Auberge de Jeunesse HI Nantes is the city's official Hostelling International property, operated by HI France (FUAJ — Fédération Unie des Auberges de Jeunesse) at 9 Boulevard Vincent Gâche in the Saint-Anne district on the south bank of the Loire in Nantes, Pays de la Loire. The hostel occupies a purpose-built facility with a range of accommodation formats: dormitory beds in four- to six-person shared rooms for the most budget-conscious travellers, and private double rooms for those seeking privacy at a still-competitive price point. At approximately €22 per dorm bed and from €52 for a private room, the property represents the most affordable supervised accommodation available close to central Nantes. Communal facilities include a well-equipped shared kitchen for self-catering — an important feature for guests managing food budgets during extended trips through western France — as well as laundry facilities, luggage storage, and a tours desk providing information on Nantes' attractions, regional excursions, and cultural events. WiFi is available throughout the hostel. The Boulevard Vincent Gâche address places the property on the south bank of the Loire, within walking distance of the Île de Nantes arts and creative district, where the Machines de l'Île — including the famous giant mechanical elephant, one of France's most original contemporary public art projects — are a short stroll away. The historic Bouffay quarter and the Château des Ducs de Bretagne are approximately a twenty-minute walk across the river or reachable by tram from the Chantiers Navals stop. Gare de Nantes is accessible by tram in around fifteen minutes. Affiliation with the worldwide HI network means HI members receive a discount on nightly rates; membership can be purchased at the front desk on arrival. The hostel is a hub for backpackers, interrail travellers, cycling tourists on the Loire à Vélo, and budget visitors exploring the Loire valley, the Vendée coast, and the broader Pays de la Loire region. Common areas facilitate social connection between solo travellers, and the tours desk helps guests plan onward journeys and local exploration.
Room types
- dorm bed (4–6 persons)
- private double room
Amenities
- WiFi
- shared kitchen
- laundry
- luggage storage
- tours desk
Location
9 Boulevard Vincent Gâche, 44200 Nantes
47.2053, -1.5609 View on map
Highlights
- Official HI-affiliated hostel on the Loire south bank, steps from the Île de Nantes creative district
- Dormitory beds from approximately €22 and private doubles from €52 — the most affordable supervised option in central Nantes
- Shared kitchen, laundry, luggage storage, and tours desk for budget and independent travellers
- Walking distance to the Machines de l'Île and tram access to Gare de Nantes and the city centre
- HI membership discount available; ideal base for Loire à Vélo cycling travellers and interrail visitors
Tips for visiting
- HI France membership (available at the desk on arrival) provides a nightly discount on hostel rates
- The Machines de l'Île, including the giant elephant, is within walking distance on the Île de Nantes — visit on a weekday to avoid queues
- The shared kitchen is well equipped for self-catering; local supermarkets and the Marché de Talensac are accessible by tram
- Tram from the Chantiers Navals stop (5 minutes' walk) reaches Gare de Nantes in around 15 minutes and the Bouffay centre in around 10
- During the Voyage à Nantes festival in July, the south bank route of public artworks starts close to the hostel — an exceptional time to stay here
Accessibility
The hostel is a purpose-built facility on Boulevard Vincent Gâche. Guests with wheelchair or mobility requirements should contact the property before arrival to confirm accessible room availability and the accessibility of communal facilities including the kitchen, laundry, and common areas.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Do guests need an HI membership card to stay at the hostel?
HI membership is not required to stay, but members receive a discount on nightly rates. Membership can be purchased at the hostel reception desk on arrival if guests do not already have a card.
Is there a shared kitchen available?
Yes, a well-equipped shared kitchen is available to all guests, making the hostel particularly suitable for travellers on tight food budgets who prefer to self-cater during their stay in Nantes.
How far is the hostel from the city centre and main attractions?
The Château des Ducs de Bretagne and the Bouffay historic centre are around 20 minutes on foot or about 10 minutes by tram. The Machines de l'Île is within walking distance on the nearby Île de Nantes.
Is the hostel suitable for families?
The hostel offers private double rooms that may suit small families, but the dormitory format is the primary accommodation type. Families with young children may prefer a hotel; the tours desk can advise on alternatives.
Can luggage be stored at the hostel?
Yes, luggage storage is available at the hostel for guests who need to store bags before check-in or after check-out while continuing to explore Nantes.