Nantes is up there with one of my favourite places in France. Nestled into the west coast, not too far from the sea, this little city is rich in culture and has a thriving creative arts scene.
With its beautiful canal, lush green spaces and historic centre, it’s one of those cities that’s hard not to fall in love with.
Between marvelling at the local art and scrolling through the charming town, you’re going to need somewhere to rest your head. A hotel or a hostel is often what comes to mind, however… I’m here to spill the beans! The best way to experience Nantes is by staying in an Airbnb.
The Airbnbs in Nantes are often run by friendly locals who can provide you with tips to make the most of your stay. These rentals come in all shapes and sizes – from a boat on the canal to a fancy château!
To help make your search a little easier, I’ve compiled the BEST Airbnb in Nantes to save you from endless trawling through all the options. No matter your travel style or budget, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s get into it!
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Nantes
BARBUAT – Grand Cosy
- > $$
- > 4 guests
- > Former bar
- > Cosy and charming
Well lit room near the station
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Good location
- > Nice views across the city
Duplex Panorama and Jacuzzi
- > $$$$$
- > 4 guests
- > Rooftop jacuzzi
- > Epic Views
The house on the Cliff
- > $
- > 3 guests
- > Small garden
- > View across Nantes
Room near station with balcony
- > $
- > 2 guests
- > Laptop friendly workspace
- > Balcony
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Nantes
Nantes is the hidden gem of the country. If you’re wondering where to stay in France, and you’re looking for unique places to add to your bucket list, don’t skip Nantes!
When it comes to Airbnbs in Nantes, you’ve got a lot to choose from. Within the narrow winding lanes of the historic centre, you’ll find a swathe of flats and apartments that are the ideal base for your adventures in the city.
However, if you’re looking for something a little more unique, Nantes won’t disappoint. Whether you want to stay on a boat on the city’s romantic canal or even head a little out of the city centre to stay in a château, you have an option.
In most Airbnbs in Nantes, you’ll have a local host, but in larger properties, you might be dealing with a business instead.
When you’re in such a beautiful canal city, why would you want to stay on land? There are more than 20 boats where you can stay in Nantes listed on Airbnb. Don’t expect a rubber dinghy or a rowing boat – these places are seriously luxurious!
On houseboats here, you can expect fully equipped kitchens, lovely living areas, and even chilled-out terraces where you can soak up the sun. Staying on a boat is generally a little more expensive than a regular apartment, but you are paying for the exclusivity.
Want to experience a traditional and authentic part of France’s history? Perhaps you should look at a château. Though it literally translates as castle in English, most châteaus are more like stately homes, or dare I say it, palaces!
Okay – it’s not the most original or exciting type of Airbnb, but it’s still more fun and innovative than your standard hotel. Entire flats can suit anyone from a solo traveller or couple on a budget to a huge family celebration.
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Nantes
Now that I’ve told you exactly why you should book an Airbnb in Nantes, it’s time to give you what you’ve been waiting for. Here is my list of the top 15 Airbnbs in Nantes – chosen with you, the reader, in mind!
BARBUAT – Grand Cosy | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Nantes
Want to experience Nantes’ nightlife? You could always start your pre-drinks in a bar. Yes, that’s right, this awesome apartment used to be a bar but has since been transformed into an apartment.
It’s in a great location, with the train station, botanic gardens, and Erdre River all within a stone’s throw. For this price, you’d usually expect a studio for two people at most, but this cosy apartment sleeps up to four people. Perfect!
Well lit room near the station | Best Budget Airbnb in Nantes
Want to keep your costs low? Then this cute little apartment should tick your boxes. Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Nantes train station, you’ll have a comfortable private room in a bright and comfortable apartment.
You’ll even have great views across the city! If you’re wondering about what to do in town, just ask your host for a recommendation.
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View on OspreyDuplex Panorama and Jacuzzi | Over-The-Top Luxury Airbnb in Nantes
If you hear the phrase “rooftop jacuzzi with a view of the city skyline,” that’s bound to pique your interest, right? This gorgeous apartment has more than just that, though.
There’s a bathroom with a hammam, and this flat was even awarded an architectural prize when it was built in 2007. With space for up to four guests in two queen beds, it isn’t even THAT expensive. Perfect for couples holidaying together!
The house on the Cliff | Perfect Nantes Airbnb for Solo Travellers
A cliff?! Since when was Nantes by the sea?! Well, even though it is slightly inland, Breton used to be the foremost port in France. However, the cliff in question doesn’t overlook the sea at this lovely townhouse 15 minutes from the city centre on foot.
You will not only have your own private bedroom to make use of, but a small garden, too. A lovely place to come back to and chill after a day exploring the town!
Room near station with balcony | Perfect Short Term Airbnb in Nantes for Digital Nomads
The great thing about being a digital nomad is being able to work from anywhere – so long as that place has a laptop-friendly workspace and Wi-Fi, of course.
