15 Things To Do in Nancy, France 🇫🇷: Trip To Nancy Must See Attractions

Are you dreaming of a French getaway that’s a little off the beaten path, packed with art, history, and that irresistible café culture? You’re in the right place! This travel guide to Nancy, France is your ticket to discovering everything you need to know before you go—from the city’s jaw-dropping UNESCO squares to its secret gardens, quirky museums, and the best spots for a flaky croissant.

🏡 Where to stay in Nancy:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Best Western Plus Crystal, Hotel,Bar & Spa
• ✨ 5-Star: Hédoné Suite de luxe et Spa privatif
• 🏨 4-Star: Mercure Nancy Centre Place Stanislas
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Lorraine Hôtel Nancy Ouest - Laxou
• 💸 Cheap: Charmant studio avec place de parking
• 🏢 Apartment: The Originals Residence, Kosy Nancy Coeur de Ville
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Hôtel Stanley by HappyCulture
• 🏩 For Couples: Hotel De Guise Nancy Vieille Ville

👩🏻 Best guided tours:

• Nancy Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide from € 140 (⭐️ 5.0/5)
• Intro to Nancy in 2 Hours with a Local from € 52 (⭐️ 4.8/5)
• Nancy Private Guided Walking Tour from € 180 (⭐️ 5.0/5)
• Nancy: Guided Walking Tour from € 15 (⭐️ 4.7/5)
• Nancy CityPass: Visit more, spend less! from € 18 (⭐️ 4.5/5)

Best Things to Do in Nancy, France

1. Place Stanislas

Architectural Marvel. Walking into Place Stanislas for the first time took my breath away. This UNESCO World Heritage site isn’t just Nancy’s crown jewel—it’s one of Europe’s most magnificent squares. The perfect symmetry, gilded wrought-iron gates, and elegant fountains create an open-air museum that feels both grand and intimate. I found myself returning at different times of day to see how the light transforms the limestone facades.

Evening Magic. The square comes alive after sunset with a spectacular light show that projects colorful animations onto the buildings. I sat at one of the terrace cafés with a glass of local Lorraine wine, watching as families gathered and couples strolled across the cobblestones. The atmosphere shifts from touristy to magical as the evening progresses.

Historical Significance. This square connects the medieval old town with the newer city quarters. Don’t miss the statue of Stanislas Leszczynski at the center—the exiled Polish king who became Duke of Lorraine and transformed Nancy into a cultural powerhouse. The square is surrounded by architectural gems including the City Hall, Opera House, and Fine Arts Museum.

⭐ Best activities

• Nancy Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide – The Grand Est town of Nancy is renowned for its atmospheric Old Town, brimming with beautiful baroque and art nouveau architecture. With this walking tour, discover historic landmarks such as Nancy Cathedral, Place Stanislas, and Place de la Carrière on a 2-hour walking tour, and learn all about the city’s fascinating history from your private guide.

2. Parc de la Pépinière

Green Oasis. Just steps from the urban elegance of Place Stanislas, I discovered Parc de la Pépinière—a 21-hectare green sanctuary that serves as Nancy’s lungs. The contrast between the formal French gardens and more natural English-style sections creates a perfect balance. During my visit, locals were playing pétanque, jogging along tree-lined paths, and picnicking on the lawns.

Animal Encounters. The park’s mini-zoo delighted me with its collection of deer, goats, and exotic birds. While modest in size, it’s completely free and perfect for families. I watched children feeding the animals under the watchful eyes of parents—a simple pleasure that transcends language barriers and cultural differences.

Seasonal Delights. Each season transforms the park: spring brings cherry blossoms and tulip displays, summer offers rose gardens and outdoor concerts, autumn creates a canvas of golden leaves, and winter brings a peaceful stillness. The park’s bandstand hosts free concerts on Sunday afternoons during summer months—a perfect way to experience local culture.

3. Basilica of Saint Epvre of Nancy

Gothic Grandeur. The Basilica of Saint Epvre stands as a magnificent example of neo-Gothic architecture that dominates Nancy’s skyline. When I stepped inside, the soaring vaulted ceilings and kaleidoscopic stained glass windows created an atmosphere of reverent tranquility. The contrast between the dark stone exterior and the light-filled interior creates a spiritual experience regardless of your religious beliefs.

