A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Leipzig vs. Nantes for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Leipzig or Nantes?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Leipzig or Nantes, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a growing, dynamic, and cultural city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Nantes

Nantes is a friendly, historical, and beautiful city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Leipzig and Nantes: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Leipzig or Nantes?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Nantes than Leipzig. While Leipzig is larger than Nantes, Nantes has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Nantes is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Leipzig is more popular for its quaint atmosphere. Leipzig is well known for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner. Nantes is well known for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. Also, Nantes is famous for The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany.

How is Leipzig different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nantes and Leipzig. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Leipzig or Nantes?

Leipzig
Nantes

Spend time exploring the superb sights and museums in either Leipzig or Nantes.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Leipzig can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Nantes. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.


Is the Food Better in Leipzig or Nantes? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Leipzig
Nantes

Nantes is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantes is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Leipzig or Nantes Better for Nightlife?

Leipzig
Nantes

Nantes is great for nightlife. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Nantes for the nightlife scene. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Leipzig. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Leipzig or Nantes Better for its Old Town?

Leipzig
Nantes

Nantes is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Nantes is a good destination for visiting its old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Leipzig or Nantes?

Leipzig
Nantes

If you're looking to go shopping, Leipzig and Nantes both offer plenty of superb spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Leipzig. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

Nantes is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Is Leipzig or Nantes Better for Families?

Leipzig
Nantes

Nantes is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Nantes is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

Leipzig is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Is Leipzig or Nantes Better for Couples?

Leipzig
Nantes

Nantes is great for romance. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Nantes is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.


Is Leipzig or Nantes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Leipzig
Nantes

Leipzig is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Leipzig. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Leipzig or Nantes Better for Students?

Leipzig
Nantes

Nantes is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Nantes. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Leipzig is not popular with students.

Is Leipzig or Nantes Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Leipzig
Nantes

Leipzig and Nantes both offer superb public transit to get you around.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Leipzig. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

Public transit in Nantes can get you to some places easily. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).


Is Leipzig or Nantes a more walkable city?

Leipzig
Nantes

Nantes is great for its walkability. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Nantes is very walkable. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Leipzig Worth Visiting? and Is Nantes Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantes or Leipzig?

How long in Leipzig or Nantes?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Leipzig and Nantes. In our opinion, Nantes has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nantes than Leipzig. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Leipzig, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nantes.

Families should spend more time in Nantes than Leipzig. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Nantes, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Nantes than Leipzig. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nantes that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nantes than Leipzig if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Nantes.


  • How many days in Leipzig or Nantes? Ideal Length of Stay
    Leipzig 1-3 
    Nantes 2-3

One day in Leipzig or Nantes?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Leipzig. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Nantes, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Leipzig or Nantes?

Leipzig is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Nantes, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nantes has to offer.


Five days in Leipzig or Nantes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Leipzig. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nantes is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Leipzig or Nantes?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the dynamic destination of Leipzig. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantes. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nantes. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Nantes or Leipzig?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Leipzig is €166, while the average daily cost in Nantes is €108. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Leipzig and Nantes in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Leipzig 91
    Nantes 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Leipzig 182
    Nantes 120
Compare Hotels in Leipzig and Nantes

Looking for a hotel in Leipzig or Nantes? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Leipzig


Hotels in Nantes


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Leipzig Hotel Prices and Nantes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Leipzig 27
    Nantes 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Leipzig

Also for Leipzig, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83
  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nantes

Also for Nantes, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Nantes Atlantique Airport NTE to Puy du Fou Park: $174
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Hotels to La Rochelle Cruise Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Airport (NTE) to La Rochelle Port: $88
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes city centre to Nantes Airport: $65
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes Airport to City centre: $65
  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $52
  • Private Transfer from Airports to Nantes: $33
  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $26
  • Nantes to Nantes Airport (NTE) - Departure Private Transfer: $26

Is it cheaper to fly into Leipzig or Nantes?

