Place de la Carrière Nancy
A grand 16th-century square, part of Nancy's UNESCO site, featuring stunning architecture, a colonnade, and hosting vibrant events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Pleasant atmosphere, fewer crowds
Place de la Carrière Nancy
Best Time
Pleasant atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand 16th-century square, part of Nancy's UNESCO site, featuring stunning architecture, a colonnade, and hosting vibrant events.
"A beautiful square between the Arc Here and the Governor's Palace, you always pass by here when walking the historic routes of Nancy."
Combine with Place Stanislas
Easily walk between Place de la Carrière and the stunning Place Stanislas.
Enjoy a Meal or Drink
Several cafes and restaurants offer dining with a view of the square.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Colonnade
North side of the square
Admire the semicircular colonnade adorned with busts of Olympian gods, a testament to its rich history.
Governor's Palace
East side of the square
Marvel at the impressive architecture of the Governor's Palace, a key historical structure on the square.
Arc Here
Western end of the square
This triumphal arch marks the entrance to the square, offering a grand perspective and photo opportunities.
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Planning Your Visit
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Exploring the Grandeur
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Visiting soon - must sees
Combine with Place Stanislas
Easily walk between Place de la Carrière and the stunning Place Stanislas.
Enjoy a Meal or Drink
Several cafes and restaurants offer dining with a view of the square.
Tourist here : what to do in Nancy and around Nancy
What to do in Nancy?
Capture the Architecture
Visit during golden hour for the best light on the historical buildings.
Check for Events
The square hosts various events like festivals and markets throughout the year.
Nancy in Lorraine, France...I liked it way more than Strasbourg
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Place Stanislas
Easily walk between Place de la Carrière and the stunning Place Stanislas.
Enjoy a Meal or Drink
Several cafes and restaurants offer dining with a view of the square.
Capture the Architecture
Visit during golden hour for the best light on the historical buildings.
Check for Events
The square hosts various events like festivals and markets throughout the year.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Place de la Carrière for its stunning historical architecture and its role as a beautiful public space, often visited in conjunction with the adjacent Place Stanislas. It's noted for its grandeur, especially the colonnade and triumphal arch, and its lively atmosphere during events and festive seasons. Some find the dining options a bit pricey, but the overall experience is highly regarded.
"This is a beautiful square located next to Place Stanislas. It consists of numerous World Heritage structures.
The Arc Here, Merchants Exchange, Government Palace, the Beauvau-Craon Hotel, the Here Pavilion and others constructed from the 1500s.
There is a semicircular colonnade decorated with the busts of Olympian gods.
In the center there is an esplanade lined with lime trees and with fountains at each corner. There were races and tournaments along this road.
This is an amazing area. You can now stop for a meal at Louis XV or a drink at LE 15 at the Government Palace."
Mike Zito
"Very beautiful place to visit in Nancy."
Nattarika Yawichai
"On 17 July, 2024, my wife and I came here. Coming from Hong Kong, we were very impressed to see the landscape architecture. Having waited for passers-by to walk or cycle past, we captured our sights."
Peter Kam Fai Cheung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Place de la Carrière is conveniently located adjacent to Place Stanislas in the heart of Nancy. You can easily walk there from most central locations. Public transport options include numerous bus lines that stop nearby. If driving, look for parking garages around Place Stanislas.
Yes, Place de la Carrière is very well-served by public transport. Several bus routes stop within a short walking distance, making it easy to reach from anywhere in Nancy.
The closest parking options are typically the garages around Place Stanislas. It's advisable to check real-time parking availability as these can fill up, especially during peak times or events.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Place de la Carrière is a public square and is free to enter and explore at any time.
As an open public space, Place de la Carrière does not have specific opening or closing hours. You can visit it 24/7.
There are no booking requirements to simply walk around and enjoy the square. If you plan to dine at restaurants located on the square, reservations might be recommended, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Place de la Carrière is renowned for its historical architecture, including the Governor's Palace, the Arc Here, and a beautiful colonnade. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll, photography, and enjoying the ambiance.
Absolutely! The grand architecture, the colonnade, and the Arc Here offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Visiting during the golden hour can enhance the beauty of the buildings.
Yes, Place de la Carrière is a popular venue for various events throughout the year, including festivals, markets, and celebrations like Christmas markets and the Pride parade.
Dating back to the 16th century, Place de la Carrière was originally a jousting and tournament ground. It's now part of Nancy's UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing impressive Baroque and classical architecture.
Yes, the two squares are directly adjacent and seamlessly connected, making it very easy to explore both in one visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several dining options located directly on or adjacent to Place de la Carrière, including restaurants like Louis XV and LE 15 at the Governor's Palace, offering a chance to dine with a view.
You can find a range of French cuisine and cafe-style offerings. Many establishments provide a pleasant atmosphere to enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the sheer scale of the square and its historical buildings can spark imagination. Consider combining a visit with the nearby Place Stanislas, which often has more open space and is equally impressive. Pack some snacks and drinks, as dining options might be more suited for adults, though cafes are available.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Visiting during the golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) will bathe the historical buildings in warm, flattering light, enhancing textures and details. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the square and its surroundings. Don't forget to look for interesting angles and details within the colonnade and on the building facades.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Lovers
Take your time to wander along the esplanade, admire the symmetry, and appreciate the craftsmanship of the different architectural styles. Reading up on the history of the square beforehand can enrich your visit, allowing you to connect more deeply with its past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Key structures like the Governor's Palace and the Arc Here (a triumphal arch) are testaments to its past importance. The elegant semicircular colonnade, decorated with busts of Olympian gods, adds a touch of classical artistry. Walking through this space offers a tangible connection to the events and lives that unfolded here over the centuries.
The square's design and architecture are meticulously maintained, ensuring that visitors can appreciate its historical context. It's a place where you can truly feel the weight of history while enjoying a beautiful public space.
Architectural Marvels
Lined with historical buildings such as the Beauvau-Craon Hotel and various pavilions, the square presents a cohesive and impressive streetscape. The central esplanade, bordered by lime trees and fountains, offers a serene contrast to the grandeur of the surrounding structures.
Visitors often remark on the beauty and scale of the buildings, making it a photographer's delight. The careful preservation of these structures allows for an immersive experience into the architectural heritage of Nancy.
Events and Atmosphere
These events transform the atmosphere, offering visitors a chance to experience the square in a dynamic and festive setting. Whether it's enjoying seasonal treats during the holidays or soaking in the energy of a summer festival, there's always something happening.
The square's adaptability makes it a central hub for community gatherings, contributing to its charm and appeal beyond its historical significance. Checking the local event calendar before your visit can enhance your experience.
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