Attractions and Places To See around Metz - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Metz include a diverse array of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. Situated on the Moselle River in northeastern France, Metz offers a rich blend of Roman, medieval, German, and French influences. The city's landscape is characterized by its rivers, historical architecture, and green spaces. Visitors can explore ancient fortifications, impressive cathedrals, and modern art museums.
Best attractions and places to see around Metz
- The most popular attractions is Metz Cathedral, a man-made monument known as "God's Lantern" due to its extensive stained glass. It is considered one of the most beautiful and largest Gothic church buildings in France.
- Another must-see spot is Gorze–Metz Roman Aqueduct (Jouy-aux-Arches), a historical site that once supplied the city with water. This impressive aqueduct, originally 22 kilometers long, features 16 preserved arches today.
- Visitors also love Moyen Bridge, a vaulted arch bridge built between 1282 and 1312. It offers views of the Temple Neuf and the island of Petit-Saulcy.
- Metz is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and scenic bridges. The city offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient Roman structures to medieval fortifications and modern cultural centers.
- The attractions around Metz are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 170 highlights and over 560 upvotes.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Gorze–Metz Roman Aqueduct (Jouy-aux-Arches)
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All boards are in French, English and German.
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Charles le Téméraire cycle route
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Moyen Bridge
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Located in the extension of the Pont des Morts, it was originally called Moyen Pont des Morts. The name of these two works comes from their financing, since the Metz hospital used the clothes of the dead to pay for their construction.
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Porte des Allemands and Metz Cathedral
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Saint-Étienne Cathedral
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The cathedral is also distinguished by its windows, the surface area of which is the largest in France. In the same way, its vaults are among the highest among French churches.
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Porte des Allemands
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Wiki: de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deutsches_Tor_(Metz)
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Saint-Marcel Bridge
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Original article: Bridges of Metz: the Saint-Marcel bridge tout-metz.com/histoire-pont-saint-marcel-metz-801.php
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Metz Cathedral
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Along the Moselle
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Place de la République
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As the end-of-year celebrations approach, Metz puts on its clothes of light to the delight of young and old alike. For more than fifteen years, the city has been part of the tradition of the great successful Christmas markets in the East of France. Several squares are being invaded by the Metz Christmas markets.
The Christmas atmosphere reigns over the various squares of the city of Metz with illuminations that will amaze young and old, as soon as night falls. Many exhibitors will set up in the chalets set up for the occasion: you will find hundreds of gift ideas there, something to spoil all your loved ones (craft products, toys, Christmas lights and decorations, gourmet products, etc.)!
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Popular around Metz
The Moselle cycle path — from the Vosges to the Rhine in 18 stages
The Voie Bleue – Moselle-Saône by bike
GR5 — The Europe Trail from Abreschviller to Apach
Naples to North Cape — Two friends, one purpose and many scoops of ice-cream
The Grand Est without a car – cycling from station to station
La Voie Bleue — “Cycle Route of the Year 2026”
5 days on the Via Regia in Moselle – GR 5G from Saarbrücken to Metz
Cycling around Metz
Hiking around Metz
Running Trails around Metz
Other adventures around Metz
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Really fantastic cycle path
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It's called the "Lantern of God" because St. Stephen's Church in Metz has almost three times the window area of Chartres Cathedral. Many great artists have attempted to design it – for the 800th anniversary, it will be a woman for the first time.
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Built between 1220 and 1522, it is the result of the merging of two separate churches. With its 42-meter-high nave, it is one of the largest Gothic buildings in Europe. Its 6,500 square meters of stained-glass windows have earned it the nickname "Lantern of the Lord." Created in the 16th and 18th centuries by Hermann von Münster, Thiébault de Lixheim, Valentin Bousch, Jacques Villon, and Marc Chagall, these masterpieces of fire and light are a true encyclopedia of glass art.
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A bridge over the Moselle River offers beautiful views of the Moselle Island. At night, the arches beneath the bridge are illuminated in colorful lights, a beautiful eye-catcher.
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Of the original 17 city gates, only the German Gate in the east remains. Named after the former hospital of the Teutonic Order, which stood nearby, it was built as an entrance to the city on a bridge over the Seuille River. A medieval structure straight out of a picture book.