Artistic Treasures. The basilica houses remarkable religious art, including intricately carved wooden confessionals and a stunning altar. I was particularly moved by the stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes—when afternoon sunlight streams through them, the entire church is bathed in colorful light. The pipe organ performances during Sunday services are worth experiencing even if you’re not religious.

Historical Context. Located in the heart of Nancy’s old town, the basilica sits on Place Saint-Epvre, a charming square lined with cafés. After exploring the church, I enjoyed a coffee at one of the outdoor tables, watching locals go about their daily routines against the backdrop of this architectural masterpiece.

⭐ Best activities

• Intro to Nancy in 2 Hours with a Local – Start your visit to Nancy with this 2-hour walk led by a Local. You’ll discover its highlights, hidden gems, taste a typical local product, and get practical tips. This is the best introduction to Nancy.

4. Villa Majorelle

Art Nouveau Gem. Villa Majorelle represents the pinnacle of Nancy’s famous Art Nouveau movement. This private residence-turned-museum showcases the “École de Nancy” style in its purest form. I was mesmerized by the organic flowing lines, floral motifs, and functional beauty that define every aspect of the building—from door handles shaped like dragonflies to staircase railings that mimic plant tendrils.

Immersive Experience. Unlike traditional museums, Villa Majorelle offers a glimpse into how Art Nouveau was lived, not just displayed. The furniture, light fixtures, and even bathroom fittings were all designed as part of a cohesive artistic vision. I found myself noticing new details with every turn—stained glass windows that cast colored patterns across wooden floors, ceramic tiles with subtle nature motifs.

Practical Considerations. Due to its intimate size, visitor numbers are limited and advance booking is essential. The guided tour (available in English) provides crucial context about the Majorelle family and their contribution to Nancy’s artistic heritage. Photography is restricted in certain rooms to protect the delicate furnishings.

⭐ Best activities

• Nancy Private Guided Walking Tour – Discover the timeless elegance of Nancy, a UNESCO World Heritage city, renowned for its 18th-century architecture and Art Nouveau heritage.

5. Musée de l’École de Nancy

Art Nouveau Treasury. The Musée de l’École de Nancy houses the world’s finest collection of Art Nouveau masterpieces from the famous “School of Nancy” movement. Walking through the museum, I was surrounded by exquisite furniture, glasswork, ceramics, and textiles that showcase the movement’s philosophy of bringing art into everyday life. The Gallé glass collection particularly impressed me—vases with delicate plant motifs that seem to grow organically from the material.

Garden Inspiration. The museum’s gardens deserve as much attention as the indoor collections. Many Art Nouveau designs were inspired by plant forms, and seeing the actual flora that influenced these artists adds another dimension to understanding their work. I spent a peaceful hour sketching in the garden, trying to capture the same natural curves that inspired Émile Gallé and his contemporaries.

Interactive Elements. What separates this museum from others is its focus on craftsmanship. During my visit, there was a demonstration of glass-blowing techniques used by Nancy’s artisans. Touching samples of materials and seeing the tools used to create these masterpieces helped me appreciate the technical skill behind the beautiful objects. The museum shop offers modern pieces created using traditional methods—expensive but unique souvenirs.

⭐ Best activities

• Nancy CityPass: Visit more, spend less! – Explore Nancy with the CityPass! Enjoy unlimited access to top sites, museums, guided tours, and a tourist train ride, plus exclusive perks at partner merchants. Experience more for less!

6. Porte Désilles

Triumphal Arch. Porte Désilles stands as an impressive neoclassical arch marking the entrance to Nancy’s new town. Unlike many European arches that commemorate military victories, this monument honors local citizens who defended Nancy during the French Revolution. I was struck by the detailed relief sculptures depicting scenes of civic courage and sacrifice.

Urban Crossroads. The arch serves as a geographical and historical dividing line between different eras of Nancy’s development. Standing beneath its massive stone structure, I could look one way toward the medieval old town and the other toward the planned elegance of the newer districts. The surrounding plaza offers excellent photo opportunities, especially in the golden hour before sunset.

