Saint Nazaire Vacation Rentals
Tips on renting in Saint Nazaire
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Saint-Nazaire in Loire-Atlantique is a vibrant coastal city perfect for family adventures. Begin at Escal’Atlantic, an immersive museum inside the former submarine base, where you can explore the world of ocean liners. Visit the Submarine Espadon, France’s first submarine open to the public, for an unforgettable tour. The Ecomusée traces the city’s maritime history, while the Saint-Nazaire Bridge offers panoramic views of the estuary. For outdoor fun, enjoy the sandy beaches of Plage de Monsieur Hulot in nearby Saint-Marc-sur-Mer, made famous by Jacques Tati. Families can bike along the scenic Vélocéan cycle path or explore the Jardin des Plantes. Don’t miss the Airbus Factory Tour for a behind-the-scenes look at airplane assembly. The Tumulus de Dissignac, a prehistoric burial mound, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient history. Enjoy delicious seafood at La Table de l’Estuaire and end your day with a sunset stroll along the waterfront promenade.
Nearby cities
Saint Brevin les Pins
Discover Saint Brevin les Pins in Loire-Atlantique—where your family can picnic by sandy beaches, bike forest trails, and play in safe, sunlit parks together.
Pornichet
Discover family joy in Pornichet, Loire-Atlantique—build sandcastles, bike seaside trails, savor fresh air, and splash in gentle waves together all year round.
Tharon Plage
Discover Tharon Plage in Loire-Atlantique—soft sands, gentle waves, and seaside playgrounds invite your family to relax, explore, and create sunny memories.
La Plaine-sur-Mer
Discover La Plaine-sur-Mer in Loire-Atlantique—where your family can picnic by the sea, explore sandy beaches, and bike together under wide, sunny skies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Saint Nazaire has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The best time to visit Saint Nazaire, France for outdoor fun is late spring to early autumn, particularly from May to September. During these months, the Atlantic coast enjoys mild weather and longer days, ideal for exploring the scenic beaches of Saint-Marc-sur-Mer or cycling along the Vélocéan coastal trail. The summer brings vibrant festivals and opportunities to tour the iconic Escal’Atlantic ocean liner museum or stroll along the lively waterfront promenades, making every moment outdoors unforgettable.
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In three days in Saint Nazaire, immerse yourself in maritime history at the Escal’Atlantic museum, where you can explore life aboard legendary ocean liners. Walk along the seafront to admire the monumental submarine base, then descend into the Espadon submarine for a unique glimpse of Cold War naval life. Don’t miss a stroll on the Saint-Nazaire Bridge for sweeping views of the Loire estuary, and relax at the Plage de Monsieur Hulot, made famous by Jacques Tati’s classic film.
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Yes, in Saint Nazaire, you can find charming lakefront cabins and cottages for rent, especially near Lac Saint-Jean. These accommodations often offer stunning water views, private docks, and easy access to outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing. Many lodges are close to Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon, where guests can enjoy biking trails and sandy beaches. Staying in these rentals allows visitors to fully experience the natural beauty and tranquility of the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region.
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For a memorable 3-day trip to Saint Nazaire, explore the impressive Escal’Atlantic museum inside the WWII submarine base, where you can step aboard a recreated ocean liner. Discover the Espadon submarine, a rare chance to tour a real vessel used during the Cold War. Stroll along the beach at Plage de Monsieur Hulot, famously linked to Jacques Tati’s film, and don’t miss the shipyard tours at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, where some of the world’s largest cruise liners are built.
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For a refreshing swim near Saint Nazaire, head to Plage de Monsieur Hulot in Saint-Marc-sur-Mer, famous for its golden sands and the cinematic statue of Monsieur Hulot. The sheltered bay offers calm waters ideal for families, while the nearby Sentier des Douaniers coastal path provides stunning Atlantic views. For a freshwater option, Lac de Grand-Lieu, a short drive inland, is renowned for birdwatching and tranquil lakeside relaxation, making it a perfect escape from the bustle of town.
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While Saint Nazaire itself is a coastal city known for its shipyards and proximity to the Atlantic, those seeking cozy winter lodges or cabins with snow activities should head inland toward the picturesque Loire-Atlantique countryside or further east to the Parc naturel régional de Brière. Here, charming gîtes and rustic cabins offer a warm retreat, and while snow is less frequent than in the Alps, occasional flurries transform the landscape, making it ideal for tranquil walks or cross-country skiing when conditions allow.
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In Saint Nazaire, a vibrant port city on France’s Atlantic coast, the average cost of accommodations for a family of four typically ranges from 100 to 180 euros per night in mid-range hotels or family-friendly apartments. Staying near the Escal’Atlantic museum or the beaches along the Côte d’Amour allows easy access to local attractions like the Saint-Nazaire submarine base and the scenic seafront promenade, making it a convenient and enjoyable base for exploring the region.