Lorraine, France Travel Guide

Discover Lorraine: A beautiful blend of history, art, and nature in France's captivating northeastern region.

Nestled in the northeastern part of France, Lorraine is a region that enchants visitors with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse cultural heritage. Known for its pivotal role in European history, Lorraine offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, charming villages, and vibrant cities waiting to be explored. Start your journey in Nancy, the region's capital, where the opulent Place Stanislas stands as a testament to 18th-century elegance. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and savor the local cuisine in one of the many cafes and restaurants. Metz, another city in Lorraine, boasts the magnificent Gothic Saint-Étienne Cathedral and the Centre Pompidou-Metz, showcasing contemporary art. Nature lovers will find solace in the lush landscapes of the Vosges Mountains. The region is perfect for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the serene beauty of its forests and lakes. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Parc Naturel Régional de Lorraine, home to diverse wildlife and picturesque scenery. Lorraine is also renowned for its culinary delights. Indulge in quiche Lorraine, a savory pie that originated here, or try the local mirabelle plums in various desserts and liqueurs. Wine enthusiasts can explore the Moselle Valley, known for its exceptional white wines. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a nature lover, Lorraine promises an unforgettable experience. Its warm hospitality and rich traditions make it a must-visit destination in France.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lorraine.

Learn some basic French phrases; locals appreciate the effort.
Visit during the summer for the best weather and vibrant local festivals.
Take a guided tour of Place Stanislas to fully appreciate its historical significance.
Try to sample local dishes like quiche Lorraine and mirabelle desserts.
Explore the Vosges Mountains for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Use public transport or rent a bike to explore the cities; it's convenient and eco-friendly.

Top City Travel Guides in Lorraine

The cities of Lorraine, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Strasbourg

Colmar

Nancy

Reims

Destinations in Lorraine

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Vosges Mountains

Alsace Wine Route

Cote des Blancs

Explore Lorraine: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Lorraine

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg

Experience the grandeur of Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, a historic castle offering stunning views and rich medieval heritage in the heart of Alsace.

4.6

Zoo d'Amnéville

Explore the incredible wildlife and engaging exhibits at Zoo d'Amnéville, a family-friendly paradise in the heart of France.

4.3

Parc animalier de Sainte-Croix

Explore the enchanting Parc Animalier de Sainte-Croix, a premier animal park in France, showcasing diverse wildlife and breathtaking natural landscapes.

4.6

Centre Pompidou-Metz

Explore the Centre Pompidou-Metz, a stunning architectural gem and cultural hub, showcasing contemporary art and exhibitions in the heart of Metz, France.

4.3

Best landmarks in Lorraine

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

William Square

Explore William Square, a historical landmark in Luxembourg City that embodies culture, architecture, and vibrant local life.

4.4

Tower of Commander Saint Jean du Vieil Aître, Nancy

Discover the Tower of Commander Saint Jean du Vieil Aître in Nancy, a historical landmark showcasing architectural beauty and rich heritage.

4.6

Place Stanislas

Discover Place Stanislas in Nancy, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning 18th-century architecture, gilded gates, and vibrant cultural events.

4.8

Metz Cathedral

Discover Metz Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic landmark with the world's largest collection of stained glass windows, illuminating centuries of art and history.

4.7

Best restaurants in Lorraine

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Brasserie L'Excelsior

Experience authentic French cuisine in the elegant ambiance of Brasserie L'Excelsior, Nancy's iconic dining destination.

4.3

La _ Maison dans le Parc

Savor the essence of French fine dining at La Maison dans le Parc in Nancy - where culinary artistry meets elegance.

4.7

Le Petit Gourmandin

Discover authentic French cuisine at Le Petit Gourmandin in Pont-à-Mousson—where every dish tells a delicious story.

4.5

La Winstub

Experience the charm of traditional French cuisine at La Winstub in Metz—where every dish tells a story.

4.4

Best bars in Lorraine

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Les Berthom

Experience the lively ambiance of Les Berthom in Metz, a vibrant bar perfect for enjoying drinks and socializing with locals and tourists alike.

4.5

Vivian's Pub Fairy

Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Vivian's Pub Fairy in Metz, where exceptional beers and delightful cuisine meet a warm, inviting ambiance.

4.6

Aux Paraiges

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Metz at Aux Paraiges, where local flavors and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

4.5

Irish-Pub

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of the Irish Pub in Metz, where authentic drinks and live music create unforgettable memories.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Lorraine

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

PRIVE CLUB

Discover the vibrant nightlife at PRIVE CLUB in Moulins-lès-Metz, where chic ambiance meets exquisite cocktails and memorable experiences.

3.5

Ostra Club

Ostra Club in Nancy: Your destination for an electrifying nightlife experience with vibrant music, cocktails, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.0

L'Endroit

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Metz at L'Endroit, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories await you.

3.5

Prince's Club

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Thionville at Prince's Club, where music, dancing, and fun await until dawn.

3.4

Best shops in Lorraine

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Muse

Discover the Muse Shopping Mall in Metz: A modern retail hub offering fashion, food, and fun for all visitors.