Local Life. The area around Porte Désilles buzzes with authentic local energy. Small specialty shops, neighborhood cafés, and weekly markets create a vibrant atmosphere away from the more touristy center. I stumbled upon a wonderful cheese shop where the owner insisted I try several regional varieties before making my selection—a delicious education in Lorraine’s dairy traditions.

⭐ Best activities

• Nancy: Guided Walking Tour – Discover the charm of Nancy from an insider’s perspective on a guided walking tour. Admire its landmarks, enjoy the vibrant culture, and learn about its rich history.

Things to Do in Nancy with Kids

1. Muséum-Aquarium de Nancy

Underwater Adventures. Walking into the Muséum-Aquarium de Nancy with my niece and nephew was like discovering a hidden underwater world right in the heart of the city. Just a stone’s throw from Place Stanislas, this scientific complex houses 57 aquariums filled with colorful fish from around the globe. The kids pressed their noses against the glass, mesmerized by clownfish darting between anemones and seahorses bobbing gently in their tanks.

Interactive Learning. The museum doesn’t just showcase marine life; it transforms children into mini-marine biologists. During our visit, we stumbled upon a feeding session (completely unannounced, which seems to be their style). The staff member explained each fish’s eating habits while answering questions from wide-eyed children. The touch tanks were a particular hit with my nephew, who giggled uncontrollably when feeling the texture of various marine creatures.

Natural History Collection. After exploring the aquatic wonders on the lower floors, we headed upstairs to discover over 600 natural history specimens from across the world. The taxidermy collection fascinated the children—especially the more unusual creatures they’d never seen before. The paleontology section with its fossils and prehistoric remains sparked endless questions about dinosaurs and extinct species.

2. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nancy

Artistic Discovery. The Musée des Beaux-Arts might seem like an unlikely choice for children, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much my friend’s kids enjoyed our visit. Located in a striking building on Place Stanislas, the museum offers a treasure trove of European art spanning from the 14th to 21st century. What made it child-friendly was the museum’s approach to displaying art chronologically, creating a visual timeline that even young visitors could appreciate.

Dazzling Crystal Collection. The highlight for the kids was undoubtedly the sparkling Daum crystal collection in the basement. The way these delicate glass pieces catch the light created what my friend’s daughter called a “rainbow room.” The museum has cleverly positioned some of the displays at child height, allowing younger visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship up close.

Interactive Elements. What truly sets this museum apart for families is its commitment to engaging younger visitors. The museum offers special activity booklets that turn art appreciation into a scavenger hunt. The wrought iron staircase by Jean Lamour connecting the upper floors became an adventure in itself, with the children counting steps and admiring the intricate metalwork.

3. Hall du Livre

Literary Wonderland. Hall du Livre isn’t just a bookstore—it’s a three-floor adventure that captivated my nephew from the moment we stepped inside. Located at 38 Rue St Dizier in central Nancy, this “librairie promenade” lives up to its nickname by offering a delightful stroll through literary treasures. The children’s section is thoughtfully designed with comfortable reading nooks and displays at kid-friendly heights. I watched as my nephew bounced from shelf to shelf, discovering colorful picture books and interactive story collections.

Beyond Books. What makes Hall du Livre special for families is its diverse offerings beyond traditional reading material. During our visit, we discovered an entire section dedicated to educational games, puzzles, and activity books. My nephew was particularly drawn to the “Zoo Matching Games and Book” with its colorful animal illustrations and memory games. The “Telling the time: Book and jigsaw” with its movable clock hands proved to be both entertaining and educational.

International Selection. While most books are in French, I was pleasantly surprised to find a dedicated English-language section with over 300 titles. This makes Hall du Livre perfect for international families or those wanting to introduce children to foreign languages. The bilingual books were particularly popular with the parents I observed, offering a fun way to practice language skills.

Free Things to Do in Nancy

1. Parc Sainte-Marie de Nancy

Green Sanctuary. Wandering through Parc Sainte-Marie feels like discovering a secret garden in the heart of Nancy. As the city’s second largest park at 7.5 hectares, it offers a peaceful retreat just a stone’s throw from the bustling Musée de l’École de Nancy. I spent a sunny afternoon exploring its winding paths, breathing in the fresh air beneath magnificent trees that have stood here for generations. The remarkable weeping sequoia, tulip tree, cedar, and oak create a natural cathedral of greenery that changes with each season.

