15th Edition of Boulay Bouq'In
Book fair dedicated to illustration, comics, and manga. Meet 35 national authors and guest illustrator Jenny for talks and signings.
Plizio Visual Lab
Boulay-Moselle
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
City
ℹ️Practical info — Boulay-Moselle
▾
🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- The town’s location near the border means a strong German influence; you'll often hear a mix of languages.
- The central square is best visited in the morning for an animated local feel.
- Free parking can usually be found a few streets away from the main commercial road.
- Many local shops observe a strict lunch closure.
🍽 Food
🍽
Quiche Lorraine
Try this iconic regional dish in a traditional brasserie near the town center.
🍽
Mirabelle Plum Tart
Lorraine is famous for Mirabelle plums; don't miss a tart from a local patisserie when in season.
🍽
Pâté Lorrain
A savory meat pastry flavored with wine and shallots, excellent for a quick and filling lunch.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Lorraine Delicacies
Look for épiceries fines selling locally produced jams, honey, and Mirabelle schnapps.
🛍
Weekly Market
The town hosts a market where you can buy fresh produce and regional specialties directly from farmers.
🧘
Forest Walks
The surrounding Moselle countryside gives peaceful forested trails for a quiet escape.
🧘
Historical Churches
The interior of the local Catholic church provides a cool, silent refuge from the bustling streets.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
1
Boulay-Moselle is a town rich in history located in eastern France, deeply embedded in the cultural landscape of Lorraine. Geographically, it is situated in the Nied valley, a region defined by rolling hills and fertile agricultural lands. The town's past is closely linked to its strategic position in a border area, having transitioned multiple times between French and German administration throughout the centuries. A unique aspect of its heritage is the long-standing tradition of pipe organ building, which has brought international recognition to the local craftsmen. The town center features typical Lorraine architecture, characterized by solid stone houses and significant religious structures like the Church of Saint-Étienne. Economically, Boulay serves as a key administrative and service hub for the surrounding district, while also benefiting from its proximity to the city of Metz and the dynamic cross-border trade with nearby Germany.
- Location: Grand Est, France
- Top sights: Saint-Étienne Church · Boulay Town Hall · Place de la Vendée
- Nearby: Creutzwald (15 km)
- Population: ~5.680
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 2 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 20 | 19 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 65 | 55 | 57 | 45 | 70 | 65 | 62 | 70 | 55 | 65 | 68 | 77 |
Geography
Facts
- Founded during the Middle Ages
- Population of approximately 5,680
- Elevation ranges from 202 to 365 meters
- Area of about 19.55 square kilometers
- Postal code: 57220
- Seat of the Houve-Pays Boulageois community of communes
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
A day in the city
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→15:566.2 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 13–17 €Entries 15€ · Transport 0€
The morning starts peacefully at Place de la Vendée, followed by a visit to the majestic Saint-Étienne Church. By midday, explore the historical details of Chapelle de la Sainte-Croix in the heart of the city. The afternoon leads you to the charming Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette on the edge of the woods. In the early evening, conclude your walking tour at the rural Chapelle Saint-Laurent.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Place de la Vendée
Admire the characterful architecture in this central square of Boulay-Moselle, which provides a well-suited starting point to enjoy a morning coffee at the surrounding cafes.
🚶 6'0.15 km
⛪
10:01 · 50'
Saint-Étienne Church
Discover the impressive neo-Gothic structure of this church that dominates the cityscape, and look out for the magnificent stained glass windows when the morning sun shines through.
🚶 10'0.33 km
📍
11:01 · 45'
Chapelle de la Sainte-Croix
Visit this historical landmark that gives a tranquil atmosphere, and bring a camera to capture the well-preserved architectural details of its facade.
🚶 22'0.96 km
⛪
12:08 · 50'
Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette
Experience the spiritual tranquility of this pleasant chapel on the edge of the woods, where you can take a short, relaxing stroll along the nearby nature trails after visiting.
🚶 98'4.77 km
⛪
14:36 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Laurent
Admire the simple elegance of this rural chapel deeply rooted in regional history, and park your bike or car on the side of the road as there are no large parking lots available.
09:00→15:566.2 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 13–17 €Entries 15€ · Transport 0€
Start your rainy morning at Place de la Vendée with a sturdy umbrella. Find shelter from the showers inside the grand Saint-Étienne Church. Midday involves wet but manageable walks to the historic chapels. By afternoon, waterproof shoes are a must as you navigate the damp trails to Saint-Laurent.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Place de la Vendée
Admire the square's layout under an umbrella; watch out for slick paving stones in the rain.
