Things To Do
in Nancy

Nancy is a charming city in northeastern France, renowned for its stunning 18th-century architecture and vibrant cultural scene. It is home to the UNESCO-listed Place Stanislas, a magnificent square surrounded by elegant buildings. The city boasts a rich history, influenced by both French and German cultures, which is evident in its cuisine and traditions.

Visitors can explore beautiful parks, art museums, and delightful cafés, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely getaway.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Nancy
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Place Stanislas, enjoying the stunning architecture and the surrounding gardens. Don't forget to take a photo of the iconic Arc Héré.

afternoon
:

Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses an impressive collection of artwork, followed by a stroll through the Parc de la Pépinière, where you can relax amidst nature.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local bistro like La Maison des Soeurs, where you can try traditional Lorraine dishes, then take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of the city.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Local Flavors
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Nancy Cathedral, known for its stunning stained-glass windows and Gothic architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the local food market, Marché Couvert, to sample fresh produce and local specialties. Afterward, visit the Art Nouveau Museum to admire the unique design style.

evening
:

Savor a delightful dinner at Le Café de la Place, followed by a nightcap at one of the cozy wine bars in the city center.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-25
Coffee$2-4
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🍷Glass of wine$5-8
🏨Hotel night$80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture.
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly atmosphere.
  • Walkable city with beautiful parks and squares.
  • Limited options for nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Some language barriers for non-French speakers.
  • Public transport can be less frequent on weekends.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
  • "Où est..." - Where is...

Places to Visit in Nancy

Visit one of these nice places.

Place Stanislas

This stunning square is an architectural masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for capturing beautiful photos at any time of day.

Nancy Cathedral

The intricate Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass provide a captivating backdrop for photography.

Parc de la Pépinière

This beautiful park features lush gardens, fountains, and sculptures, offering numerous picturesque spots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nancy

Nancy offers a delightful culinary experience, with a blend of traditional Lorraine cuisine and innovative modern dishes. The city is particularly famous for its local specialties, which reflect its rich cultural heritage.

Nancy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Quiche Lorraine

A savory pie made with eggs, cream, and lardons, originating from the Lorraine region.

Must-Try!

Bergamote

A sweet confection made from the bergamot orange, often found in local pastry shops.

Mirabelle Plum Tart

A delicious tart filled with sweet mirabelle plums, a specialty of the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché Couvert

A vibrant covered market where locals sell fresh produce, cheeses, and meats, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nancy experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) can be cold, with average temperatures around 0°C (32°F) and occasional snowfall. Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F), perfect for outdoor activities. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, making them ideal seasons for exploring the city.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with a polite 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table during meals, but not your elbows, and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Punctuality

Being on time for appointments and social gatherings is appreciated, though a short delay is often tolerated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nancy is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as in any urban area, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night.

Tipping in Nancy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is customary in France, typically rounding up the bill or leaving around 5-10% for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common; however, it's good to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm temperatures draw locals and tourists to parks and outdoor cafés, creating a lively atmosphere.

Autumn

Enjoy cooler weather and stunning fall foliage, ideal for photography and leisurely walks.

Winter

Cold temperatures can be expected, but the city lights up with holiday decorations, particularly during Christmas.

Nightlife Guide

Nancy at Night

Nancy's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone. The city is home to numerous bars, pubs, and clubs, particularly around the Place Stanislas and the student area near the University of Lorraine. Enjoy live music at local venues, dance the night away at energetic clubs, or relax at a laid-back wine bar. The atmosphere is generally friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to socialize and meet new people.

Hiking in Nancy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Vignes

This scenic trail takes you through vineyards and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, perfect for a day hike.

Parc Naturel Régional de Lorraine

A larger area with numerous trails for hiking through diverse landscapes, including forests, rivers, and hills.

Airports

How to reach Nancy by plane.

Nancy-Essey Airport (ENC)

Located about 10 km from the city center, this small airport offers limited domestic flights and connections to major European cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nancy is highly walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The city center features pedestrian-only streets, making it easy and safe to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of benches and resting areas along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With the presence of the University of Lorraine, a large student population contributes to the vibrant culture and nightlife.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live and work in Nancy, drawn by its charming atmosphere and job opportunities in various sectors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is very popular in Nancy, with local clubs like AS Nancy Lorraine attracting a passionate fan base.

Basketball

Basketball also enjoys popularity, with clubs competing at various levels and engaging local communities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nancy can be moderate, especially during peak hours. The city has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trams, which are convenient for getting around. Biking is also popular, with dedicated lanes throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nancy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options can be found, but specific restaurants catering to this need are limited.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Nancy is of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and tourists. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. It's recommended for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses abroad.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide