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20 Things to See and Do in Metz
In the heart of northeastern France lies the city of Metz, a destination that effortlessly combines history, culture, and a touch of contemporary charm. Strolling through the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town, you’ll find yourself surrounded by centuries-old architecture, with the majestic Cathedral of Saint Stephen dominating the skyline. As you explore its interior, don’t miss the ethereal beauty of the stained glass windows.
For a more tranquil experience, the Parc de la Seille provides a serene escape, with its green expanses and gentle water features. In this article 20 Things to See and Do in Metz we list the best things to do in Metz.
1. Get a City Map at The Tourist Office
When wandering the streets of Metz, be sure to make a pit stop at the tourist office to acquire a city map. Nestled in the heart of this historical city, the tourist office is near the City Hall. The staff at the tourist office can provide you with a detailed map, guiding you through Metz’s architectural treasures, cultural hotspots, and hidden gems. It’s a practical companion for your exploration, ensuring you won’t miss out on the city’s rich history and contemporary allure. So, take a moment to step in, grab a map, and embark on your Metz adventure with confidence.
Location: Place d’Armes
2. Visit Cathedrale Saint-Etienne
A visit to Metz would be incomplete without exploring the majestic Cathedral Saint-Étienne. This architectural masterpiece, steeped in centuries of history, stands as a silent witness to the city’s evolution. As you approach its impressive facade, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details and the imposing beauty of its gothic structure. Inside, the cathedral houses a collection of stained glass windows, each telling a story of bygone eras and artistic achievement. Don’t forget to gaze up at the awe-inspiring vaulted ceilings that seem to touch the heavens. The Cathedral Saint-Étienne offers a serene retreat from the hustle of the city, inviting you to reflect on the craftsmanship and spirituality that have shaped Metz over the years. It’s a cultural and historical journey wrapped in stone and glass, waiting to be explored.
Location: Place d’Armes
3. Stroll at the Marche Couvert
When in Metz, a visit to the Marché Couvert is a sensory journey through local flavors and the heartbeat of the city’s culinary scene. This covered market, nestled in the heart of Metz, is not just a place to shop for fresh produce, meats, and artisanal treats; it’s an experience that immerses you in the daily rhythm of local life. Stroll through the aisles, where the aromas of freshly baked bread and aromatic spices mingle in the air.
Engage with the friendly vendors who are not just purveyors of goods but also the storytellers of the region’s gastronomic heritage. The Marché Couvert invites you to discover the authentic flavors that define Metz’s culinary identity. It’s a culinary adventure waiting to unfold under the roof of this busy market.
Location: Rue D’Estrees 15
4. Spend the night in Metz
5. Enjoy Place de la Comédie
A visit to Metz wouldn’t be complete without taking a stroll through the charming Place de la Comédie. This bustling square is a hub of local life, surrounded by a blend of architectural styles (Opera) that mirror the city’s rich history. As you stroll along, you’ll find yourself amidst a mix of quaint cafes, inviting shops, and the subtle hum of daily activity. Sit on one of the benches, sip a coffee, and absorb the laid-back ambiance. The Place de la Comédie is more than just a square; it’s a snapshot of Metz’s daily rhythm, where the past and present seamlessly converge in a historic and contemporary setting. It’s an ideal starting point for exploring the city’s character, offering a glimpse into the daily life that defines Metz.
Location: Place de la Comédie
6. Visit Le Temple Neuf
A visit to Metz would be incomplete without a stop at Le Temple Neuf. It is a Protestant church, standing proudly on the banks of the Moselle River. As you approach its graceful façade, take note of the harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic influences. Originally built in the late 19th century, Le Temple Neuf has weathered the passage of time with grace and poise. Once inside, the serene atmosphere encourages quiet reflection, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city beyond its walls.
Location: Place de la Comédie
7. Walk along Canal de la Moselle
Taking a walk along the Canal de la Moselle in Metz offers a tranquil escape from the urban hustle. The canal, gracefully winding through the city, provides a picturesque setting for a stroll. As you walk along the towpaths, shaded by a canopy of trees, you’ll witness a peaceful convergence of nature and urban life. Keep an eye out for the charming boats moored along the water‘s edge. This idyllic pathway invites you to explore Metz at your own pace, providing a quiet retreat where the city’s rhythm takes on a more subdued melody. The Canal de la Moselle shows a scenic tapestry, weaving together the city’s past and present in a calm and unhurried ambiance.
Location: Canal de la Moselle
8. Explore Esplanade
A visit to the Esplanade in Metz promises a delightful blend of greenery and urban charm. This expansive open space, nestled within the city, provides a refreshing escape for those looking to explore at a more relaxed pace. Lined with stately trees and manicured lawns, the Esplanade offers a serene setting for a stroll or a moment of quiet contemplation.
As you wander through this green oasis, you’ll discover a balance between nature and the city’s architectural elements, with historical structures framing the landscape. The Esplanade serves as a versatile canvas, hosting events, picnics, and casual gatherings, making it a dynamic space that adapts to the diverse rhythms of Metz.
Location: Jardin de l’Esplanade
9. Book a tour
10. Temple de la Garnison
The Temple de la Garnison in Metz stands as a somber yet intriguing architectural presence in the city. Originally built as a garrison church in the mid-19th century, its stoic façade echoes the solemn history associated with military service. The temple, although not typically bustling with the vivacity of some of Metz’s other landmarks, holds a certain gravitas that speaks to its role in the city’s past.