Thankfully, this place has all that and more. You’ve got access to your host’s kitchen and living room, and there’s even a little balcony where you can take your laptop out and enjoy a morning coffee. It’s close to the station, too – ideal for continuing your trip.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Nantes
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Nantes!
Charming Apartment with exceptional view | Best Short Term Rental for Couples
If you’re travelling with your other half, you can’t just pick any old place. Luckily, this duplex apartment has a balcony where you can sit and watch the river on an evening if you don’t fancy heading to one of the restaurants nearby.
Should the Breton weather be a little too chilly, head inside to the romantic living room which has a stone wall, before climbing up the ladder to your comfortable double bed.
Sous le Cèdre – heart of Nantes | Best Airbnb in Nantes for Families
This city centre apartment can comfortably sleep up to six guests, so it’s perfect for families no matter their age. Should you want to keep costs down on restaurants, there’s a fully equipped kitchen where you can whip up a meal from ingredients bought at markets nearby.
It’s in a perfect location to explore the city, too – with the city’s cathedral, history museum, and the castle of the Dukes of Brittany all within a kilometre.
Péniche Contemporaine Centre Ville | Best Boat in Nantes
The Île de Versailles is one of the most popular attractions in Nantes – and by staying on a boat right next to it, you’ll get to enjoy it before the tourists arrive and after they go home. And, you know, it’s pretty cool to stay on a boat!
This floating residence was built in the 1930s, but you might not be able to tell thanks to that cool modern kitchen. There’s a private terrace on the boat so you can enjoy views of the river around you and the park. A great option for couples!
Vie de Château à Nantes | Best Château in Nantes
As I said earlier, renting out an entire castle can be extremely expensive. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t experience living like French aristocracy for a day or two.
Rooms at this château on the Loire River can be split between four people, putting it on par with hostel prices. Can you believe that?! It’s also just two kilometres from the Île de Nantes. You won’t realise, though, as you’re surrounded by a wooded park!
Five minutes from everything! | Best Entire Flat in Nantes
Looking for an entire flat in Nantes? One of the main reasons to pick one is to be right in the heart of that UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre. And this one does the job.
At this price, you would expect to host a couple, but in fact, you can fit up to five guests in here – though at least one will be on a floor mattress. It may be small, but as a base for exploring the city, you could do a lot worse than this cute flat!
La Cabane dans les arbres | Most Unique Airbnb in Nantes
When you started reading this list, you probably didn’t expect a treehouse, did you? Neither did I! However, hidden away in a wooded park in Nantes, that’s exactly what you’ll find.
Part of a Nantes Campsite, this is a wonderful opportunity for a couple to stay in a really unusual accommodation. As well as the fact you can tell your mates you stayed in a treehouse, you’ve got use of the camping park’s facilities – including free parking and a swimming pool!
Bienvenue au Grand Talensac | Best Airbnb Plus in Nantes
Whichever Airbnb Plus you choose, you know you’re getting a good deal. Properties earn that accreditation based on great reviews, attention to detail, and an inspection from Airbnb itself.
With this apartment that can sleep up to four guests, you’ll have garden views from your cosy bedroom. The open plan kitchen and living space make for a wonderful night in, too!
Apartment in Nantes Centre | Best Airbnb for a Weekend in Nantes
Are you looking to be right in the centre of the action? Whether that’s having the best restaurants on your doorstep, being a stone’s throw from museums and galleries, or able to stumble home after a night out – you’ll need to stay in Centre-Ville.
That’s where this four-person flat is located. There are plenty of supermarkets nearby, too, so you can pick up food there and prepare it in the fully equipped kitchen if you prefer!
Nuit Romantique in Nantes | Stunning Airbnb for Honeymooners in Nantes
Nothing says romance like a jacuzzi and champagne before retiring to a queen bed. So why not make that the first night of your honeymoon in Nantes?!
Once you’ve had an incredible night’s sleep… or whatever else you might get up to, wake up to breakfast, which is included too! The apartment is right in the heart of Nantes, so it’s a great base for exploring together.
Houseboat on the Water | Best Airbnb in Nantes for a Group of Friends
Staying with friends in Nantes? Why not do something that you’ll really remember – like staying on a boat. This one is on the Canal Saint-Félix, close to many of the city centre attractions.
With room for up to five guests, it’s a great place to share some beers in the evening over a game of cards or a board game – that is, if you’re not out enjoying the local nightlife!
What To Pack For Nantes
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Nantes Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Nantes Airbnbs
That’s all from us. I’ve not only shown you the best Airbnbs in Nantes, but also the top five experiences you can do when you’re there. I’ve seen everything from castles and houseboats to treehouses – as well as some more realistic and attainable options for the budget traveller.
Are you still trying to decide which Airbnb in Nantes is right for you? If that’s the case, go for my overall best value Airbnb in Nantes – BARBUAT – Grand Cosy. It’s in a great location, and it’s cute, cosy, and clean.
- Check out our Backpacking France guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in France guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the most beautiful places in France too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of France.
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