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If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Nancy.
Nancy is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered, each one a vibrant color on a painter’s palette, each one a musical note in a symphony.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Nancy:
1. Place Stanislas
Place Stanislas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the heart of Nancy, France. It is a grand public space built in the 18th century.
What to see or do: The magnificent architecture of Place Stanislas is worth exploring.
Take a leisurely stroll around the place, admire the ornate buildings, and make sure to visit the two beautiful fountains located on either side of the square.
Don’t miss: The stunning gold gates, known as the Gates of the City, are one of the highlights of Place Stanislas.
They are adorned with intricate designs and were built to commemorate the arrival of King Louis XV in Nancy in 1745.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the evening when the buildings around Place Stanislas are beautifully lit up.
2. Parc de la Pépinière
Parc de la Pépinière is a picturesque public park located in the heart of Nancy, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the park’s lush gardens and admire the wide variety of flora and fauna on display, or relax on the numerous benches and enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
There are also several playgrounds and sports fields for children and adults to enjoy.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the park’s impressive greenhouse, which houses a collection of exotic plants from around the world. There is also a small zoo with a range of animals to observe.
Insider travel tips: The park can get busy on weekends, so visit on a weekday if possible. It’s also worth noting that the park is particularly beautiful in the springtime when the flowers are in bloom.
Entrance to the park is free, making it an affordable and enjoyable outing for all.
3. Musée de l’École de Nancy
The Musée de l’École de Nancy is a museum devoted to the “École de Nancy” artistic movement, which was active at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century in Nancy, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire a collection of Art Nouveau items created by the École de Nancy artists, including furniture, glassware, ceramics, and metalwork.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, conferences, and cultural events throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The iconic works by Émile Gallé and the Daum brothers are a must-see when visiting the Musée de l’École de Nancy.
Make sure to also check out the impressive stained-glass windows and the beautiful interior of the museum’s building, which was designed by architect Émile André.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
4. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nancy
The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nancy is a fine arts museum located in the city of Nancy, France. It is known for its extensive collection of eighteenth-century French paintings.
What to see or do: The museum features a wide variety of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and more. Visitors can see works by famous artists such as Claude Monet, Auguste Renoir, and Paul Gauguin.
The museum also has a collection of Asian art, with pieces from China, Japan, and Korea.
Don’t miss: One of the main highlights of the museum is its collection of French art from the eighteenth century, which includes works by Jean-Baptiste Greuze and François Boucher.
Visitors should also check out the museum’s collection of Art Nouveau glassware and ceramics, as well as its impressive collection of Daum glass.
Insider travel tips: The museum is located in the heart of Nancy, so visitors can easily combine a visit to the museum with exploring the city’s other attractions.
It’s also worth noting that the museum is closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.
Finally, visitors should be sure to check out the museum’s website before they go, as it often has information about special exhibitions and events.
5. Église Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours
Église Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours is a Catholic Church located in the historic heart of Nancy, France.
What to see or do: Admire the striking Baroque architecture of the church and its impressive bell tower. Take a stroll through the peaceful garden surrounding the church and enjoy the views of the city.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning stained glass windows adorning the church, especially the one depicting the Battle of Nancy in 1477.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to visit during the daytime to fully appreciate the beauty of the church and its surroundings.
6. Villa Majorelle
An iconic Art Nouveau townhouse in Nancy, France that was designed and built by the famous French designer Louis Majorelle in the early 1900s.
What to see or do: Marvel at the exquisite Art Nouveau architecture and design of the villa, including its beautiful stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and striking wrought-iron features.
Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the building and its role in the Art Nouveau movement.
Don’t miss: The stunning garden that surrounds the villa, which features a variety of rare and exotic plants, as well as a picturesque reflecting pool.
Take some time to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, or snap some photos of the beautiful surroundings.
Insider travel tips: Book your visit in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to avoid long lines and ensure you get the most out of your experience.
Don’t forget to bring your camera, as there are plenty of stunning photo opportunities both inside and outside the villa.
