Saint-Nazaire: a cultural and maritime event destination

Between the river and the ocean, Saint-Nazaire is home to some of France’s most iconic industrial companies. While you’re here, discover the Airbus assembly site, the impressive Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard, the birthplace of legendary ocean liners like the France and the Queen Mary 2, where amazing cruise ships are still being built. Just steps away, the Grand Port Maritime, the largest port on the Atlantic coast, shows off its XXL facilities and terminals where goods from all over the world are handled.

Saint-Nazaire enjoys a seafront of nearly 3 km, entirely designed for walking and recreation. In the city centre or further away, no less than 20 beaches (two of which have the Handiplage label) await you in the coastal town. Ideal for boating (the Solitaire du Figaro sailing race chose Saint Nazaire as the departure city in 2021), the town also attracts hikers thanks to the Coastal Trail overlooking the sea, which leads all the way to Pornichet, with magnificent views of the open sea and the coastline.

Marked by its history, Saint-Nazaire has managed to reinvent itself into an open and vibrant city, where art and culture are everywhere. The iconic submarine base dating from the World War II has become a key tourist attraction and the centre of cultural life. This site features the Escal'Atlantic, an immersive museum dedicated to legendary ocean liners, the VIP, a contemporary music venue, and the LIFE, a unique space for exhibits and live performances.
Elsewhere, the Grand Café, which opened in 1864, has become an exhibition space for contemporary artists. And all over the city, you will be charmed by the giant, colourful frescos by artists from across the globe.