Nantes is a city where history isn’t just in books — it’s on display in its museums and landmarks. While many travelers focus on its maritime heritage or architectural marvels, history lovers will find plenty to appreciate in its Natural History Museum and other guided explorations. We especially love the Discover Evolution at the Natural History Museum tour for its comprehensive look at Earth’s story, including the iconic blue whale skeleton. You can see why this museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in natural science and history. To get a sense of the museum’s highlights before booking, check out this explorer-friendly experience.
Our list brings together three of the best Historical Tours in Nantes — from detailed museum explorations to focused fossil and gem discoveries, each offering a unique way to connect with the past. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about Earth’s story, these options help you dive into the details with guided insights and memorable sights.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each tour, helping you decide which best suits your curiosities and schedule.
1. DISCOVER EVOLUTION AT THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
For around $172 per person, this guided tour offers a thorough visit to the Natural History Museum’s most impressive exhibits. In just an hour, you’ll explore fossils, minerals, and the star of the show — the blue whale skeleton in Hintze Hall. The tour guides share stories behind the fossils, minerals, and the dramatic forces that shaped our planet, like volcanoes and earthquakes.
A standout feature is the Diplodocus skeleton in the central hall, which visitors often find awe-inspiring — it’s the perfect intro to Earth’s prehistoric past. The Volcanoes and Earthquakes Gallery reveals the power of natural forces, giving guests a memorable sense of Earth’s dynamic history. The Evolution Gallery wraps up the experience by illustrating how life has changed over millions of years, contextualizing everything from fossils to modern species.
This tour is ideal for those who want a rundown in a short time, with excellent storytelling that keeps complex topics engaging. The museum’s exhibits are well-curated, and the intimacy of a guided tour ensures you don’t miss the nuances. At $172, it’s a touch pricier, but for a one-hour deep dive into Earth’s history, it offers good value, especially if you’re looking for a focused, expert-led experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for history and science fans who want a detailed, quick immersion into Earth’s story — especially the marine giants and volcanic forces.
2. DISCOVER FOSSILS & GEMS AT NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
At just $149 per person, this guided tour also lasts about an hour and highlights the museum’s most famous exhibits, like the Diplodocus skeleton and the blue whale. What sets this tour apart is its focus on fossils, minerals, and gemstones — offering a close look at the intricate beauty of minerals and the stories behind prehistoric remains.
Guests get to marvel at the 25-meter blue whale skeleton in Hintze Hall, as well as explore the Volcanoes and Earthquakes displays that explain Earth’s geological forces. The Evolution Gallery helps visitors understand how life adapted over millions of years, making the tour both educational and awe-inspiring. If you’re interested in the sparkly side of natural history, the mineral and gemstone collections are particularly captivating.
This experience is ideal for those who want a balanced tour with a mix of fossils, geological samples, and marine giants. The price is slightly lower than the first tour, offering good value for those who want a broader look at nature’s wonders, especially the mineral displays. Reviewers note the engaging guides and the museum’s stunning exhibits, making it a solid choice for family and solo travelers alike.
Bottom line: A versatile, well-rounded tour suited for visitors wanting a close-up of fossils, gems, and Earth’s geological forces, all in a single hour.
3. LONDON: GUIDED EXPLORATION AT THE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
For about $151 per person, this guided experience takes you on a one-hour journey through the Natural History Museum, emphasizing its prehistoric and geological collections. While the name references London, the experience here in Nantes echoes that same focus on Earth’s ancient past. The tour covers fossil preservation, prehistoric creatures, and geological processes that have shaped our planet.
It’s a good pick if you’re interested in seeing lifelike models of extinct species and exploring how fossils form and are preserved. The guide explains the significance of different mineral types and rare gems, giving you a well-rounded understanding of natural history. The narrative is engaging, with some sharing of personal insights into the museum’s greatest treasures.
This tour is especially suited for those who want a deeper dive into paleontology and geology but prefer a concise, guided format. It’s slightly cheaper than the other two options and offers a focused look at Earth’s history with a strong educational slant. Reviewers mention how the interactive explanations make complex science accessible and fun.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers who want a detailed, yet concise, natural history overview emphasizing fossils and Earth’s geological evolution.
How to Choose Your Ideal Historical Tour in Nantes
When deciding among these options, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re eager for a comprehensive exploration with a focus on evolution and Earth’s forces, the Discover Evolution at the Natural History Museum offers a detailed, curated experience. If you prefer a broader range, including fossils and gemstones, then the Discover Fossils & Gems tour balances price and content well. For those interested in paleontology and geology in a slightly more narrative style, the London-style guided exploration provides a focused, educational experience.
Think about your budget too — with prices from $149 to $172, all tours are affordable for a quality hour of learning. Also, check if you want an interactive experience or a more story-driven tour, which can influence your choice.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak tourist months, to ensure you get your preferred time slot. You can usually find these tours as part of larger museum packages or private bookings, so plan ahead.
In summary, Nantes offers a nice variety of natural history tours that cater to different curiosity levels and interests. Whether you’re captivated by dinosaur skeletons, volcanoes, or precious gems, there’s an option for you. We recommend the Discover Evolution tour for its depth and vivid storytelling, perfect for those who want a quick but memorable overview. For a broader look at Earth’s treasures, the Fossils & Gems tour is a solid pick. And if paleontology or geology fascinate you, the London-style exploration makes for an engaging, educational experience.
Be sure to book early, especially if you’re traveling during busy seasons. With these options, you’re sure to walk away with a richer understanding of our planet’s history and a few memorable stories to share.
