General Information
Metz, the capital of the Moselle department in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. Founded over 3,000 years ago, it has witnessed the rise and fall of various empires, from the Roman Empire to the French Kingdom. Metz is renowned for its medieval architecture, gothic cathedrals, and artistic heritage, and it offers visitors a perfect blend of history, art, and scenic beauty. The city is also a gateway to the Lorraine region and is famous for its beautiful parks, making it a must-visit destination for history lovers, culture enthusiasts, and nature seekers alike.
Location
Metz is situated in the northeastern part of France, approximately 320 km (200 miles) east of Paris and about 50 km (31 miles) from the border with Germany and Luxembourg. The city lies at the crossroads of the Seille and Moselle rivers, offering picturesque views, green spaces, and a tranquil ambiance. Its proximity to these countries makes it an ideal stop for travelers exploring Europe.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- The closest airport to Metz is Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport (ETZ), located around 26 km from the city. It serves a range of European flights, especially from low-cost carriers.
- Alternatively, you can fly into Luxembourg Airport (LUX) or Nancy-Essey Airport (ENC) and take a train to Metz.
- By Train:
- Metz is well-connected by high-speed TGV trains from Paris, which take around 1 hour and 20 minutes. You can also take direct trains from other cities like Strasbourg, Nancy, and Luxembourg.
- By Bus:
- FlixBus and Eurolines operate services connecting Metz with major French cities and international destinations such as Brussels, Luxembourg, and Paris.
- By Car:
- Metz is easily accessible by car, with major highways like the A31 and A4 connecting it to Paris, Strasbourg, and Luxembourg. Driving is a great way to explore the Lorraine region and nearby landmarks.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): Enjoy mild temperatures (10°C – 18°C) and blooming gardens, especially in the Parc de la Seille. Spring is ideal for exploring the city’s parks and outdoor markets.
- Summer (June – August): Warm temperatures (18°C – 25°C) and outdoor festivals make it an exciting time to visit. You can enjoy the city’s events like Metz en Fête, and outdoor concerts.
- Autumn (September – November): The cooler weather (12°C – 18°C) and the golden hues of autumn make it a picturesque time to visit. The harvest season also brings local wine and food festivals.
- Winter (December – February): Winter brings chilly temperatures (0°C – 5°C), but the city transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets and festive decorations.
Key Festivals:
- Metz en Fête (Summer): A grand celebration of Metz’s cultural heritage, with concerts, street performances, and fireworks.
- Christmas Markets (December): Enjoy the magical Christmas markets in the city center, with artisanal goods and local specialties.
- Fête de la Musique (June): A celebration of music, with free concerts and performances throughout the city.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- La Citadelle Metz MGallery: A luxurious 5-star hotel housed in a historic citadel, offering elegant rooms, a spa, and fine dining.
- Hotel Le Jeanne d’Arc: A charming boutique hotel located near the historic center, offering a blend of modern comfort and historic elegance.
- Mid-range:
- Ibis Styles Metz Centre Gare: Centrally located, offering comfortable rooms, a modern design, and easy access to local attractions.
- Mercure Metz Centre: A well-rated hotel with stylish rooms, located close to the Centre Pompidou-Metz and other attractions.
- Budget:
- B&B Hôtel Metz Jouy-Aux-Arches: A budget-friendly option offering basic amenities and clean rooms, located just outside the city center.
- Première Classe Metz-Nord: A simple and affordable choice for budget-conscious travelers.
- Unique:
- Les Chambres de la Cathédrale: A guesthouse located in the heart of Metz with historic charm and panoramic views of the cathedral.
- La Maison de Lael: A cozy boutique guesthouse offering an authentic local experience in a traditional building.
Top Attractions
- Metz Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Étienne): This stunning Gothic cathedral features magnificent stained glass windows and is known for its impressive height and beautiful architecture.
- Centre Pompidou-Metz: A satellite of the Centre Pompidou in Paris, this modern art museum is housed in a striking geodesic dome and showcases contemporary art exhibitions.
- Temple Neuf: A beautiful Protestant church located along the Moselle River, known for its unique architecture and peaceful surroundings.
- Place Saint-Louis: A lively historic square lined with arcades, restaurants, and cafes, perfect for a leisurely stroll or coffee break.
- Parc de la Seille: A tranquil park in the city with walking paths, green spaces, and beautiful views along the Seille River.
- Musée de la Cour d’Or: A museum dedicated to the history of Metz, with exhibitions ranging from Roman antiquities to medieval art.
- Les Arènes de Metz: A Roman amphitheater dating back to the 2nd century, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s ancient history.
- Fort de Queuleu: A historic fortress from the 19th century, offering tours of its military history and fantastic views of the surrounding area.
- Porte des Allemands: A medieval gate and bridge that once protected the city, now a picturesque landmark by the river.
- Le Plan d’Eau: A man-made lake surrounded by walking paths and cafes, ideal for a peaceful afternoon in nature.
Getting Around
- Walking: Metz is a walkable city, and most of its attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the historic center.
- Public Transport: The Metz Métropole bus and tram system cover the city and the surrounding area, making it easy to get around. Consider a Metz City Pass for unlimited travel.
- Biking: Metz is a bike-friendly city, with many paths along the river and around the parks. You can rent bikes through the city’s bike-sharing system.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available throughout the city, and Uber operates in Metz for a more convenient ride.
Local Cuisine
- Quiche Lorraine: A savory tart made with eggs, cream, cheese, and bacon, originating from the Lorraine region.
- Pâté Lorrain: A traditional pastry filled with pork or beef, often enjoyed as a snack or main dish.
- Mirabelle Plums: The region is known for its delicious mirabelle plums, which are used in tarts, jams, and liquors like mirabelle brandy.
- Bouilli Lorrain: A local dish of boiled meats, typically served with mustard and potatoes.
- Champagne and Lorraine Wine: The nearby Champagne region influences the local drinks, and you can find local wines and Champagne at restaurants and bars.
Best Restaurants & Cafés:
- La Table du Sommelier: A gourmet restaurant offering an exceptional selection of wines and innovative French cuisine.
- Le Bouche à Oreille: A cozy bistro offering traditional Lorraine dishes, with a great wine list and warm atmosphere.
- Café des Arts: A charming café in the city center offering light meals and coffee in a relaxed setting.
Shopping
- Les Galeries Lafayette Metz: A large department store offering fashion, beauty, and local goods in the heart of the city.
- Place Saint-Jacques: A historic shopping square filled with boutiques, local shops, and unique souvenirs from the Lorraine region.
- Marché Couvert de Metz: An indoor market where you can buy fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade crafts.
- Les Halles de Metz: A traditional French market offering a variety of gourmet products, including local delicacies and wines.
Nightlife
- La Foudre: A popular nightclub offering live music, dancing, and a vibrant atmosphere for late-night fun.
- Le Saint-Pierre: A historic bar with a wide selection of local beers, wines, and cocktails.
- Le Grizzly: A cool underground bar known for its cocktails and alternative music scene.
- Le Petit Zinc: A cozy wine bar offering a great selection of local wines and a friendly ambiance.
