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Arriving at Nantes Airport
Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE) is the main international gateway to Nantes, the Loire-Atlantique department and much of western France. Located approximately 8 kilometres south-west of Nantes city centre, the airport offers convenient access not only to the city itself but also to the Loire Valley, the Atlantic coast and popular destinations including Saint-Nazaire, La Baule, Pornic and Noirmoutier.
Although one of France’s busier regional airports, Nantes Atlantique is straightforward to navigate. After collecting your luggage, you’ll find the arrivals hall leads directly to the transport forecourt, where airport shuttle buses, taxis, ride-hailing services, private transfer drivers and car hire companies are all within a short walk.
The airport is served by flights from across France, Europe and several seasonal destinations, making it a popular arrival point for both business and leisure travellers. Whether you’re staying in the heart of Nantes or heading further afield, you’ll find a range of transport options to suit every budget.
This guide compares the best Nantes Airport transfers, explaining journey times, ticket prices, where to board, how to buy tickets and which option is likely to work best for your trip.
| Transfer Option | Journey Time | Typical Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naolib Airport Shuttle | 20–30 mins | €10 | Budget travellers and rail connections |
| Taxi | 15–20 mins | €€ | Door-to-door convenience |
| Uber | 15–20 mins | €€ | Flexible app-based travel |
| Private Transfer | 15–20 mins | €€€ | Families, groups and business travellers |
| Car Hire | Varies | Varies | Exploring the Loire Valley and Atlantic coast |
Airport Shuttle Bus to Nantes City Centre
For most visitors, the airport shuttle bus is the easiest and most economical way to travel between Nantes Atlantique Airport and the city centre.
The service is operated by Naolib, Nantes’ public transport network, using the dedicated Navette Aéroport airport shuttle. Buses depart from directly outside the terminal building, with clearly marked stops only a few metres from the arrivals exit, making them easy to find even if it’s your first visit.
The journey to the city centre normally takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. A single ticket costs €10 (free for children under 6) and also gives access to the wider tram, bus and TER regional train network within the Nantes metropolitan area. Services operate throughout the day, generally every 20 minutes from April to October and every 30 minutes from November to March. The shuttle normally operates seven days a week, with 1 May an exception, but travellers should always check the current Naolib timetable for their flight date. The airport’s own shuttle page also lists current departure times, fares and the exact stop location.
The current Navette Aéroport runs directly between Nantes Atlantique Airport and Hôtel-Dieu in central Nantes. Hôtel-Dieu provides convenient connections with the wider tram and bus network, making it straightforward to continue to other parts of the city after leaving the airport shuttle.
Tickets can be purchased using the official Naolib app, from ticket machines, online or directly from the driver where available. The same ticket also allows onward travel on the city’s tram and bus network within the permitted validity period, making it excellent value if you’re continuing your journey by public transport.
Modern, low-floor buses provide dedicated luggage space, air conditioning and easy boarding for passengers with suitcases. For travellers staying in the city centre or connecting with a train, the airport shuttle is usually the best-value transfer from Nantes Airport.
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Compare ratesSave Money with the Nantes CityPass
If you’re planning to spend a day or more exploring Nantes, it may be worth buying a Nantes CityPass instead of a separate airport shuttle ticket. One of the biggest benefits of the pass is that it includes unlimited travel on Nantes’ public transport network – buses, trams and Navibus river shuttles – making it an excellent value option for many visitors. The airport shuttle itself is not unlimited under the pass: it covers one round trip on the Navette Aéroport, so it’s best thought of as covering your arrival and departure transfer rather than unlimited airport travel.
The pass is available for 24, 48, 72 hours or 7 consecutive days, with validity beginning the first time you use it. As well as covering your journey between Nantes Atlantique Airport and the city centre, it also includes free admission to more than 50 attractions and experiences, including Les Machines de l’Île, the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, museums, river cruises and guided tours. If you’re planning to visit several attractions, the CityPass can often save you considerably more than buying everything separately.
One important point to remember is that the airport shuttle is only activated once your digital CityPass has been linked to the official Pass Nantes mobile app. After purchasing your pass, you’ll receive an e-Pass, which should be added to the app before travelling so you can use the airport transfer without any issues.
