Best Places to Visit in Lorraine | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Lorraine Travel Guide
Quick overview of Lorraine with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Lorraine, France, a captivating region nestled in the northeastern part of the country. Known for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and delectable cuisine, Lorraine offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. From the charming city of Nancy, with its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene, to the tranquil countryside dotted with charming villages and rolling hills, there is something for every traveler to discover. Immerse yourself in the region's fascinating past by exploring the historic sites, such as the medieval city of Metz and the iconic Place Stanislas. Indulge in the local gastronomy, which includes the famous quiche Lorraine and the mouthwatering mirabelle plums. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, Lorraine is sure to captivate your senses and leave you with lasting memories.
Lorraine Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Lorraine videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Lorraine in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
Plan Lorraine Trip
Prepare for your Lorraine trip now. Use our trusted partners for great rates and a hassle-free booking experience. Easily book your Hotels now without advance payment and cancel anytime.
Best Places To Visit in Lorraine
1. Nancy: Located in the heart of Lorraine, Nancy is a city that effortlessly blends history and modernity. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting stunning 18th-century architecture and the famous Place Stanislas, a grand square adorned with beautiful fountains and statues. Art enthusiasts will be delighted by the Musee des Beaux-Arts, which houses an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures. Nancy also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous theaters, music venues, and festivals throughout the year.
2. Metz: Known for its stunning Gothic architecture, Metz is a city that will captivate visitors with its impressive cathedral and medieval charm. The Cathedrale Saint-Etienne de Metz is a true masterpiece, featuring intricate stained glass windows and towering spires. The city also boasts a rich history, with remnants of Roman and medieval times scattered throughout. Don't miss the Centre Pompidou-Metz, a contemporary art museum that showcases innovative exhibitions and installations.
3. Verdun: For history buffs, Verdun is a must-visit destination. This small town played a significant role during World War I and is home to the Verdun Memorial, a powerful tribute to the soldiers who fought and lost their lives in the Battle of Verdun. The memorial offers a comprehensive exhibition that sheds light on the horrors of war. Verdun also boasts a picturesque citadel and a charming old town, where visitors can wander through narrow streets lined with quaint shops and cafes.
4. Epinal: Epinal is renowned for its beautiful imagery, particularly its traditional woodcut prints. The Musee de l'Image is a treasure trove of these prints, showcasing the town's artistic heritage. Epinal is also surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Vosges Mountains and the Gerardmer Lake. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, and water sports in this picturesque region.
5. Toul: Situated on the banks of the Moselle River, Toul is a charming town with a rich history. The Cathedrale Saint-Etienne de Toul is a prominent landmark, featuring a unique blend of Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles. The town's medieval ramparts are also worth exploring, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Toul is known for its gastronomy, with numerous restaurants serving delicious local specialties.
6. Pont-a-Mousson: Nestled along the Moselle River, Pont-a-Mousson is a picturesque town known for its impressive abbey. The Abbaye des Premontres is a stunning architectural gem, featuring a beautiful church and tranquil gardens. Pont-a-Mousson is also famous for its artistic heritage, with a long tradition of ceramics and pottery. Visitors can explore the town's workshops and galleries, where they can admire and purchase unique handmade pieces.
7. Bar-le-Duc: Bar-le-Duc is a hidden gem in Lorraine, offering a blend of medieval charm and natural beauty. The town's Renaissance-style town hall is a sight to behold, with its intricate facade and elegant clock tower. Bar-le-Duc is also known for its delicious red currant jam, which is a local specialty. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Ornain Valley, where they can enjoy scenic walks and bike rides.
8. Saint-Die-des-Vosges: Surrounded by the stunning Vosges Mountains, Saint-Die-des-Vosges is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is a gateway to numerous hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of the mountainous landscapes. Saint-Die-des-Vosges is also home to the International Festival of Geography, attracting geographers and explorers from around the world. The festival celebrates the wonders of our planet through exhibitions, conferences, and workshops.
