities of France. Its perfectly preserved historic center immediately immerses visitors in several centuries of history, while the famous salt marshes offer a unique landscape shaped by man for over a thousand years.
This dual wealth of history and natural beauty makes Guérande one of the most complete destinations for a day trip from Nantes. Between heritage, gastronomy, and traditional know-how, there's something for everyone.
Things to do in Guérande:
- Walk around the ramparts offering magnificent views of the city.
- Strolling through the medieval alleyways and discover the old houses.
- Visit the Saint-Aubin collegiate church, an architectural gem in the historic center.
- Discover the salt marshes alongside a salt worker.
- Stop by the artisan shops. to bring back fleur de sel, salted butter caramel and local specialties.
Guérande will particularly appeal to cultural groups, seniors, associations and businesses wishing to discover one of the most beautiful heritage sites on the Atlantic coast.
4. The Brière Regional Natural Park: an immersion in the heart of the marshes
1 hour drive
About sixty kilometers from Nantes, the Brière Regional Natural Park constitutes one of the largest marshes in France. Often overshadowed by the famous Marais poitevin, this preserved territory nevertheless offers exceptional landscapes composed of canals, reedbeds, wet meadows and villages with traditional thatched houses.
Classified as a Regional Natural Park since 1970, the Brière is a true haven for biodiversity. More than 300 species of birds They find refuge there throughout the seasons, while the inhabitants still perpetuate ancestral traditions linked to fishing, livestock farming, and reed harvesting. This authenticity makes it a particularly popular destination for groups wishing to discover a unique natural heritage.
Things to do in the Brière Regional Natural Park:
- Embark on a barge trip, the traditional boat used for centuries to travel in the marshes.
- Discover the village of Kerhinet, famous for its perfectly restored thatched cottages.
- Observe the local wildlife thanks to the numerous observation points set up in the park.
- Meet the local artisans specializing in thatch or local produce.
- Lunch in a Briéronne inn offering traditional regional cuisine.
The Brière Regional Natural Park is an ideal destination for School outings, nature groups, associations or companies seeking calm, authenticity and a change of scenery.
5. Pornic: seaside charm on the Jade Coast
1 hour drive
Located on the Jade Coast, Pornic is one of the seaside resorts the most popular in Loire-Atlantique. Its lively old port, its medieval castle, its Belle Époque villas and its famous Customs Officers' Path making it a particularly pleasant destination for a day trip from Nantes.
A former fishing port that has become a renowned tourist resort, Pornic has managed to preserve its authenticity. Its coastline alternates between small coves, family-friendly beaches, and cliffs offering magnificent panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The town's peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for enjoying a day out with a group.
Things to do in Pornic:
- Take a stroll around the old port and admire the pleasure boats.
- Discover the castle of Pornic, an iconic monument overlooking the port.
- Take part of the Customs Officers' Path offering superb ocean views.
- Enjoy the beaches of the Jade Coast for a relaxing break.
- Sample the local specialties, including the famous artisanal ice creams and seafood.
Pornic will also appeal to the families, associations, groups of friends or businesses wishing to enjoy a day by the sea.
6. La Baule: one of the most beautiful bays in the world
1 hour 15 minute drive
With its beach stretching nearly nine kilometers, La Baule is considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world. For over a century, this elegant seaside resort has attracted holidaymakers, sports enthusiasts and architecture lovers thanks to its magnificent Belle Époque villas and its refined atmosphere.
Easily accessible from Nantes, La Baule is an excellent destination for a relaxing day out with a group. Between strolling along the seafront, discovering the architectural heritage and enjoying the local cuisine, everyone can fully appreciate this iconic resort on the Atlantic coast.
Things to do in La Baule:
- Take a walk along the bay and enjoy the iconic beach.
- Discover the Belle Époque villas scattered throughout residential areas.
- Strolling along Avenue De Gaulle and in the shopping streets.
- Enjoy a break on the terrace facing the ocean.
- Enjoy seafood specialties in a restaurant on the seafront.
An ideal destination for the company outings, associations, tourist groups or senior citizen trips.
7. Puy du Fou: a spectacular day in the heart of history
1 hour 20 minute drive
Elected several times best theme park in the world, THE Puy du Fou has become an international benchmark live performance. Located in Vendée, just 1 hour and 20 minutes from Nantes, it attracts several million visitors each year who come to witness grandiose performances retracing different periods of history.
Unlike traditional amusement parks, Puy du Fou primarily focused on immersive shows, monumental sets and impressive historical reenactments. An ideal destination for a group outing, where everyone can plan their day according to their wishes.
Things to do at Puy du Fou:
- Attend the great historical shows combining stunts, horses, special effects and hundreds of extras.
