Saint-Nazaire - Discovering France

Travelling to Saint-Nazaire

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Saint-Nazaire, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Saint-Nazaire and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Saint-Nazaire, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Saint-Nazaire for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Saint-Nazaire

Sure, here's some general information about Saint-Nazaire: Saint-Nazaire is a coastal town in western France located on the Loire River estuary, close to the Bay of Biscay. It is part of the Loire-Atlantique department in the region of Pays de la Loire. The town has a population of around 70,000, making it the fifth-largest city in the department. Saint-Nazaire is known for its shipbuilding industry, and it has a long history of building some of the largest ships in the world. It is also a popular tourist destination with its long sandy beaches, museums, modern architecture, and historic sites such as the Saint-Nazaire submarine base. The town is easily accessible by train and car, and has its own international airport, which provides connections to various European cities.

What to visit in Saint-Nazaire

1. Escal'Atlantic: It is a unique museum that offers visitors an immersive experience of the golden age of ocean liners.
2. Submarine Espadon: This is the first submarine that was built in France, and today it serves as a museum. Visitors can tour the submarine and learn about its history.
3. Saint-Nazaire shipyards: These are the largest shipyards on the Atlantic coast of France. The shipyards have played a significant role in the history of Saint-Nazaire, and visitors can take guided tours of the area.
4. Ecomusée: This museum features local history, art, and traditions in an interactive and engaging way. Visitors can learn about the region's culture and heritage through exhibits, demonstrations, and workshops.
5. The Jules Verne Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and works of the famous French author Jules Verne. It houses a collection of his manuscripts, illustrations, and personal items.
6. The Tiers Paysage Park: This park offers a beautiful landscape of woodland, meadows, and ponds. Visitors can enjoy walking, cycling, and picnicking in the park, and there are also several play areas for children.
7. The Saint-Nazaire Bridge: This bridge is an architectural marvel and an iconic landmark of the city. It is one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in the world, spanning over 2 miles across the Loire River.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Saint-Nazaire.

When to go on holiday to Saint-Nazaire

The best time to go on holiday to Saint-Nazaire depends on your preferences and what type of activities you plan to do. If you enjoy the warm weather and spending time on the beaches, the best time to go would be during the summer months of June to August when temperatures are typically in the mid-20s Celsius and the sea is warm enough for swimming.
If you prefer cooler weather and avoiding crowds, a good time to visit would be during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is milder and there are fewer tourists.
It's also worth noting that Saint-Nazaire is a popular cruise port, so if you plan to take a cruise from there, you'll need to consider the cruise itinerary and schedule in addition to the weather and crowds.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Saint-Nazaire

There are a few ways to get to Saint-Nazaire, France: 1. By plane: the nearest airports are Nantes Atlantique Airport and Rennes–Saint-Jacques Airport. From the airport, you can take a train or bus to Saint-Nazaire.
2. By train: Saint-Nazaire has a train station that is serviced by the TGV (high-speed train) and regional trains. You can take a train from Paris or other major French cities to get there.
3. By car: Saint-Nazaire is accessible via several major highways including the A11, A83, and N165. 4. By bus: there are several bus companies that offer services to Saint-Nazaire from other French cities.
I suggest checking the schedules and prices of each option to choose what suits you best.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Saint-Nazaire, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Saint-Nazaire

Here are some typical foods of Saint-Nazaire in France: 1. Sardines - Saint-Nazaire is a coastal city and sardines are one of the most important foods of the region. They can be eaten on their own or used to make dishes such as sardine tart or sardine rillettes.
2. Moules Frites - Mussels and fries are a classic dish in many coastal regions of France, including Saint-Nazaire. The mussels are usually served in a broth made with white wine, shallots, parsley, and butter.
3. Tarte Tatin - This is a famous dessert from the Loire-Atlantique region of France, which includes Saint-Nazaire. It is a caramelized upside-down apple tart that is served with whipped cream.
4. Galette - A galette is a savory crêpe made with buckwheat flour. In Saint-Nazaire, they are often filled with ham, cheese, and eggs.
5. Kouign-Amann - This is a pastry that is originally from Brittany, but is popular throughout the Pays de la Loire region, including Saint-Nazaire. It is made with layers of butter and sugar folded into puff pastry.
6. Pâté Nantais - This is a pork pâté that is flavored with Muscadet wine and garlic. It is often spread on bread or crackers as an appetizer.
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Saint-Nazaire an expensive destination for tourists?

Saint-Nazaire, France can be considered a moderately priced destination for tourists. Prices tend to be higher in the summer season due to the influx of tourists, but there are still ways to save money. Accommodation prices vary depending on the type of lodging you choose, and you can find options to fit most budgets. Additionally, there are various options for dining out, from moderately priced cafes to high-end fine dining restaurants. Overall, although Saint-Nazaire isn't the cheapest destination in France, it is possible to have an enjoyable trip without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Saint-Nazaire

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Saint-Nazaire would be the city center, near the waterfront or Marina, or around the beaches and tourist attractions such as the Escal'Atlantic museum and the submarine base. Another option could be to look for accommodations near the train station for easy access to transportation.
You can check hotel prices at Saint-Nazaire here:
Booking.com

Is Saint-Nazaire a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Saint-Nazaire in France is considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other city, it is always important to take precautions and remain aware of your surroundings. It is advisable to be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded places like tourist attractions, markets, and public transportation. It is also recommended to stay in well-lit and busy areas, especially at night. Overall, Saint-Nazaire is a beautiful city with a rich culture and history, and as long as you take the necessary precautions, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Saint-Nazaire.

What type of travelers will enjoy Saint-Nazaire the most?

Saint-Nazaire, France is a lovely coastal town that offers something for everyone. Couples might enjoy the town's romantic beaches and quiet atmosphere. They could take long walks along the waterfront, watch the sunset together, or visit some of the town's historic sites.
Young people looking for fun might enjoy the town's energetic nightlife, with its bars, clubs, and live music venues. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like water sports and hiking.
Families will appreciate the town's many kid-friendly attractions, including amusement parks, museums, and beaches. They can also enjoy exploring the town's history and culture and try out the local cuisine. Overall, Saint-Nazaire has something for everyone, no matter what type of traveler you are.

How to get around Saint-Nazaire

The most common and convenient way to move around Saint-Nazaire is by bus, which has an extensive network of routes and connects different areas of the city. Taxis and bicycles are also available as alternative means of transportation. However, it is important to note that Saint-Nazaire is a relatively small city, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other.

What to see around Saint-Nazaire

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Saint-Nazaire: 1. Nantes - a vibrant and artistic city with beautiful parks and castles 2. Guérande - a charming medieval town with stunning architecture and a famous salt marsh 3. Paimboeuf - a quaint fishing village with picturesque views of the Loire estuary 4. Pornic - a seaside town with a beautiful harbor and a historic castle 5. La Baule - an upscale resort town with a long sandy beach and trendy boutiques 6. Piriac-sur-Mer - a small coastal town with colorful houses and a peaceful atmosphere 7. Vannes - a historic city with a stunning medieval center and picturesque harbor 8. Clisson - a charming town with a beautiful castle and a scenic river. I hope you find these recommendations helpful!
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