Sentier des Lanternes
Enchanting illuminated trail in the gardens of Metz in winter
About Sentier des Lanternes
The Sentier des Lanternes is an enchanting illuminated trail organized every winter by the Department of Moselle in the square Boufflers in Metz. From late November to late December, over 2,500 artisanal lanterns illuminate the gardens. Luminous characters, fairy-tale animals, giant structures, and illuminated arches line the path, offering a free spectacle accessible to all. This event delights tens of thousands of visitors each year.
Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Sentier des Lanternes at the best price.
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An enchanted trail in the gardens of Metz
The Sentier des Lanternes is a magical winter event that transforms the square Boufflers in Metz into a fairy-tale luminous world every year. Organized by the Department of Moselle, this artisanal lantern trail has become a must-attend event for the end-of-year festivities in Metz, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each season.
Over 2,500 lanterns
A fairy-tale setting
The trail features over 2,500 artisanal lanterns winding through the alleys of square Boufflers. These lanterns, true works of luminous art, depict fantasy characters, fairy-tale animals, enchanted scenes, and giant structures that illuminate the winter night with a thousand colors. The whole creates a poetic and marvelous universe, conducive to wonder for both young and old.
A renewed scenography
Each edition offers a completely redesigned scenography with new luminous creations. Redesigned entrance arches, new characters, fantastic animals, and monumental structures enrich the trail year after year, guaranteeing an element of surprise with each visit. The lanterns are created by specialized artisans, combining traditional know-how with contemporary creativity.
A nocturnal stroll for everyone
The Sentier des Lanternes is designed as a family-friendly stroll accessible to all. The path is designed to be accessible for people with reduced mobility and strollers. The walk, lasting about 30 to 45 minutes, takes place in a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere, accompanied by soft and enveloping sound ambiance.
A free event
Access to the Sentier des Lanternes is completely free, in line with the Department of Moselle's commitment to offering a cultural and festive event accessible to everyone. This free access contributes to the popular success of the event, which brings together a large and diverse audience each year.
At the heart of Christmas in Metz
The Sentier des Lanternes is part of the Christmas festivities in Metz, alongside the Christmas Market and the city's illuminations. It is a prime stop for visitors discovering the magic of Christmas in Metz. Its proximity to the Esplanade and the city center allows combining a visit to the trail with exploring the Christmas market and the illuminated monuments of the city.
Sentier des Lanternes — edition 2026
15th edition of the Sentier des Lanternes in Metz. Free enchanting illuminated trail at square Boufflers with over 2,500 artisanal lanterns.
Prices Sentier des Lanternes 2026
Practical information — Sentier des Lanternes
Access
The Sentier des Lanternes is located at square Boufflers in Metz, accessible from the Esplanade – place de la République, in the city center.
- By train: Metz-Ville station, served by TGV from Paris (1h20), Strasbourg (1h30), and Luxembourg (50 min). Square Boufflers is a 15-minute walk from the station through the city center.
- By car: A31 (Paris-Luxembourg axis) and A4 (Strasbourg-Paris axis) motorways. Esplanade underground parking is immediately adjacent to the entrance of the trail. Other parking: République, Cathédrale. High attendance on Friday and Saturday evenings: plan to arrive early.
- By bus/tram: LE MET' network, Mettis lines A and B, République stop, a 2-minute walk from the trail entrance.
- By bike: VélOstan'lib stations at place de la République. Bicycle racks nearby.
Location
Square Boufflers, entrance via the Esplanade – place de la République, 57000 Metz. The square is a public garden located between the Esplanade and the banks of the Moselle. The illuminated trail winds through the garden's paths for about 500 meters. The walk lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes at a leisurely pace, taking time to admire each luminous installation.
Opening Hours
Sunday to Thursday: 5 PM to 8 PM. Friday and Saturday: 5 PM to 9 PM. December 24: 4 PM to 6 PM. Closed on December 25. Hours may vary for public holidays and school holidays. It is recommended to consult the website of the Department of Moselle for updated hours.
Dates
From late November to late December (approximately 5 weeks), covering the period of the Metz Christmas Market. The trail is open every day except December 25.
Prices
Completely free, open access without reservation. No ticket required.
Practical Tips
Bring warm and waterproof clothing (winter period, outdoor trail). Comfortable shoes recommended, paths can be wet or icy. The trail is accessible to people with reduced mobility and strollers. Ideal to combine with a visit to the Christmas Market located a few minutes' walk away. Friday and Saturday evenings are the busiest: prefer weekdays for a more peaceful visit.
Nearby
The Metz Christmas Market (Saint-Louis, République, d'Armes squares) is accessible within a 5-minute walk. Saint-Étienne Cathedral, illuminated, is visible from the Esplanade.
Contact
Department of Moselle: www.moselle.fr
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Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Sentier des Lanternes at the best price.
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Where does it take place — Sentier des Lanternes
Square Boufflers
Square Boufflers, Metz, 57000 Metz