- Must visit
Musée d'arts de Nantes
Major fine arts museum with collections from Old Masters to contemporary works in a restored palace and modern extension.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lens to Nantes
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$113
Average price
$152
Fastest journey
5 h 2 m
Average duration
5 h 34 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
480 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lens to Nantes is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lens to Nantes will cost around $152 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $113.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Lens for Nantes on Fri, Jun 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 05 the direct trains cover the 480 km distance in an average of 5 h 34 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 2 m .
On Fri, Jun 05 the slowest trains will take 6 h 6 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
5:52 PM5h02Lens10:54 PMNantes$1131One-way0 transfers- 12:14 PM6h06Lens6:20 PMNantes$1911One-way0 transfers
- 5:52 PM5h02Lens10:54 PMNantes$1131One-way0 transfers
- 12:14 PM6h06Lens6:20 PMNantes$1911One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Lens to Nantes
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lens to Nantes among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $51. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $51, and a flight costs an average of $66.
Distance: 298 miles (480 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$125 Average price | $272 Average price | $71 Average price Cheapest | $116 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 41m Average total duration Fastest 5h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 35m Average total duration 12h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 55m Average total duration 10h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Lens to Nantes is a bus with an average price of $71 (€58).
This is compared to other travel options from Lens to Nantes:
A bus is $54 (€44) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lens to Nantes costing on average $125 (€101).
A bus is $201 (€163) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lens to Nantes costing on average $272 (€220).
The fastest way to travel from Lens to Nantes is by train with an average journey time of 5h 11m.
Other travel options to Nantes take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 25m.
Flight takes on average 12h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lens and Nantes including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Lens to Nantes among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 9m sooner (5h 11m by train vs 6h 20m by car). Tickets start at around $125 (€101) compared to roughly $116 (€94) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Lens to Nantes train times
The table below shows live departures for Lens to Nantes trains for today, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:10 AM Lens | 5h10 | 12:20 PM Nantes | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:51 PM Lens | 5h03 | 10:54 PM Nantes | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lens to Nantes by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Fri
Jun 05
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Lens to Nantes
FranceFrance
Trains from Lens to Nantes run on average 9 times per day, taking around 5h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $74 (€60) but you can travel from only $51 (€41) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 18:52. The fastest train covers the 298 miles (480 km) distance in 4h 59m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $51 (€41)
Distance 298 miles (480 km) |
Average train duration 5h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $74 (€60) |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 4h 59m |
First train 4:55 AM |
Last train 6:52 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $51 (€41)
Train companies: Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) from Lens to Nantes trainsSociété Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) trains will get you between Lens and Nantes from $51 (€41). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 52m
Cheapest Price
$168 (€136)
Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Nantes
Things to do in Nantes
Discover the best of Nantes — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Nantes trip today.
- Recommended
Jules Verne Museum
Museum dedicated to Nantes-born writer Jules Verne, with manuscripts, editions, models and exhibits on his imagination and voyages.
- Recommended
Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Nantes
Natural history museum known for zoology, geology and regional science collections, popular with families and curious visitors.
- Must visit
Île de Nantes
Former industrial island turned creative district, known for contemporary architecture, riverside walks and Machines de l'Île nearby.
- Must visit
Bouffay
Historic quarter with medieval street patterns, lively squares and many half-timbered buildings; ideal for wandering on foot.
- Must visit
Jardin des Plantes de Nantes
Large botanical garden by the station with themed plantings, greenhouses, ponds and whimsical installations.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Beurre Blanc
A classic sauce from the Nantes area made with butter, shallots, and white wine or vinegar, traditionally served with local river or Atlantic fish.
- Gluten-free
Sandre au Beurre Blanc
Pike-perch, a freshwater fish from the Loire region, commonly served with beurre blanc; it is one of the most emblematic traditional dishes around Nantes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Muscadet
The famous dry white wine produced near Nantes, especially valued with seafood, shellfish, and regional fish dishes.
L'Atlantide 1874 - Maison Guého
Well-known fine dining restaurant on the Loire with refined contemporary cuisine and a strong local reputation for elegant tasting menus.
