Nantes

🚌

Transportation

Sections

1. Public Transportation in Nantes

The public transportation system in Nantes is managed by TAN (Transports de l'Agglomération Nantaise). It includes trams, buses, a Busway (a high-capacity bus rapid transit system), and Navibus (ferries). The system is reliable, affordable, and well-integrated.

A. Trams

  • Overview: Nantes has 3 tram lines (Lines 1, 2, and 3) that cover the city and its suburbs. The tram network is one of the oldest modern tram systems in France and is the backbone of public transport in Nantes.
  • Frequency: Trams run every 3–10 minutes during peak hours and every 10–20 minutes during off-peak hours.
  • Operating Hours: Approximately 4:30 AM to 12:30 AM daily.

B. Buses

  • Overview: The bus network is extensive, with over 60 lines serving the city and surrounding areas. There are also Chronobus lines, which are high-frequency bus routes with fewer stops for faster travel.
  • Frequency: Buses typically run every 10–20 minutes, depending on the line and time of day.
  • Night Buses: TAN operates night buses (called "TAN Nuit") on Fridays and Saturdays, covering key routes until around 2:30 AM.

C. Busway

  • Overview: The Busway (Line 4) is a high-capacity bus rapid transit line that operates like a tram, with dedicated lanes and frequent service.
  • Frequency: Every 3–5 minutes during peak hours.
  • Route: It connects the city center to the southern suburbs.

D. Navibus (Ferries)

  • Overview: The Navibus service includes two ferry lines that cross the Loire River:
    • Line N1: Between Gare Maritime and Trentemoult (a charming riverside village).
    • Line N2: Between Bas-Chantenay and Gare Maritime.
  • Frequency: Every 10–20 minutes.
  • Operating Hours: Approximately 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with extended hours in summer.

2. Ticketing System

The TAN network uses a unified ticketing system, making it easy to switch between trams, buses, Busway, and Navibus.

Ticket Types and Costs (as of 2023)

  • Single Ticket: €1.80 (valid for 1 hour across all TAN services, including transfers).
  • Round-Trip Ticket: €3.40.
  • 24-Hour Pass: €6.00 (unlimited travel for 24 hours).
  • 10-Ticket Booklet: €15.80 (saves money if you plan to use public transport frequently).
  • Monthly Pass: €65.00 (unlimited travel for a month).
  • Youth Pass: Discounts are available for students and young people under 26.

Where to Buy Tickets

  • Ticket Machines: Available at tram stops and major bus stops. Machines accept coins, credit/debit cards, and contactless payments.
  • TAN Agencies: Located in the city center and at major transport hubs.
  • Onboard: You can buy single tickets directly from bus drivers (cash only, exact change preferred).
  • Mobile App: The TAN app allows you to purchase and validate tickets digitally.

Validation

  • Tickets must be validated at the start of your journey using the machines on trams, buses, or ferries. Fines for traveling without a validated ticket can be steep (€60 or more).

3. Accessibility

  • Trams: Fully accessible to people with reduced mobility, with low-floor vehicles and ramps at stations.
  • Buses: Most buses are equipped with ramps and priority seating.
  • Navibus: Ferries are wheelchair-accessible.
  • Additional Services: TAN offers a specialized service called Proxitan for individuals with disabilities who cannot use regular public transport. This service must be booked in advance.

4. Alternative Transportation Options

Nantes is a forward-thinking city with a strong focus on sustainable and alternative transportation.

A. Bike-Sharing: Bicloo

  • Overview: Nantes has a bike-sharing system called Bicloo, with over 1,200 bikes and 120 docking stations across the city.
  • How It Works:
    • Register online or at a Bicloo station.
    • Use the app or your subscription card to unlock a bike.
    • Return the bike to any station.
  • Costs:
    • Short-Term Pass: €1 for 30 minutes of use (first 30 minutes are free for subscribers).
    • Daily Pass: €5 for unlimited 30-minute rides in a 24-hour period.
    • Monthly Subscription: €10.
  • Tips: Use the app to check bike availability and docking station locations.

B. Electric Scooters

  • Several companies, such as Tier and Dott, operate electric scooter-sharing services in Nantes. You can rent scooters via their apps for short trips around the city.

C. Car-Sharing

  • Services like Marguerite offer car-sharing options for residents and visitors. This is a good choice for trips outside the city or to areas not well-served by public transport.

5. Local Tips for Getting Around Nantes

  • Plan Your Journey: Use the TAN app or website to plan your route and check real-time schedules.
  • Avoid Rush Hours: Public transport can get crowded during peak hours (7:30–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:00 PM).
  • Explore on Foot: The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot.
  • Use the Navibus: The ferry is not only practical but also offers scenic views of the Loire River.
  • Cycling-Friendly City: Nantes has an extensive network of bike lanes and paths, making it easy and safe to cycle.

6. Transportation to and from Nantes

  • Airport: Nantes Atlantique Airport is about 20 minutes from the city center. The Navette Aéroport shuttle bus connects the airport to the main train station (Gare de Nantes) for €9 one way.
  • Train: Nantes is a major hub on the French rail network, with high-speed TGV trains connecting it to Paris in just over 2 hours.

By using this guide, you should be able to navigate Nantes efficiently and enjoy all the city has to offer. Let me know if you need further assistance or specific recommendations!