🚶 6'0.15 km
⛪
10:01 · 50'
Saint-Étienne Church
Step inside to admire the stained glass while staying perfectly dry during heavy downpours.
🚶 10'0.33 km
📍
11:01 · 45'
Chapelle de la Sainte-Croix
View the exterior quickly; the path here can get muddy, so wear proper waterproof footwear.
🚶 22'0.96 km
⛪
12:08 · 50'
Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette
Enjoy the peaceful interior to escape the rain; the surrounding grass is very slippery when wet.
🚶 98'4.77 km
⛪
14:36 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Laurent
A final stop where the rural path demands sturdy, rain-resistant shoes to avoid wet feet.
09:00→15:566.2 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 13–17 €Entries 15€ · Transport 0€
Crisp winter morning at Place de la Vendée. Warm up inside Saint-Étienne church. At noon, bundle up for the walk to the historic chapels. The afternoon ends early at Saint-Laurent before the 5 PM sunset brings a biting chill to the air.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Place de la Vendée
Bundle up to view the crisp, frosty square; the open space gets quite chilly in the morning breeze.
🚶 6'0.15 km
⛪
10:01 · 50'
Saint-Étienne Church
The thick church walls provide a mild sanctuary from the biting winter cold outside.
🚶 10'0.33 km
📍
11:01 · 45'
Chapelle de la Sainte-Croix
A beautiful sight in the snow, but watch your step as the approach can be dangerously icy.
🚶 22'0.96 km
⛪
12:08 · 50'
Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette
The isolated location feels magical in winter, but ensure you wear a warm windproof jacket.
🚶 98'4.77 km
⛪
14:36 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Laurent
Visit early in the afternoon before the 5 PM darkness sets in; it gets extremely cold here.
09:00→15:4410.6 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 26–36 €Entries 19€ · Transport 12€
Your bike tour starts reasonably in the city center at Place de la Vendée and the impressive Saint-Étienne Church. Around midday, pedal past the Sainte-Croix Chapel to the majestic town hall. The afternoon route continues to the secluded Chapelle Saint-Clément in the southwest. Wind down your evening at the idyllic Chapelle Saint-Laurent after a pleasant ride.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Place de la Vendée
Admire the characterful architecture in this central square of Boulay-Moselle, which provides a well-suited starting point to enjoy a morning coffee at the surrounding cafes.
🚲 4'0.15 km
⛪
09:59 · 50'
Saint-Étienne Church
Discover the impressive neo-Gothic structure of this church that dominates the cityscape, and look out for the magnificent stained glass windows when the morning sun shines through.
🚲 5'0.33 km
📍
10:54 · 45'
Chapelle de la Sainte-Croix
Visit this historical landmark that gives a tranquil atmosphere, and bring a camera to capture the well-preserved architectural details of its facade.
🚲 22'3.15 km
📍
12:01 · 45'
Boulay Town Hall
Contemplate the civic heart of the community at this magnificent town hall building, near which local markets are often held where you can taste regional specialties.
🚲 22'3.13 km
⛪
13:08 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Clément
Explore this small but fascinating historical chapel in the southwestern part of the city, which is well-suited for a quick stop during your extended bike or car tour.
🚲 26'3.86 km
⛪
14:24 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Laurent
Admire the simple elegance of this rural chapel deeply rooted in regional history, and park your bike or car on the side of the road as there are no large parking lots available.
09:00→15:4410.6 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 26–36 €Entries 19€ · Transport 12€
A wet morning ride starts at Place de la Vendée. Take a break at Saint-Étienne to escape the rain. Ride carefully to the Town Hall as the streets get slick. The afternoon cycle to Saint-Clément and Saint-Laurent requires mudguards and extra caution on slippery rural roads.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Place de la Vendée
Start slowly; wet cobblestones make turning dangerous for bike tires today.
🚲 4'0.15 km
⛪
09:59 · 50'
Saint-Étienne Church
Lock the bike and go inside to dry off; waterproof saddle covers are highly recommended.
🚲 5'0.33 km
📍
10:54 · 45'
Chapelle de la Sainte-Croix
Brake early on the approach, as wet leaves and mud make the path very slippery.
🚲 22'3.15 km
📍
12:01 · 45'
Boulay Town Hall
Take refuge under the eaves if a sudden downpour hits the town center area.
