Visit Nancy

In the architectural landscape of the Old Town, this beautiful building is formal proof that before Stanislas and his multiple urban transformations, Nancy was already quite grand. A grand ducal city, to be precise. Its history dates back to the medieval era, when Gerard I, the first hereditary Duke of Lorraine, decided to consolidate his territory by establishing a central Read more

Every day, hundreds of people walk right over it without even noticing it's there. This is the eternal fate of the inscription marked "1477," located at 30 Grande Rue in Nancy. Though at first glance this simple black-and-white paving might seem ordinary, it commemorates a decisive moment in the city’s history—the Battle of Nancy, famously depicted by Eugène Delacroix Read more

Orléans, Lyon, Blois, Arras, Poitiers, Marseille… all these cities have something in common: somewhere in their streets, you’ll find a statue of Joan of Arc. And really, what place in France would pass up the chance to honor this legendary figure? A fearless warrior, a national heroine, and a symbol of resistance during the Hundred Years’ War, Joan of Arc is without a doubt Read more

In the world of french pastry, few topics spark as much debate as the true origin of the macaron. Some say Picardy, others swear by the Basque Country, and a few point to Ardèche. But here in Nancy, this delicate little treat has a story of its own. Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth, the macaron of Nancy was born from a mix of creativity and necessity. Read more

If you look up toward the top of the entrance, you’ll see the words: Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Meurthe-et-Moselle. And while this public institution certainly plays an important role for local businesses, what really draws our attention here is the building itself. Take a good look at those floral ironwork details, the stained glass windows with leafy motifs… Read more

With its dignified façade, grand windows, and wide red awnings weathered by time, everything about this place tells you you’re standing in front of a Nancy institution. With a Latin name meaning “higher” or “more elevated,” Brasserie Excelsior wears its ambitions on its sleeve. Opened in 1911 by Louis Moreau, a brewer from Vézelise, it was quickly hailed by the regional Read more

Of the seven historic gates of Nancy, let us introduce you to the Stanislas Gate. Like many of the city’s emblematic monuments, this elegant archway was part of an ambitious urban makeover led by the former King of Poland, Stanislas Leszczynski—the very man it was named after. Determined to leave a princely mark on the ducal city of Lorraine—entrusted to him by his son-in-law Read more

In case you're not familiar with Art Nouveau, a style known for its flowing curves and nature-inspired motifs, keep your eyes peeled for the stunning blue building on your left. Built in the 20th century by Henri Gutton, an architect from Nancy, this building was once a seed shop for many years. Read more

If you’re wondering why we’ve brought you to this building instead of another, well, the answer is waiting for you inside. Built in the 20th century, the Crédit Lyonnais building holds an unexpected treasure, one that’s far more valuable than the money stored there. As you step inside, you'll be struck by the brilliant light pouring in from the massive glass roof Read more

The sound of bells? Yes, but not just any bells. These announce the presence of Nancy’s cathedral, Our Lady of the Annunciation. While it may not be listed among France’s great cathedrals, it’s still an incredibly fascinating site. The story behind its creation is quite the tale. Back in the Middle Ages, Nancy was under the bishopric of Toul, which was independent from the Duchy of Read more

Of all the must-see attractions in Nancy, this is undoubtedly the most iconic. Beloved by the people of Nancy and even more so by the people of Lorraine, Place Stanislas is the city's crown jewel. In fact, it’s probably one of the main reasons, if not the main one, that brought you to the ducal city. So, as a reward for your journey to experience it firsthand, let’s dive into its story. Read more

In the breathtaking surroundings of Place Stanislas, it’s impossible to miss the grand building that occupies a vast portion of the square: the Nancy City Hall. From its stunning decoration to its prime location, not to mention its sheer size, everything about it screams that this is one of the most beautiful palaces ever built for the magistrates of the Republic. Read more

A luminous square, finely crafted gates, majestic fountains, and a central statue dedicated to its founder—Place Stanislas is a perfect blend of all these elements. Above all, it’s a magnificent example of French classicism, thanks to the seven pavilions that beautifully frame the square. The one before which you’re standing houses the Nancy Museum of Fine Arts Read more

Praised by both locals and thousands of visitors, Place Stanislas is no stranger to compliments. It’s been called beautiful, harmonious, immense, luminous, but did you know it can also be full of surprises? Indeed, Nancy’s favorite square holds a collection of anecdotes and secrets that will only deepen the excitement you feel for it. From its creation to today, Place Stanislas Read more

The Héré Arch? Yes, that’s right—named after Emmanuel Héré, Stanislas Leszczynski's chief architect. When the former Polish king and Duke of Lorraine arrived in Nancy in 1737, he had a grand vision for the city's beautification. With the annual income of 2 million livres granted by his son-in-law, King Louis XV of France, Stanislas embarked on the construction of several Read more

Located as an extension of Place Stanislas, Place de la Carrière often unfairly stays in its shadow. However, it too has a rich history that deserves to be recognized. Created in the mid-16th century, its establishment was made possible by the expansion of the medieval ramparts surrounding the Old Town. Fresh and new, the square was Read more

Opposite City Hall, the Government Palace also reflects the architectural style chosen in the 18th century by the former Polish king, Stanislas. Originally, the land was intended for a project known as the "New Louvre," commissioned by Duke Leopold, who found his ducal palace "cramped, dark, and outdated." However, while the work was being led by architect Germain Read more

Green lawns, tree-lined paths, and clusters of shrubs and perennials – there's no need to mention that this audio guide is all about one of Nancy's green spaces. And in case you're wondering which one, the answer is simple: it's the largest and most famous park in the city. Just a stone's throw from Place Stanislas, Pépinière Park stretches over 21 hectares of lush greenery. Read more

One of the city's most famous landmarks, the Craffe Gate has a fascinating history. The only remaining part of the medieval fortifications that once surrounded Nancy, this grand structure has always marked the entrance to the Old Town. In fact, the Dukes of Lorraine used it as a ceremonial gate until 1610. The origin of its name is uncertain, but some suggest it may come from the Read more

Counted among the few religious monuments in the Old Town, the Church of Saint-François-des-Cordeliers owes its existence to one man. During the 1477 siege of Nancy, Duke René II of Lorraine achieved a remarkable victory over the Duke of Burgundy, Charles the Bold. Read more

Right now, just to your right, you’re about to pass by Simone Veil Square. One of France’s most iconic public figures, Simone Veil has given her name to parks, schools, streets, buildings—and of course, city squares—across the country. A true symbol of women’s rights, her life and legacy have become an essential part of French history, told in countless books Read more

As you reach Place Maginot, you'll notice a striking building right in front of you. It’s called L'Est Républicain, located next to the Printemps department store, just across from the pharmacy. This architectural gem is closely connected to the former Magasins Réunis building, now home to Fnac and Printemps. Both buildings were designed by the same architect Read more

Every city has its little anecdotes, legends, and mysteries, and Nancy is no exception. The city is full of fascinating stories, and you might even know a few of them. Let’s share some of them with you now. First, there are four major events that make Nancy famous. One of them is the Book Fair held in September on Place Carrière. Read more

The Grande Rue is one of Nancy’s main thoroughfares and is definitely worth exploring. Passing through part of the city’s historic heart, it conveniently leads to the legendary Place Stanislas, Nancy’s most iconic landmark. Historically, the Grande Rue was the most important street in the old ducal city. Its origins date back to the 14th century when Duke Ferri III Read more