Natural Wonders. What struck me most was the park’s perfect balance between manicured gardens and wild spaces. The rocky mound with its serene pond became my favorite spot to sit and watch local families enjoy picnics on the expansive lawns. During my visit, I spotted the award-winning Magnolia tree that received the “Remarkable Tree of France”. Its impressive silhouette against the blue sky made for a perfect photo opportunity that didn’t cost a single euro.

Recreational Paradise. Beyond its natural beauty, Parc Sainte-Marie offers plenty of free activities. I joined locals playing pétanque on the dedicated courts, watched teenagers shooting hoops at the basketball area, and smiled at children’s laughter from the playground.

2. Nancy Cathedral

Architectural Splendor. Nancy Cathedral welcomed me with its imposing classical façade, a stark contrast to the gothic churches I’d seen elsewhere in France. Inside, the soaring space immediately drew my eyes upward to the magnificent 15-meter diameter cupola. The light streaming through the windows illuminated Joseph Jacquart’s breathtaking fresco—a celestial glory featuring 150 figures from the Old and New Testaments gathered around the Holy Trinity. I stood transfixed, neck craned upward, absorbing the artistic masterpiece above me.

Artistic Treasures. Moving through the cathedral, I discovered a wealth of artistic details that tell stories of faith and history. The large paintings by Claude Charles, a Nancy native, adorn the apse with scenes depicting Saint Sigisbert’s life—his crowning and his charity toward the poor. In the right minor apse, a powerful Christ on the Cross commands attention with its emotional intensity. What makes this experience so special is the ability to appreciate world-class art in its intended sacred setting without paying museum entrance fees.

Musical Heritage. The cathedral’s magnificent organ caught my attention as I was leaving. Built by the Dupont brothers and later expanded by the famous Aristide Cavaillé-Coll, this 32-foot instrument dominates the loft above the entrance.

3. Porte de la Craffe

Medieval Marvel. Standing before Porte de la Craffe, I felt transported back in time. As Nancy’s oldest remaining fortification, built in the 14th and 15th centuries, this imposing gate serves as the perfect introduction to the Old Town. Its twin towers and pointed arches create a dramatic entrance that frames the Grande Rue perfectly. I ran my hands along the ancient stonework, imagining the countless people who had passed through this gateway over the centuries—from medieval merchants to revolutionary soldiers.

Dark History. The gate’s history as a former prison until the 19th century adds a layer of intrigue to its imposing architecture. Walking through the passageway, I couldn’t help but think about the prisoners who once occupied these towers under much less pleasant circumstances. The Notre-Dame gate lying behind it once doubled the city’s defenses at this strategic point.

Atmospheric Explorations. After admiring the gate itself, I continued along Grande Rue into the heart of the Old Town. The contrast between the medieval architecture here and the classical elegance of Place Stanislas creates a fascinating journey through different eras of Nancy’s development. Small specialty shops line the street, offering unique souvenirs and local products.

Seasonal Activities

Christmas

Festive Transformation. Nancy transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the Saint Nicholas festivities, which run from November 22 to January 5. Last December, I wandered through the illuminated Place Stanislas, where a majestic Christmas tree dominated the square, its lights reflecting off the golden gates. The atmosphere was electric—families gathered around food stalls, the air filled with the sweet scent of gingerbread and mulled wine.

Saint Nicholas Markets. The main Saint Nicholas village on Place Charles III captivated me with its more than 60 wooden chalets nestled between the covered market and Saint-Sébastien shopping center. Local artisans sold everything from handcrafted ornaments to regional delicacies. I spent hours browsing unique gift ideas and sampling local products—the foie gras crème brûlée at the Village Under The Craffe Gate was an unexpected delight!

Weekend Celebrations. The highlight of the season is undoubtedly the first weekend in December, when the streets flood with parades, processions, and music. I joined thousands of spectators lining the route as elaborate floats passed by, accompanied by costumed performers and marching bands. The sound and light show projected onto the buildings of Place Stanislas told the legend of Saint Nicholas through vibrant animations.

