Nestled between Alsace, and neighboring Luxembourg and Germany, Lorraine remains France's best-kept secret. From grand Gothic cathedrals to sunflower-dotted canals.

This under-the-radar region blends history, gastronomy, and scenic waterways—all without the crowds. Spend a week exploring Metz and Nancy, drifting along the Moselle River, sampling fruit-filled specialties, and wandering storied villages.

Metz Cathedral

Soaring over Place d'Armes, the 13th-century Cathédrale St-Étienne wows with 6,500 m² of stained glass. Entry is free; audio guides cost €5 (10am–6pm). Marvel at original medieval panels and Marc Chagall's 1963 windows depicting the Garden of Eden. Adjacent, the 19th-century Marché Couvert (8am–1pm, 4pm–7pm) offers fresh charcuterie and cheeses (from €3/100 g) for a riverside picnic.

Pompidou-Metz

South of Gare de Metz, the Centre Pompidou-Metz (€8 adult, 10am–6pm, closed Tuesdays) showcases rotating modern art in a Shigeru Ban–designed pavilion. Temporary exhibitions range from Cubist paintings to avant-garde installations. Nearby, the Musée de la Cour d'Or (€6, 10am–6pm) reveals Roman baths and a 1st-century statue of Isis.

Historic Squares

Wander Place St-Louis, ringed by 13th-century arcades and cafés serving espresso (€1.80) and pastries (€2.50). Cross to Place de la Comédie to photograph the 18th-century Opéra-Théâtre façade and neo-Romanesque Temple Neuf beside the Moselle. Don't miss the German Imperial Quarter—an Art Deco playground—with the Gare (built 1908) and former post office (€0), easily reached on foot or by bus #4 (€1.70).

Metz Greenery

Recharge at the Jardin d'Amour behind Temple Neuf, a quiet 1 ha green haven. Stroll 10 mins to Jardin Boufflers (free), shaded by centuries-old oaks beside the Palais de Justice. For river views, head to Maison de l'Éclusier peninsula, where boats pass under original 18th-century locks. Buses #16 and #17 run every 20 mins (€1.70, 10min ride).

Moselle Cruise

Board Solis's solar boat (€12 adult, €6 child) at Quai des Régates for a 60-min Moselle tour. Daily departures 10am–6pm (April–October) glide past Place de la Comédie and "Little Amazonia," where beavers and kingfishers abound. Combine with Metz Plage—an urban sandy beach free entry—open June–September.

St-Mihiel & Commercy

Drive (A4/E50, 40 km south) or take the TER train (€9, 45 min) to St-Mihiel Old Town. Wander Renaissance hôtels particuliers and visit the American Cemetery (€0) with 4,153 graves around a central sundial. Continue 20 km to Commercy to tour Château de Commercy (€5, 10am–6pm) and taste its famed madeleines at À La Cloche Lorraine (pack of 6 for €4).

Uckange Ironworks

North of Metz (D952, 25 km), Parc du Haut-Fourneau – U4 (€10 guided tour, 9am–7pm) preserves Europe's mighty steel heritage. Explore rusted blast furnaces, conveyors, and ladles on a self-guided 1.5 km loop. After dusk, the site transforms into a sci-fi canvas with dramatic lighting—perfect for photography.

Place Stanislas

In Nancy, step onto UNESCO-listed Place Stanislas, framed by gilded wrought-iron gates (free) and rococo fountains. Guided tours (€7, 10am–5pm) reveal the 1755 Hôtel de Ville and Opéra National de Lorraine. Wander through Arc Héré triumphal arch to Place de la Carrière—once a jousting arena—now a tranquil park lined with chestnut trees. Nearby cafés serve bergamot macarons (€2) for a sweet pause.

Conclusion

From Gothic spires in Metz to Émile-styled neoclassical splendor in Nancy, Lorraine bridges eras with effortless charm. Cruise its gentle rivers, delve into history, and savor regional delicacies—all while reveling in fewer crowds and lower prices. Your next French adventure awaits in the heart of this hidden gem.