What to see and do in Metz in a weekend? To discover Metz, two days is the ideal length of time. Spend Day 1 in the historic center: admire Saint Stephen's Cathedral (the "Lanterne du Bon Dieu" or "God's Lantern"), lose yourself in the collections of the Musée de la Cour d'Or and finish with the Porte des Allemands. On Day 2, explore the Imperial Quarter and its monumental train station, then visit the Centre Pompidou-Metz. The city is very easy to visit on foot.
Discover what to see and do in Metz, with a simple itinerary and all the must-see attractions.
Day 1: Medieval, royal, and luminous Metz
Saint Stephen's Cathedral in Metz seen at night. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com: Shutterstock.com
Morning: The Cathedral and the historic center
Start with the jewel of the city: the Saint Stephen's Cathedral.
It is made of Jaumont stone, the golden yellow stone typical of the Metz region. Of particular interest is the entrance gate, which looks like it dates from the Middle Ages but was actually built at the end of the 19th century to replace a classic 18th-century gate, which itself had replaced the medieval gate. Emperor Wilhelm II, who commissioned the work, is depicted as the prophet Daniel at the entrance. He inaugurated his statue and the completion of the work in 1903 (his moustache was removed to erase any memory of the German emperor when Metz became French again).
The stained glass windows in Metz Cathedral are spectacular—don't miss them. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com: Shutterstock.
One of the cathedral's unique features is its enormous stained glass windows, covering a total area of 6,492 square meters. Some date back to the Middle Ages (12th century), earning it the nickname "God's lantern." Some are signed by Marc Chagall. Take the opportunity to visit the old town of Metz all around. The covered market, located just opposite, is great (and very tempting for food lovers). You can stop for a drink nearby, at Place de Chambre or Place Saint-Louis.
To learn everything about the history of the cathedral, here is the article I wrote about it.
Location:
Parade ground, 57,000 METZ.
Jaumont stone makes Metz Cathedral truly magical / Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: by Paul C. from Pixabay
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Advice from Monsieur de France: Don't miss the stained glass windows by Marc Chagall in the north ambulatory. With 6,500 m² of stained glass, it is one of the largest glass ensembles in Europe that you will be able to admire. The light is sublime in the morning. Right next door, take a stroll around the Marché Couvert (covered market). Housed in the former bishop's palace, it is the heart of Metz. Here you will find a wide range of Lorraine specialties. It's the perfect place to buy some Lorraine pâté or macarons from Boulay.
Noon: Lunch at Place Saint-Louis
For lunch, head to Place Saint-Louis. With its 14th-century arcades, it has the feel of an Italian square.
Insider tip: This is where the heart of the medieval city beats. Choose a terrace under the arcades to taste the original quiche Lorraine (without cheese, as tradition dictates!).
Place Saint Louis and its arcades / Photo selected by Monsieur de France: Photo by Dormouse_a via depositphotos
Afternoon: Travel back in time at the Musée de la Cour d'Or
Founded in 1839, it tells the story of Metz, and has a rich collection of Gallo-Roman and medieval archaeological artifacts. Visitors can also discover the ancient Roman baths, the old fortified granary that served as a reserve for the inhabitants, particularly in times of siege, and a magnificent Baroque chapel. It is definitely worth a visit and is one of the most important museums in the whole of eastern France, with 3,500 square meters of exhibition space.
It must be said that Metz has a particularly rich history. Here is a summary.
Metz Cour d'Or Museum, Metz Metropole in Metz, France, Photo selected by Monsieur de France EnginKorkmaz via depositphotos
What to see?
It is definitely worth a visit, as it is one of the most important museums in eastern France, with 3,500 square meters of exhibition space. People mainly come to the Musée de la Cour d'Or for three things: the Gallo-Roman remains, medieval Metz, and the religious art galleries. There is a lot to see, but you can easily do an "essential" tour in 1.5 to 2 hours by focusing on the major exhibits.
Location
Musée de la Cour d'Or, 2 Rue du Haut Poirier, 57000 Metz.
Why not take a detour via the German Gate?
It is the most beautiful legacy of medieval Metz, along with the church of Saint Pierre aux Nonnains (the oldest church in France, dating back to the 4th century), the Camoufle tower (remains of the ramparts) and the Templar chapel. Built in the 13th century, it is called the German Gate because it led to the hospice of the Teutonic Knights, Knights Hospitaller, which was located nearby. Integrated by Vauban into the ramparts of Metz, it survived their destruction and became a museum in 1900. It has recently been completely restored.
The astonishing German gate in Metz. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.Com: Shutterstock.com
Day 2: Imperial and cultural Metz
By the way! If you only have one day, here is a program that is perfect for you.