Summer

Sound and Light Spectacle. On a warm June evening, I joined the crowd gathering in Place Stanislas as dusk fell. From mid-June to mid-September, the square hosts a breathtaking sound and light show projected onto five facades. I watched in awe as the buildings transformed through colorful animations telling Nancy’s rich history. The show begins around 10:15 PM in late June (earlier as summer progresses), and the 86 performances scheduled for run until September 10. Finding a good viewing spot early is essential—I arrived 30 minutes before and secured a perfect position near the central statue.

Festival Season. Nancy buzzes with energy during summer, with events scattered throughout the city. This year, the Nancy Open Air event will bring seven major shows to the Zénith du Grand Nancy from June 17 to July 8, featuring popular artists like Aya Nakamura and Soprano. When I attended last year, the outdoor venue created a perfect summer concert atmosphere. The Fête de la Musique on June 21 fills every corner of Nancy with free concerts—I stumbled upon everything from classical quartets in hidden courtyards to rock bands in bustling squares.

Deux Rives Beach. My favorite summer discovery was Deux Rives beach, open from June 17 to September 2. This urban beach transforms a section of Nancy into a holiday resort with swimming areas, deckchairs, and regular concerts. I spent a scorching afternoon cooling off in the water before relaxing with a cold drink while watching a local band perform. The atmosphere combines the relaxed vibe of a beach holiday with the cultural richness of city life. Don’t miss the Bastille Day fireworks on July 14, which will be fired near Nancy Thermal—the display reflected in the water creates a double spectacle.

Spring

Springtime Blossoms. April in Nancy brought me one of the most delightful experiences of my travels through France. The city awakens from winter with an explosion of color—cherry blossoms frame the elegant architecture, and tulips create rainbow patterns in the parks. My morning walks through Parc de la Pépinière were a sensory delight, with the fresh scent of flowers carried on the spring breeze. The locals affectionately call this park “la Pep,” and it truly functions as the city’s lungs with its 21 hectares of greenery.

Spring Funfair. The highlight of spring in Nancy is undoubtedly the massive funfair that takes over Cours Léopold in April. I spent an evening navigating through one of France’s largest funfairs, trying my luck at games and braving some of the more adventurous rides. The mix of traditional carousels and modern thrill rides creates an atmosphere that appeals to all ages. The scent of cotton candy and caramelized almonds filled the air as families and teenagers alike enjoyed this annual tradition.

Art Nouveau in Bloom. Spring offers the perfect conditions to explore Nancy’s famous Art Nouveau district. I discovered that the organic, flowing lines of this architectural style seem even more appropriate when surrounded by fresh foliage and flowers. The Olry Park area near St. Pierre Church was particularly stunning in spring light. Many Art Nouveau buildings feature floral motifs that seem to come alive when the real flowers bloom alongside them—creating a harmonious dialogue between architecture and nature that’s unique to springtime in Nancy.

Autumn

Ephemeral Garden. My autumn visit to Nancy coincided with one of the city’s most creative transformations—the Ephemeral Garden that temporarily converts Place Stanislas into a lush haven of greenery. Walking through this carefully designed installation felt like discovering a secret garden in the heart of the city. Landscape architects reimagine the space each year with a new theme, incorporating seasonal plants, artistic elements, and interactive features.

Literary Celebration. September in Nancy brings “Le Livre sur la Place,” the city’s renowned book festival that marks the literary rentrée (return) after summer. I wandered through white tents filled with authors, publishers, and book lovers engaged in passionate discussions. The festival attracts major literary figures and offers signing sessions, debates, and readings throughout the city. Even with my limited French, I enjoyed the energetic atmosphere and picked up beautifully illustrated books that required no translation.

Musical Autumn. October pulses with the rhythm of Nancy Jazz Pulsations, the unmissable music festival that has become a cultural institution in the Greater East region. I caught performances ranging from traditional jazz in intimate venues to fusion concerts in larger halls. What makes this festival special is its integration into the city’s fabric—music spills from dedicated venues into bars, restaurants, and public spaces.