🚲 22'3.13 km
⛪
13:08 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Clément
The rural cycling path is muddy today; properly fitted mudguards are an absolute necessity.
🚲 26'3.86 km
⛪
14:24 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Laurent
Finish the ride carefully; visibility drops in heavy rain, so make sure to keep your lights on.
09:00→15:4410.6 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 26–36 €Entries 19€ · Transport 12€
Frosty start biking from Place de la Vendée. Stop at Saint-Étienne to thaw your hands. Ride briskly to the Town Hall to stay warm. The afternoon cycle to the chapels requires good lights, as the winter sun dips low by late afternoon.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Place de la Vendée
The morning frost makes the square icy; make sure to wear insulated cycling gloves.
🚲 4'0.15 km
⛪
09:59 · 50'
Saint-Étienne Church
A good spot to warm your hands inside; your metal bike frame will be freezing cold.
🚲 5'0.33 km
📍
10:54 · 45'
Chapelle de la Sainte-Croix
Watch out for black ice on the constantly shaded parts of the path leading to the chapel.
🚲 22'3.15 km
📍
12:01 · 45'
Boulay Town Hall
The civic center features a brief and welcome respite from the biting winter headwind.
🚲 22'3.13 km
⛪
13:08 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Clément
Pedal briskly to maintain body heat; thermal layers are absolutely crucial out here.
🚲 26'3.86 km
⛪
14:24 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Laurent
Arrive before 16:30; the early 17:00 sunset makes rural cycling very hazardous.
09:00→18:0526.7 km drive8 places0/8
Day budget: ≈ 26–35 €Entries 25€ · Transport 5€
The day begins in the center at Place de la Vendée and the historical Saint-Étienne Church, followed by the Salette Chapel. At midday, drive to Chapelle Saint-Laurent and spend relaxing hours in the expansive Boulay Forest. The afternoon offers cultural insights at Chapelle Saint-Clément and the imposing town hall. In the evening, end your tour at the peaceful Sainte-Croix Chapel.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Place de la Vendée
Admire the characterful architecture in this central square of Boulay-Moselle, which provides a well-suited starting point to enjoy a morning coffee at the surrounding cafes.
🚗 4'0.15 km
⛪
09:59 · 50'
Saint-Étienne Church
Discover the impressive neo-Gothic structure of this church that dominates the cityscape, and look out for the magnificent stained glass windows when the morning sun shines through.
🚗 5'0.64 km
⛪
10:54 · 50'
Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette
Experience the spiritual tranquility of this appealing chapel on the edge of the woods, where you can take a short, relaxing stroll along the nearby nature trails after visiting.
🚗 19'4.77 km
⛪
12:03 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Laurent
Admire the simple elegance of this rural chapel deeply rooted in regional history, and park your bike or car on the side of the road as there are no large parking lots available.
🚗 25'6.53 km
📍
13:18 · 60'
Boulay Forest
Enjoy the untouched nature of this expansive forest, which provides a great escape from city life, and wear comfortable hiking shoes for the unpaved paths.
🚗 31'8.35 km
⛪
14:49 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Clément
Explore this small but fascinating historical chapel in the southwestern part of the city, which is handy for a quick stop during your extended bike or car tour.
🚗 13'3.13 km
📍
15:52 · 45'
Boulay Town Hall
Contemplate the civic heart of the community at this magnificent town hall building, near which local markets are often held where you can taste regional specialties.
🚗 13'3.15 km
📍
16:50 · 45'
Chapelle de la Sainte-Croix
Visit this historical landmark that features a tranquil atmosphere, and bring a camera to capture the well-preserved architectural details of its facade.
09:00→18:0526.7 km drive8 places0/8
Day budget: ≈ 26–35 €Entries 25€ · Transport 5€
Drive comfortably starting at Place de la Vendée. Park near Saint-Étienne to avoid downpours. Midday drives to the chapels keep you dry, though the forest walk is muddy. The afternoon ends at the Town Hall and Sainte-Croix with windshield wipers on full.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Place de la Vendée
Park near the square and use an umbrella; watch carefully for deep puddles when stepping out.
🚗 4'0.15 km
⛪
09:59 · 50'
Saint-Étienne Church
Convenient parking nearby means you won't get completely soaked running to the entrance.
🚗 5'0.64 km
⛪
10:54 · 50'
Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette
Keep the engine running slightly to defog your windows after returning from this damp stop.
