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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Alsace And Lorraine, France

Must-visit Landmarks

These sites form the core of Metz's visual and historical identity.

The city's heritage spans from Roman times through the medieval period, up to the modern era, each layer visible in its iconic structures.

Main Attractions

  • Metz Cathedral: A Gothic masterpiece, known as "The Lantern of God" for its stained glass.
  • Porte des Allemands: A fortified bridge and medieval city gate.
  • Place Saint-Louis: A charming medieval square in the old town.
  • Centre Pompidou-Metz: A contemporary art museum with striking architecture.

Landmarks & Details

Metz Cathedral

  • Visitor Information: Main nave generally open daily, free entry. Crypt and treasury may have small fees. Check opening hours.
  • Insider Tips: Visit in the afternoon for best light through stained glass. Look for intricate gargoyles.
  • Stained Glass: Features 6,500 sq meters, including works by Marc Chagall.
  • Construction: Spanned over 300 years, beginning in the 13th century.
  • View: Dominates the city skyline, earning nickname "The Lantern of God."
  • Photography: Stunning interior and exterior details.

Centre Pompidou-Metz

  • Visitor Information: Open daily except Tuesdays. Entry fee applies. Check official website for exhibitions and ticket prices. GetYourGuide for tickets.
  • Insider Tips: Purchase tickets online to save time. Explore exterior architecture from different angles.
  • Design: Striking building by Shigeru Ban and Jean de Gastines, with a distinctive undulating roof.
  • Exhibitions: Hosts major modern and contemporary art exhibitions.

This museum expands upon the famous Centre Pompidou in Paris.

Other prominent Landmarks

  • Porte des Allemands: Fortified bridge and medieval city gate, a significant remnant of Metz's fortifications. Free to view. Offers excellent photography opportunities.
  • Place Saint-Louis: A charming medieval square in the heart of the old town. Accessible at all times. Enjoy a drink or meal at cafes here.
  • Temple Neuf: An impressive Protestant church on an island in the Moselle River. Best viewed from bridges or Esplanade gardens, especially at dusk.
  • Place de la Comédie & Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole: Home to the oldest working theatre in France. Picturesque square with river views.

Historical Significance

  • Porte des Allemands:

    Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, illustrating Metz's historical importance as a stronghold.

  • Place Saint-Louis:

    Its architecture transports you back in time, reflecting Metz's medieval heritage.

  • Temple Neuf:

    Its picturesque setting on an island in the Moselle River has made it a symbol of the city's beauty.

  • Opéra-Théâtre:

    The oldest working theatre in France, built in the 18th century, adding to Metz's cultural legacy.

  • Cathedral's Longevity:

    Its construction history showcases evolving architectural styles over centuries.

Museums & Cultural Spaces

Metz offers a range of museums and cultural venues that deepen your understanding of its art, history, and contemporary scene.

Museum Highlights

  • Musée de la Cour d'Or

    The main museum of Metz, housing extensive collections from Roman times to the present day.

  • Archaeological Riches

    Built on ancient Roman baths, whose remains are visible in the basement. Features Roman artifacts, medieval art, and fine arts.

  • Must-See Exhibits

    Explore Gallo-Roman artifacts, mosaics, sculptures, and medieval sculptures and paintings.

  • FRAC Lorraine

    Regional contemporary art collection, housed in a former granary. Blends historic architecture with modern purpose.

  • Conceptual Art Focus

    Focuses on conceptual art and hosts thought-provoking exhibitions.

  • Arsenal de Metz

    Former 17th-century military building, transformed into a prestigious cultural center. Renowned for exceptional acoustics.

Historical Sites

Metz's long history means exploring remnants from various periods, each telling a piece of its story.

Natural Attractions

Metz provides pleasant green spaces and riverfronts for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the main attractions, Metz holds quieter, lesser-known spots that offer unique insights and charm.

Historical Perspectives

Metz’s rich past is evident in its architectural remnants.

  • Roman Vestiges: Traces of Roman Metz, beyond the Musée de la Cour d'Or's crypt. Remains of a Roman aqueduct are visible in Jouy-aux-Arches, a short drive away.
  • Imperial Quarter (Quartier Impérial): Near the train station, a striking testament to Metz's German rule (1871-1918). Showcases grand, monumental German-era architecture contrasting with older parts.
  • Église Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonnains: One of France's oldest churches. Parts of its structure date to a 4th-century Roman basilica. A remarkable site for understanding architectural continuity.

Natural Attractions

Metz provides pleasant green spaces and riverfronts for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment. These natural settings offer a refreshing contrast to the city's historic urban core.

From formal gardens to modern parks and tranquil riverbanks, opportunities for leisurely strolls, cycling, or simply enjoying the scenery abound.

Parks & Gardens

Metz is home to beautifully maintained public green spaces.

Green Spaces

  • Jardins de l'Esplanade: Formal gardens leading to the Plan d'Eau. Popular for leisurely walks.
  • Parc de la Seille: A modern urban park near Centre Pompidou-Metz, with extensive green spaces and an artificial lake.
  • Offers lovely views of the Temple Neuf and a contemporary contrast to historic gardens.

River Activities

The Moselle and Seille rivers provide central features for leisure.

Waterfront Enjoyment

  • Plan d'Eau: Large lake formed by the Moselle, for pedal-boating (in season) and serene enjoyment.
  • Moselle River: Short pleasure cruises operate for relaxed city views from the water.
  • River Banks: Excellent for walking, jogging, or cycling, offering scenic views of the city and its bridges.

Hidden Gems of Metz

Beyond the main attractions, Metz holds quieter, lesser-known spots that offer unique insights and charm.

