Things To Do
in Metz
Metz sits on the Moselle River in northeastern France, where Roman and medieval heritage meet modern culture. The city is renowned for its Gothic cathedral, the Porte des Allemands, and the modern Centre Pompidou-Metz. Its riverfront walks, expansive parks, and lively markets invite leisurely exploration.
Metz rewards slow wandering with memorable food, architecture, and art at every turn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Metz Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Spend some time admiring its beautiful stained glass windows and the intricate details that transport you back in time. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the old town, soaking up the architectural marvels.
Head to the Centre Pompidou-Metz for an inspiring experience with modern and contemporary art. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, where you can taste local delicacies, and then take a peaceful walk along the banks of the Moselle River. As the afternoon wanes, visit the nearby Parc de la Seille to unwind amidst nature.
Experience the vibrant ambiance of the city as you dine at a traditional French restaurant, enjoying a meal prepared with fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, consider catching a performance at the Opera-Théâtre de Metz for a night of captivating entertainment. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Metz, where history and modernity blend beautifully.
Begin your day with a visit to the Temple Neuf, a stunning Protestant church that offers a different architectural perspective. Spend time exploring the nearby Hôtel de Ville, the impressive town hall, which boasts beautiful sculptures and a graceful facade. The morning is perfect for a coffee break at a nearby patisserie, indulging in locally made pastries.
Visit the Musée de la Cour d'Or, where you can delve into the archaeological and artistic treasures of the region. After lunch, stroll around the nearby Place d'Armes, taking in the lively atmosphere and unique street performers. If time allows, stop by local shops to find artisanal crafts and souvenirs.
As twilight descends, find a cozy bistro in the old town for a delightful dinner, enjoying local wines with your meal. Consider taking an evening boat cruise on the Moselle for a unique perspective of Metz from the water. Afterward, unwind at a bar or café, soaking in the vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚲Local bike rental (1 day) | $15-25 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $5-9 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Walkable city center with great markets
- Excellent pastries and Lorraine cuisine
- Vibrant cultural scene with museums and events
- Weather can be unpredictable in transitional seasons
- Smaller nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some attractions have limited hours in winter
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Pouvez-vous parler anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est ... ?" - Where is ... ?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Metz
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic masterpiece with soaring arches, stunning stained glass, and dramatic interior light—great for wide shots and detail work.
Historic riverside gate along the Moselle and Seille; especially photogenic at dawn or sunset with water reflections.
Bold modern architecture and color-block facades offering striking contrasts with the old town.
Historic church setting and charming squares ideal for street photography and candid portraits.
Food in Metz
Metz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flaky pastry tart filled with a creamy custard, smoky bacon, and cheese; a regional staple found in bakeries and cafés.
Must-Try!
A comforting pot roast of pork or sausages with cabbage, potatoes, and root vegetables—especially popular in colder months.
A sweet tart featuring the Mirabelle plum, a Lorraine specialty, often available in patisseries and markets in late summer.
A classic savory pie with a creamy chicken and mushroom filling, commonly offered in traditional restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic covered market near Place Saint-Jacques offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and regional specialties.
Casual street bites, crepes, pretzels, and beverages with views of the water, especially on market days and warm evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and address people as 'Monsieur' or 'Madame'.
A light cheek kiss is common among friends; in more formal settings, a handshake is standard.
Keep hands visible on the table; wait for everyone to be served before starting; use polite table manners.
Safety
Tipping in Metz
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included (pourboire inclus). If not included, a tip of 5-10% for good service is customary.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for markets and small shops; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming trees, and pleasant riverfront walks; great for outdoor markets and cafe terraces.
Warm days and long evenings; take advantage of riverside events, outdoor concerts, and extended daylight.
Golden light and harvest markets; Mirabelle season and colorful park foliage create ideal photo opportunities.
Cold but festive; Christmas markets light up the old town, and indoor museums provide warmth and culture.
Metz at Night
Hiking in Metz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested routes and viewpoints within a couple of hours' drive, offering rewarding hikes.
Extensive trails through forests, wetlands, and historic sites in the wider Lorraine region.
Airports
How to reach Metz by plane.
A regional airport near Metz with domestic and limited international flights; accessible by road and rail from central Metz.
A major international hub about 60-70 miles away; good for connections to Europe.
A larger regional airport about 150 miles away; offers several European connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student presence due to universities and the arts scene; diverse across Europe.
Steady mix of families and older residents in the suburbs with traditional Lorraine roots.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The city is passionate about football; matches at Stade Saint-Symphorien draw local crowds.
Popular local activity with bike lanes and scenic rides along the Moselle and Seille rivers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Metz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many markets and cafés offer vegetarian options; look for seasonal vegetable tarts, salads, and cheeses. Ask about quiches or vegetable-based dishes, and choose dishes labeled as vegetarian or fromage-focused.