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Nancy is an easy, safe city to visit, but a few practical details will save you money and time. Here are the answers to the questions travellers ask most, from airport transfers to tipping. Detailed numbers are in our Nancy weather by month guide
Nancy Travel Tips and FAQ: Airports and Getting to Nancy
The nearest airport is Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport (ETZ) at Louvigny, about 35 km (22 miles) north of the city, a 35 to 40 minute drive. A shuttle bus links the airport to Nancy’s train station for roughly 8 euros one-way, and a taxi costs about 60 to 80 euros. Many travellers instead fly into Paris and take the TGV: the high-speed line reaches Paris Gare de l’Est in about 90 minutes, with advance one-way fares from around 25 to 45 euros. Nancy-Ville station is a 10-minute walk south of Place Stanislas, on a tram line into the centre. For timing advice, see the best time to visit Nancy guide
Nancy Travel Tips and FAQ: Money, Cards and Tipping
France uses the euro. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, though small market stalls and some cafes prefer cash for purchases under 10 euros. Tipping is not required, as service is included in the bill, but rounding up a euro or two at a restaurant is normal. Tap water is safe to drink, and asking for a carafe d’eau gets you free tap water at any cafe. A budget traveller can manage on about 60 to 80 euros a day excluding accommodation, while a mid-range day with a sit-down meal and two attractions runs nearer 120 to 150 euros. Plan sightseeing with our things to do in Nancy guide
Nancy Travel Tips and FAQ: Safety, Getting Around and Language
Nancy is statistically safe, with low violent-crime rates; the main practical risks are pickpocketing in the squares during the Saint Nicolas festival and bike theft. The city centre is walked in 20 to 30 minutes, and the STAN bus and tram network covers the outskirts for 1.60 euros per single ticket. French is the working language, and while younger staff in hotels speak some English, learning bonjour and merci goes a long way. For details on the festival, see our Nancy events and festivals guide. Our Nancy neighborhoods guide breaks down the districts
Suggested Hotels in Nancy
Three reliable options cover the luxury, mid-range and budget tiers across the centre. For hotels by area, see where to stay in Nancy
Grand Hotel de la Reine
A 4-star in an 18th-century palace directly on Place Stanislas, with a lounge and banqueting hall and the square’s illuminations outside the door. Best for couples wanting a landmark address. Check rates and availability
Hotel Stanley by HappyCulture
A 3-star two minutes from the station and five minutes from the square, with free Wi-Fi and a breakfast buffet. Best for train travellers and short city breaks. Check rates and availability
ibis budget Nancy Centre
A compact, renovated budget chain in the centre with a strong value rating. Best for solo travellers watching cost. Check rates and availability