- Discover the reconstructed villages representing different eras.
- Watch the craft demonstrations created by enthusiasts.
- Enjoy the many themed restaurants spread throughout the park.
- End the day with a nighttime show if your program allows it.
Puy du Fou is an unmissable destination for the school trips, associations, large families, works councils and tourist groups.
8. Angers: heritage, castle and the gentle Loire Valley
1 hour drive
The historic capital of Anjou, Angers is one of the most beautiful towns in the Loire Valley. Located just an hour from Nantes, it is an ideal destination for a day trip, combining Medieval heritage, green spaces, gastronomy and the art of living.
Crossed by the Maine River, Angers charms visitors with its remarkably well-preserved historic center, its numerous half-timbered houses, and its impressive castle that has dominated the city for over eight centuries. Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city of Angers offers a pleasant setting for exploring on foot and is perfectly suited for group visits.
Things to do in Angers:
- Visit Angers Castle, remarkable medieval fortress housing the famous Apocalypse Tapestry, the largest preserved medieval tapestry in the world.
- Stroll through the historic center, between half-timbered houses, lively squares and cobbled alleyways.
- Discover Saint-Maurice Cathedral, a masterpiece of Angevin Gothic architecture.
- Enjoy a stroll along the Maine River or in the Jardin des Plantes, a true haven of greenery in the heart of the city.
- Enjoy the specialties of Anjou in a traditional restaurant, accompanied by Loire wines.
Angers is particularly well-suited to cultural groups, associations, schools, seniors or companies, wishing to combine heritage, gastronomy and urban exploration.
9. Saumur: castle, cellars and equestrian traditions
1 hour 40 minute drive
Majestically overlooking the Loire, Saumur is one of the most beautiful towns in the Loire Valley. Renowned for its castle, its white tufa houses, its vineyards and its famous Black Frame, It is an essential destination for a day trip from Nantes.
A city of art and history, Saumur offers a subtle blend between architectural heritage, equestrian traditions and gastronomy. Its exceptional environment, in the heart of the Loire landscapes classified by UNESCO, in fact a very popular destination for groups looking for a day full of discoveries.
Things to do in Saumur:
- Visit Saumur Castle, offering an exceptional view of the Loire and the city.
- Discover the Cadre Noir, a prestigious national riding school recognized worldwide.
- Explore the troglodyte caves where the famous Saumur and Loire wines are produced.
- Take a stroll through the historic center, between private mansions and alleyways steeped in history.
- Lunch in a wine cellar or a traditional restaurant in order to discover the specialties of Anjou and the Loire region.
Saumur is an ideal destination for tourist groups, associations, companies or heritage enthusiasts, wishing to discover one of the most elegant cities in the Loire Valley.
10. Noirmoutier: between the ocean, salt marshes and charming villages
1h30 drive
Connected to the continent by the spectacular Passage du Gois or via the Noirmoutier bridge, the island of Noirmoutier is an unmissable destination for anyone wishing to enjoy the Vendée coastline for a day. Renowned for its beaches, salt marshes, fishing ports and white houses with blue shutters, it offers a true concentration of the Atlantic lifestyle.
Easily accessible from Nantes, the island is captivating both for its diverse landscapes and its exceptional natural heritage. Between the ocean, pine forests, charming villages, and local producers, Noirmoutier offers a particularly varied excursion, suitable for all visitors.
Things to do in Noirmoutier:
- Crossing the Passage du Gois when the tide times allow, one of the most spectacular routes in France.
- Visit Noirmoutier Castle, overlooking the historic center of the city.
- Discover the salt marshes and meet the salt workers who perpetuate a centuries-old tradition.
- Enjoy the beaches or a walk in the Bois de la Chaise forest, famous for its maritime pines and beach huts.
- Taste the local products, including oysters, Noirmoutier potatoes and seafood.
Noirmoutier is particularly recommended for the outings for associations, corporate groups, senior citizen trips or tourist excursions, looking for a day combining nature, heritage and the seaside.
Conclusion
Thanks to its prime location between the Loire River, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Vendée region, Nantes is an ideal starting point for organizing group excursions to a variety of destinations. Charming villages, seaside resorts, vineyards, natural areas, or major tourist sites: there are numerous possibilities for creating a day trip tailored to all groups.
By choosing a coach hire in Nantes or a bus with driver in Nantes, You'll enjoy comfortable, safe, and fully personalized transportation. Whether you're organizing a school trip, a group outing, a corporate seminar, or a sightseeing excursion, FranceBus will help you set up a tailor-made transportation solution.
Contact FranceBus today to organize your next day trip from Nantes.
