An Escape to France and Belgium

Today, you are heading to French Lorraine and the first stop is the city of Metz. To sweep away the clichés of industrial town, Metz cultivates green spaces and soft, warm colors, yellow and pink.
It seems more inviting than harsh angles would suggest possible - not surprising given how popular this city was during medieval times, when King Louis III built himself several sumptuous homes here before becoming the Holy Roman Emperor!

The first stop of the day is the Center Pompidou-Metz, a museum and performance space in the heart of the city built to welcome visitors with open arms.
The exterior is modern while maintaining ancient traditions; its interior offers an experience like no other: art is everywhere: inside and outside. The main Pompidou center is located in Paris, and they regularly send art to Metz that is exhibited temporarily.
In addition to the exhibitions, the Center Pompidou-Metz houses an auditorium, a café, a restaurant, a studio to host live shows
Opening hours: November - March Wednesday - Monday: 10am - 6pm Tuesday: closed
April - October Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 10am - 6pm Friday - Sunday: 10am - 7pm Tuesday: closed
You can buy a ticket via this link.

Au Cul d'Poule is a well-known gastronomic restaurant in the region. They offer a fine French cuisine made from local products. The wine selection and pairing is absolutely mind-blowing. Enjoy an amazing break, indulging yourself with great food, drinks and excellent service.
Opening hours: Tuesday - Friday: 12pm - 2pm, 7pm - 11pm Saturday: 7pm - 11pm Sunday: 12pm - 2pm Monday: closed
You can book a table on the official website.

Saint-Étienne Cathedral in Metz is the Catholic cathedral of the diocese of Metz. The building of the impressive cathedral took three centuries to be erected, starting in the 13th century. Even though, the cathedral presents a certain homogeneity of style: the stylistic criteria were respected in each construction campaign.
The cathedral has been classified as a historic monument, and it is a candidate for UNESCO.
Unfortunately, there is not enough time to visit the interior of the cathedral, but enjoy the building from the outside as well as the typical medieval streets around.
Enjoy the walk while heading to the next experience, which will be a solar boat trip on the Moselle. It is the perfect time to buy souvenirs and take some pictures.

Solis solar boat offers a 100% eco-friendly and authentic discovery of the city.
Metz is surrounded by the arms of the Moselle river that actually created several islands connected to one another by bridges.
The river has largely contributed to the wealth of the city and gives it a particular charm. Therefore, the best way to discover Metz is by boat.
Book the "Discover the Moselle aboard Solis" tour at 3pm.
Please note that between November and April, pre-booking is required!
After this stop, head back to the restaurant to collect the car, so you can go to the next stop: Longwy. Located at the border with Belgium and Luxembourg, this small town as a few points of interest.

Park your car and head to the Longwy fortified walls that are UNESCO heritage.
Vauban's fortifications are a striking reminder of the town’s ancient past. The engineer Vauban, who was born in what is now Poland but lived most of his life in France, served King Louis XIV as prime minister and built many castles throughout this region, including one just outside Toulouse. The castle still stands to this day - remains an important part of our history even after all these centuries!
The origins of the fortifications are a castle which was built here in medieval times - the Malcouvert tower is almost all that remains of the original castle. The walls we see today were built during the 17th century.

The main entrance is through the Porte de France, one of the original entrance gates to the citadel created by the walls. Inside the Porte de France, there is a bridge that connects two of the walls of the fortifications and overlooks a large lawn where events sometimes take place.
There was originally a second entrance, the Porte de Bourgogne, but this was destroyed in 1914, during the First World War. Most of the original walls are still visible today.
After the visit, head back to the car. It is now time to cross the border and visit the famous neighbor country, Belgium.

Le Florentin is a restaurant-hotel where you will have dinner and spend the night.
First things first, it is time to have an outstanding gastronomic dinner. Le Florentin likes to brag about the pleasure of gastronomy by offering a diverse but fine menu. Dishes range from sophisticated to simple cuisine.
During summer, enjoy the beautiful and peaceful outside area.

Tonight, you will stay at the charming hotel Le Florentin.
Surrounding by lush nature, the hotel has been decorated with taste, the rooms are the perfect space to unwind after a busy day with a chic and warm atmosphere.
Have a good rest and recharge your battery for the last day of the itinerary.