Nantes Atlantique Airport (Aéroport Nantes Atlantique, IATA code: NTE) is one of the most important international airports in western France, connecting Nantes to major cities across Europe and beyond. As a key transport hub for the Pays de la Loire and Brittany regions, the airport plays a crucial role in supporting tourism and business, helping Nantes establish itself as a major economic and cultural center on France’s Atlantic coast.
Whether you’re traveling to Nantes for sightseeing or departing from Nantes to global destinations, Nantes Atlantique Airport offers an efficient and comfortable travel experience.
1. Overview of Nantes Atlantique Airport: Airline Network and Carriers
1.1 Airport Overview
Nantes Atlantique Airport is located approximately 8 km south of Nantes city center. It is the sixth busiest airport in France, handling over 7 million passengers annually. With a 3,000-meter-long runway, the airport accommodates a variety of aircraft, from regional jets to large international flights.
Currently operated by France’s Directorate General for Civil Aviation (DGAC), the airport has expansion plans to meet the increasing demand for air travel.
1.2 Airlines and Destinations
Nantes Atlantique Airport serves more than 100 routes, covering domestic French destinations, major European cities, North Africa, and the Middle East.
(1) Major Airlines and Destinations
Several well-known airlines operate from Nantes Atlantique Airport, offering domestic and international flights, including:
- Air France (National carrier of France)
- Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) – Ideal for international transfers
- Lyon (LYS) – Convenient for connections to southeastern France
- easyJet (Europe’s largest low-cost airline)
- London (LGW, LTN) – Business and tourism hub
- Geneva (GVA) – Popular for Swiss ski resorts
- Barcelona (BCN) – Gateway to the Spanish Mediterranean coast
- Ryanair (Europe’s leading low-cost airline)
- Dublin (DUB) – Ideal for traveling to Ireland
- Madrid (MAD) – Explore Spanish culture and history
- Budapest (BUD) – Access to Hungary
- Vueling (Spanish budget airline)
- Barcelona (BCN) – Key link to Catalonia
- Rome (FCO) – Perfect for Italian getaways
- Luxair (Luxembourg’s national airline)
- Luxembourg (LUX) – Suitable for business travelers and connections to Benelux countries
- Etihad Airways (Middle Eastern carrier via codeshare flights)
- Abu Dhabi (AUH) – Connections to the Middle East and Asia
(2) Seasonal Routes
In addition to regular flights, Nantes Atlantique Airport also offers seasonal routes, mainly operating from April to October, connecting to Mediterranean holiday destinations such as:
- Crete, Greece (Heraklion – HER)
- Mallorca, Spain (Palma de Mallorca – PMI)
- Algarve, Portugal (Faro – FAO)
These flights make Nantes a popular departure point for European vacationers.
2. Transport Options: Easy Access Between Nantes City and the Airport
Nantes Atlantique Airport is only 8 km from the city center, with multiple transport options, including an airport shuttle, tram + bus combination, taxis, rideshare services, and car rentals.
2.1 Airport Shuttle (Navette Aéroport): The Fastest Public Transport Option
The dedicated airport shuttle (Navette Aéroport) connects the airport with the city’s main transport hub:
- Route: Airport ↔ Nantes city center (Nantes Gare Sud train station)
- Operating Hours: Daily from 6:15 AM to 11:00 PM, with departures every 20 minutes
- Travel Time: About 20 minutes
- Ticket Price: €10 for a one-way trip, €18 for a round trip
- Where to Buy Tickets: At shuttle stops, ticket machines, or online
2.2 Tram + Bus Combination: A Budget-Friendly Alternative
For budget-conscious travelers, tram + bus offers an affordable alternative:
- Take Tramway Line 3 to Neustrie station
- Transfer to Bus 88, which goes directly to the airport
- Fare: €2 (valid across the entire Nantes public transport network)
- Total Travel Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
2.3 Taxis and Rideshare Services: Fast and Convenient
For those with heavy luggage or limited time, taxis and rideshare services are ideal.
- Travel Time: 15-20 minutes
- Fares:
- Daytime (07:00 – 19:00): Around €30
- Nighttime (19:00 – 07:00): Around €35
- Taxi Stand: Located outside the terminal
- Rideshare Services: Uber, Bolt, and Heetch operate airport transfers
Tip: During peak hours (morning and evening), taxis may be in high demand—consider booking in advance.
2.4 Driving and Parking: Ideal for Long Trips and Business Travelers
Nantes Atlantique Airport has multiple parking options:
- P2 (Short-term parking) – Closest to the terminal, ideal for drop-offs
- P3 & P4 (Long-term parking) – More affordable for extended stays
- P6 (Economy parking) – Most cost-effective, but requires a shuttle ride to the terminal
Car Rentals: Available from Avis, Hertz, Sixt, and other providers within the airport.
3. Airport Terminal Facilities: Modern Passenger Services
3.1 Boarding Procedures
- International Flights: It is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure to allow sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and immigration procedures.
- Schengen Area Flights: Since there are no immigration checks within the Schengen Zone, arriving 1.5 hours before departure is generally sufficient.
- Self Check-in: The airport features multiple self-service kiosks, allowing passengers to check in quickly and print their boarding passes. Most major airlines operating at Nantes Atlantique Airport support self-check-in.
Tip: Always check your airline’s specific requirements, as some carriers may require earlier check-in times, especially for long-haul flights or during peak travel seasons.
