Discover Lorraine: A Hidden Gem in Eastern France
Lorraine, a region in eastern France, offers a blend of historic cities and serene landscapes. Beyond its industrial hubs, visitors can enjoy tranquil prairies, forests, hills, and mineral springs. The Vosges Mountains and Belle Epoque spa resorts provide a perfect backdrop for a restful getaway.
Art and culture enthusiasts will find architectural wonders and museums in Nancy, Bar-le-Duc, and Sarrebourg, while history lovers can explore the citadel towns of Metz, Toul, and Verdun. Renting a car is recommended for traveling around the region.
See also: Where to Stay in Lorraine
1. Nancy
Nancy, the former capital of Lorraine, is famous for its 18th-century Baroque architecture, including the UNESCO-listed Place Stanislas. The Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Musée Lorrain at the Palais des Ducs de Lorraine are cultural highlights. Nancy also played a significant role in the Art Nouveau movement, showcased at the Musée de l'Ecole de Nancy.
2. Metz
Metz charms visitors with its cultural sites and old-world feel, especially in the Colline Sainte-Croix quarter. The Cathédrale Saint-Etienne, known for its vast stained-glass windows, and the Musée de La Cour d'Or are must-visits.
3. Toul
Toul's fortifications, including the Porte de Metz, and the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-Etienne with its lace-like facade, are highlights. Don't miss the Eglise Saint-Gengoult and its Flamboyant Gothic cloister.
4. Verdun
Verdun, known for its role in WWI, offers historical sites like the Citadelle Souterraine de Verdun and the Mémorial de Verdun Champ de Bataille, which honors the Battle of Verdun.
5. Bar-le-Duc
Bar-le-Duc, a City of Art and History, hosts the annual Renaissance Festival. The Ville Haute features landmarks like the Eglise Saint-Etienne and the Château des Ducs de Bar, now the Musée Barrois.
6. Gérardmer
Gérardmer, a resort town in the Vosges Mountains, offers activities like water sports on Lac de Gérardmer and trails for hiking and biking.
7. Sarrebourg
In Sarrebourg, the Chapelle des Cordeliers features Marc Chagall's stained-glass windows, and the Musée du Pays de Sarrebourg presents local archaeological finds.
8. Vittel
Vittel, a historic spa town, is known for its therapeutic mineral waters and the Vittel Spa. The town also boasts the Parc Thermal and elegant Belle Epoque hotels.
9. Saint-Mihiel
Saint-Mihiel, the birthplace of sculptor Ligier Richier, houses his works in local churches and the Musée d'Art Sacré.
10. Château de Lunéville
The Château de Lunéville, resembling the Palace of Versailles, offers tours of its French gardens and groves.
11. Épinal
Épinal, known for its "images d'Épinal" illustrations, has the Musée de l'Image and the historic Basilique Saint-Maurice.
12. Thillot
Thillot, a small town in the Vosges Mountains, is ideal for outdoor activities and visiting the Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
13. Parc Regional de Lorraine
The Lorraine Regional Natural Park offers trails for hiking and bird-watching, as well as an astronomical observatory.
14. Phalsbourg
Phalsbourg, a fortified town enhanced by Vauban, features historic gates and a museum in the Town Hall.
Where to Stay in Lorraine for Sightseeing
For accommodations, consider these highly rated hotels in Nancy, Metz, and Verdun:
- Hotel La Citadelle Metz - MGallery
- Hôtel De Montaulbain, a family-friendly hotel in Verdun
- Maison de Myon
- ibis budget Nancy Centre