If you’re only visiting Nantes for a few hours, a standard airport shuttle ticket will usually be the cheaper option. However, if you’re staying overnight or planning a full sightseeing itinerary, the Nantes CityPass is often one of the best-value purchases you can make, combining transport and attractions into a single ticket.
Taxi from Nantes Airport
If convenience is your priority, taking a taxi from Nantes Airport is one of the quickest and simplest ways to reach your destination.
Official taxis wait immediately outside the arrivals terminal whenever flights are operating, so it’s rarely necessary to pre-book unless you’re arriving very late at night or travelling during particularly busy holiday periods.
The journey to Nantes city centre generally takes around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic, making it noticeably quicker than public transport. Taxis also provide direct transport to destinations such as Saint-Nazaire, La Baule, Pornic, Trentemoult and surrounding towns throughout the Loire-Atlantique region.
Fares are calculated using official taxi meters and vary according to the distance travelled, traffic conditions and the time of day. Additional charges may apply for late-night journeys, public holidays or unusually large items of luggage. Most taxis accept credit cards, contactless payments, Apple Pay and Google Pay, although it’s always sensible to carry a small amount of cash just in case.
For families, groups or travellers carrying heavy luggage, taxis often represent good value when the fare is shared between several passengers, while the door-to-door service removes the need to change buses or walk with suitcases through the city.
Uber and Ride-Hailing Apps
Unlike some smaller French cities, Uber operates in Nantes and is widely available from the airport.
After collecting your luggage, you can request a vehicle using the Uber app, with pick-up taking place from the designated collection area outside the terminal. Waiting times are generally short during the day, although they may increase during major events, peak holiday periods or late at night.
Bolt also operates in Nantes, including airport pickups, giving you a second app-based option to compare against Uber. Prices are usually confirmed before you book, allowing you to compare the cost against a traditional taxi before deciding which option offers the best value.
Ride-hailing is particularly popular with solo travellers and couples heading directly to accommodation in the city, while larger vehicles can often be requested for groups travelling with additional luggage.
If you’re arriving during busy periods and would prefer the reassurance of a driver waiting for you, a pre-booked private airport transfer is still likely to be the most convenient choice.
Private Airport Transfers
If you’d like to start your visit without worrying about public transport, booking a private airport transfer is the most comfortable and stress-free way to travel from Nantes Atlantique Airport.
Your driver will monitor your flight before arrival, so if your aircraft is delayed or lands ahead of schedule, your collection time is automatically adjusted. Once you’ve collected your luggage, you’ll normally be met inside the arrivals area with a name board before being escorted directly to your waiting vehicle.
Unlike buses or trams, private transfers provide a genuine door-to-door service, taking you directly to your hotel, apartment or business address without any intermediate stops. This makes them particularly attractive for families, business travellers, groups and anyone carrying heavy luggage.
Private transfers are also an excellent choice if you’re travelling beyond Nantes itself. Drivers can take you directly to destinations such as Saint-Nazaire, La Baule, Pornic, Clisson, Ancenis or even into the Loire Valley, removing the need to navigate unfamiliar public transport after a flight.
Vehicles range from comfortable saloons for solo travellers and couples through to spacious minibuses for larger groups. Child seats can usually be requested during the booking process, while fixed pricing means you’ll know the cost before you travel.
Although a private transfer costs more than public transport, many travellers consider the additional comfort and convenience well worth the extra expense, particularly after a long journey.
Make Your Arrival in Nantes Easier
A pre-arranged Welcome Pickups transfer can take care of the journey from the airport when you arrive in Nantes.
This can be particularly handy for first-time visitors, families with luggage, and passengers arriving when public transport services are less frequent.
Want to compare Nantes transfer prices? You can also check another transfer provider before booking.
Car Hire at Nantes Airport
If you’re planning to explore western France, hiring a car at Nantes Airport gives you the greatest flexibility.
Major international and local car hire companies operate directly from the airport, with rental desks located within or immediately outside the terminal building. Collecting your vehicle is generally quick and straightforward, allowing you to begin your journey only minutes after leaving arrivals.