Day Trips from Nancy

1. Metz

Cathedral Marvel. Stepping off the train in Metz after a quick 30-minute ride from Nancy, I was immediately drawn to the soaring spires of Saint-Étienne Cathedral. This Gothic masterpiece dominates the skyline with its 42-meter-high nave and stunning stained glass windows. What took my breath away wasn’t just the sheer size but the extraordinary light filtering through 6,500 square meters of stained glass, including works by Marc Chagall.

Cultural Powerhouse. The Centre Pompidou-Metz became the highlight of my day trip with its striking architecture—a white roof inspired by a Chinese hat that seems to float above the glass structure. Unlike its Parisian counterpart, this museum offers breathing room to appreciate contemporary art without the crowds. I spent hours exploring the rotating exhibitions spread across 5,000 square meters of gallery space.

Historic Quarter. Wandering through Metz’s pedestrian-friendly old town revealed a charming mix of French and German influences—a reflection of the region’s complex history. The Place Saint-Louis with its medieval arcades and yellow limestone buildings transported me back in time. I stopped at Aux Plaisirs de Metz on the square for a slice of quiche lorraine that put all others I’ve tried to shame.

⭐ Best tours

• Explore Metz in 60 minutes with a Local – Join an exciting 60-minute walking journey through Metz. Learn all the key facts about the city, dive into the local lifestyle, and feel its unique culture.
• Metz Private Walking Tour – Experience Metz’s UNESCO heritage! Explore Gallo-Roman ruins, medieval charm, and diverse architecture. Immerse in centuries of history and captivating landscapes.

2. Strasbourg

Fairytale Setting. My day trip to Strasbourg began with a 1.5-hour train journey that transported me to what felt like another world. The UNESCO-listed Grande Île in the city center is home to Petite France, where half-timbered houses lean precariously over narrow canals. I wandered along the waterways, stopping to photograph the picturesque Ponts Couverts and their medieval towers. The district once housed tanners and fishermen—today, their workshops have transformed into charming restaurants and boutiques while maintaining their historic character.

Cathedral Magnificence. Nothing prepared me for my first glimpse of Strasbourg Cathedral’s pink sandstone façade rising 142 meters above the city. This Gothic masterpiece took my breath away with its intricate carvings and astronomical clock that puts on a mechanical show at 12:30 PM daily. I climbed the 332 steps to the viewing platform, where the reward was a panoramic view stretching to the Black Forest in Germany and the Vosges Mountains in France.

European Capital. Strasbourg’s role as seat of the European Parliament adds a contemporary dimension to this historic city. During my visit, I took a free tour of the Parliament’s striking glass building (booking required in advance). The contrast between the medieval city center and this modern symbol of European unity creates a fascinating juxtaposition. Afterward, I enjoyed a tarte flambée at Au Brasseur on Rue des Veaux—this Alsatian specialty of thin bread topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon paired perfectly with local beer served in traditional tall glasses.

⭐ Best tours

• Strasbourg: Private Custom Walking Tour With A Local guide – Get to know the city through the eyes of a local guide. With no set itinerary, you can customize the tour or leave it to the local for an enlightening introduction to the city. With our private walking tours, you’ll skip the mundane historical tours and experience the city through the eyes of a real local. Our local guides are passionate about their city and eager to share their knowledge and insights.
• 2-Hour Strasbourg Euro Tour by Segway – Strasbourg’s UNESCO-listed Grande Île is mostly pedestrianized and a Segway tour offers a fun and efficient way to get around, and explore further than you could on foot. On this tour, glide around the scenic canal ways of La Petite France, then leave the island to tour the European Quarter and admire the German architecture of the Neustadt.

3. Jardin Botanique Jean-Marie Pelt

Botanical Paradise. Just 8 kilometers from Nancy’s center lies a green oasis that feels worlds away from urban life. The Jean-Marie Pelt Botanical Garden sprawls across 35 hectares with over 12,000 plant species from around the globe. During my visit, I lost track of time wandering through themed gardens that transport visitors from Japanese landscapes to Mediterranean coastlines. The alpine garden with its miniature mountain ecosystem particularly captivated me—tiny flowers clung to rocky outcrops just as they would in their natural habitat thousands of meters above sea level.

