Combined trip to Metz and Verdun Gothic architecture, art and WWI Memory

Embark on a journey through Lorraine’s rich heritage. Admire Metz’s stunning Gothic cathedral, stroll along the Moselle River, and soak in the city’s vibrant artistic atmosphere. Then, delve into Verdun’s powerful history, from WWI battlefields to peaceful riverside streets and centuries-old architecture. A day trip across the border to Luxembourg will perfectly complete your trip in Lorraine.

Arrival at the hotel in the afternoon

Located in the heart of the Frescaty plateau, just minutes from downtown Metz, this 4-star hotel with its bistronomic restaurant offers a unique immersive experience. A place steeped in history that takes you back in time while revealing a chic and trendy atmosphere in the Metz landscape.

Access to the pool area. Open daily from 9:30 AM to 8:30 PM for hotel guests.

Dinner at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant. Enjoy a gourmet culinary journey in a panoramic room overlooking the park and ponds.

Enjoy the Lounge Bar. Savor their signature cocktails during the day or evening on one of the three aperitif terraces or in the lounge. Nearby, a transparent wine cellar showcases over 700 bottles available on the menu.

Breakfast at the hotel. Relaxation moment in the wellness area. Discover the Wellness Space, a sanctuary of relaxation and serenity. Enjoy:

• A steam room with purifying vapors
• A sauna to release tension
• An automatic hydro-massage table for an innovative massage
• A sensory shower for a unique multisensory experience Free access to the pool and relaxation area, with private access to the wellness area for 50 minutes

In the Afternoon, check-in at your second 4★ hotel in Metz city center. Opened in 2005 near Metz’s historic center, this upscale hotel is housed in a 16th-century military building.

Time to discover your CityPass! The CityPass includes (in 2025):

• A guided or audio-guided tour of Metz
• Entry to the Centre Pompidou-Metz
• A Visi Pass ticket for unlimited travel on the LE MET’ public transport network for one day
• Discounts on leisure activities, shopping, shows, tastings, and gastronomy
• 5–10% off products at the Inspire Metz – Tourist Office shop

You can check restaurant offers, discounts or complimentary items with the CityPass. Recommended: Le Romarin, which offers a complimentary aperitif or kir.

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit of Metz, Explore this historic and cultural city in the heart of Lorraine. Highlights include, the majestic Saint-Étienne Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with stunning stained-glass window, the picturesque banks of the Moselle River, the historic center with cobbled streets, lively squares, and colorful facades. A visit to Metz promises a harmonious blend of historical heritage, contemporary art, and charming scenery.

Lunch at your leisure in Metz or on the road to Verdun.

Verdun, located in the Meuse department, is a symbolic city in French history. Known worldwide for the Battle of Verdun in 1916, one of the longest and deadliest battles of World War I, it is now a major site of remembrance. The Verdun Memorial, the forts of Douaumont and Vaux, and the Douaumont Ossuary pay tribute to fallen soldiers. Beyond its military past, Verdun boasts rich architectural heritage, including its thousand-year-old cathedral, ramparts, and colorful riverside houses along the Meuse. It is also famous for its dragées (sugar-coated almonds), a local specialty since the 17th century.

Check in at your 3* hotel in Verdun. Dinner at your leisure in Verdun.

Breakfast at the hotel. Autonomous visit to Verdun’s main historical sites.

Start with the Verdun Memorial. The Memorial offers a moving immersion into the daily life of soldiers in 1916, with authentic objects, testimonies, and reconstructions. Fort Douaumont, built in the late 19th century, was occupied by German troops early in the battle. Its underground galleries and battle scars reflect the intensity of the conflict.

Continue with a complete visit of the Douaumont Ossuary (film + tower)

This monument houses the remains of over 130,000 French and German soldiers, many unidentified. The 46-meter lantern tower overlooks the military cemetery.

Optional: Visit to Verdun’s underground citadel. A stenographic tour aboard automated pods reveals the daily life of soldiers, strategic decisions, and the selection of the Unknown Soldier now resting under the Arc de Triomphe.

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Luxembourg (approx. 1h30)

Public transport in Luxembourg City is free!

Audio guided city tour by small train. Discover the charm of the old town, its narrow streets, and picturesque architecture

Visit to the Bock Casemates. A network of underground galleries dating back to 1644, part of Luxembourg’s fortifications. (45-minute visit, departures every 15 minutes)

Walk along the Corniche, known as “Europe’s most beautiful balcony,” offering stunning views of the Grund and Clausen districts. Continue by taking the Pfaffenthal public elevator to Grund district (free), a charming area with cobbled streets and riverside terraces. You can then visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral with its gothic architecture, modern stained glass, and the crypt of the Grand Ducal family.

Road back to Verdun in the late afternoon. Overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast and hotel check-out. Audioguided visit to Braquier Dragée Factory

Discover the history and production of Verdun’s iconic confectionery includes tasting of dragées and other sweets.

Guided tour of Michelsberg Fort (Maginot Line, WWI). A massive underground artillery fort built in 1937. Home to 515 soldiers, with barracks, kitchens, command post, and a small train. Interactive demonstrations and historical anecdotes.

End of services.

Alcohol abuse is harmful to your health, please consume in moderation.