Machines of the Isle (Les Machines de L'ile) Tours
Whether you’re climbing aboard a life-size mechanical elephant, riding on a carousel of fantastical sea creatures, or operating a flying machine, a visit to Les Machines de L'île is probably unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Inspired by the creations of novelist Jules Verne, Nantes’ flagship attraction is fun for all ages.
The Basics
Les Machines de L'île is an artistic park comprising four main attractions: the Grand Elephant, a huge robotic elephant that walks across the island; the 3-story-high Carrousel des Mondes Marins; the Galerie des Machines, which displays machines in various stages of design; and the workshop terraces, where you can look down over the workshops of La Machine, the company that designs the machines.
Zip around the Île de Nantes on a walking, cycling, or Segway tour, most of which time their arrival at the park to watch the elephant lumbering across the main plaza. Watch out, as it often squirts water at passersby!
Things to Know Before You Go
Single or combination tickets are available for the elephant, carousel, and gallery. All ticket holders can access the workshop terraces.
Elephant tours take around 30 minutes; carousel and gallery tours are about an hour each.
There’s a café, gift shop, and paid parking garage on-site.
No large bags, rucksacks, or suitcases are allowed at any of the attractions.
All attractions are accessible to wheelchairs. Book your space in advance.
How to Get There
Les Machines de L'île is located on the Île de Nantes, in central Nantes. To arrive by public transit, ride the tram (Line 1) to Chantiers Navals station, then cross the Anne-de-Bretagne bridge. At the south end of the bridge are the ticket office, gallery, workshops, and departure point for the elephant. The carousel is a short walk west.
When to Get There
Each attraction has different opening times, which vary throughout the year. Check the schedule online before going. Lines are long in July and August and during school holidays, so consider booking tickets in advance.
About the Machines
Les Machines de L'île is the brainchild of François Delaroziere and Pierre Orefice, whose company, La Machine, designed mechanical sets for the theater. Inspired by the ideas of Leonardo da Vinci and Nantes-born novelist Jules Verne, the directors envisioned bringing creations to life as a unique tourist attraction. Centerpiece of a citywide urban renewal project, Les Machines de L'île opened in 2007, taking over former shipyards and warehouses. The inventions and innovations continue today.
The Basics
Les Machines de L'île is an artistic park comprising four main attractions: the Grand Elephant, a huge robotic elephant that walks across the island; the 3-story-high Carrousel des Mondes Marins; the Galerie des Machines, which displays machines in various stages of design; and the workshop terraces, where you can look down over the workshops of La Machine, the company that designs the machines.
Zip around the Île de Nantes on a walking, cycling, or Segway tour, most of which time their arrival at the park to watch the elephant lumbering across the main plaza. Watch out, as it often squirts water at passersby!
Things to Know Before You Go
Single or combination tickets are available for the elephant, carousel, and gallery. All ticket holders can access the workshop terraces.
Elephant tours take around 30 minutes; carousel and gallery tours are about an hour each.
There’s a café, gift shop, and paid parking garage on-site.
No large bags, rucksacks, or suitcases are allowed at any of the attractions.
All attractions are accessible to wheelchairs. Book your space in advance.
How to Get There
Les Machines de L'île is located on the Île de Nantes, in central Nantes. To arrive by public transit, ride the tram (Line 1) to Chantiers Navals station, then cross the Anne-de-Bretagne bridge. At the south end of the bridge are the ticket office, gallery, workshops, and departure point for the elephant. The carousel is a short walk west.
When to Get There
Each attraction has different opening times, which vary throughout the year. Check the schedule online before going. Lines are long in July and August and during school holidays, so consider booking tickets in advance.
About the Machines
Les Machines de L'île is the brainchild of François Delaroziere and Pierre Orefice, whose company, La Machine, designed mechanical sets for the theater. Inspired by the ideas of Leonardo da Vinci and Nantes-born novelist Jules Verne, the directors envisioned bringing creations to life as a unique tourist attraction. Centerpiece of a citywide urban renewal project, Les Machines de L'île opened in 2007, taking over former shipyards and warehouses. The inventions and innovations continue today.
Address: Parc des Chantiers, Boulevard Léon Bureau, Nantes 44200, France
5 Tours and Activities to Experience Machines of the Isle (Les Machines de L'ile)
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Nantes City Pass
Discover Nantes with a 24-, 48- or 72-hour Nantes City Pass and enjoy free entry to several city attractions, unlimited use of public transport, plus a range of tours and discounts. Ride the fantastical Marine Worlds Carousel, step back in time at the grand Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, and take a scenic cruise along the Loire River — all with one great value, easy-to-use card.
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Nantes 2CV Citroën tour
In these times when our society seeks to go ever faster, we are in search of serenity and seek to relive the present moment and to take advantage of it. By strolling in these emblematic cars of our ancestors, discovering the most beautiful monuments of Nantes aboard our 2 Citroën CVs, breathing in the smell of these popular cars, we can travel to the time of our ancestors, that time where we took the time to enjoy. We will tell you anecdotes about the history of this Venice of the West, the poetic name given to the city of Nantes. These few hours will allow us to relive these emotions of the past that we have forgotten today.
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Segway, The Steampunk Island - Nantes City Tour - 1HR
Cross Nantes on a Segway for a unique perspective. Take a tour of the city and visit the fascinating old shipyard called Les Machines de l'île, both an art installation and an amusement park. Your guide will take you to monuments such as Place Royale, the Rings of Buren and the Elephant of Nantes. Drive a Segway to enjoy more comfort and mobility and enjoy a fun outing along the Loire.
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Segway: "The Wide Angle" city tour Nantes - 2H30
Everything you need to see is in this tour !
The city's historical center, Nantes's island, the elephant, the castle and every form of art in Nantes is on schedule for this amazing tour !
Guided by an English, French and/or Spanish speaking guide, you will find exactly what you are looking for !
Book this tour and enjoy the ride ! ;)
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Segway: "The Great Escape" - city tour Nantes - 2H00
Segway guided tours are a very special and surprising way to visit Nantes. It's also convenient in most streets. It makes good memories and allows you to visit a city in a few hours instead of a few days.
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