Greenhouse Adventure. The garden’s crown jewels are its spectacular greenhouses covering 2,500 square meters. Stepping inside the tropical greenhouse felt like entering another continent—the humid air filled with exotic scents and the sounds of water trickling through lush vegetation. I followed the elevated walkway through a canopy of banana trees and palms, spotting orchids and bromeliads clinging to branches. The desert greenhouse offered a stark contrast with its collection of cacti and succulents in bizarre shapes and sizes.

Scientific Legacy. What sets this garden apart from typical tourist attractions is its scientific importance. As I explored, I noticed researchers carefully documenting plant specimens—a reminder that this is a living laboratory as well as a recreational space. The garden maintains seed banks for endangered species and participates in international conservation efforts. Interactive displays explained how plants from this collection have contributed to medical breakthroughs and sustainable agriculture.

❓ FAQ

How do I reach Nancy from Paris or other French cities?

You can reach Nancy easily by high-speed train (TGV) from Paris Gare de l’Est. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. Trains also connect Nancy to other eastern France cities like Strasbourg and Metz, making it a convenient stop on any France trip.

What is the best way to plan your trip to Nancy?

Start at the Nancy tourist office, located near Place Stanislas. They offer maps, itineraries, and the Nancy City Pass, which gives you access to top attractions in Nancy, discounts, and sometimes free public transport.

What are the top things to see in Nancy?

Don’t miss Place Stanislas, a beautiful square famous for its 18th-century baroque architecture. The square is named after Stanislas, King of Poland and Duke of Lorraine. Other must-sees include the Palais des Ducs de Lorraine, Porte de la Craffe, and the old town of Nancy.

Why is Nancy famous for Art Nouveau?

Nancy is considered a capital of Art Nouveau in France. The city is filled with examples of Art Nouveau in Nancy, especially in the Saurupt neighborhood, Villa Majorelle, and the Musée de l’École de Nancy. The movement was led by artists of l’École de Nancy, who created everything from buildings to furniture and glassware.

What is the École de Nancy and where can I learn more?

L’École de Nancy was a group of artists and designers who made Nancy a center for Art Nouveau. You can visit the Musée de l’École de Nancy and the Villa Majorelle to see examples of their work, including furniture, stained glass, and ceramics. The museum is a top attraction in Nancy and a highlight for design lovers.

What is unique about Place Stanislas?

Place Stanislas is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. It’s surrounded by 18th-century buildings, golden gates, and the arc de triomphe (triumphal arch). The square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the city of Nancy.

Is Nancy a good destination for food lovers?

Absolutely! Try local specialties like quiche Lorraine, macarons de Nancy, bergamotes (candy), and enjoy a meal at a classic brasserie such as Brasserie l’Excelsior. The city is also influenced by Alsace, so you’ll find regional dishes and wines from northeastern France.

What museums should I visit in Nancy?

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nancy on Place Stanislas is a must for art lovers, featuring works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. The Palais des Ducs de Lorraine houses the Lorraine History Museum, and the Musée de l’École de Nancy is perfect for Art Nouveau fans. Don’t miss the aquarium and natural history museum for a family-friendly day in Nancy.

What are some hidden gems or less-known sites in Nancy?

Explore the Parc de la Pépinière, Parc Sainte-Marie, and Jardin Botanique Jean-Marie Pelt for green space and relaxation. Rue des Écuries and the old town of Nancy are full of hidden architectural treasures. Nancy is often called a hidden gem of northeastern France for its charm and lack of crowds.

Can I use a city pass in Nancy?

Yes, the Nancy City Pass is available at the tourist office. It includes entry to many museums, discounts at attractions, and sometimes public transport. It’s a great way to save money and see the best places in Nancy[1][6].

What is the history of Nancy and its connection to the Duchy of Lorraine?

Nancy was the capital of the Duchy of Lorraine and has a rich history, including the famous battle of Nancy. The city’s architecture reflects its time as a ducal and royal city, especially during the 18th century under Louis XV and Stanislas, King of Poland.

What is special about Nancy’s old town?

The old town of Nancy (Vieille Ville) is full of medieval streets, Renaissance buildings, and historic sites like the Palais des Ducs de Lorraine and Porte de la Craffe. It’s a great place to wander and soak up the city’s unique atmosphere.