9. Longwy: Longwy is a town known for its fortifications and industrial heritage. The Fortifications of Vauban are a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the town's military history. Longwy is also famous for its enamelware, with a long tradition of producing exquisite handcrafted pieces. Visitors can explore the town's workshops and learn about the intricate process of enamelwork.
10. Thionville: Situated on the banks of the Moselle River, Thionville is a vibrant city with a rich history. The Chateau de la Grange is a major attraction, offering guided tours that delve into the town's past. Thionville also boasts a lively city center, with numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes. The town's beautiful parks provide a tranquil escape, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics.
Hotels Map Of Lorraine
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Lorraine.
Tours And Activities In Lorraine
Check out these Top-Rated Tours and Activities in Lorraine. Read real reviews and highlights.
Food & Drinks To Try In Lorraine
1. Quiche Lorraine: Lorraine is famous for its quiche, a savory pastry filled with a mixture of eggs, cream, cheese, and bacon or ham. The Quiche Lorraine is a must-try dish that originated in this region.
2. Mirabelle plums: Lorraine is known for its delicious Mirabelle plums, which are small, yellow, and sweet. They are often used in desserts, jams, and liqueurs. Don't miss the opportunity to try them fresh or in various culinary creations.
3. Pate lorrain: Pate lorrain is a traditional dish from Lorraine made with puff pastry and a filling of ground pork, veal, and various herbs and spices. It is a popular choice for a hearty and flavorful meal.
4. Quetsch plum tart: Another delightful plum-based dessert from Lorraine is the Quetsch plum tart. Made with a buttery crust and juicy plums, this tart is a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
5. Bergamote candies: Lorraine is famous for its Bergamote candies, which are small, hard candies flavored with bergamot oil. These candies have a unique and refreshing taste that is loved by locals and visitors alike.
6. Munster cheese: Munster cheese is a strong and aromatic cheese that originated in the Vosges mountains of Lorraine. It has a creamy texture and a distinctive flavor that pairs well with bread and wine.
7. Vin gris: Lorraine is known for its Vin gris, a type of rose wine made from red grapes with minimal skin contact. This wine has a light and refreshing taste, making it a perfect choice for a summer drink.
8. Quiche aux Mirabelles: For a unique twist on the classic quiche, try the Quiche aux Mirabelles. This sweet version of the quiche is made with Mirabelle plums and a custard-like filling, creating a delicious dessert.
9. Baba au rhum: Although not exclusive to Lorraine, the Baba au rhum is a popular dessert in this region. It is a small yeast cake soaked in rum syrup and often served with whipped cream or fruit. Indulge in this boozy treat during your visit.
10. Cider: Lorraine is known for its production of cider, a refreshing alcoholic beverage made from fermented apple juice. Enjoy a glass of crisp and fruity cider to complement your meal or simply as a refreshing drink on a warm day.
Best Time To Visit Lorraine
The best time to visit Lorraine, France is during the spring and summer months. The region experiences a temperate climate with mild temperatures during these seasons. Spring, from April to June, is a great time to visit as the weather is pleasant and the countryside is in full bloom with colorful flowers. Summer, from July to August, is also a popular time to visit as temperatures are warmer and there are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the picturesque villages. It is important to note that Lorraine can get crowded during the summer months, so it is advisable to book accommodations in advance.
Flight Calendar For Lorraine
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Lorraine.
Transportation To Lorraine
There are several transportation options to Lorraine, France.
1. By Air: The nearest major airport is Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport (ETZ), which is located in the region. From there, you can take a taxi or public transportation to your destination in Lorraine.
2. By Train: Lorraine is well-connected by train. You can take a train from major cities in France, such as Paris, to cities like Nancy or Metz in Lorraine. The train journey is comfortable and offers scenic views of the countryside.
3. By Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and drive to Lorraine. The region is well-connected by highways, making it easy to reach from other parts of France or neighboring countries.
4. By Bus: There are also bus services available to Lorraine from various cities in France. Companies like FlixBus offer affordable and convenient bus travel options.
Once you arrive in Lorraine, you can use public transportation, such as buses or trains, to get around the region and explore its various cities and attractions.