A hire car opens up some of the region’s finest destinations. The elegant seaside resort of La Baule can be reached in around 1 hour, while the historic port of Saint-Nazaire is approximately 50 minutes away. Coastal towns including Pornic, Le Croisic and Guérande are all comfortably within driving distance, while the vineyards of the Loire Valley and the famous Châteaux of the Loire make excellent day trips.
Hiring a car is also ideal if you’re planning to visit smaller villages, Atlantic beaches or nature reserves where public transport is less frequent. The motorway network around Nantes is excellent, making longer journeys across western France relatively straightforward.
If you’re staying exclusively in Nantes city centre, however, you may find a car unnecessary. The city has an excellent tram, bus and Navibus network, while many attractions are easily reached on foot. Parking in the centre can also be more expensive than relying on public transport.
As with most French airports, booking your hire car in advance usually provides the best prices and the widest choice of vehicles, particularly during the busy summer season.
Plan Your Nantes Car Hire
If a road trip or several day trips are part of your visit to Nantes, arranging car hire before arrival can make planning much simpler.
Use Discover Cars and EconomyBookings to compare available vehicles, suppliers and booking conditions for your travel dates.
Travelling to Nantes Railway Station
Nantes Railway Station (Gare de Nantes) is one of the busiest rail hubs in western France and the main gateway for onward journeys across the country.
The station is served by TGV high-speed trains, TER regional services and long-distance routes connecting Paris, Rennes, Angers, Le Mans, Saint-Nazaire, La Baule, Pornic, Tours and many other destinations throughout France.
The Naolib Airport Shuttle provides the easiest connection between the airport and the station, usually taking around 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Because the shuttle terminates at Gare Sud, passengers can simply walk into the station to continue their journey.
If you’re travelling with several suitcases or have a tight rail connection, a taxi, Uber or private transfer can reduce the journey time to around 15 to 20 minutes, taking you directly to the station entrance.
If you’re catching a TGV service, it’s sensible to arrive a little earlier than your departure time, particularly during busy holiday periods, giving yourself plenty of time to locate the correct platform and board comfortably.
Travel by Train to Nantes with Omio
For rail journeys involving Nantes, Omio gives you a single place to search available services and compare different travel options.
It can simplify planning when several train companies operate along your route, or when you want to compare rail, coach and flight connections.
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Book a transferGetting to Popular Destinations
One of the advantages of flying into Nantes Atlantique Airport is how quickly you can reach not only Nantes city centre but also many of western France’s most popular destinations. Whether you’re visiting for a city break, heading to the Atlantic coast or exploring the Loire Valley, there are excellent transport options available.
If you’re travelling to Nantes city centre, the Naolib Airport Shuttle, taxi, Uber and private transfers all provide straightforward journeys. The shuttle is the most economical choice for most visitors, while taxis and private transfers offer the convenience of a direct door-to-door service.
Visitors heading to the famous Machines de l’Île can either take the airport shuttle into the city before transferring to the tram or a local bus, or travel directly by taxi or ride-hailing service. The attraction sits on the former shipyards beside the Loire River and is one of Nantes’ most popular places to visit.
Across the river, the colourful former fishing village of Trentemoult is another favourite destination. After reaching the city centre, many visitors continue by Navibus ferry, enjoying a short river crossing before exploring the village’s brightly painted houses, waterfront cafés and relaxed atmosphere. A taxi from the airport can also take you directly there if you prefer.
If you’re travelling beyond Nantes, the airport is well positioned for reaching the Atlantic coast. Saint-Nazaire can usually be reached in around 50 minutes by car or private transfer, while La Baule, famous for its magnificent sandy beach, is approximately one hour away. Pornic, with its picturesque harbour and historic centre, can generally be reached in around 45 to 50 minutes by road.
Although public transport links exist for many of these destinations, visitors travelling with heavy luggage, arriving late in the day or heading directly to coastal accommodation often find that private transfers or car hire provide the quickest and most convenient solution.
Which Transfer Option is Best?
The best way to travel from Nantes Airport depends on where you’re staying, how much luggage you’re carrying and whether you plan to explore the surrounding region.
