Situated in the north-east of France, and only 85 mins from Paris by train, Metz, city of lights, is the perfect sized town for a short break. Its combination of lively shopping streets and riverside walks make it ideal for pedestrians, cyclists and those in search of a mix of amusement and relaxation.
Solar-powered boat trips on the Moselle get close to nature and give new perspectives over the city. While family-friendly parks and gardens are part of the city lifestyle, just like the animated terraces, cafés and bars.
The past and the future meet in the city’s well-preserved buildings and newly developing quarters with signature buildings by award winning architects including Shigeru Ban, Christian de Portzamparc and Rudy Ricciotti. This forms the backdrop to the many street fairs and festivities like the summer Mirabelle Festival with its outdoor concerts, the Constellations de Metz international digital art festival and the renowned Christmas Markets.
The Cour d’Or Museum has rich collections telling the long history of Metz, and the numerous art galleries display the latest in contemporary art, like the Centre Pompidou-Metz with its unmissable programme of innovative modern and contemporary art exhibitions.
Good quality food is easy to find. The Covered Market, patisseries, cosy tea rooms and the many restaurants serve local and international delicacies for every budget.
Don’t miss out on an evening stroll to see St Etienne’s Cathedral, the Temple Neuf and the other city monuments lit up a night, it’s a fine way to end the day.
Best hotel deals
in Metz
8.2
ibis Style Metz Centre ★★★
Located near the train station
Breakfast, good location, nice building
8.5
Hôtel de la Cathédrale ★★★
The Cathedral Square is 100m away
This hotel has an excellent location score of 9.6
8.7
La Citadelle - MGallery ★★★★
Great location to discover the town centre
Location, large rooms, breakfast
8.1
Odalys City Metz
10-minute walk from Saint-Vincent Church
Kitchenette, fitness room, parking
8.1
Metz
image gallery
Top things to do
in Metz
Historic heart
Stroll through the town and through the ages. Lose yourself in the picturesque medieval streets of the Colline Sainte Croix, be delighted by the elegant 18th century classical style squares or go back to the eclecticism of the beginning of the 20th century and its mix of styles in the Imperial district.
Artistic inspiration
Be inspired by the wealth of art on display in the city, in the streets, in the buildings …everywhere you go. And music is in the air at the Cité Musicale and opera venues, Metz is a Unesco Creative City for music. Take a look inside the Cathedral, where Medieval and Renaissance stained glass windows rub shoulders with vibrant modern ones. You’ll see windows by Marc Chagall, Jacques Villion, Roger Bissière and Kimsooja, or go along to St Maximin’s church to see Jean Cocteau’s magnificent pastel coloured works. The FRAC and the Centre Pompidou-Metz are among the galleries that will inspire and delight your artistic sensibilities, open your mind and go on in!
Tasty treats
Food glorious food, whether you’re sweet or savoury there’s something for you. Our Mirabelle plum tart is a dream, the pâté Lorrain not to be missed and if you want to be traditional go for the quiche Lorraine. You won’t be able to stay away from the patisseries and restaurants, the famous French gastronome François Rabelais stayed here 2 years to make the most of them!
City Gardens in Metz
Urban ecology is about integrating nature into the town and in Metz, trees, rivers and parks are part of city life. Our riversides and green spaces are great for walks, sport, kids’ playgrounds and picnics, not to mention the ducks, swans and insects that share our environment. Add to this the sustainable gardening techniques in place and you’re sure to get a breath of fresh air while enjoying nature at a stone’s throw from the city centre.
All good reasons why Metz has the label Destination Innovante Durable.
City Pass – the best value way to visit
A low-cost way to visit the key museums and historic sites with reductions at selected restaurants, bars and cafés. Pick one up at the Tourist Office or online.
