Nancy is a city that shines with its elegant 18th-century architecture, UNESCO-listed squares, and a surprising depth of artistic heritage. It’s a place where you can stroll through Place Stanislas, marvel at Art Nouveau buildings, or indulge in Lorraine’s famous pastries. What makes Nancy especially appealing for tours is its compact size, making guided walks easy and rewarding, plus its wealth of stories behind each monument. We particularly like the Guided tour of Nancy, Great History and Little Anecdotes because it combines expert knowledge with engaging storytelling, perfect for those wanting a deeper understanding of the city’s past. Plus, the guide’s attention to adapting the tour to all levels makes it a flexible choice whether you’re a history lover or a casual explorer. If you want to see Nancy’s landmarks with a local touch, this tour is a great pick.
For travelers who prefer a more quirky side of Nancy, the Unusual Nancy tour offers a lively alternative, uncovering hidden stories and fun details. And if your interest is in Art Nouveau architecture, Nancy’s rich collections and buildings are on full display during the Guided Tour of Nancy, French Capital of Art Nouveau. Those with a sweet tooth will appreciate the French Pastry Tour, which combines culinary treats with sightseeing, offering a delicious way to explore the city’s regional specialties.
Quick Overview
Nancy offers a diverse range of guided experiences, from historical city walks and artistic heritage tours to gourmet pastry explorations and even family-friendly activities like mini golf. Many tours are available for a reasonable price, such as the Guided tour of Nancy, Great History and Little Anecdotes, which costs just over $17 per person. Whether you’re into architecture, local stories, or gourmet food, there’s something tailored for you. Below, we detail each of our top picks, to help you find the best fit.
1. Guided tour of Nancy, Great History and Little Anecdotes
At number 1, this guided tour offers a charming introduction to Nancy’s heritage and architecture. Led by a Master’s-educated guide who works with the Tourist Office, it provides a balance of factual history and lively stories. The tour hits key landmarks such as Place Stanislas, with its rococo railings and the story of Stanislas Leszczynski—Duke of Lorraine and King of Poland. You’ll also visit Place de la Carriere, a historic training ground, and walk along Grande Rue, the Old Town’s lively main street. With reviews praising the guide’s engaging style and humor, it’s well-suited for first-time visitors who want a well-rounded introduction to Nancy’s backdrop. At just $17.42 per person for about 90 minutes, it’s an excellent value for a tour that combines storytelling with local highlights.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for anyone eager to absorb Nancy’s main sights with a knowledgeable guide who makes history accessible and fun.
2. Guided Tour “Unusual Nancy”
Next in line is the Unusual Nancy, which takes a more playful approach. This tour explores hidden details and quirky anecdotes in Nancy’s streets. Led by a friendly and expert guide-lecturer, you’ll walk through the old town, discovering stories that are often overlooked. The tour culminates in Place Stanislas with little-known facts that add flavor to your visit. Priced at just $14.90, it’s a quick, relaxed way to see Nancy from a different perspective—perfect if you’ve already checked off the main sights or want a more personal, anecdotal experience. The 90-minute format is ideal for a fun, engaging introduction or a light afternoon activity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for curious travelers wanting to uncover Nancy’s lesser-known stories and enjoy an informal, friendly walk.
3. Guided Tour of Nancy, French Capital of Art Nouveau
For around $15.42, this Art Nouveau tour introduces you to Nancy’s reputation as the French capital of Art Nouveau. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour explores the city’s most beautiful buildings and artistic works from the School of Nancy. You’ll see facades, glass roofs, sculptures, and interiors that highlight the craftsmanship of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The guide’s detailed explanations help you understand why Nancy is considered a key hub for this influential movement. With good reviews emphasizing the quality of the commentary, this tour is perfect for lovers of architecture and art who want to appreciate Nancy’s artistic side beyond its historic squares.
Bottom Line: An insightful tour for those interested in Art Nouveau architecture and craftsmanship that makes Nancy a showcase of this elegant style.
4. Art Nouveau visit to Nancy
This Art Nouveau tour at $17.45 offers a detailed look at Nancy’s Art Nouveau architecture. The guide takes you through different forms of this style—facades, glasswork, sculptures—highlighting how the city was at the heart of this artistic explosion at the turn of the 20th century. The tour’s strength lies in its comprehensive nature, with a focus on architectural details and local artist contributions. Reviewers mention the well-documented explanations and pleasant walk through the city’s most iconic buildings. Suitable for art and architecture aficionados, this tour provides a satisfying blend of visual beauty and historical context.
Bottom Line: Great for those eager to see Nancy’s Art Nouveau masterpieces and learn about the artists behind them.
5. French Pastry Tour in Nancy France
For a delicious change, the French Pastry Tour at $68.78 is a two-hour journey into Nancy’s sweet culinary culture. It begins at the Marché Couvert, sampling regional specialties, then moves on to admire the UNESCO-listed Place Stanislas while tasting local treats. Walking through the Old Town, you’ll try Lorraine delicacies at various shops, ending with a cozy cafe visit for a final pastry and coffee. The tour combines food, culture, and sightseeing in a relaxed, tasty package. Reviewers love the mix of regional treats and storytelling, making it ideal for foodies or anyone wanting a sweeter perspective on Nancy. The price reflects the quality of the tastings, making it a worthwhile indulgence for a special treat.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culinary enthusiasts who want to combine sightseeing with tasting Nancy’s regional pastries.
6. Visit: Nancy, greedy city!
This private tour, Nancy: greedy city!, is a gourmet experience costed at $196.79 for a group of up to six. It features five gourmet stops with local Lorraine chocolates, pastries, and specialties. Led by a food expert, the tour explores Nancy’s sweet traditions in detail, including stories about artisan chocolatiers and confectioners. It’s ideal for food lovers who want a more exclusive, personalized tasting experience. Since the tour includes six tastings, it’s a full-sensation journey into Nancy’s culinary craftsmanship. The reviews highlight the engaging guide and rich tastings, making this a luxury option for gastronomic curiosity.
