The Maison des Hommes et des Techniques showcases Nantes' rich port history. You'll be transported into the city's naval and industrial heritage. Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to this exciting museum!
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is a visit to the Museum des Hommes et des Techniques worthwhile?
Yes, the Museum des Hommes et des Techniques is well worth a visit. In our opinion, it's one of the must-see places in Nantes. The permanent exhibition explores the heritage of the shipbuilders who shaped the city's history. Hundreds of objects and miniature sets reveal the secrets of shipbuilding and working life. The house also hosts temporary exhibitions that will teach you more about the city's past. It's one of the city's most interesting museums!
What you can see
The former Nantes shipyards
As soon as you enter, you'll be drawn into the museum's industrial world. The white stone building, enhanced by red bricks and lettering, recalls the old shipbuilding yards. Take time to admire the façade, then venture inside!
Immersive scenography
You'll sail through industrial settings that recreate the atmosphere of workshops. The metal structures and sounds of construction took us back to the city's working-class past.
Miniature iron ships
Beautiful model ships punctuate your visit. We enjoyed contemplating the technicality and precision of these miniaturized giants of iron or wood.
A dive into shipyard history
An area dedicated to the history of shipbuilding. Browse reproductions of ships through the ages and learn all there is to know about the evolution of naval art.
Inside an engineer's office
You can also walk in the footsteps of the hull plotters and admire the intricate plans of the ships to be built. We were curious to discover an example of a desktop filled with drawing and calculation tools.
Technical objects
Over a hundred shipbuilding-related objects are on display. You can admire the propellers and see how they work!
New construction technologies
The museum also showcases more modern shipbuilding techniques. You'll learn that CAD, or computer-aided drafting, has revolutionized the way plans are drawn up and changed the way the industry operates.
A temporary exhibition
Throughout the year, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions on themes ranging from history to science and technology. Find out all about the museum's program on the official website here.
The Maison des Hommes et des Techniques in Nantes: access
Where to find the museum
- In the city of Nantes
- On the Île de Nantes
- Right next to the famous Machines de l'Ile
Access by car and parking
The museum has no parking facilities, but you can park on the island, a 5-minute walk away at the Machines de l'Ile parking lot or the Les Nefs parking lot. Nantes is a difficult city to get around. We recommend using public transport.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
- Think aboutfull insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Public transport access
You can reach the museum by taking tramway 1 to the Chantiers Navals stop and by taking the
bus C5 stop Prairie-au-Duc. We strongly advise you to take the city pass, which will give you access to the city's transport network and museums! Buy it now!
You can also use the city's bicycles, the Bicloo, and leave your bike at the 41 Chantiers Navals or 43 Machines de l'Ile stations. Would you like to explore the city and the surrounding area using this means of transport? Read our article on the Loire by bike. Here you'll find tips and itinerary ideas!
Visiting difficulties
There are no particular difficulties for visitors.
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Nantes
Itineraries
Visits
Visit the Maison des Hommes et des Techniques: useful tips
Schedules and prices
The Maison des Hommes et des Techniques is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm. Admission is free.
See the latest news on the official website here.
How long
Allow between 1h and 1h30 to visit the museum.
Best moment
Nantes is a lively city all year round, but particularly so in summer. If you're visiting during this season, it's best to come in the morning. Your visit will be that much calmer!
Direction of visit
There's no set route to the Maison des Hommes et des Techniques, but we recommend that you first admire the building's facade. Then take a look at the permanent exhibition and immerse yourself in the history and techniques of the shipbuilders. Finish with the temporary exhibition, if available.
Visiting with children
The museum offers activities and workshops for young visitors. For example, a photo rally, game workshops and even a meeting with former site workers are organized. Find out more here.
Eating out
The museum is located in the city center, and Nantes is full of great places to visit! Discover our tempting selection of the city's best restaurants.
Hotels
You're right in the center of Nantes, home to numerous hotels. Here are our recommendations.
WHERE TO STAY IN Nantes
Downtown
Would you like to sleep in the heart of Nantes and enjoy its invigorating vitality? We liked it:
- Blu Radisson Hotel - see our article - see photos prices and availability
- L'Oceania - hotel de France - see our article - see photos prices and availability
Near the station
A train to catch at dawn, there's a truly magical address just 2 steps from Nantes train station:
- Le Sozo Hotel - see our article - see photos, prices and availability
On the banks of the Erdre
Looking for a bit of peace and quiet, without straying too far from the city of Nantes? 2 addresses on the banks of the Erdre river:
- La Rivière House - see photos, prices and availability
- Le Best Western Plus Hôtel de la Régate - view photos, prices and availability
PLAN YOUR TRIP IN
Loire Valley
The castles of the Loire Valley
Other places to explore
Practice
HE MADE THE TRIP Manu
