A long layover in Metz is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 80 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of ETZ:
- Can you legally enter France? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 80-minute journey each way by Navette Metz-Nancy, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Metz on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Metz:
Start with Metz Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Ãtienne). Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look. Then, if time allows, make your way to Place de la Comédie & Temple Neuf. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
If you’d rather stay inside ETZ — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Relay Store
- Terminal Relaxation & Wi-Fi
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Metz: Restaurant Le Pampre and Les Puces de la Faïencerie. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport Bar-Restaurant or Relay Grab & Go. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How to Get Into Metz
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Navette Metz-Nancy | ~80 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~100 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Navette Metz-Nancy is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Metz layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Metz, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Bag Storage Near ETZ
You can store your luggage at Not available at this small regional airport.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Metz as well.
Staying Connected
WiFi at ETZ should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in France and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at ETZ
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at ETZ, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Metz is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Metz.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.