Location: Rue de la Piscine
11. Arsenal
In the heart of Metz, the Arsenal stands as a formidable cultural institution with a story to tell. Originally constructed as a military warehouse in the 19th century, this imposing structure has evolved into a vibrant cultural venue. The Arsenal, with its red-brick exterior, beckons visitors to explore its historical significance and artistic offerings. Today, it houses a concert hall, exhibition spaces, and a theater, making it a multifaceted destination for those with an appreciation for the arts.
Location: Avenue Ney 3
12. Place de la République
In the heart of Metz, Place de la République stands as a central hub where the city’s pulse can be felt. This spacious square, surrounded by elegant buildings, serves as a meeting point for locals and visitors alike. The grand fountain at its center adds a touch of classic charm, offering a place to pause and observe the ebb and flow of urban life. Historically, Place de la République has been a witness to political gatherings, events, and everyday moments that shape the city’s narrative. As you wander through the square, take in the architectural details of the surrounding structures, each telling a story of Metz’s rich past.
Location: Place de la République
13. Have a drink at Place St-Louis
Having a drink at Place Saint-Louis offers a relaxed and timeless experience. The square, surrounded by charming cafes and bistros, has an atmosphere that effortlessly combines old-world elegance with modern-day allure. As you settle into a seat, perhaps under the shade of a picturesque umbrella, take a moment to appreciate the historic surroundings.
Place Saint-Louis is not just a location for refreshment but a stage where Metz’s architectural beauty takes center stage. The carefully preserved facades and cobblestone pathways provide a delightful backdrop for sipping on your beverage of choice. Whether you’re people-watching or engaged in conversation, the square’s ambiance invites you to unwind and enjoy a quiet moment in the heart of the city.
Location: Place St-Louis
14. Visit the Church Notre-Dame
In the heart of Metz stands the imposing Notre-Dame Church, a silent guardian of the city’s religious and architectural heritage. With its roots dating back to the 13th century, this Gothic masterpiece commands attention with its soaring spires and intricate detailing. As you approach, you can’t help but marvel at the craftsmanship that went into creating such a dignified structure. Inside, the church boasts a sense of serenity and echoes with centuries of whispered prayers. The play of light through the stained glass windows adds a touch of mystique to the ambiance.
Location: Rue de la Chévre
15. Go shopping at Saint-Jacques
Embarking on a shopping excursion at Saint-Jacques promises a tasteful blend of retail therapy and historic charm. This vibrant district, lined with a mix of boutiques and shops, invites you to explore its diverse offerings. Stroll along the cobblestone streets and peer into the storefronts, each with its unique personality and wares. From stylish boutiques to quaint specialty stores, Saint-Jacques caters to a variety of tastes and preferences.
Location: Place du Forum
16. City Hall at Place d’Armes
At the heart of Metz, standing proudly at Place d’Armes, is the City Hall, an architectural gem that gracefully presides over the square. This historic building, with its impressive façade and intricate details, serves not only as the administrative hub but also as a testament to the city’s rich heritage. As you approach, take a moment to admire the grandeur of the structure, its imposing columns, and the meticulous craftsmanship that adorns its exterior.
Location: Place d’Armes
17. Admire Pont St-George
Spanning the Moselle River with quiet grace, Pont Saint-Georges is a bridge that effortlessly connects history with the modern cityscape. Constructed in the 13th century, the bridge has witnessed the ebb and flow of Metz’s narrative. As you traverse its sturdy arches, take a moment to appreciate the stone structure that has weathered centuries of change.
Its strategic location offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, providing a contemplative spot to soak in the gentle flow of the river and the architectural ensemble that frames its banks.
Location: Pont Saint-Georges
18. Find mural paintings across the city
Metz, with its rich cultural canvas, boasts a collection of mural paintings that silently narrate the city’s tales. Strolling through the streets, you’ll encounter these large-scale artworks, each one a testament to the city’s commitment to public art. From historical depictions to contemporary expressions, these murals inject vibrant splashes of creativity onto the urban landscape.
Keep an eye out for these visual storytellers, often tucked away in unexpected corners or proudly adorning building facades. It’s like stumbling upon open-air galleries, where each mural becomes a brushstroke in the larger masterpiece that is Metz.
19. Abbaye Saint-Ernould, Palais de Justice
Nestled within the historical fabric of Metz, the Abbaye Saint-Ernould, Palais de Justice, stands as a captivating blend of sacred and judicial realms. Originally an abbey dating back to the medieval era, the complex transformed to become the Palais de Justice it is today. As you approach, the imposing structure with its intricate architecture immediately commands attention. It’s a place where the echoes of monastic life seamlessly merge with the solemn proceedings of the legal system. Whether you’re drawn to the austere beauty of the abbey or intrigued by the judicial proceedings within, the Abbaye Saint-Ernould, Palais de Justice, is a site where the past and present coexist in a harmonious, albeit solemn, symphony.
Location: Rue Haute Pierre
20. Visit Porte Des Allemands
The Porte des Allemands stands as a formidable sentinel. This medieval gate, constructed in the 13th century, served as both a defensive stronghold and a symbol of the city’s resilience. As you approach, the well-preserved turrets and imposing walls transport you back in time, offering a glimpse into Metz’s medieval past. Originally named after the German merchants who funded its construction, the gate has witnessed the comings and goings of armies, traders, and generations of residents. Today, it remains a stoic guardian, a reminder of Metz’s strategic significance and the architectural prowess of its medieval builders.
Location: Bd André Maginot
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