Hotels in Saint-Nazaire

Saint-Nazaire: Where Coastal Wonders Meet Cultural Treasures

Nestled along the stunning Atlantic coast, Saint-Nazaire in Loire-Atlantique is a charming coastal town that perfectly blends rich maritime heritage with natural beauty. Explore fascinating museums, including the Escal'Atlantic and the U-Boat Pens, which unveil the town's naval history. Stroll along the pristine beaches or venture to nearby Le Croisic for picturesque landscapes and local seafood delicacies. With its relaxed atmosphere, vibrant waterfront, and lush surroundings, Saint-Nazaire is an ideal getaway for nature lovers and culture seekers alike. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, this hidden gem offers a unique French coastal experience. For the best hotel rates in Saint-Nazaire and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Saint-Nazaire

Some of the best places to stay in Saint-Nazaire are La Baule-Escoublac, Pornic and Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile. Saint-Nazaire's nearby destinations—La Baule-Escoublac, Pornic, and Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile—offer stunning beaches, charming towns, and vibrant local culture. La Baule-Escoublac is perfect for first-time visitors, with its beautiful promenade and lively atmosphere. Pornic boasts a picturesque harbor and medieval architecture, while Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile is known for its serene landscapes and salt marshes. Accommodations in these areas range from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to comfortable hotels, catering to various budgets and preferences, ensuring a pleasant stay for every traveler. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Saint-Nazaire:

1. La Baule-EscoublacOpens in a new window: La Baule-Escoublac is a fantastic coastal destination known for its stunning beach and vibrant atmosphere. This area is perfect for beach lovers and those seeking adventure, with various activities available such as sailing, windsurfing, and horse riding. The hotels here cater to both business and leisure travelers. Notable options include Hôtel Barrière l'HermitageOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel with direct beach access and extensive business amenities, including conference spaces. Hôtel Barrière Le Royal La BauleOpens in a new window also offers a similar experience with thrilling activities like snorkeling and parasailing. For a well-rounded stay, Le Castel Marie LouiseOpens in a new window features a range of adventure sports and business facilities, making it a great choice for all types of travelers.
2. PornicOpens in a new window: Pornic is a charming seaside town that combines romance with outdoor activities, making it an ideal getaway. With attractions like the Casino de Pornic and beautiful Tharon Beach, visitors can enjoy both relaxation and entertainment. Westotel PornicOpens in a new window is a splendid 4-star option offering family-friendly amenities and romance packages, perfect for couples. For business travelers, Golden Tulip Pornic SuitesOpens in a new window provides excellent facilities alongside child-friendly services, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. Both hotels enhance your experience with their prime locations and well-appointed amenities.
3. Noirmoutier-en-l'IleOpens in a new window: This picturesque island is known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural history, featuring attractions like the Château de Noirmoutier. It's an excellent spot for families and adventure seekers. Villa Arthus BertrandOpens in a new window is a delightful 4-star hotel with direct beach access and family-friendly activities, making it great for children. Another option is Hotel La ChaizeOpens in a new window, a 3-star pet-friendly hotel that features a full-service spa, allowing for relaxation after a day of exploration. With these accommodations, visitors can enjoy both comfort and the natural beauty of Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile.

Things to do in Saint-Nazaire for first time

Three days in Saint-Nazaire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal scenery, tranquil beaches, and lush parks. Travelers can enjoy leisurely walks along the shoreline, explore the charming small-town atmosphere, and immerse themselves in nature, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and outdoor activities. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Saint-Nazaire:

• Day 1: Start your Saint-Nazaire adventure at La Baule Beach, known for its stunning sandy shores and vibrant atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll along the coastline and soak up the sun. Afterward, visit Notre-Dame de La Baule, a beautiful church that offers a peaceful respite and an impressive architectural sight. Round off your day at Plage Du Nau, where you can unwind by the water and enjoy the breathtaking sunset, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed evening.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at Saint-Brevin-les-Pins Beach, where the scenic views and gentle waves create a serene environment. Next, head to Eglise des Pins, a charming church nestled amidst a picturesque setting. Finally, delve into the region's maritime history at the Maritime Museum, where fascinating exhibits will take you through the evolution of local seafaring and shipbuilding. This combination of relaxation and education makes for a delightful day.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Tharon Beach, a lesser-known gem perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. After enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, make your way to Plage de Villès-Martin, where you can indulge in beach activities or simply relax by the sea. Conclude your trip with a visit to The Sea Serpent, a striking sculpture that represents the area's maritime heritage, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a unique perspective on Saint-Nazaire's coastal culture.

5 tips to find a great Saint-Nazaire hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Saint-Nazaire are January, November, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. If you're traveling internationally, it's advisable to book your flight at least one month in advance for more affordable rates. To truly experience the highlights of this charming town, plan for at least 2-3 days. Key attractions include its captivating museums, beautiful nature spots, and lovely seaside beaches, offering great value for money for those looking to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Saint-Nazaire, Hotels.com offers a great way to snag discounted hotel rates. To uncover these offers, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find excellent availability and competitive prices as your travel date approaches. To ensure you stay informed about any flash sales or special promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you're more likely to catch fantastic opportunities to save on your trip.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Saint-Nazaire.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and nearby attractions in Saint-Nazaire is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like driving, taking the bus, or walking to explore the area, which can help you save money.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Saint-Nazaire and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Saint-Nazaire

Here are some must-try dishes in Saint-Nazaire, Loire-Atlantique, France:

• Crêpes: These thin pancakes are a beloved staple of French cuisine, particularly in the Brittany region. In Saint-Nazaire, you can enjoy both sweet and savory varieties. Savory crêpes, known as galettes, are often made with buckwheat flour and filled with ingredients like ham, cheese, and eggs. Sweet crêpes can be filled with Nutella, fruits, or whipped cream, making them a delightful dessert. The experience of watching them prepared on a hot griddle adds to their charm, as they are often served folded or rolled, allowing for personalization with various toppings.
• Moules-frites: A classic dish in coastal France, moules-frites consists of fresh mussels cooked in a variety of flavorful broths, often featuring garlic, white wine, and herbs. Served alongside crispy fries, this dish embodies the region’s maritime heritage. It's a popular choice in local bistros, where diners can savor the mussels straight from the shell, often enjoyed with a glass of local cider or white wine, enhancing the communal dining experience.

Best time to go to Saint-Nazaire

Saint-Nazaire experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 44.4°F (6.9°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 66.6°F (19.2°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Saint-Nazaire are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.