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Nantes

A dynamic city in the west of France

Nantes, a dynamic city in the west of France, offers the ECV School of Visual Creation a fertile ground for training its students in design, 2D3D animation, games and digital. Thanks to its creative atmosphere and local professional opportunities, the ECV Nantes campus is an ideal setting for future design and visual communication professionals to flourish.

Transport

How to get around Nantes?

Nantes uses a ticketing system that allows passengers to use a single ticket for both trams and buses within a given period of time. Different ticket options are available, including single journey tickets, day passes and monthly season tickets.

The bus network complements the tram system, providing additional coverage to areas not served by the tram. Buses run on different routes, making it easy to navigate the city and its surroundings.

  • Single ticket €1.80
  • Book of 10 tickets €17

Unlimited annual transport pass : 

  • Fare for under-26s: €210.40 per year 
  • Fare for under-26s: €24.80 per month

Nantes has an efficient tramway network covering several areas of the city. Trams are a popular and convenient mode of transport, linking key areas including the city center, suburbs and main transport hubs.

  • Single ticket €1.80
  • Book of 10 tickets €17

Unlimited annual transport pass : 

  • Fare for under-26s: €210.40 per year 
  • Fare for under-26s: €24.80 per month

 

Nantes offers a bike-sharing scheme called Bicloo, which allows residents and visitors to hire bikes for short journeys around the city. This option is particularly popular for short distances and exploring certain districts.

  • Single ticket €1.80
  • Book of 10 tickets €17

Unlimited annual transport pass : 

  • Fare for under-26s: €210.40 per year 
  • Fare for under-26s: €24.80 per month

Because of its location along the Loire, Nantes has a unique form of public transport called Navibus. This maritime shuttle service links the different districts of the city, offering an alternative and picturesque means of transport.

  • Single ticket €1.80
  • Book of 10 tickets €17

Unlimited annual transport pass : 

  • Fare for under-26s: €210.40 per year 
  • Fare for under-26s: €24.80 per month

 

Lifestyle

Cost of living in Nantes

These estimates are given as a guide and may vary according to your lifestyle and needs.

Monthly budget

  • Minimum: €820
  • Average: €1020 – €1220
  • Maximum: €1520+

Key expenditure items

  • Housing: €420 – €620
  • Food: €200 – €300
  • Transport: €20 – €100

Finding accommodation

Here are some useful links to help you find accommodation and prepare for your move.

Nexity Studéa

Nexity Studéa: student residences and accommodation. In partnership with Nexity Studea, we offer you a range of student residences in 50 towns and cities in France: 120 furnished, equipped and connected residences. Communal living areas to make it easier for tenants to integrate into the residence. Group activities to encourage conviviality between residents.

Find out more

Studapart

Studapart offers accommodation for rent in student residences and with landlords in over 40 towns and cities in France.  You can book your flat directly on the dedicated platform. International students will be able to find accommodation before they arrive in France and will receive their accommodation certificate to help them obtain their visa.

Find out more

Ensemble2Générations

This is a network for intergenerational cohabitation.E2G is a general interest association, open to all, whose primary objective is intergenerational housing. By bringing generations together and helping older people to remain at home, E2G is providing an appropriate response to the aging of the population. While supporting family carers, E2G enables students to find alternative solutions. You can download the brochure by clicking here, with the different formulas on offer. Don’t hesitate to contact the person mentioned in the brochure directly to sign up.

Find out more

Visting Nantes

Nantes is close to the Atlantic Ocean, so don’t miss the opportunity to feast on fresh seafood. Try specialities such as moules marinières, oysters and the local fish dish, monkfish à l’armoricaine (monkfish in a rich tomato and wine sauce).

 

Treat your taste buds to the famous gâteau nantais, a traditional almond cake topped with a generous shot of rum. This delectable dessert is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or a sweet wine. You’ll find it in local bakeries and patisseries.

Nantes has a thriving creative gastronomic scene, with innovative chefs incorporating local and seasonal ingredients into their dishes. Explore the city’s bistros and restaurants to discover inventive menus that showcase Nantes’ culinary talents.

Immerse yourself in the local culinary culture by exploring Nantes’ markets. Visit the Talensac market to discover a variety of fresh produce, cheeses and artisanal products. Plus, keep an eye out for festivals and events celebrating the region’s gastronomy, where you can sample a wide range of local specialities.

Nantes is located in the heart of the Muscadet wine region. Pair your meals with a glass of Muscadet, a crisp, refreshing white wine that goes well with seafood and local dishes.

Discovering Nantes’ gastronomy is a delicious journey through seafood, traditional sweets, creative cuisine and local wines. Don’t hesitate to venture into the city’s markets and restaurants to discover the unique flavors that define Nantes’ culinary identity.

Explore the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a historic castle that traces the history of Nantes. The château hosts exhibitions on the city’s heritage, and visitors can stroll along the ramparts for panoramic views. It often hosts temporary exhibitions, so check the diary for special events.

Immerse yourself in the imaginary world of Les Machines de l’île. This artistic project features giant, fantastic machines inspired by the works of Jules Verne. Climb aboard the Grand Elephant or take a ride on the carousel of marine worlds, an enchanting blend of art and engineering.

Visit the iconic LU Tower, part of the former Lefèvre-Utile biscuit factory. The tower now houses the LU Museum, which traces the history of the famous LU biscuits. This is not only a cultural experience, but also an opportunity to appreciate the magnificent Art Nouveau architecture.

An annual cultural event that transforms the city into an art exhibition. Follow the green line painted on the ground to discover contemporary art installations, performances and exhibitions in different venues around the city.

Explore the Musée d’arts de Nantes, which has undergone a major renovation and extension. The museum houses an impressive collection of fine art, including paintings, sculptures and decorative arts. The contemporary art section features works by renowned artists.

The Cité des événements de Nantes offers a varied cultural programme: concerts, shows, exhibitions, etc. It’s a dynamic venue that contributes to Nantes’ cultural dynamism.

Nantes’ cultural offering is extremely varied, ranging from historic sites to contemporary art installations. These tips are a starting point for exploring the city’s cultural wealth, but always check the latest exhibitions and events to make the most of your visit.



A unique attraction that combines the imagination of Jules Verne with the mechanics of fantasy worlds, housing giant mechanical creatures.



A vast park with peaceful gardens, a lake and leisure areas for relaxing outdoors.

A trendy concert hall and bar where you can enjoy live music, DJ sets and a lively atmosphere.

Come back for the spectacular night-time views over Nantes and sip cocktails while admiring the city lights

Some addresses

  • Le Lieu Unique: A unique cultural venue located in a former LU biscuit factory, offering exhibitions, shows, concerts and an artistic atmosphere.
  • Le Musée d’Arts de Nantes: A museum housing a vast collection of works of art ranging from the Middle Ages to contemporary art.
  • La Cité, the Nantes Convention Centre: A venue that hosts leading conferences, scientific exhibitions and educational events.
  • Le Planétarium Ludiver: An ideal place for astronomy enthusiasts, offering projections on the cosmos and observations of the night sky.