If you’re staying in Nantes city centre, the Naolib Airport Shuttle is usually the best-value option. It provides frequent departures, affordable fares and convenient connections to the city’s excellent tram, bus and Navibus networks, making it ideal for most visitors.
Travellers carrying heavy luggage, arriving late at night or wanting to be dropped directly at their accommodation may prefer a taxi, Uber or private airport transfer. These options provide the convenience of a direct journey without needing to change transport after arriving in the city.
If you’re planning to explore destinations such as Saint-Nazaire, La Baule, Pornic, the Loire Valley or the surrounding countryside, hiring a car offers by far the greatest flexibility. Many of the region’s beaches, vineyards, castles and villages are much easier to reach with your own vehicle than by public transport.
Business travellers often favour private transfers thanks to their reliability, fixed pricing and meet-and-greet service, while families travelling with children appreciate the extra luggage space and the option of requesting child seats in advance.
Whichever option you choose, Nantes Atlantique Airport is compact, well organised and conveniently located, making onward travel quick, simple and an excellent start to any visit to western France.
Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips
Nantes Atlantique Airport is one of the easiest airports in western France to use, and a little planning before you arrive can save both time and money.
- Use the airport shuttle for the city centre. The Naolib Airport Shuttle offers excellent value, drops you close to Nantes Railway Station and provides easy connections to the city’s tram and bus network.
- Heading beyond Nantes? If you’re planning to visit places such as Saint-Nazaire, La Baule, Pornic or the Loire Valley, hiring a car at the airport is often the quickest and most flexible option.
- Book private transfers before you fly. Fixed prices, flight monitoring and a meet-and-greet service can make your arrival much less stressful, particularly after a long journey.
- Allow extra time during summer. Roads around Nantes and the Atlantic coast can become busy during the holiday season, especially on Fridays and weekends.
- Download the Naolib app. It makes buying tickets and planning onward journeys around Nantes much easier, whether you’re travelling by bus, tram or the Navibus ferry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Nantes Airport from the city centre?
Nantes Atlantique Airport is located around 8 kilometres (5 miles) south-west of Nantes city centre. The journey usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes by the Naolib Airport Shuttle or approximately 15 to 20 minutes by taxi, Uber or private transfer, depending on traffic.
What is the cheapest way to get from Nantes Airport to the city centre?
For most travellers, the Naolib Airport Shuttle is the cheapest and best-value option. It provides direct access to Nantes Railway Station and the city centre, with easy connections to the wider public transport network.
Is there a tram from Nantes Airport?
No. There is no direct tram service from Nantes Airport. Most visitors use the Naolib Airport Shuttle, which connects with Nantes’ excellent tram and bus network in the city centre.
How much is a taxi from Nantes Airport?
Taxi fares vary depending on your destination, traffic conditions and the time of day. A journey to Nantes city centre normally takes around 15 to 20 minutes, with official taxis waiting outside the arrivals terminal.
Does Uber operate at Nantes Airport?
Yes. Uber is available at Nantes Atlantique Airport, with passengers able to request a vehicle using the app after collecting their luggage.
Should I hire a car at Nantes Airport?
If you’re planning to explore the Loire Valley, Saint-Nazaire, La Baule, Pornic or the surrounding countryside, hiring a car is highly recommended. If you’re staying only in Nantes city centre, public transport is usually more convenient.
How do I get from Nantes Airport to Nantes Railway Station?
The Naolib Airport Shuttle provides a direct connection to Gare de Nantes, usually taking around 20 to 30 minutes. Taxis, Uber and private transfers also offer direct journeys to the station.
Can I get to the Loire Valley from Nantes Airport?
Yes. The Loire Valley is easily reached from Nantes by hire car, while TGV and TER train services from Nantes Railway Station also provide convenient access to many of the region’s towns and attractions.
Further Reading
Continue planning your journey with our guides to Things to Do in Nantes and the Best Day Trips from Nantes, helping you make the most of your stay in one of western France’s most vibrant cities.
If you’re planning further rail travel around France, our guides to the Interrail France Pass, the Carte Avantage France and the Eurostar Guide will help you save money and travel with confidence on your onward journey.
