The Porte des Allemands is the only medieval city gate in Metz that still stands. Together with the Cathédrale Saint-Étienne, museums and activities at the Plan d'eau, it shows the different ways to enjoy a stay in the city: exploring architecture and collections, taking in a cultural programme or spending time by the water.
Buildings and Collections
Two remarkable measurements come together at the Cathédrale Saint-Étienne: the nave is 41.41 metres high, and the cathedral has around 6,500 m² of stained-glass windows. They date from the 13th to the 20th century. Visitors interested in art and architectural history can appreciate both the scale of the church interior and the windows, which were added over several centuries.
The Centre Pompidou-Metz offers a different architectural highlight. Its roof reaches 77 metres at its highest point and is woven from huge beams. The unusual structure makes the building itself an important part of the visit. The Musée de La Cour d'Or, meanwhile, focuses on its collections: across 6,000 m² of exhibition space, the museum presents Gallo-Roman treasures, medieval painted ceilings and paintings from the École de Metz. The specific displays may change.
The Pavillon de la Biodiversité is a 360 m² exhibition space. It opened in August 2025 and is dedicated to biodiversity; its displays include taxidermied animals, herbariums and minerals. Check whether the pavilion is open to visitors before your visit.
A Cultural Programme Across Multiple Venues
The Centre Pompidou-Metz hosts performances, conferences, film screenings, dance, live art, concerts and tours. You can explore the exhibitions and architecture at your own pace, on a group tour or with the help of podcasts. These different ways to visit offer different perspectives: you can explore the building and exhibitions on your own, or take part in a guided activity or listen to a podcast. Check the current programme before travelling.
The Porte des Allemands is also used for exhibitions, performances, conferences and meetings. Its spaces include several rooms, a private garden and a panoramic terrace. As opening arrangements may vary, check them before planning a visit. This allows you to appreciate the medieval building not just as a city gate, but also as an events venue.
At the Plan d'eau: Water and Paths
At the Plan d'eau de Metz, visitors can take a cruise or hire pedal boats, electric boats that do not require a licence, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. You can also learn to row or join a local water sports club. There are different ways to spend time on the water, from a boat trip to activities you can choose for yourself. Some water-based activities are seasonal; check availability if you have a particular activity in mind.
You can also explore the area on foot or by bicycle along its walking paths. ĂŽle du Saulcy has a renovated mini-golf course, as well as playgrounds and boules courts. Individual facilities may change, so if you are planning a specific visit, it is worth checking the latest arrangements.
If you would prefer a cultural and historical walk, consider adding the Circuit des Remparts to your plans. This signposted, self-guided route leads to Metz’s defensive towers, bridges and gates. It brings together several types of historic structure in a single walk. Check the route conditions locally.
Getting to the Musée de La Cour d'Or
The Musée de La Cour d'Or is a 20-minute walk from Metz railway station. Bus routes 3 and 83 run directly to the Place d'Armes stop. If you plan to walk or take a bus to the museum, check current routes and stops before setting off. This lets you plan your journey to the museum separately and combine it with the cultural or water-based activities in Metz that interest you.
Discover more destinations: Lezey, Basse-Ham, Fèves, Lutzelbourg, Norroy-Le-Veneur, Reyersviller, Hagondange, Augny.
For the broader travel guide: Moselle.
