Palais des Ducs de Lorraine Musée Lorrain - The Opera Comedie in Montpellier, France.
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Palais des Ducs de Lorraine Musée Lorrain

4.2
·290 reviews·Nancy, France

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Palais des Ducs de Lorraine Musée Lorrain - The Opera Comedie in Montpellier, France.

Palais des Ducs de Lorraine Musée Lorrain

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.2
(290 reviews)

"Beautiful edifice but IT IS CLOSED INDEFINITELY FOR RESTORATION."

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TIP

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:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Church of the Cordeliers

Church of the Cordeliers

Courtyard

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

Palace Facades

Palace Facades

Exterior

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

Art Nouveau Collection (Nearby)

Art Nouveau Collection (Nearby)

Musée-École de Nancy

Experience stunning Art Nouveau pieces in a gorgeous building and grounds nearby.

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Planning Your Visit

Check Opening Status Before You Go

The Palais des Ducs de Lorraine (Musée Lorrain) has undergone extensive renovations. Confirm current opening status and any accessible sections before your visit to avoid disappointment. Some parts may be open while major renovations continue.

Explore Beyond the Main Palace

While the main ducal palace may be closed for restoration, don't miss the Church of the Cordeliers, the burial site of the Lorraine family. Also, inquire about any temporary exhibitions or accessible collections within the courtyard buildings.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Potential for temporary exhibits
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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:

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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

4.2
(290 reviews)

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

Magnificent architecture
Church of the Cordeliers
Potential temporary exhibits

What People Dislike

Closed for renovation
Lack of clear signage
Disappointing visitor experience

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Due to the extensive renovations and limited access, the Palais des Ducs de Lorraine might not be the most engaging destination for families with young children at the moment. The primary focus is on historical artifacts and architecture, which may not hold the attention of younger visitors. However, if the Church of the Cordeliers is open, it can offer a brief, solemn historical experience. Reddit

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

History buffs will find the Palais des Ducs de Lorraine a site of immense significance, even with its current renovation status. The Church of the Cordeliers is a must-visit for its role as the burial site of the powerful Dukes of Lorraine, offering a tangible link to the region's dynastic past. The architectural grandeur of the palace facades, even from the outside, speaks volumes about its former glory. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Renovations and Access

The Palais des Ducs de Lorraine (Musée Lorrain) is currently undergoing significant renovations, with a reopening anticipated in 2029. This means that access to the main palace collections is largely restricted. Visitors are advised to always verify the current operational status and any accessible sections before their trip. Social media and review sites indicate that disappointment can arise if visitors arrive expecting full access. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Historical Significance of the Dukes of Lorraine

The Palais des Ducs de Lorraine was once the seat of power for the influential Dukes of Lorraine. This dynasty played a crucial role in the history of the region, shaping its political landscape and cultural development for centuries. The palace itself is a testament to their grandeur and architectural ambitions, showcasing a blend of styles that evolved over time.

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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