Things To Do
in Laxou
Laxou is a green, family-friendly suburb just west of Nancy in the Grand Est region of northeastern France. It combines tranquil residential streets with easy access to urban culture, shopping, and dining in nearby Nancy. The town benefits from its proximity to the Meurthe river and the surrounding Vosges foothills, offering pleasant views and outdoor spaces.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxed pace while staying well connected to the broader Lorraine area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Laxou, where you can admire the charming architecture that reflects the town's rich past. Stop by the local bakery to indulge in a freshly baked croissant paired with a café au lait. Make sure to visit the Church of Saint-Remi, which features stunning stained glass windows and a serene atmosphere.
After lunch at a quaint bistro, head to the nearby Parc de la Cure d'Air for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature. Enjoy a leisurely walk or rent a bike to explore the lush greenery and scenic paths. Don't forget to take a moment to relax by the pond, watching the ducks and soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local restaurant to savor traditional Lorraine cuisine, such as quiche Lorraine or a hearty coq au vin. Immerse yourself in the local culture by trying a regional wine, and perhaps even engage in conversation with the friendly locals. Finish off your evening with a stroll through the beautifully lit streets, where you can appreciate the town's charm under the stars.
Begin your day at the Musée de l'École de Nancy, where you can explore the Art Nouveau movement and its influence on regional design. Marvel at the intricate glassworks and furniture that define this unique artistic style. Spend some time in the museum's beautiful gardens, enjoying the blend of art and nature.
Head to the Parc de la Pépinière, a stunning park in Nancy just a short distance from Laxou, for a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery. Afterward, visit the nearby Nancy Museum of Fine Arts to admire an impressive collection ranging from medieval to contemporary art. Engage with the exhibits and learn about the history of art in the region, making for an enriching afternoon.
In the evening, attend a performance at the Opéra National de Lorraine, where you can experience the thrill of live music and theater. The stunning architecture of the opera house itself is worth the visit, adding to the overall experience. After the show, enjoy a late-night coffee or cocktail at a nearby café, reflecting on the artistic treasures of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍷Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $3-6 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Nancy's cultural attractions and vibrant Lorraine cuisine
- Pleasant green spaces and easy access to outdoor activities in the Vosges foothills
- Quiet nightlife in Laxou itself; nightlife is more concentrated in Nancy
- Limited direct public transport within Laxou proper; best with a car or a quick bus ride to Nancy
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is... ?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "Je voudrais..." - I would like...
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Pouvez-vous m'aider?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Laxou
Visit one of these nice places.
A lush city park with ornate fountains, tree-lined avenues, and seasonal blossoms—excellent for morning light and portraits.
Iconic 18th-century square framed by elegant façades and gilded gates; the fountains and evening illumination offer classic architectural photography opportunities.
Cobblestone lanes and Art Nouveau details in the old town provide charming street photography scenarios, especially at dusk.
Calm river views with bridges and reflections; especially photogenic at sunrise or golden hour by the water.
Food in Laxou
Laxou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory tart filled with bacon, cheese, and custardy eggs; widely available in bakeries and brasseries around Nancy.
Must-Try!
A rustic meat and vegetable stew that reflects regional peasant traditions, best enjoyed in traditional brasseries.
A sweet tart featuring local Mirabelle plums, a hallmark of Lorraine desserts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A central covered market with fresh produce, charcuterie, cheeses, and ready-to-eat options—great for tasting local specialties.
A village market offering seasonal produce, bread, pastries, and small bites on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting of 'Bonjour' (and 'Bonsoir' in the evening) is expected; please and thank you ('s'il vous plaît' and 'merci') are appreciated.
French social etiquette emphasizes polite manners and orderly queues; maintain a calm demeanor in public spaces.
In social settings, light cheek kisses may be exchanged with acquaintances; observe local cues to determine if it’s appropriate.
Using basic French phrases is appreciated, even if someone speaks English; locals value effort and politeness.
Safety
Tipping in Laxou
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually included in the bill (service compris), but rounding up or leaving a small tip for good service is common in cafés and restaurants.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are standard. Cash is also acceptable, especially in markets and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blossoming trees; great for city walks and parks with fewer crowds.
Warm days with potential thunderstorms; stay hydrated and enjoy open-air markets and evenings in town squares.
Colorful foliage and harvest markets; comfortable temperatures for long strolls and photography.
Cool to cold with occasional snowfall; museums and cafés provide cozy escapes and festive markets in December.
Laxou at Night
Hiking in Laxou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible forest trails and gentle climbs just a short drive from Laxou, offering varied routes and scenic viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Laxou by plane.
The closest regional airport serving domestic and some international routes; about an hour by road from Laxou depending on traffic.
A larger international airport about 1.5-2 hours by car or train; useful for broader European connections.
A convenient option for certain European flights, roughly 1-2 hours drive from Laxou, depending on traffic and route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, professionals, and retirees typical of a well-connected suburban area near a university city.
Close proximity to the University of Lorraine brings a vibrant student presence and cultural events in the Nancy area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A major sport in the region with local clubs and passionate community support.
Popular in schools and clubs; fits with the region’s strong sports culture.
Widely enjoyed along rural roads and around the Vosges foothills; scenic routes for road and gravel riding.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Laxou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Lorraine dishes are meat-forward, but vegetarian options are common in brasseries and bistros. Look for quiches, vegetable gratins, salads, and regional cheeses; ask for meat-free versions of traditional dishes.
Vegan choices exist in modern brasseries and cafés; request vegetable-based dishes, salads, soups, and plant-based cheeses or ask for a meat-free rendition of local dishes.