Expat Transport Guide: Getting Around Nantes

Transportation Overview

Nantes scores 4.0/5 for public transportation, with a cost of living rating of 3.0/5. Budget for approximately 18 transportation-related costs including transit passes and vehicle expenses.

Nantes boasts a modern, efficient, and well-integrated public transportation system that has been recognized for its sustainability initiatives. The network is operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomération Nantaise) and covers the city center and surrounding metropolitan area with excellent connectivity. Nantes is particularly known for its pioneering modern tramway system, which was one of the first to be reintroduced in France.

Quick Stats

Transport Score

4.0 /5

Cost of Living

3.0 /5

Weather Score

3.0 /5

Cost Items

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$6,905

Monthly Costs

$1,050/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

Driving License Conversion $45

Driving License New $1,250

International Driving Permit $25

Monthly

Public Transport Pass Adult $58/mo

Public Transport Pass Child $35/mo

Car Rental Monthly $420/mo

Showing 6 of 18 costs — sign up to see all

Want to See Your Numbers?

Get personalized transportation costs, timelines, and checklists for your family in Nantes.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Practical Tips

Purchase TAN passes online or at the Espace Mobilité at Commerce station.

Online purchases are convenient, and Commerce is the primary customer service hub for in-person assistance.

Check the Bicloo app for real-time bike availability before heading to a station.

Availability can vary greatly by station and time of day, and the app provides current information.

Use the Navette TAN Air shuttle for direct access to Nantes Atlantique Airport.

This dedicated shuttle service connects the city center (Commerce) directly to the airport terminal.

Follow @Tan_Nantes on X (Twitter) for immediate real-time updates on disruptions and service changes.

Official TAN X (Twitter) feed provides the quickest alerts, especially during unexpected events.

Useful Links

TAN - Nantes Public Transport

Official Nantes public transportation website with information on bus and tram routes, schedules, passes, and fare options for city mobility.

›

ANTS - French Driver's License Portal

Official government platform for exchanging foreign driver's licenses, vehicle registration and obtaining French driving credentials.

›

Bicloo - Nantes Bike Sharing

Official bike-sharing service in Nantes with information on memberships, station locations, and using the city's extensive cycling network.

›

SNCF - French Railways

National railway company website with train schedules, fares, and discount cards for travel from Nantes to other French and European cities.

›

Nantes Airport

Official airport website with flight information, transport connections to the city, and services available at Nantes Atlantique Airport.

›

Explore Other Guides

Immigration Guide Housing Guide Education Guide Healthcare Guide Finance Guide Pets Guide

Transportation Guides in France

View all 140+ city guides →

Frequently Asked Questions

Public transportation in Nantes includes buses, metro, trams, and other transit options. Coverage and frequency vary by neighborhood. Use ReloPlanner to see detailed transport scores for each area.

Whether you need a car in Nantes depends on your neighborhood and lifestyle. Create a free ReloPlanner account to compare transportation costs and options for your specific situation.

There are approximately 18 transportation-related costs to consider when moving to Nantes, including both one-time and recurring expenses. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see the full personalized cost breakdown.

Plan Your Entire Move to Nantes

Access step-by-step guides, personalized budgets, and expert tips for transportation and 6 other relocation categories across 140+ cities.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Data verified: March 2026

This was the general picture

Your move to Nantes looks nothing like this

This guide covers Nantes for everyone. Your plan covers your origin country, your kids' ages, your budget, your dog — with real costs, a sequenced task list, and the things most families don't find out until it's too late.

Build your personalised plan — free →

Takes 2 minutes to set up