Palais des Ducs de Lorraine Musée Lorrain
Historic ducal palace in Nancy, now the Musée Lorrain, showcasing Lorraine's art & history. Currently undergoing major renovations.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Palais des Ducs de Lorraine Musée Lorrain
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic ducal palace in Nancy, now the Musée Lorrain, showcasing Lorraine's art & history. Currently undergoing major renovations.
"Beautiful edifice but IT IS CLOSED INDEFINITELY FOR RESTORATION."
Confirm Opening Hours
Always verify current opening status and accessible areas online or by phone before visiting. :informationdeskperson:
Check for Temporary Exhibits
Even during renovations, temporary exhibitions might be available. Inquire about these upon arrival. :newspaper:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Church of the Cordeliers
Courtyard
Discover the solemn burial site of the Dukes of Lorraine, a significant historical and architectural gem.

Palace Facades
Exterior
Admire the magnificent architecture of the former ducal palace, even if access is limited.

Art Nouveau Collection (Nearby)
Musée-École de Nancy
Experience stunning Art Nouveau pieces in a gorgeous building and grounds nearby.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Status Before You Go
Explore Beyond the Main Palace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Nancy in Lorraine, France...I liked it way more than Strasbourg
Confirm Opening Hours
Always verify current opening status and accessible areas online or by phone before visiting. :informationdeskperson:
Check for Temporary Exhibits
Even during renovations, temporary exhibitions might be available. Inquire about these upon arrival. :newspaper:
Visit Nearby Gems
Explore the Art Nouveau treasures at the Musée-École de Nancy, a short distance away. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Opening Hours
Always verify current opening status and accessible areas online or by phone before visiting. :informationdeskperson:
Check for Temporary Exhibits
Even during renovations, temporary exhibitions might be available. Inquire about these upon arrival. :newspaper:
Visit Nearby Gems
Explore the Art Nouveau treasures at the Musée-École de Nancy, a short distance away. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors express significant disappointment due to the Palais des Ducs de Lorraine being closed for extensive renovations, with reopening anticipated in 2029. While the exterior architecture is praised, many found the lack of clear signage about the closure frustrating. Some temporary exhibitions or accessible sections like the Church of the Cordeliers offer a partial experience.
"This is also known as the Palace of the Dukes of Lorraine which is now the Museum of Lorraine. When I visited it was closed for major renovation until 2023! The only other part of this museum opens is the Church of the Cordeliers which is a tombs church, the burial site for the Lorraine family. It has collections of art history with an archeological collection in one of the buildings in the back of the courtyard. Pity that it was closed but the outside façades gave a glimpse of the stupendously magnificent architecture that was once the Dukes Palace of Lorraine."
Antoine M
"The reopening is set for 2029, but the view outside is still lovely!"
Mikhail
"For the sake of god, please put out signs that show interested tourists that the museum is closed. And please adjust the opening hours here.
It's a disgrace for any museum to let potential visitors not know that you are closed.
I'm really disappointed."
Sebastian S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Palais des Ducs de Lorraine is centrally located in Nancy. You can reach it by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby. If driving, be aware that parking in the city center can be challenging. Walking from the main Nancy train station is also an option, taking approximately 15-20 minutes.
Parking near the Palais des Ducs de Lorraine can be limited. There are several public parking garages in the city center, such as Parking Centre-Vieux Nancy, which are a short walk from the museum. It's advisable to check parking availability and rates in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The main Palais des Ducs de Lorraine has been undergoing extensive renovations and its reopening was initially set for 2023, but has been extended to 2029. It is crucial to check the official museum website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on which sections, if any, are accessible to the public. Some temporary exhibitions may still be held in parts of the complex.
Due to ongoing renovations, the opening hours for the Musée Lorrain are highly variable. The main palace is largely closed. However, the Church of the Cordeliers and potentially temporary exhibition spaces may have specific hours. Always consult the official museum website for the latest information before planning your visit.
Admission fees can vary depending on which parts of the museum are open and if there are special exhibitions. It's best to check the official Musée Lorrain website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts. If only the Church of the Cordeliers is accessible, entry might be free or have a nominal fee.
If specific sections or temporary exhibitions are open, online ticket purchasing might be available through the official Musée Lorrain website. This is often recommended to save time, especially if access is limited. Check their website for the most current booking options.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Even with partial closures, you can admire the impressive exterior facades of the former ducal palace. The Church of the Cordeliers, the burial site of the Lorraine family, is usually accessible and offers a glimpse into the region's history. Inquire about any temporary exhibitions that might be hosted in other parts of the complex.
Guided tours may be offered for accessible sections or temporary exhibitions. It's advisable to check the museum's schedule and booking information on their official website. Availability can depend on the current operational status of the museum.
Accessibility can vary significantly due to the historic nature of the building and ongoing renovations. For the most accurate information regarding accessibility for specific areas, it is recommended to contact the museum directly or check their official website for details on ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Given the current renovation status, the best approach is to focus on the accessible parts like the Church of the Cordeliers and any temporary exhibitions. Admire the exterior architecture and plan your visit around confirmed open sections. Consider a visit to the nearby Musée-École de Nancy for a complete Art Nouveau experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can differ for various sections of the museum. Generally, photography for personal use is permitted in many areas, but flash photography might be restricted to protect artworks. For specific rules regarding the Church of the Cordeliers or any temporary exhibitions, it's best to check signage or ask museum staff.
The exterior of the Palais des Ducs de Lorraine offers grand architectural shots. The courtyard provides interesting perspectives. Inside the Church of the Cordeliers, focus on the historical tombs and architectural details. For more vibrant photography, the nearby Musée-École de Nancy is renowned for its Art Nouveau interiors and exteriors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking more interactive or visually stimulating experiences in Nancy, consider the Musée-École de Nancy for its beautiful Art Nouveau setting and decorative arts, which might be more appealing. Always check the museum's website for any specific family-oriented programming or temporary exhibits that might be available during your visit.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
When accessible, the museum's collections, spanning from prehistory to the 20th century, provide a comprehensive overview of Lorraine's rich history. For a deeper dive into a specific artistic period, the nearby Musée-École de Nancy is highly recommended for its exceptional Art Nouveau collections, showcasing a pivotal era in the region's cultural development.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Renovations and Access
Despite the main palace closure, the Church of the Cordeliers, serving as the burial site for the Lorraine family, often remains open and offers a valuable historical experience. Additionally, the museum may host temporary exhibitions in other parts of the complex. It's recommended to check the official museum website or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding what is currently viewable.
For those interested in the art and history of Lorraine, consider visiting the nearby Musée-École de Nancy. This museum is celebrated for its exceptional collection of Art Nouveau pieces, housed within a beautiful building and grounds, providing a rich cultural experience that complements the historical significance of the Palais des Ducs.
Historical Significance of the Dukes of Lorraine
The Church of the Cordeliers within the complex holds particular historical weight as the necropolis of the Lorraine family. Visiting this site offers a direct connection to the lineage and legacy of these historical figures. The collections, when fully accessible, span from prehistory to the 20th century, illustrating the rich tapestry of Lorraine's past, from its ancient roots to its more recent artistic movements.
Understanding the historical context of the Dukes of Lorraine enhances the appreciation of the palace's architecture and the significance of its collections. Even with current access limitations, the site remains a vital landmark for understanding the region's heritage.
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