- Place Stanislas in Nancy is one of Europe's most beautiful squares—pure gold and elegance.
- Metz Cathedral has the largest surface of stained glass in the world (the Lantern of God).
- Centre Pompidou-Metz is a masterpiece of modern architecture with great exhibitions.
- Quiche Lorraine comes from here—try the real deal (no cheese in the original!).
- They are only 30 mins apart by train, so visit both.
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When to go: Spring or December
Spring is lovely for the parks. December is magical because of Saint Nicholas (big here) and Christmas markets.
Summer is nice but can be quiet as locals go on holiday.
- Best: May-Jun.
- Winter: St Nicholas (Dec 6).
- Markets: Festive vibe.
Getting there: Train from Paris
Take the TGV from Paris Est. It takes only 90 mins to Metz or Nancy. It's super fast.
There is a regional airport (Lorraine Airport) but the train is usually better.
- TGV: Fast (1.5 hrs).
- Car: Easy drive.
- Regional Train: Connects the two.
Where to stay: Near the Stations
In Nancy, stay near Place Stanislas for the views. In Metz, the historic center or near the station (which is a monument itself).
You can base yourself in one and visit the other.
- Nancy: Place Stanislas.
- Metz: Historic Center.
- Base: Either works.
What to see: Squares and Glass
Nancy: Place Stanislas, Art Nouveau villas (Villa Majorelle), Parc de la Pepiniere.
Metz: The Cathedral, Centre Pompidou, the German Imperial Quarter (near the station).
- Nancy: Art Nouveau.
- Metz: Stained Glass.
- Pompidou: Modern Art.
- Stanislas: UNESCO square.
Food: Quiche and Mirabelle
Eat Quiche Lorraine. Try anything with Mirabelle plums (tart, jam, brandy)—it's the regional fruit.
Nancy has 'Macarons de Nancy' (different from the Paris ones) and Bergamot candies.
- Quiche: The classic.
- Mirabelle: Golden plum.
- Macaron: The original.
- Baba au Rhum: Invented here.
Getting around: Walk and Tram
Both cities are walkable. Nancy has a tram system. Metz has 'Mettis' buses.
Trains run frequently between the two cities.
- Walk: Compact centers.
- Train: Between cities.
- Tram/Bus: Reliable.
Budget: Moderate
Cheaper than Paris. Good value for food and wine.
Museums are reasonably priced.
- Food: Good value.
- Hotels: Affordable.
- Train: Book early.
2 Days: One for Each
Day 1: Nancy. Coffee on Place Stanislas. Walk the Art Nouveau trail. Dinner in the Old Town.
Day 2: Metz. Visit the Cathedral. See the Pompidou. Walk along the Moselle river.
- Day 1: Nancy elegance.
- Day 2: Metz history.
- Transport: 30 min train.
FAQ
Which one is better?
Nancy is more elegant/royal. Metz is more historic/diverse. See both.
Do I need a car?
No, the train connection is excellent.
Is it Germany?
No, but Metz was German for a while, so the architecture is a mix.