In an article for the Independent, journalist Nicola Barranger said that after undergoing a huge regeneration programme, Nantes is now "blooming".
She explained that the city is "the heart of crepe and cider country", which together make an excellent lunch.
Even breakfast is a treat in the city, with fresh juice, toast, chocolate croissants and other tasty pastries as well as creme caramel, all on the menu.
Ms Barranger recommended a visit to the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, which houses a museum outlining the history of the city from the Middle Ages.
Following this, tourists should head north past the Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul and west into the heart of the old city.
"There are plenty of meandering streets to explore here," she remarked.
As for festivities, those visiting in August will be able to attend the Les Rendez-Vous de L'Erdre, which sees numerous jazz and blues musicians and singers perform along a three-kilometre stretch of the riverbank.
Families can stop off in Nantes during a boating holiday in Brittany. Cruises are available from the marinas at Messac, Nort-sur-Edre and Dinan.
