As a city, Nantes has all the classic French elements of the cathedral, the chateau, the cafés, the patisseries and the picturesque river. However it also has a cool, innovative, contemporary side to it. This is most obviously found on the Ile de Nantes to the south of the city. The island remains strongly marked with the cranes, ramps and workshops that were used when Nantes was a significant port involved in the exportation of African slaves to the Americas. Yet now giant steam-snorting mechanical elephant marches around during the day passing the colourfully lacquered cranes, the outdoor bars, as well as a music venue.
Nantes is a growing dynamic city. Just 2 hours from Paris by train, the city has been elected the european green capital of 2013 by the European commission . Its proximity to the coast and le Val de Loire makes it great for relaxing weekends. Furthermore, University of Nantes provides its students with lots of sports and cultural activities. WelcomeThe University of Nantes will help you to settle in at every step. Le guichet unique is the welcome center for international students when they arrive in our city. There you will find practical information on accomodation, student insurance, CAF and opening a bank account.
The Guichet opened from 9am on weekdays in September and you must go here before going to your student residences if you have been allocated a room. Here they gave you maps and directions to your accommodation. You also have to do your “inscription” here before you could get your student card from the Law faculty. You can also buy social security insurance here (This is obligatory to buy to get into student residences). |
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Accommodation
Compared to Britain, French university residences are very cheap especially if you sign up for the CAF subsidy. The rooms are similar to British ones but in general the residences are more strictly policed.
Finding an apartment in town is the more authentic and fashionable yet expensive option. If your priority is studying then the residences are a good option, if you're looking to recreate Amélie or “l’Auberge espagnole” then look elsewhere. More details about applying for University residence here. |
Transport
There is loads of different ways to get around in Nantes. You can move between different modes of transport with just one TAN ticket. You can also get a monthly or annuel travelcard that can be used for buses, tram lines, Busway, Chronobus, boats (Navibus), as well as the Nantes conurbation train services.
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Cellphone
Free mobile is probably the most competitive mobile phone operator. Its cellphone plan are with no engament, prices begins from €2 to €19,90 per month.