Uncover Local Secrets

  • Le Graoully: Seek out the statue of the mythical dragon from Metz's legend. A representation hangs in the Cathedral crypt; another is on Rue Taison.
  • Rue des Jardins: This charming, narrow street in the old town captivates with picturesque houses and quiet ambiance.
  • Maison des Têtes (House of Heads): A historic building adorned with intricately sculpted heads on its facade.
  • The "Boucle de la Moselle": A larger loop of the Moselle river outside the city center, offering scenic views and picturesque villages like Corny-sur-Moselle.

Exploring Hidden Gems

These spots offer a different perspective of Metz, away from the main tourist paths.

Tips for Discovery

  • Wandering through the old town's narrow streets often leads to unexpected discoveries.
  • Local guidebooks or tourist office staff may share more hidden spots.
  • These quieter locations are ideal for photography and absorbing local ambiance.

Architectural and Scenic Wonders

Rue des Jardins Charm

  • Offers delightful photo opportunities.
  • Feels like stepping back in time.
  • Captivates with its picturesque houses and quiet ambiance.

Maison des Têtes

  • Adorned with intricately sculpted heads on its facade.
  • Reflects its past as a wealthy merchant's house.
  • A unique architectural detail to discover in the city center.

Exploration Tips

These small actions enhance your sightseeing experience and help you discover more of Metz's charm.

Look Up!

When exploring the Old Town, remember to look up! Many buildings feature fascinating details, sculptures, and architectural flourishes that you might miss if you only look straight ahead.

Wander Aimsly

Some of the best discoveries in Metz happen when you wander without a strict itinerary. Allow yourself to explore side streets and small squares.

Use Local Resources

The Metz Tourist Office is a great source for maps, brochures, and current event listings. Local staff offer helpful advice.

Further Exploration

Guided Tours

Consider a guided walking tour to discover more about Metz's history and architecture from knowledgeable locals.

Book a tour with GetYourGuide

River Cruises

A short boat trip on the Moselle River provides a different perspective of the city's waterfront landmarks.

Explore boat tours

Photography Walks

Metz offers countless photographic opportunities, from its grand cathedral to its charming hidden alleys. Plan a walk around your interests.

Evening Strolls

Many landmarks are beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere for an evening stroll.

Local Events

Check the local calendar for concerts, markets, or festivals during your visit for a truly immersive experience.

Cultural Institutions

Dive into Arts

  • Centre Pompidou-Metz: A hub for modern and contemporary art, featuring rotating exhibitions.
  • Musée de la Cour d'Or: Houses significant archaeological and art collections, narrating Metz's long history.
  • Arsenal de Metz: A premier venue for concerts and cultural events, known for its acoustics.

Historical Sites Highlights

Discover the layers of history embedded in Metz's landscape.

Journey Through Time

  • Roman Aqueduct (Jouy-aux-Arches): Visible remains of ancient infrastructure.
  • Imperial Quarter: Marvel at the grand German-era architecture around the train station.
  • Église Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonnains: Witness one of France's oldest churches, with Roman basilica origins.
  • Porte des Allemands: A medieval fortified bridge, a defensive structure.

Additional Tips

Wear comfortable shoes for walking the city's historic streets.

Consider purchasing the Metz City Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions, as it offers savings.

Metz Must-dos

Make the most of your visit by experiencing these essential Metz highlights.

Cultural Deep Dive

Immerse yourself in Metz's artistic and historical narrative.

Top Cultural Experiences

  • Admire Chagall's stained glass in Metz Cathedral: A truly unique artistic and spiritual experience.
  • Explore Centre Pompidou-Metz: Discover contemporary art in an architectural marvel.
  • Wander the Imperial Quarter: Appreciate the grand German-era architecture around the train station.

Historical Explorations

Walk through centuries of history, from Roman to medieval and beyond.

Historical Sites

  • Visit Porte des Allemands: Walk across this medieval fortified bridge and gate.
  • Discover Musée de la Cour d'Or: Explore Roman artifacts and medieval collections.
  • Stroll Place Saint-Louis: Soak in the ambiance of this charming medieval square.

Outdoor & Leisure

Enjoy Metz's beautiful green spaces and waterfronts.

Relax and Unwind

  • Stroll the Jardins de l'Esplanade: Enjoy formal gardens leading to the Plan d'Eau.
  • Cycle along the Moselle: Enjoy scenic paths along the river.
  • Relax in Parc de la Seille: A modern urban park ideal for recreation.

These activities offer a refreshing break from historical exploration.

Culinary Delights

Savor the unique flavors of Lorraine cuisine.

Taste Metz

  • Taste authentic Quiche Lorraine: The region's most iconic savory tart.
  • Enjoy Mirabelle plums: Fresh in season, or in tarts, jams, and liqueurs.

The local cuisine is a blend of French refinement and German heartiness.

Shopping & Markets

Find local treasures and experience the city's markets.

Find Souvenirs & Goods

  • Visit Marché Couvert: A bustling covered market for local produce and delicacies.
  • Shop for Mirabelle products: Jams, liqueurs, and candies make great gifts.
  • Explore Artisan Shops: Find unique local crafts and pottery in the old town.

These activities showcase the city's lively commercial and artisan spirit.

Beyond the Main Paths

Rue des Jardins

A charming, narrow street in the old town. Captivates with its picturesque houses and quiet ambiance, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Maison des Têtes

A historic building adorned with intricately sculpted heads on its facade. It reflects its past as a wealthy merchant's house and presents an unique architectural detail.

Le Graoully Legend

Seek out the statue of the mythical dragon from Metz's legend. A representation hangs in the Cathedral crypt, and a smaller, more modern statue is on Rue Taison.

Final Tip

Consider visiting Metz during a major festival, like the Fêtes de la Mirabelle in August or the Christmas Markets in winter, for a truly festive and culturally rich experience.