3.2 Luggage Services
Nantes Atlantique Airport offers essential luggage services to ensure passenger convenience:
- Luggage Storage: Currently, Nantes Airport does not provide luggage storage or locker facilities. Passengers needing storage services should consider options in Nantes city center or at train stations.
- Luggage Trolleys: Free-to-use luggage trolleys are available throughout the terminal, making it easier for passengers to transport their baggage.
- Lost & Found (Baggage Assistance): If you experience luggage loss or delays, head to the Baggage Service Counter inside the terminal, where airport staff will assist you in locating or reporting missing baggage.
Tip: If you’re traveling with valuable items, it is advisable to carry them in your hand luggage rather than checked baggage.
3.3 VIP Lounge: Salon Grand Large
For passengers seeking a more comfortable and private experience, Nantes Atlantique Airport offers a VIP lounge:
- Name: Salon Grand Large
- Facilities:
- Comfortable seating areas
- Complimentary Wi-Fi access
- A selection of snacks and beverages
- Business amenities such as printing and photocopying services
- Access:
- Available for business class passengers
- Open to travelers with Priority Pass and other lounge membership programs
- Passengers on certain airline loyalty programs may also have access
Tip: If you don’t have lounge access through an airline or membership, you may purchase entry at the lounge reception.
4. Shopping and Dining at Nantes Atlantique Airport
4.1 Duty-Free & Retail Shopping
Nantes Atlantique Airport features a variety of duty-free shops and boutiques, offering both local French products and international brands. Whether you are looking for a last-minute souvenir or luxury shopping, the airport provides several options:
- French Local Specialties:
- Loire Valley Wines – Renowned for their rich flavors, a perfect gift for wine lovers.
- Gâteau Nantais (Nantes Butter Cake) – A delicious regional pastry made with butter, rum, and almonds.
- Seafood Products & Salt from Guérande – Representing the best of the Atlantic coastal cuisine.
- Luxury & Fashion:
- Perfumes & Cosmetics: Find Chanel, Dior, Lancôme, and Guerlain products at duty-free prices.
- Designer Watches & Accessories: A selection of high-end timepieces and accessories.
- Travel Essentials & Souvenirs:
- Books, magazines, and travel guides for in-flight entertainment.
- Local souvenirs such as French chocolates and artisanal crafts.
- Electronic accessories like chargers, headphones, and power banks.
Tip: Duty-free shopping is available for passengers flying outside the EU, allowing tax-free purchases. If traveling within the EU, duty-free prices may not apply, but discounts and special offers are still available.
4.2 Dining Options: Cafés, Restaurants, and Quick Bites
Nantes Atlantique Airport offers a variety of dining choices, ranging from traditional French cuisine to international fast food chains. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal before your flight, the airport has something for every taste:
French Cafés and Bakeries
- La Brioche Dorée – A classic French bakery offering:
- Freshly baked pastries, croissants, and baguettes
- Sandwiches and salads for a quick meal
- Espresso, cappuccino, and other coffee drinks
Perfect for: Travelers looking for a traditional French café experience with light meals and quality coffee.
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Le Grand Comptoir – A brasserie-style restaurant serving French classic dishes, including:
- Steak frites (steak and fries)
- Duck confit
- Seafood platters featuring Atlantic fish and shellfish
- A selection of Loire Valley wines
Perfect for: Travelers who want to enjoy a relaxing meal before departure in a comfortable setting.
Fast Food and Quick Eats
- Burger King – International fast-food chain offering:
- Flame-grilled burgers, fries, and soft drinks
- Vegetarian and kids’ meal options
- So! Coffee – A modern coffee shop with:
- Espresso-based drinks and fresh juices
- Sandwiches, pastries, and light snacks
- EXKi – A healthy food alternative offering:
- Organic and vegetarian-friendly meals
- Salads, fresh juices, and homemade desserts
Perfect for: Travelers in a hurry who need quick, fresh, and healthy options.
5. Practical Travel Tips for Nantes Atlantique Airport
5.1 Best Time to Arrive at the Airport
- For international flights: Arrive at least 2 hours before departure to complete check-in, security screening, and passport control.
- For Schengen flights: Arrive 1.5 hours before departure for a smooth boarding experience.
5.2 Free Wi-Fi Access
- The airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi, but it is limited in duration.
- For extended use, passengers can purchase high-speed Wi-Fi packages.
5.3 Common Questions & Services
- Is there a currency exchange service?
- No currency exchange counters are available, but ATMs allow cash withdrawals in euros.
- Are there baby care facilities?
- Yes, the airport has designated baby care rooms with diaper-changing tables and breastfeeding areas.
- Is there a smoking area?
- Smoking is prohibited inside the terminal; designated outdoor smoking areas are available.
5. Practical Travel Tips
- Best Arrival Time at the Airport
- International Flights: 2 hours before departure
- Domestic Flights: 1.5 hours before departure
- Wi-Fi: Free for short-term use, paid high-speed options available
- Foreign Exchange: No exchange counters, but ATMs are available
- Smoking Areas: Only in designated outdoor zones
Explore Nantes, Starting at Nantes Atlantique Airport!
As western France’s gateway, Nantes Atlantique Airport offers a seamless travel experience with its extensive flight network, modern facilities, and efficient transportation links. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or transferring to another destination, this airport ensures a smooth journey. Use this guide to plan your trip and make your travels through Nantes stress-free!
