Meter starts around €7 right outside T1 arrivals
Taxis line up directly outside the T1 arrivals hall at Nantes Atlantique Airport, about 50–100 meters from the baggage claim exit. Rides into central Nantes usually take 15–25 minutes depending on traffic. You’re paying for time and distance, with the meter starting at roughly €7 and typical fares to the city center running around €25–€35 in daytime.
The taxi rank operates whenever flights are coming in, including late-evening arrivals past 22:00, but you may wait 5–10 minutes if several planes land together. Most official taxis accept cards as well as cash in euros; still, having a €20 or €50 note helps if the card terminal glitches. Look for cars with the official “TAXI” sign and license number on the door before you get in.
From T1 to Nantes train station (Gare de Nantes), expect around 20 minutes on the ring road and a fare in the €30 range in light traffic. For trips to nearby suburbs like Rezé or Bouguenais, rides often fall closer to €15–€25. Drivers are used to handling luggage, and standard sedans usually fit two large suitcases plus two carry-ons without an issue.
Night and Sunday fares run higher, with surcharges that can add roughly 20–30% to a daytime trip, so a late run after 20:00 from the airport to central Nantes can reach €35–€40. Extra fees can apply for more than four passengers or very bulky luggage, so ask for a ballpark amount before the driver pulls away from the curb.
If you need a taxi waiting at a specific time, call ahead to a Nantes taxi company and quote “Nantes Atlantique, Terminal 1” plus your flight arrival time; factor in 20–30 minutes after scheduled landing for bags and the short walk to the curb. One practical tip: snap a quick photo of the taxi license plate and receipt with the printed fare in euros before you leave the car, in case you misplace something or need an expense report later.