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What to do in Nancy? Selection of the best activities and leisure

Nancy is located in Meurthe-et-Moselle on the banks of the river. The capital of the Dukes of Lorraine has kept its royal character with many period monuments but has also been revitalized by becoming a reference in terms of Art Nouveau.

This city in the Grand-Est is known for its Place Stanislas, with golden gates and rococo fountains, its many gates and its castle, it is also a creative and modern metropolis. Urban, aerial or aquatic leisure, more or less sporting, to your Lorraine activities!

Tourist route in Nancy

You can't go to Nancy without seeing Place Stanislas , listed by UNESCO and emblem of the city of Lorraine. If you have decided to visit the city, you have access to several options on how to do it.

The second largest city in the Grand Est after Strasbourg, Nancy can be explored on foot by strolling, following pre-designed routes or taking a guide for commentary. You absolutely must discover the medieval old town , with the Saint Epvre church, the ducal palace or the Porte de la Craffe, a former prison.

You also have to see some Art Nouveau masterpieces , such as the Villa Majorelle, the brasserie l'Excelsior historical monument or the Museum of the School of Nancy. Gourmets can stop at the house of the macaroon sisters to taste the original macaron.

Gastro tip:enjoy a delicious dinner at the V-Four, but remember to book!

Soaring in the sky of Meurthe-et-Moselle

Nancy is therefore a whole section of monuments, the Meurthe which crosses it, the Moselle not far away, but also forests and the Vosges a few flights away. To visit some of these curiosities of the Grand-Est , take the height!

You will climb in the sky of Lorraine to observe landscapes from a new angle . During this first flight, all you have to do is enjoy the show:

  • Surroundings of the Vosges mountains
  • The Big Ball
  • Nancy
  • Castles and forests, etc.

By classic or aerobatic aircraft to spice up this flight, or in a hot air balloon for the calm of the balloon, it's up to you to choose the aircraft that you like the most for this original discovery of the region.

Relaxing on the water

Boat trip

On the Meurthe, many boat trips are possible. On a river cruise, you can even have lunch on the water , we recommend for the original and romantic side!

In a barge restaurant departing from Port Sainte-Catherine from Nancy, you embark for a few hours of relaxation and discovery of Nancy.

Well settled on board, you listen to the detailed comments on the observed panorama and History. Don't forget the camera, sunglasses and hat 👒 if the sun is out!

Nautical leisure activities

Always on the water but with a different objective, here you are in action! On the pond of Messein to the south of the city, for example, you can do windsurfing, catamaran, pedalo or canoe activities.

This nautical base is idealfor cooling off and enjoy a variety of water activities as a couple or as a family. Relaxed rowing or in challenge mode with friends, you compose your aquatic getaway. Be careful though:you can't swim in the pond, it's forbidden!

Bike ride on the banks

On the banks of the Meurthe and Moselle rivers or along the canal, you can get on a bike and go for walks. By renting it or taking your own, it's an opportunity to pedal at your own pace and take a few breaks in the shade of a tree.

There are several types of routes Whether "natural", "industrial" or "contemporary", you explore various places in the city of Nancy, before heading towards the water's edge.

cycle paths crisscross the city everywhere, so do not hesitate! Leaving for 1 hour, half a day or for the whole day with a picnic, prepare your backpack well and the trip will be perfect.

Nancy, Art Nouveau and outdoor recreation

Nancy is a beautiful combination between History and Art Nouveau , with its old town and its many green spaces. It offers the possibility of walking along the banks of the river, of taking to the open sea in a boat and even of taking off to enjoy the Lorraine panorama.

At Christmas, the market brings together many tourists and in summer, it is the festivals that warm hearts. The city of Nancy is on the move, and can even boast of having one of the most beautiful squares in Europe . For a day or a complete stay, it's up to you to decide which outings are worth it!