Top Things To Do In Musee D'Arts De Nantes (Nantes) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Musee d'Arts de Nantes

1. 1. Permanent Collection Visit

   Discover the rich and varied collection of the Musée d'Arts de Nantes that includes artworks ranging from the 13th to the 21st century. The collection boasts over 12,000 pieces including paintings, sculptures, and graphic arts, presenting an exceptional overview of the history of art. As you explore the permanent collection, you'll come across masterpieces by artists such as Georges de La Tour, Delacroix, Courbet, and many others. The museum also features a range of contemporary works, ensuring that every visitor finds something to resonate with. Informative plaques and audio guides offer deeper insights into the artistic movements and the stories behind each work, enriching the experience of art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free on the first Sunday of each month; otherwise, included in the general admission ticket (10 EUR for adults, free for visitors under 18)

2. 2. Temporary Exhibitions

   Musée d'Arts de Nantes is known for hosting thought-provoking temporary exhibits that showcase works from contemporary artists, thematic art collections, or explore specific art movements. These exhibits are carefully curated and provide a dynamic complement to the already rich permanent collection. The temporary exhibitions at the museum are an excellent way to see works loaned from international galleries and private collections, featuring both well-known artists and emerging talent. Visitors are treated to a different perspective on the art world, often accompanied by guided tours, workshops, or lectures that provide context and deepen the understanding of the showcased works.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Varies per exhibit, generally 8-10 EUR for adults; discounts may be available

3. 3. Guided Tours

   Embark on a journey through art history with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. Musée d'Arts de Nantes offers guided tours of both the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. The tours are available in French, and sometimes in English or other languages, making art accessible to a broader audience. During the tour, visitors gain insights into the artists' lives, their techniques, and the historical context of their works. The guided tours are an excellent opportunity for interaction, inviting questions, and providing a space for discussion, making the visit both engaging and educational.

   Duration: 1.5-2 hours · Price: Approximately 4 EUR in addition to the admission fee

4. 4. Family Workshops

   Musée d'Arts de Nantes offers interactive family workshops designed to engage children and adults in creative activities that are both fun and educational. These workshops often relate to current exhibitions or pieces from the permanent collection, giving families a unique hand-on approach to art. Children get the opportunity to draw, paint, or sculpt, while learning about various art styles and techniques. It's a wonderful way to introduce youngsters to the world of art and foster an appreciation for creative expression from an early age. What's more, they get to take home their creations as souvenirs from the experience.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Varies, often around 5 EUR per participant

5. 5. Art History Classes

   Art enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding of art history can take advantage of the classes offered by the Musée d'Arts de Nantes. These sessions are led by art historians and museum curators, providing an academic analysis of specific periods, movements, or artists. Classes might focus on themes such as Renaissance art, modernism, or contemporary art practices. They offer an enriching complement to the museum visit and are typically designed for adult audiences who wish to gain a deeper knowledge of the art world.

   Duration: Varies, typically 1-2 hours per session · Price: Approximately 10-15 EUR per class, with discounts for series bookings

6. 6. Photography Workshops

   For those interested in capturing the essence of art through the lens, the museum provides photography workshops. These workshops not only cover the technical skills needed to take compelling photographs but also offer the chance to photograph the museum's architecture and selected works within the museum's guidelines. The workshops are usually conducted by professional photographers and are suitable for various skill levels, from beginners to seasoned photographers looking to refine their approach to photography in an art context.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Around 15-20 EUR per workshop

7. 7. Artist's Talks and Presentations

   Direct interaction with artists is a rare and valuable experience offered by the Musée d'Arts de Nantes. Visitors have the opportunity to attend talks and presentations where artists discuss their work, creative process, and the inspirations behind their pieces. These sessions often accompany temporary exhibitions or special events, allowing an intimate look into the minds of contemporary creators, and provide an open forum for audience questions, enhancing the understanding and appreciation of the art on display.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Free or included in the price of admission, depending on the event

8. 8. Youth Art Discovery

   Geared towards school groups and young visitors, the youth art discovery program is an interactive tour aimed at sparking interest in art among children and teenagers. Trained educators guide the young participants through selected museum exhibits, encouraging them to observe, question, and discuss the artworks. These sessions are often tailored to the educational needs of each group and are an excellent resource for teachers looking to integrate art education into their curriculum in a lively and engaging way.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Special group rates apply; contact the museum for booking and pricing details

9. 9. Late Night Openings

   Experience the museum in a unique ambiance with late-night openings on select days. These evening sessions allow visitors to enjoy the collections and temporary exhibitions away from the daytime crowds. Late-night openings might also include special events such as live music, thematic tours, or unique performances set among the artworks. It's a perfect opportunity to combine a night out with cultural enrichment in the heart of Nantes.

   Duration: Until 9 pm on select days · Price: Included in the general admission ticket

10. 10. Cinema and Art

    The Musée d'Arts de Nantes occasionally hosts film screenings that relate to art, artists, and art history. This cinematic program often dovetails with current exhibitions, providing a different perspective on the themes being showcased in the museum. These screenings may feature documentaries on artists, biographical films, or movies that are significant from an artistic standpoint. They contribute to a fuller museum experience, demonstrating the interplay between cinema and the visual arts.

    Duration: The length of the film, generally 90-120 minutes · Price: Usually included in the admission price or a small additional fee may apply