Nancy's city center is the highlight of any trip. Louis XV's father-in-law Stanislas Leszczynski designed the area, which connects the old and new towns of Nancy. The area is made up of three famous squares: Place Stanislas, Place de la Carrière and Place d'Alliance. As a group, these were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983.
The Lorraine Museum, opened in 1850, houses the crypts of the Lorraine family. Ecole de Nancy ("School of Nancy") Museum is dedicated to the Art Nouveau period and is one of the city's most famous museums. It displays furniture, glassware, stained glass, leather, ceramics and textiles.
Places to purchase pieces from the Art Nouveau period are near the School of Nancy Museum. Louis Majorelle, a wood master craftsman and prominent member of the Nancy School, sells souvenirs out of his home. The Shop Antiquités specializes in Art Nouveau. Aujourd'hui 1900, across the street from the School of Nancy Museum, has less expensive pieces.
L'Excelsior, a brasserie built in 1911, has several regional specialties such as foie gras with chutney made from local fruits and farm-produced veal in a pastry shell. Le V'Four is a tiny restaurant with a family atmosphere featuring the freshest ingredients. Nathalie Lalonde is known for its egg, ham and cheese tart.
Accommodations in Nancy range from expensive hotels to residence rentals. The more luxurious hotels are located in the city center. The Grand Hotel de la Reine has premium suites and five reception rooms. It is walking distance to the opera, theater and museums. For a more local feel, rent a fully furnished apartment. Book the apartment through Appart'city Nancy, an online booking service.
