Metz On a Budget: Explore History & Art

Discover French charm on a budget: Metz awaits.

21 June 2023

Metz, in northeast France, is a vibrant and lively city steeped in history and culture. You can explore the striking Gothic cathedral, wander through the historic Old Town and visit the Centre Pompidou-Metz, a modern art museum. With a bit of careful planning, you can enjoy all that Metz has to offer on a tight budget, from eating at local bistros to staying in affordable accommodation.

Day trip plan

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Day

Discovering the Charming City of Metz on a Tight Budget

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at La Faim des Haricots, a cozy cafe with a laid-back vibe.
  • Stroll around the historic city center and marvel at the stunning architecture, including the Gothic Cathedral of Saint-Etienne.
  • Head to the Centre Pompidou-Metz, a modern art museum designed by Shigeru Ban, and admire the exhibitions for free on the first Sunday of the month.
  • Walk along the river Moselle and enjoy the picturesque views, or rent a bike for a small fee and explore further.
  • Grab a budget-friendly lunch at Au Plaisir Culinaire, a local bistro serving delicious French cuisine for a reasonable price.
  • Pop into Le Verre à Soi, a relaxed wine bar with a vast selection of wines and cheese plates, to unwind after a long day.
  • Metz might not be as famous as some other French cities, but it's a hidden gem worth visiting. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and hospitable people, you'll surely have a great time even if you're on a tight budget.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to reach Metz by plane is to fly to Luxembourg Airport (LUX), and then take a bus or train to Metz. There are regular buses and trains from the airport to Metz, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Car

The best way to reach Metz by car is to take the A31 motorway, which connects Metz to major cities in France and Europe. The journey from Paris takes approximately 3 hours.

Train

Metz has its own train station (Gare de Metz), which is well-connected to many cities in France and Europe. The best way to reach Metz by train is to take a high-speed train from Paris, which takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Boat

As Metz is not located near the coast, there are no direct boat connections to the city. However, it is possible to take a boat to nearby cities such as Strasbourg and then take a train or bus to Metz.

Bus

The best way to reach Metz by bus is to take a long-distance bus from Paris or another major city in France. There are several bus companies that operate services to Metz, including Flixbus and Ouibus.

More travel plans

The Ultimate Long Weekend in Metz, France

A trip to Metz, France as a tourist can be a delightful experience. Tourists can explore the grand Gothic Metz Cathedral, Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonnains, and Centre Pompidou-Metz. They can also take a stroll along the Moselle River and taste the famous Quiche Lorraine.

Metz, France: A Perfect 5-Day Adventure!

As a tourist, a trip to Metz, France promises a combination of medieval charm and contemporary vibrancy. One can admire the breathtaking Gothic architecture of the Saint-Étienne Cathedral or take a stroll by the tranquil Moselle River. Additionally, Metz's rich cultural offerings, including museums, theaters, and galleries, provide visitors with a glimpse into the city's vibrant artistic scene.

4 Days of Fun and Adventure in Metz, France

A trip to Metz on a limited budget can still be enjoyable by exploring the city's many free attractions. One can stroll through the beautiful Parc de la Seille, visit the Centre Pompidou-Metz museum for free on the first Sunday of the month, and take a self-guided walking tour of the city's historic buildings and sites. For affordable accommodations, opt for a hostel or budget hotel and dine at local brasseries for authentic French cuisine without breaking the bank.

Romantic 3-Day Getaway in Charming Metz

Metz is a charming French city ideal for a romantic getaway. Known for its stunning gothic cathedral, couples can enjoy a stroll along the picturesque Moselle River and explore the charming cobblestone streets lined with quaint boutiques and art galleries. The city offers a range of romantic dining options, including the Michelin-starred La Table de Patrick, which serves up delicious French cuisine with a modern twist.