I lived in Thionville for a year, and I must say it's a lovely town. If you get there by train there really is no reason to rent a car or anything, downtown is a 2 minute walk from the station. Downtown is picturesque with numerous quality shops. Thionville will show you what real French life is like. Unlike most places in France, you aren't surrounded by tourists. Visit the Art Movie theater downtown, it usually has quality movies.
I am an American exchange student living in Thionville and I have to agree with the comment by Grayson, its beautiful and shows you the true French life. I definitely recommend Thionville for anyone interested in a quiet vacation in a beautiful country.
Metz is really a beautiful town - it's called the city of gardens or some such name. It's really an unexpected find only about 3 hours from Paris. A great place to wander through the parks and relax and it looks wonderful at night to. Bring lots of film.
Thionville is a charming French town in Lorraine. It is perfectly situated on the border of Luxembourg and Germany, and Belgium-- not to mention Paris and the rest of France! People are very nice, welcoming, and the architecture is beautiful-- the history abundant. Accommodations are very reasonable and the food in the area is incredible!! Try the mirabelles-- so tasty! Visit Thionville!
I haven't seen any worst place than that town, Thionville. How can downtown be a picturesque place if there's no trees there and just a few in the parks? Just shops, that's all. But those who like just shops, cafes, and something resembling a river it's just a good place to visit.
