Nantes is a great modern city that is full of history, culture and art or you can marvel at the Machines of the Isle of Nantes, a collection of giant mechanical animals inspired by Jules Verne, where a giant mechanical elephant that walks around the former shipyards. It was like being in a steampunk fantasy.
The variety and beauty of the gardens is certainly worth a visit. The Jardin des Plantes, which had amazing plants and trees, including a huge magnolia that was planted in 1711. Whilst the Jardin Ile de Versailles, has a Japanese theme and a tranquil atmosphere. The Parc du Grand Blottereau was another highlight, with its exotic plants and greenhouses. Nantes is definitely a city for garden lovers and has something for everyone, whether you are interested in nature, history, science or art.