Metz travel guide

Metz boasts a rich tapestry of history that dates back over 3,000 years, making it one of Europe's oldest cities. Originally a Celtic settlement known as 'Divodurum Mediomatricorum', it flourished under Roman rule, becoming a vital military and commercial hub. The city’s strategic location at the confluence of the Moselle and Seille rivers made it a prized possession throughout the centuries.

In the Middle Ages, Metz evolved into a prosperous free city within the Holy Roman Empire, renowned for its strong fortifications and Gothic architecture, including the stunning Saint-Stephen Cathedral with its magnificent stained glass windows.

The city experienced a turbulent period during the Franco-Prussian War and was annexed by Germany in 1871, only to be returned to France after World War I. Metz was again occupied by Germany during World War II and was liberated in 1944. Today, Metz is celebrated for its well-preserved historical sites and vibrant cultural life, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Metz, located in the Grand Est region of France, is a city rich in history and cultural traditions. The residents of Metz take great pride in their heritage, which is reflected in their customs and daily life. When visiting Metz, it's customary to greet people with a polite 'Bonjour' in the morning and 'Bonsoir' in the evening. The French are known for their formality in greetings, so it's advisable to use titles such as 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' when addressing locals.

The city is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, including the Centre Pompidou-Metz, which showcases contemporary art. Metz also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Mirabelle Plum Festival, celebrating the region's famous fruit. Participating in these festivals offers a unique glimpse into local traditions and hospitality.

Dining etiquette is important in Metz. Meals are often leisurely affairs, with an emphasis on savoring food and conversation. It's polite to wait until everyone is served before starting your meal and to keep your hands visible on the table. Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service.

Understanding and respecting these local customs will enhance your experience in Metz, allowing you to connect more deeply with its residents and culture.

The best time to explore Metz is during the spring and early autumn months, specifically from April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), making it ideal for walking tours and outdoor activities. Springtime in Metz is particularly enchanting as the city's parks and gardens, like the Esplanade and the Jardin Botanique, burst into vibrant bloom, providing a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing.

Summer, from July to August, also attracts many tourists due to school holidays and the warm weather, but it can get relatively crowded, and temperatures can sometimes rise above 30°C (86°F). If you prefer a quieter experience, early autumn is excellent for exploring Metz’s historical sites, as the summer crowds have usually thinned out by then. This period also coincides with the Mirabelle Festival in late August, celebrating the region's famous plum with festivities, food, and music, adding a unique cultural experience to your trip.

Winter, from November to February, while colder, offers the charm of Metz’s Christmas market, one of the oldest and most beautiful in France. However, the chillier weather may limit outdoor activities. Overall, for the most pleasant weather and fewer crowds, spring and early autumn are the best times to visit Metz.

One insider tip that locals often share is to explore the hidden gem of the 'Esplanade de l'Arsenal'. While many tourists flock to the well-known spots like the Metz Cathedral and Centre Pompidou-Metz, the Esplanade de l'Arsenal offers a tranquil escape with its beautifully landscaped gardens and picturesque views. Located just a short walk from the bustling city center, this serene park is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a leisurely afternoon.

Locals love to bring a picnic and relax under the shade of the ancient trees, or simply stroll along the pathways lined with vibrant flowerbeds. The area is also home to a historic concert hall, the Arsenal, where you might catch a live performance if you time your visit right. By taking this insider tip to heart, you'll experience a slice of Metz that is both authentic and refreshingly peaceful, away from the typical tourist trails.

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Metz, France. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Metz, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to France. Check out the best things to do in Metz. Compare the rates and services of the 6 types of stays and 3 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Metz with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Metz from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Metz with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Metz travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Metz!

With destinations such as Metz, a trip to France needs no further explanation. Spanning over 643,801 square kilometers, France is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, France has something to enchant every traveler.

In Metz alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Metz Cathedral, Centre Pompidou-Metz, and German Gate. Thus, a trip to France becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, France offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in France. Click or tap the link below to discover more about France and its offers.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Metz, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Metz offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Metz travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Metz.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Metz, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Metz.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Metz is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Metz usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Metz offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Metz and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Metz planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Metz, you'll find 6 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in France can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Metz. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Metz.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Metz in the following sections.

To navigate Metz effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 3 car rental companies in Metz, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Metz start at 35 EUR per day or 242 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Peugeot 208. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Metz, starting at 29 EUR per day or 203 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Metz, France below.

The city of Metz is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in France. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that France has it all.

Each destination in France offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in France that are as magical as the city of Metz. The most popular travel destinations in France are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

Metz offers a variety of transportation options to help visitors navigate the city with ease. The city's public transit system, operated by Le Met' network, includes an extensive bus network that covers Metz and its surrounding areas. Buses run frequently, making them a convenient choice for getting around. For those who prefer rail, Metz-Ville railway station provides connections to major cities like Paris, Luxembourg, and Strasbourg, making regional travel straightforward.

Taxis are readily available throughout Metz and can be hailed on the street or booked by phone or through various apps. They offer a comfortable and efficient way to reach your destination, especially for short trips or when traveling with luggage.

Rental cars are also an option for those who want the flexibility to explore Metz and its beautiful Lorraine region at their own pace. Various international and local car rental agencies have offices in the city.

For a unique local experience, consider renting a bicycle. Metz is a bike-friendly city with numerous cycling paths along the Moselle River and through its picturesque Old Town, providing a scenic and healthy way to explore.

Experience the authentic charm of France by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Metz. Explore other destinations around France with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Metz to other amazing locations in France, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in France for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Metz.