Saint-Étienne Cathedral and Place d’Armes
Saint-Étienne Cathedral in Metz, nicknamed the Lantern of the Good Lord, is one of the tallest cathedrals in France. Its stained glass windows, some signed by Chagall, bathe the nave in soft, coloured light. Right next to it, Place d’Armes, laid out in the eighteenth century by Blondel, lines up the town hall and the covered market. Arriving here late morning for a coffee on a terrace makes for a very simple, bright beginning to the day.
Centre Pompidou-Metz and the Amphitheatre district
Inaugurated in 2010 opposite the station, the Centre Pompidou-Metz, designed by Shigeru Ban, intrigues with a roof inspired by a Chinese hat. Its temporary modern art exhibitions attract a wide audience, in a brand-new district, the Quartier de l’Amphithéâtre. After the visit, a coffee stop and a small bookshop lead the conversation naturally towards shared tastes and upcoming plans for two.
Place Saint-Louis, Esplanade and water basin
Place Saint-Louis, lined with medieval arcades, is one of the most photogenic squares in Metz, especially at Christmas market time. The Esplanade and its grand garden slope down to the water basin, perfect for a romantic pedalo ride. The imposing Porte des Allemands watches over the Seille. On Lyad, Mosellan singles share their favourite walks; it is up to you to find someone to ring the cathedral bells with.
Date ideas
- Metz
- Saint-Étienne Cathedral
- Centre Pompidou-Metz
- Place Saint-Louis
- Metz Water Basin
- Esplanade
- Porte des Allemands