4.1

Waves Actisud

Discover Waves Actisud: A vibrant shopping mall in Moulins-lès-Metz with diverse shops, dining options, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.

4.2

Marques Avenue Talange

Explore the best outlet shopping at Marques Avenue Talange, where great deals and unique brands await in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.0

Designer Outlet Luxembourg

Explore unbeatable fashion deals at Designer Outlet Luxembourg, where style meets affordability in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.

4.2

Explore Lorraine on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Lorraine, mapped for you.

Lorraine Essentials

Lorraine is located in northeastern France and is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest international airports are Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport (ETZ) and Luxembourg Airport (LUX), both offering numerous connections to major cities in Europe. High-speed trains (TGV) connect Lorraine with Paris, Strasbourg, and other French cities. For those driving, Lorraine is well-served by the A4 and A31 motorways, making it convenient for road travel.
Lorraine boasts a well-developed public transportation network, including buses, trams, and regional trains. In major cities like Metz and Nancy, public transport is efficient and reliable. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available. For those looking to explore the rural areas, renting a car is recommended. Bicycles can be rented in many towns, offering a scenic way to explore the countryside.
The official currency in France is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops throughout Lorraine. ATMs are readily available in urban areas, but it is advisable to carry some cash when visiting smaller villages and rural areas. Contactless payments are also increasingly common.
Lorraine is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. In larger cities like Metz and Nancy, areas around train stations and certain neighborhoods have higher crime rates, so it is best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the European emergency number. Hospitals and medical facilities are available in major cities, and pharmacies can be found in most towns. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress smartly and modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, it is customary to dress modestly and cover your head. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'Bonjour' (Good day) and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and wines. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite. Always say 'Merci' (Thank you) as a sign of gratitude.
To experience Lorraine like a local, visit the regional markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss tasting local specialties such as Quiche Lorraine and Mirabelle plums. Explore lesser-known villages and countryside for a more authentic experience. Consider learning a few basic French phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.

When is the best time to visit Lorraine?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Lorraine

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Lorraine. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloSalut
  [sah-loo]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwahr]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [noh]
- Please/You’re welcomeS'il vous plaît
  [seel voo pleh]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi
  [ex-kew-zay mwah]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byehn. eh voo]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kom-pron pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwar luh muh-nu, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyahnd]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [oh suh-koor]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay voo ahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-peh-lay uhn may-deh-sin]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray ah-sheh-tay]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhoost]
- How much is it?C'est combien?
  [seh kohm-byen]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [seh troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vay voo beh-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kel uhr eh-teel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel eh ewn uhr]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [dees uhr eh deh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [ee-ehr]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [trwah]
- 4Quatre
  [katr]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [seht]
- 8Huit
  [weet]
- 9Neuf
  [nuhf]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où est un/une...?
  [oo eh uhn/oon]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kel eh luh-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray (sur lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn eh luh pro-shan (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor ....)]

History of Lorraine

The region of Lorraine was historically known as the Duchy of Lorraine. Established in the Middle Ages, it played a significant role due to its strategic location between France and Germany. The Duchy was a semi-independent state within the Holy Roman Empire, with its own dukes and a unique cultural identity that combined French and German influences.
The Treaty of Verdun in 843 was a pivotal moment in the history of Lorraine. It divided the Carolingian Empire into three kingdoms, with Lorraine becoming part of Middle Francia. This division laid the groundwork for the region's complex political landscape, as it became a contested area between various European powers.
In 1766, Lorraine was formally annexed by France following the death of Stanisław Leszczyński, the last Duke of Lorraine. This marked the end of the duchy's semi-independent status and its integration into the French Kingdom. The annexation brought about significant administrative and cultural changes as Lorraine became fully incorporated into the French state.
The Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871 had a profound impact on Lorraine. Following France's defeat, the Treaty of Frankfurt was signed, resulting in the annexation of the region by the newly formed German Empire. This period under German rule lasted until the end of World War I and left a lasting imprint on the local culture and architecture.
World War I was a significant period for Lorraine, as the region saw intense fighting and devastation. Following the war, the Treaty of Versailles in 1919 returned Lorraine to France. The region's recovery and rebuilding were marked by efforts to restore French culture and identity, while also commemorating the sacrifices made during the conflict.
During World War II, Lorraine was once again a battleground. The region was occupied by Nazi Germany in 1940 and remained under German control until its liberation by Allied forces in 1944. The liberation of Lorraine was a crucial step in the overall Allied campaign to liberate France from Nazi occupation, and it was marked by intense battles and significant local resistance efforts.
Lorraine is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, which reflects its diverse historical influences. The region is famous for its traditional crafts, including faience pottery and crystal glassware from Baccarat. Lorraine's cuisine is also noteworthy, with iconic dishes such as quiche Lorraine and pâté lorrain. Festivals and local traditions celebrate the region's unique blend of French and German cultural elements.
In contemporary times, Lorraine is part of the Grand Est region of France. It remains an important cultural and economic hub, with cities like Metz and Nancy serving as centers of art, history, and education. The region's modern identity continues to be shaped by its rich historical legacy and its strategic location in the heart of Europe.