Prices for flights to both Nantes and Leipzig change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Leipzig 53
    Nantes 27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

For Leipzig, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nantes

For Nantes, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nantes Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Nantes Old Town with Local Guide: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Leipzig 36
    Nantes 13

Tours and Activities in Leipzig

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Leipzig.

  • 1.5-Hour Historical Tour of Leipzig with Costumed Guide: $21
  • 2 hours Leipzig exclusive: Private city tour with Panorama Tower: $217
  • Big city tour Leipzig Hop on hop off: $20
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig Südvorstadt - independent discovery tour: $43
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig city center - independent city tour: $43
  • City tour by motorboat: $17
  • City tour on foot, by S-Bahn and tram: $24
  • Combo Tour in Guided City Tour & City Sightseeing: $21
  • Corpses, Leprosy, Lucifer 75-minute Tour at the Old Cemetery: $18
  • From Day Tour to the Green Belt: $631
  • From Markkleeberg: Full-Day Guided Cycling Tour by the Lakes: $48
  • Gruseltour Leipzig 90-minute walking tour about the Dark Secrets of Leipzig: $19

Tours and Activities in Nantes

For Nantes, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Exploring London's Natural Marvels: Museum Adventure: $83
  • Guided treetop adventure course in the heart of Nantes: $31
  • Half-Day Tour in Nantes: $291
  • Nantes : Must-see Attractions Walking Tour: $75
  • Nantes : Private Walking Tour With A Local : $51
  • Nantes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Nantes Private Guided Walking Tour: $307
  • Nantes Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Nantes Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Panoramic Tour by Electric Bike: $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Leipzig 26
    Nantes 6.43

Sample the Local Flavors in Nantes

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nantes:

  • Château du Bois-Huaut: Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting Class: $35


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Leipzig and Nantes, we can see that Leipzig is more expensive. And not only is Nantes much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nantes would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nantes and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Leipzig would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Leipzig than you might in Nantes.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Leipzig Expensive? and Is Nantes Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Leipzig or Nantes?

Leipzig has a larger population, and is about 82% larger than the population of Nantes. When comparing the sizes of Leipzig and Nantes, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Leipzig or Nantes?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Leipzig or Nantes in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Leipzig and Nantes. The summer months attract visitors to Leipzig because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nantes this time of year.

In July, Leipzig is generally around the same temperature as Nantes. Daily temperatures in Leipzig average around 19°C (67°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nantes this time of the year. In Leipzig, it's very sunny this time of the year. Leipzig usually receives less sunshine than Nantes during summer. Leipzig gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Leipzig usually receives more rain than Nantes. Leipzig gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F) 
    Nantes 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Leipzig or Nantes in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Leipzig as well as Nantes. The shopping scene are the main draw to Leipzig this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Nantes for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Leipzig is cooler than Nantes in the autumn. The daily temperature in Leipzig averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Nantes fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Leipzig often gets less sunshine than Nantes. Leipzig gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun.

Leipzig usually gets less rain in October than Nantes. Leipzig gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Leipzig 11°C (52°F) 
    Nantes 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Leipzig or Nantes in the Winter?

Both Nantes and Leipzig are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Leipzig for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Nantes in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Leipzig. In the winter, Leipzig is much colder than Nantes. Typically, the winter temperatures in Leipzig in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Nantes averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Leipzig usually receives less sunshine than Nantes during winter. Leipzig gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 72 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Leipzig usually receives less rain than Nantes. Leipzig gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Leipzig 1°C (33°F) 
    Nantes 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Leipzig or Nantes in the Spring?

Both Nantes and Leipzig during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, most visitors come to Nantes for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Leipzig is generally cooler than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Leipzig average around 10°C (49°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Leipzig often gets less sunshine than Nantes. Leipzig gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun.

Leipzig usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Nantes. Leipzig gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F) 
    Nantes 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Nantes and Leipzig

Leipzig Nantes
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Feb 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)