Bottom Line: A luxurious choice for those wanting an intimate, in-depth foodie experience that showcases Nancy’s sweet creations.
7. Nancy Private Guided Walking Tour
Offering a personalized experience, this private tour costs $366 for a group up to 15. It covers Nancy’s main landmarks like Place Stanislas, Nancy Cathedral, and historic streets, all tailored to your interests. The guide, with extensive local knowledge, provides a customized itinerary and spends about 1.5 hours bringing Nancy’s history and architecture alive. This private option is best suited for families or groups seeking a more flexible, in-depth exploration. Reviewers praise the guide’s ability to customize the experience and their depth of knowledge, making it a premium, memorable tour.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a completely personalized and comprehensive walk through Nancy.
8. Guided tour of the Historic Center of Nancy
This historic center tour is about 90 minutes at $15.42 per person. It focuses on Nancy’s origins, including the famous Place Stanislas and Place de la Carriere, both UNESCO-listed sites. Led by a knowledgeable guide, it emphasizes the city’s development from medieval times to the Enlightenment. Reviews are consistently positive, highlighting the guide’s engaging storytelling and the tour’s efficient coverage of major landmarks. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a solid overview of Nancy’s core attractions without a lengthy commitment.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers seeking a compact, informative introduction to Nancy’s historic heart.
9. Nancy CityPass: Visit more, spend less!
For flexible exploration, the Nancy CityPass offers unlimited access to top sites, museums, guided tours, and a tourist train for $29. per person. Valid for 1 to 3 days, it’s ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time and skip ticket lines. Plus, it includes over 70 discounts at shops and restaurants, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious visitors. It’s suited for those who plan to explore Nancy intensively over a few days and enjoy added perks.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting value and convenience with flexible access to Nancy’s main attractions.
10. Nancy: Guided Walking Tour
This guided walking tour offers a short but lively introduction to Nancy at $81 per person. With a maximum of 8 travelers, it provides an intimate experience focused on local landmarks and hidden details. Covering sites like Porte de la Craffe and Place Stanislas, it’s ideal if you want a personalized, small-group tour. The guide’s local insights are highlighted in reviews, making it a personalized and engaging way to discover Nancy efficiently.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who prefer a small-group experience with tailored insights.
$81 per person
11. NANCY WITHOUT DETOURS: TOUR WITH A PROFESSIONAL GUIDE
This flexible tour is about 90 minutes costing $76 per person. It’s highly customizable, with itinerary adjustments to suit your preferences. The guide highlights historical landmarks, such as the Church of the Cordeliers and Porta de la Craffe. It’s perfect if you want a personalized route and a deeper dive into Nancy’s past. Reviewers appreciated the adaptability and knowledge of the guide.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a tailored experience that covers their specific interests.
12. Nancy Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
This private option at $311.92 covers Nancy’s main landmarks over about 90 minutes, with a focus on customization. The guide offers personalized attention and can adapt the route for your interests. It’s perfect for families or small groups wanting an in-depth, flexible exploration. Reviewers mention the guide’s extensive knowledge of architecture and history, making this an educational and personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a private, tailored tour with in-depth insights.
13. Part of Mini Golf
Looking for something fun and relaxed? The Mini Golf course in Nancy is an 18-hole, shaded course suitable for all ages. Priced at just $7.99, it’s a great way to enjoy a break from sightseeing, especially if you’re traveling with children or looking for a casual activity. The course features clay tracks and playful obstacles, making it both enjoyable and accessible. It’s open from March to December and offers a fun, inexpensive way to spend an hour or so outdoors.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or casual players who want a lighthearted activity in the city.
14. Discovery Track Game: The Mysteries of Nancy
Finally, for something interactive, the Discovery Track Game offers a self-guided, smartphone-based adventure. Costing around $45.38, it’s a two-hour experience where you solve puzzles and answer questions about Nancy’s gastronomy, culture, and local stories. Ideal for families or tech-savvy travelers, it adds a fun, game-like element to exploring the city at your own pace. Reviews note the engaging challenges and interactive format, making it a lively alternative to traditional guided tours.
Bottom Line: Great for those who enjoy interactive, self-guided experiences and want a playful way to learn about Nancy.
$45.38 per group (up to 6)
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and travel style. If you want a rundown with a friendly guide, the Guided tour of Nancy, Great History and Little Anecdotes is hard to beat. For a specialized focus on architecture, the Art Nouveau tours and Art Nouveau visit to Nancy are perfect. Budget travelers can opt for the Nancy CityPass, which unlocks multiple sites at a reduced rate. Foodies should consider the French Pastry Tour, while families or groups seeking private attention will love the Private Guided Walking Tour.
Timing and your fitness level are also important—most walking tours are about 90 minutes, so wear comfortable shoes. Booking early is recommended, especially for private tours or popular experiences like the pastry walk. Nancy’s compact, walkable streets make all these options accessible, so pick what suits your interests and enjoy discovering this elegant French city.
Final thoughts
Nancy offers a surprising variety of tours that cater to different tastes—whether you’re into history, art, food, or just a good walk. The Guided tour of Nancy, Great History and Little Anecdotes remains a top choice for a balanced, engaging experience, while the French Pastry Tour is perfect if your appetite is as big as your curiosity. For those seeking a private or customized touch, Nancy’s private tours ensure you won’t miss a detail. No matter your style, Nancy’s charm is waiting—so plan ahead and book early to make the most of your visit.