Named European Capital of Innovation in 2019, Nantes embodies a vibrant and forward-thinking metropolis. As the 6th largest city in France, Nantes combines innovation, sustainable transitions, and creative cultural vitality. It stands out as a model of balance between modernity and tradition. Nestled between land and sea, its unique living environment both inspires and attracts.
Nantes: A fertile ground for innovation and entrepreneurship
Awarded the European Capital of Innovation, Nantes is a beacon of innovation in Europe. Rooted in a rich industrial history (shipbuilding, aeronautics), it is now widely recognised for supporting entrepreneurs and SMEs with impact-driven goals. The city hosts over 20 incubators, high-potential startups, and major companies like Airbus and Doctolib.
This momentum is fuelled by a diverse economic base in industry, sustainable digital technology, and healthcare, creating a resilient and future-ready economy. Here, people build the economy of tomorrow through industrial decarbonisation, energy transition, and accessible healthcare.
Nantes, a city of sustainable experimentation
Nantes boldly embraces urban transformation through experimentation. Initiatives like greening the Anne de Bretagne Bridge and the removal of 14 hectares of urban asphalt reflect its strong ecological commitment.
As part of the “100 climate-neutral and smart cities” European programme, Nantes has set the target of planting 50,000 trees by 2026. Citizens are deeply involved in shaping this future, particularly through collaborative projects like “10 New Iconic Places to Reinvent”, launched in 2024.
A city committed to societal and environmental transitions
Nantes leads as the first French metropolis in corporate social responsibility, with 39% of businesses actively committed. A birthplace of French trade unions and a hub for social initiatives, Nantes is known for its inclusive and collective spirit.
Free weekend public transport, active citizen dialogue, and a vibrant non-profit sector reinforce this inclusive model. Nationally recognised initiatives like Citad’elles and Planet’RSE, alongside the Fondation Territoriale 44 and Les Ecossolies, reflect two decades of social and solidarity economy leadership.
6th
largest city in France by population
665,000
inhabitants in the metropolitan area
5.4 %
unemployment rate (vs. 6.9% national average)
€2.3
billion in public investments planned by 2030 for transition projects
Creativity and culture as a signature identity
With the Île de Nantes and the Quartier de la Création, Nantes is a hotspot for cultural and creative industries (ICC).
Major events like La Folle Journée and Les Utopiales highlight its artistic dynamism, while a unique “offbeat culture”—from Royal de Luxe’s street theatre to Les Machines de l’île’s Giant Elephant and Le Voyage à Nantes—has become a signature trait.
Institutions like L’École de Design Nantes Atlantique and the Beaux-Arts School further strengthen the city’s appeal for creative talent.
Between Land and Sea
Ranked among the 100 Best Cities in the World to Visit in 2024 (World Best Cities), and Best French Municipality for Biodiversity 2024, Nantes continues to deliver exceptional quality of life.
From vineyards to tidal estuaries, with 100 parks, 5 waterways (including the Loire and the Erdre, dubbed France’s most beautiful river), and proximity to the ocean, Nantes seamlessly combines nature and urban life.
A bike-friendly and welcoming city, Nantes attracts 150,000 students annually, thanks to its major university system, renowned higher education institutions, and high-quality infrastructure.
With vibrant weekly markets, a thriving gastronomy scene, and diverse neighborhoods, it offers an authentic and human-sized lifestyle.