If you have time, consider exploring some of the other Art Nouveau landmarks in the area, such as the Nancy School of Art and the Musée de l’École de Nancy.
7. Basilique Saint-Epvre
Basilique Saint-Epvre is a historic church in Nancy, France, built in the 18th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the grand architecture, including a stunning stained glass window dating back to the 16th century. There are also intricate sculptures and paintings to appreciate, as well as a beautiful organ.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a close look at the detailed carvings on the facade of the church, which depict scenes from the Bible and saints’ lives.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, visit Basilique Saint-Epvre during a church service or concert to hear the renowned organ in action. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated to support the upkeep of this historical site.
8. Musée de l’Histoire du Fer
The Musée de l’Histoire du Fer, or Museum of the History of Iron, is a fascinating museum dedicated to the history and heritage of iron in Nancy, France.
What to see or do: Visitors to the museum can explore the extensive collection of iron creations, spanning centuries of iron production.
From historic tools and weaponry to intricate sculptures and decorative objects, the Musée de l’Histoire du Fer is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the art and science of ironworking.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the impressive collection of iron organs, which showcase the unique and intricate musical instruments crafted from iron.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend a few hours at the museum to fully explore the extensive collection. Visitors can also take guided tours to learn more about the history and significance of iron in Nancy and beyond.
9. Marché Central
A covered market in the heart of Nancy, France.
What to see or do: Marché Central is a perfect place to experience the local food culture of Nancy.
You can stroll around the market and browse the wide variety of fresh produce including fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, cheese, and more.
If you’re a foodie, be sure to take your time exploring the stalls and discovering the local specialties.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to taste some of the famous Lorraine specialities, such as “Quiche Lorraine” or “Pâté lorrain.” These dishes are known throughout France for their delicious flavors and are a must-try when you visit Nancy.
Insider travel tips: The market can get crowded, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly. For the best experience, arrive early in the morning when the market is quieter.
Also, be sure to bring cash as some vendors may not accept credit cards. Finally, if you want to avoid the crowds altogether, plan your visit for a weekday instead of a weekend.
10. Hôpital de Brabois
Hôpital de Brabois is a large hospital complex located in the outskirts of Nancy, France.
What to see or do: The hospital is not a tourist attraction, but it’s worth mentioning that it is one of the largest public hospitals in France.
Visitors can see the hospital buildings and possibly observe some of the medical staff at work.
Don’t miss: There is nothing specific to see or do as the hospital is mainly for medical purposes.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should respect the privacy and confidentiality of the patients and medical staff while on the hospital premises. It is also important to note that the hospital can be busy and parking could be scarce.
11. La Grande Roue de Nancy
A giant Ferris wheel towering over Nancy, France.
What to see or do: Take a ride on La Grande Roue de Nancy and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
Don’t miss: The view of Place Stanislas, the famous UNESCO-listed square in Nancy.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the evening to see the city lit up at night. Try to come on a clear day for the best visibility.
12. Jardin Botanique du Montet
A beautiful botanical garden in the city of Nancy, France.
What to see or do: Explore the stunning collection of plants from various parts of the world including rare and endangered species. Admire the beautiful sculptures and fountains scattered throughout the garden.
Enjoy a relaxing stroll or picnic amidst the serene and lush greenery.
Don’t miss: The greenhouse with its exotic plants, the rose garden in full bloom during summer, and the Japanese garden with its tranquil ponds and bonsai trees.
Insider travel tips:
13. Muséum-Aquarium de Nancy
The Muséum-Aquarium de Nancy is a museum and aquarium located in the city of Nancy, France. It was established in 1878 and serves as an educational and cultural center for visitors of all ages.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including collections of fossils, minerals, and animals from around the world. The aquarium features a variety of aquatic species, including fish, reptiles, and invertebrates, displayed in over 50 tanks.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the museum’s most famous exhibit, a live giant clam that weighs over 200 pounds and is over 100 years old.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s website for information on guided tours and special exhibitions.