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The largest square in the city center, converted into a pedestrian zone and park in 2010. Cultural and sporting events are regularly held here.
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Always worth a bike tour! In the old town area, however, you should keep an eye on the ground. The cobblestones are very rough in places and have deep, wide cracks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I visit in Metz?
Metz is rich in history. You can explore the magnificent Metz Cathedral, known for its extensive stained glass, or the medieval Porte des Allemands, a bridge-castle that was part of the city's defensive walls. Other notable historical sites include the Moyen Bridge, dating back to the 13th century, and the ancient Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonains Church, originally a 4th-century Roman thermal bath.
Are there any ancient Roman sites to explore near Metz?
Yes, you can visit the impressive Gorze–Metz Roman Aqueduct (Jouy-aux-Arches). This historical site once supplied Metz with water and still features 16 preserved arches from its original 22-kilometer length. The Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonains Church also has Roman origins, initially serving as a thermal bath palestra.
Where can I experience Metz's medieval past?
To delve into Metz's medieval history, visit the Porte des Allemands, a well-preserved bridge-castle. You can also walk along portions of the original 13th-century medieval defensive walls along the Moselle and Seille rivers. The Moyen Bridge, built between 1282 and 1312, also offers a glimpse into this era.
What cultural institutions does Metz offer?
Metz boasts several significant cultural sites. The Centre Pompidou-Metz is a contemporary art museum known for its innovative architecture. The Musée de la Cour d'Or houses extensive collections of Gallo-Roman archaeology, medieval art, and fine art. Additionally, the Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole is recognized as the oldest working opera-theatre in France.
Can I see examples of German architectural influence in Metz?
Yes, the city's Imperial Quarter (Quartier Impérial) distinctly reflects German influence with its grand buildings and wide avenues. A prime example is the Metz Train Station (Gare de Metz-Ville), an imposing neo-Roman style building constructed during the German annexation. The Temple Neuf, a Protestant church on an island in the Moselle, also showcases a medieval-inspired German cathedral design.
What natural attractions are there in Metz?
Metz is beautifully framed by the Moselle and Seille Rivers, offering picturesque riverside paths for walks and cycling. You can also enjoy the peaceful Esplanade Garden, a French-style garden with panoramic views, or explore the diverse plant collections at the Jardin Botanique de Metz, designed as an English garden.
Are there opportunities for cycling around Metz?
Absolutely. The riverside paths along the Moselle and Seille are ideal for cycling. A popular option is the Charles le Téméraire cycle route. For more extensive rides, you can find various road cycling routes around Metz, including those along the Moselle, by checking the Road Cycling Routes around Metz guide.
Where can I go for a walk or hike near Metz?
Metz offers several walking and hiking opportunities. You can enjoy leisurely strolls along the Moselle and Seille rivers or through the Esplanade Garden. For more structured hikes, explore routes like 'Fort de Queuleu and parc du Pas du Loup' or 'La tour de Drince'. More options are available in the Hiking around Metz guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Metz?
Many attractions in Metz are suitable for families. The Metz Cathedral and Gorze–Metz Roman Aqueduct offer engaging historical insights. The Jardin Botanique de Metz provides open spaces and diverse plants for children to explore. Riverside paths are also great for family walks or bike rides.
What makes Metz Cathedral unique?
The Metz Cathedral, also known as "God's Lantern," is renowned for having the largest expanse of stained glass windows in the world, totaling around 6,500 m². Some windows date back to the 13th century, while others were designed by artists like Marc Chagall, making it a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
Is there a place to relax and enjoy the city atmosphere?
Yes, Place Saint-Louis is a historic square with medieval arcades and charming cafes, perfect for soaking in the city's ambiance. During the holiday season, it hosts a festive market. Place de la Comédie, featuring the Opéra-Théâtre, also offers a pleasant setting.
What is the best time of year to visit Metz for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities in Metz, with warmer temperatures ideal for walking, cycling, and exploring the gardens and riverside paths. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage.
Is Metz a walkable city?
Yes, Metz is described as a very walkable city. Many of its main attractions, including historical sites, cultural institutions, and green spaces, are centrally located within its medieval walls, making it easy to explore on foot.
Most popular routes around Metz
Most popular attractions around Metz
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