Morning: The Centre Pompidou-Metz
The Pompidou Center Metz at nightfall. Photo selected by Monsieurdefrance.com: Shutterstock.com
The second day begins with an architectural shock: the Centre Pompidou-Metz. Its slightly Chinese style is quite surprising and elegant. The interlacing wooden beams are a must-see architectural feature. Its wooden roof, inspired by a Chinese hat, is a technical feat. It is the most recent monument in Metz, having been inaugurated on May 12, 2010. A branch of the Pompidou Center in Paris, the Pompidou Metz is a museum of modern art. It was born from the imagination of Shigeru Ban, Jean de Gastines, and Philip Gumudjian.
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Duration of visit: Allow 2 hours to view the temporary exhibitions, which are often of international standard.
Location:
1, Parvis des droits de l'homme, 57,000 METZ
Noon: The Amphitheater District
This new neighborhood, undergoing rapid change, offers modern and bright restaurants. It is the face of 21st-century Metz, ecological and daring. Don't miss the Heler House, an imperial house at the top of a very modern tower.
Location:
31 Jacques Chirac Street, 57000 METZ.
Afternoon: Metz Train Station and the Imperial Quarter
Hotel des Postes de Metz (Central post office) - Metz, Lorraine, France Photo by Leonid_Andronov
The imperial district is one of Metz's must-see attractions, created during the German annexation after 1871 and designed as a showcase of power around the train station. People come here for the monumental architecture: neo-Romanesque, neo-Gothic, and Renaissance facades, massive buildings, sculpted details... and an atmosphere unique in France, very different from old Metz.
What to see?
The easiest way is to start at the train station and walk around in a loop: Avenue Foch, Place Raymond-Mondon, then the wide avenues leading to the Arsenal and the Esplanade. It's a perfect neighborhood to visit at the end of the day, when the stone takes on a golden or pink hue and the photos turn out beautifully. The post office is probably the most striking building after the train station, and you'll pass right by it. It's completely pink.
Focus on Metz Station: why it is so famous (imperial district)
Metz train station is the most beautiful train station in France. Photo selected by Monsieurdefrance.com: Shutterstock.com
Voted several times "the most beautiful station in France," it is now out of competition. It is true that it is imposing. Built in the Neo-Romanesque style, it was the brainchild of Emperor Wilhelm II. Built in three years, from 1905 to 1908, according to plans by Jurgen Krüger, it is 300 meters long and 40 meters high for the clock tower.
What to see?
Of particular interest are the bas-reliefs on the façade and inside. Sculpted in the medieval style, they often depict scenes from the 20th century, such as workers, travelers, a telegraph operator, etc. On the façade, a knight carries a shield. His head has been changed several times. The Germans created it with a medieval helmet in the German style, while the French replaced his head with another helmet considered more French.
Also worth seeing, when open, the emperor's apartments and in particular the extraordinary stained glass window depicting Charlemagne. This is the heart of the "imperial" district, dating back to the German Empire. It is also one of the few districts in Europe featuring 19th-century German architecture, as those in major German cities were bombed in 1945 and, for the most part, destroyed. The astonishing governor's palace, located near the arsenal, also dates from this period and looks like something straight out of a fairy tale.
Location:
1 Place du Général de Gaulle, 57000 Metz.
The new temple in Metz seen from behind, overlooking Place de la Comédie in Metz. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.Com: Shutterstock.com
Practical Guide for Experts
Where to stay for a perfect weekend?
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Downtown: For doing everything on foot and enjoying evenings around Place d'Armes.
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The Gare district: Very convenient if you are arriving by high-speed train, with charming hotels in neo-Romanesque buildings.
The Place de la Comédie in Metz is typical of the 18th century. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com Shutterstock.com
Gastronomy: What to bring back from Metz?
A weekend in Metz isn't complete without the Mirabelle plum of Lorraine. Whether in a tart, brandy, or jam, it's the region's golden treasure. Don't forget the Paris-Metz, a colorful cake made with macaroons, mousseline, and raspberries.
Conclusion
A weekend in Metz is an excellent idea for a cultural and exotic getaway in France.
The city charms visitors with its exceptional heritage, ease of access, and peaceful atmosphere. In two days, Metz offers a complete, balanced, and memorable experience, without ever feeling rushed.
Jérôme Prod'homme Specialist in French heritage, gastronomy, and tourism. Find all my discoveries at monsieur-de-france.com.
FAQ: Visiting Metz in a weekend
Is Metz accessible without a car?
Absolutely. The city is a pioneer in sustainable transportation with its Mettis (high-level service bus). However, the historic center is a huge pedestrian zone, ideal for strolling.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring for the flower-filled parks or December for its Christmas market (one of the most beautiful in France after Strasbourg), with its Ferris wheel opposite the cathedral.
What to do in Metz when it rains?
The two major museums (Cour d'Or and Pompidou) and the church circuit (Saint-Maximin with its stained glass windows by Jean Cocteau) will keep you dry while filling you with wonder.