Crêperie Heb-Ken
Popular crêperie serving Breton-style galettes and sweet crêpes in a casual setting, a good choice for western French comfort food.
Le Bouchon
Established traditional restaurant in central Nantes known for hearty French classics, regional specialties, and a warm bistro atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate by French standards: groceries and transit are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for sandwiches, kebabs, or simple lunch deals.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4 for an espresso or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving EUR 1-2 in cafés is enough; 5-10% for excellent restaurant service is appreciated, not required.
Naolib Tram & Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.80 EUR
- Day pass
- 6.00 EUR
To the city center
Gare de Nantes -> Place du Commerce, Nantes
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- You can use the same 1-hour ticket on tram, Busway and bus with transfers within the validity period. Buy tickets in advance at machines, retail points or in the official app.
- On many Nantes buses and trams, bank card payment is available via contactless validators, but having the official app or a pre-bought ticket is still useful.
FAQs: Trains from Lens to Nantes
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lens to Nantes by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Nantes, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Lens to Nantes can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $74 (€60), while the average price is around $125 (€101).
The train from Lens to Nantes takes 4h 59m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Lens to Nantes leaves at 4:55 AM.
The distance by train from Lens to Nantes is 298 miles (480 km).
The last train from Lens to Nantes leaves at 6:52 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Lens to Nantes.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lens to Nantes.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lens to Nantes.
The train station in Lens that goes to Nantes is Lens station, which connects to Nantes station.
The cheapest way to get from Lens to Nantes is by bus, with a cost of around $51 (€41).
The train journey from Lens to Nantes offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through charming French countryside, small towns, and agricultural landscapes, making it a pleasant but not particularly dramatic ride.
A day trip from Lens to Nantes is not feasible due to the travel time of 4h 59m and a distance of 298 miles (480 km). However, there are 8 train trips available per day.
In Nantes, you can explore Les Machines de l'Île, featuring mechanical animals and rides inspired by Jules Verne, and visit the Musée d'Arts de Nantes to see European paintings and contemporary works. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Bouffay district with its restaurants and bars, or take a scenic cruise on the Erdre River. Reflect on history at the Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery. Don't miss the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Jardin des Plantes, Passage Pommeraye, and Île de Versailles for a mix of history, architecture, and tranquility.
Two to three days in Nantes is typically enough to explore its main attractions, such as the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, Les Machines de l'Île, and the vibrant arts scene, while also enjoying the local cuisine and atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Lens to Nantes.
Since both Lens and Nantes are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Nantes include Rennes, Angers, Saint-Nazaire, La Rochelle, Le Mans.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Lens to Nantes among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Nantes, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as public transport, markets, and popular tourist sites. Scams involving fake petitions or street performers asking for money can also occur. It is advisable to stay vigilant, avoid displaying valuables openly, and use official taxi services to ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Lens to Nantes
Lens
Nantes
The major train station for departures in Lens is Lens. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lens for your trip from Lens to Nantes.
Lens
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday
- 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday
Number of platforms
5Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Access via Rue de la Gare.
Dining
- Restaurant Le Pain de la Bouche
- Le Tassili
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Hotel Louvre Lens
- Hotel Bollaert
- Hotel de France
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 60 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for trains to regional destinations
- Hall 2: ticket office and waiting area
Public transit options for Lens
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line T1
The major train station for arrivals in Nantes is Gare de Nantes. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gare de Nantes for your journey to Nantes from Lens.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
15Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. Access via Boulevard de Stalingrad.
Dining
- Le Café de la Gare
- La Cigale
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- €0.80
Hotel
- ibis Styles Nantes Centre Gare
- Mercure Nantes Centre Gare
- Hotel Astoria
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 120 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-10 for TGV and regional trains
- Hall 2: platforms 11-15 for local services
- Hall 3: tramway and bus connections
Public transit options for Gare de Nantes
- Tramway: Line 1
- Bus: Several lines available
- Navibus: River shuttle service
Most popular train connections from Lens
More options for your journey from Lens to Nantes
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Nantes and Lens
Most popular train connections to Nantes
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