Things To Do
in Nancy
Nancy is a refined university city in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, renowned for Place Stanislas, a UNESCO-listed square of grand Baroque design. The city blends elegant squares, Art Nouveau architecture, and a lively student atmosphere from Université de Lorraine. Its streets weave between historic palaces, museums, and cozy brasseries, offering a delightful mix of culture and gastronomy.
On day trips, the Lorraine countryside and vineyards beckon with châteaux and scenic rivers, all within easy reach from Nancy’s rail hub.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your visit in Nancy by wandering around the magnificent Grand Place, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful fountains. Take your time to admire the intricate details of the surrounding buildings, including the majestic Stanislas Square. Enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafés while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the square.
After lunch, visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, where you can immerse yourself in an extensive collection of fine arts from the 14th to the 21st centuries. Explore the exquisite paintings and sculptures, and appreciate the artistry of renowned French and European artists. Don’t forget to stroll through the museum’s charming gardens afterward.
Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a local brasserie, where you can savor traditional Lorraine cuisine such as quiche lorraine. As the sun sets, take a relaxing walk along the Meurthe River, appreciating the serene views and the city lights reflecting on the water. End your evening with a nightcap at a cozy wine bar.
Begin the day with a visit to the Palais des Ducs de Lorraine, the historical residence of the Dukes of Lorraine. Marvel at the opulent architecture and the rich history housed within its walls. Spend time exploring the various exhibitions that showcase the region's cultural heritage.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the Parc de la Pépinière, a beautiful public park filled with lush greenery and stunning flower beds. Enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade of the trees, and visit the small zoo located within the park. Revel in the lively atmosphere as locals gather for recreational activities.
For dinner, choose a restaurant in the charming neighborhood of Rives de Meurthe, offering various seasonal dishes. After your meal, enjoy a cultural experience by attending a performance at the Opéra National de Lorraine, where you can appreciate the local performing arts scene. End your evening with a walk back through the city, enjoying the softly lit streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🚆Public transit (one-way ticket) | $2-4 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries for two | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic UNESCO-listed square and elegant historic center
- Strong Lorraine cuisine and seasonal Mirabelle fruit
- Excellent base for day trips to Lunéville, Metz-Nancy-Lorraine airport, and verdant countryside
- Walkable city center with good museums and parks
- Vibrant student scene and cultural events year-round
- Some services can be tourist-focused and a bit slower outside peak hours
- Limited high-end shopping compared to larger French cities
- Parking can be challenging in the old town; public transit is recommended for longer stays
- "Bonjour" - Hello (in the morning)
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
Places to Visit in Nancy
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO-listed Baroque square framed by elegant balconies, fountains, and soft stonework—perfect for dawn light and evening illumination.
An impressive square adjacent to Place Stanislas, with grand façades and archways that make striking photos, especially at sunset.
A lush, historic park with tree-lined avenues, ponds, and a charming walkway along the Meurthe—great for candid nature shots.
An iconic Art Nouveau house and surrounding architecture that showcases Lorraine’s decorative artistry.
Gothic cathedral with soaring arches and stained glass—dramatic interior photography, especially in the morning light.
Food in Nancy
Nancy Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savory custard tart with bacon or pork lardons and cheese, a regional staple often served with a green salad.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked pork, sausages, potatoes, and vegetables in a rustic pot, a classic winter dish.
Sweet tart made with Lorraine’s famous mirabelle plums, a seasonal specialty in late summer.
Colorful, chewy hard candies flavored with bergamot, a beloved Lorraine confection.
Rich meat pâté that reflects the region’s traditional charcuterie.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic covered market offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and local specialties, ideal for a tasting stroll.
A bustling market near the city center, great for picking up seasonal goodies and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say ‘Bonjour’ (or ‘Bonsoir’) upon entering shops; use ‘Monsieur/Madame’ when addressing adults. A handshake is common in formal settings.
Polite conversation and a calm pace at meals; keep voices moderate in public spaces. Dress neatly when dining out.
Respect lines and wait your turn; French etiquette emphasizes order and courtesy in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Nancy
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically included in the bill (applicable as 15% in many places). Rounding up or leaving a small extra (5-10%) is appreciated for good service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still common in markets and small shops. Contactless payment is common in restaurants and transit.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with pastel blossoms in parks; carry a light layer and enjoy outdoor cafés and city walks without heavy crowds.
Warm days with pleasant evenings; potential afternoon storms. Stay hydrated, bring a hat, and explore shaded streets and museums during peak heat.
Lush foliage and harvest markets; cool days with comfortable sightseeing weather. Great for photography in golden hour light.
Cold but manageable; occasional snowfall and festive lights in the squares. Dress in layers and savor warm regional dishes in local brasseries.
Nancy at Night
Hiking in Nancy
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive forest on the city’s edge with networked hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.
Regional park with varied trails, wildlife, and countryside scenery extending into the Lorraine region.
Airports
How to reach Nancy by plane.
Regional airport near Metz, about 40-60 minutes from Nancy by car; good for short-haul flights.
Major international airport about 1.5–2 hours from Nancy by car; convenient for broader European travel.
Major hub with frequent international connections; accessible by high-speed train from Nancy (about 1.5–2.5 hours to Paris).
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large student population thanks to Université de Lorraine, contributing to a lively cultural scene.
Family-friendly neighborhoods with parks, schools, and accessible amenities.
A stable long-term resident base, with healthcare facilities and slower-paced neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Historically strong in the Lorraine region; local clubs and matches draw fans across the city.
Popular sport with local clubs and community leagues.
Ample flat and gentle terrain around Nancy makes cycling a favorite pastime.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nancy.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options; look for quiches, mushroom dishes, and salads. Ask for plates without lardons or pork-based broths, and consider local cheeses and seasonal vegetables.