How to get to Metz

Planning a visit to Metz reveals an amazing historical city in the north-east of France, where majestic Gothic architecture blends harmoniously with picturesque gardens. Figuring out how to get to this city is not difficult at all: being a major transport hub of the Grand Est region, it is easily accessible for travellers choosing to fly, take a high-speed train, travel by bus, or drive a private car.

The nearest air hub to the city is Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport (ETZ), located approximately halfway between the two main centres of the region. It is a compact and convenient terminal that receives flights from several cities, allowing tourists to begin their exploration of Metz almost immediately after landing.

For travellers seeking a wider selection of international flights, the airports of neighbouring countries serve as excellent alternatives. The city of Luxembourg is just 55 kilometres away, and the German city of Saarbrücken is 61 kilometres away, from where it is easy to reach your destination. This location at the crossroads of borders makes planning a route to France flexible and varied.

Travelling by rail is one of the most convenient and scenic ways to get to Metz. The region is perfectly integrated into the European railway network, and the Lorraine TGV station serves as a key transport hub for travellers, accommodating high-speed trains. A train journey allows you not only to reach your destination quickly but also to enjoy the pastoral landscapes of France from the window of a comfortable carriage.

Thanks to its favourable location at the junction of borders, a route can easily be planned through neighbouring countries. Just a few dozen kilometres away is the city of Luxembourg, from where trains regularly run towards the French Grand Est region. Convenient rail connections are also established with German Saarbrücken, which opens up excellent opportunities for combined journeys across Europe.

Bus services connect Metz with many European neighbours, offering a budget-friendly and comfortable alternative to trains. One of the most popular and fastest routes remains the trip from the city of Luxembourg: the distance of about 65 kilometres can be covered in just an hour, enjoying views of the region's green hills along the way.

It is also convenient for travellers from Germany to get here by road transport, thanks to a developed network of international carriers. Regular services depart from Saarbrücken, which is 70 kilometres away, taking an average of 1 hour and 15 minutes. There is also a connection with the city of Bitburg: a journey of about 110 kilometres will require approximately two hours, but modern coaches make this trip easy and untiring.

Travelling by car allows you to appreciate the quality of European roads and the freedom of movement around the region. One of the shortest routes leads from the city of Luxembourg: the distance of 65 kilometres can be covered in just an hour via the A3 and A31 motorways. Almost the same amount of time, about 50 minutes, will be taken by the road from German Saarbrücken, located 70 kilometres to the east; this path usually lies along the autobahn, smoothly crossing the border into France.

If you are heading from Bitburg, expect a journey of about 110 kilometres, which will take approximately one and a half hours depending on traffic. For those who prefer not to drive, booking a transfer is available, although one should consider the higher rates: a taxi ride from neighbouring border cities will cost on average between 100 and 160 euros. Arriving in Metz by car is comfortable, as the city has many underground car parks right in the historical centre.

Preparation for your trip to Metz will help make your journey as comfortable and fulfilling as possible. We have compiled a list of useful recommendations that will be handy for every guest of this charming corner of France.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate in the region is moderately continental, so the weather can be changeable. Even in summer, it is advisable to carry a light jacket or cardigan for evening walks, as well as an umbrella. Since the historical centre is rich in cobblestones, choose comfortable flat-soled shoes so that your feet do not get tired from long excursions.
2. Transport. The historical centre of the city is quite compact, and it is most pleasant to explore on foot. For moving over longer distances, the Mettis system is ideal — modern high-speed buses running on dedicated lanes. Tickets must be purchased at machines at the stops before boarding.
3. Finances. As in the rest of the country, the Euro is the currency used here. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, from museums to supermarkets. However, it is recommended to always carry a small amount of cash (small denomination notes and coins) for paying for purchases in small bakeries, at markets, or at souvenir kiosks.
4. Health and Safety. The city is considered calm and safe for tourists, but basic rules of caution should be observed, especially in crowded places. Pharmacies are easy to find by the sign with a flashing green cross. Tap water is safe to drink and of good quality, but many tourists prefer bottled water.
5. Communication. The official language is French. In tourist offices, hotels, and large restaurants, staff often speak English (and sometimes German, given the proximity of the border). Nevertheless, locals greatly appreciate it when guests start a conversation with a polite "Bonjour" (Good day) or "Bonsoir" (Good evening).
6. Local Etiquette. Greeting upon entering a shop or café is a mandatory norm of politeness. Do not forget to greet shop assistants and waiters. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip if you enjoyed the service; usually, this is simply rounding up the bill or leaving 1-2 euros in coins.
7. What to Avoid. Do not plan lunch for a late hour. Traditional restaurants operate strictly by the clock: lunch is usually served from 12:00 to 14:00, and dinner begins after 19:00. In the interval between these hours, the kitchens are closed, and dining options may be limited to fast-food outlets or purchasing a sandwich at a bakery (boulangerie).
8. Additional Tip. If you are planning an active cultural programme, pay attention to the City Pass tourist card. It gives the right to free entry to many museums and includes unlimited travel on public transport, which will help significantly save your trip budget.

Following these simple rules will allow you to avoid minor domestic inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city. Enjoy the architecture, parks, and culinary delights of Lorraine without unnecessary worries!