🚗 19'4.77 km
⛪
12:03 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Laurent
The short walk from the car is muddy; it is wise to keep a spare pair of shoes in the trunk.
🚗 25'6.53 km
📍
13:18 · 60'
Boulay Forest
The forest trails are extremely muddy; make sure to stick to the main gravel paths today.
🚗 31'8.35 km
⛪
14:49 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Clément
Heavy rain can obscure the rural road; drive slowly and use fog lights for better visibility.
🚗 13'3.13 km
📍
15:52 · 45'
Boulay Town Hall
Dash into the town hall area if the rain intensifies; parking is usually easy to find here.
🚗 13'3.15 km
📍
16:50 · 45'
Chapelle de la Sainte-Croix
A quick final stop; just stay inside the warm car if the downpour is too heavy to walk out.
09:00→18:0526.7 km drive8 places0/8
Day budget: ≈ 26–35 €Entries 25€ · Transport 5€
A cold morning drive starting at Place de la Vendée. The heater keeps you warm between Saint-Étienne and the chapels. Midday at Boulay Forest requires thick coats for the brisk air. Finish the route by the Town Hall and Sainte-Croix before the early winter darkness falls.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Place de la Vendée
Start the car heater early; the crisp morning frost on the windshield will need scraping.
🚗 4'0.15 km
⛪
09:59 · 50'
Saint-Étienne Church
Enjoy the warm car interior between stops; the vast stone church itself is quite chilly.
🚗 5'0.64 km
⛪
10:54 · 50'
Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette
The road here might be frosty; ensure your winter tires have good traction on the approach.
🚗 19'4.77 km
⛪
12:03 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Laurent
A beautiful snow-covered view from the warm car, absolutely first-rate for a quick photo.
🚗 25'6.53 km
📍
13:18 · 60'
Boulay Forest
Dress in thick layers for the forest walk; the winter air beneath the trees here is biting cold.
🚗 31'8.35 km
⛪
14:49 · 50'
Chapelle Saint-Clément
The fading winter light casts long shadows; drive very carefully on the rural lanes.
🚗 13'3.13 km
📍
15:52 · 45'
Boulay Town Hall
The town looks festive in winter, but the pavement outside is often icy and slippery.
🚗 13'3.15 km
📍
16:50 · 45'
Chapelle de la Sainte-Croix
Arrive before the 17:00 twilight; the narrow approach is quite tricky in the dark.
Sights in the town Boulay-Moselle (7)
Frequently asked questions
What is the landmark of Boulay?
The Saint-Étienne church with its impressive organ.
Are there specialties from Boulay?
Yes, 'Macarons de Boulay' have been a famous delicacy since 1854.
Where exactly is the city located?
In Lorraine, about 25 km northeast of Metz.
What can you see in the surroundings?
Remains of the Maginot Line, such as Fort Denting.
When does the market take place?
A traditional weekly market takes place every Thursday morning.
Boulay-Moselle: where is it located?
Boulay-Moselle is located in Grand Est, France.
Boulay-Moselle: what is there to see?
Highlights include Saint-Étienne Church, Boulay Town Hall, Place de la Vendée.
Boulay-Moselle: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Boulay-Moselle: why is it worth visiting?
Boulay-Moselle is a town rich in history located in eastern France, deeply embedded in the cultural landscape of Lorraine.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in France →
Nearby cities
Straßburg
Strasbourg, the capital of the Grand Est region, uniquely combines French and German culture.
Metz
Metz is an elegant city on the Moselle with a grand cathedral, plenty of green space, and a long military and border history.
Le Sablon
A historic district of Metz with a distinct character and a rich Roman past.
Metz-Centre
Metz-Centre is the historic area of the Lorraine city.
Nancy-Nord
The northern area of Nancy offers urban infrastructure and access to parks within the city.
Nancy
Nancy is famous for Place Stanislas and for its elegant Art Nouveau-era architecture.
Nancy-Sud
The southern area of Nancy offers urban development and residential quarters.
Colmar
Colmar is a picturesque Alsatian city with canals, half-timbered houses, and a strong wine tradition.
Mohon
A historic district and former municipality of Charleville-Mézières, famous for its major railway workshops and industrial heritage.
Mézières
The historical heart of Charleville-Mézières, a fortified town set in a loop of the Meuse river in the Ardennes.
Charleville-Mézières
Charleville-Mézières is an Ardennes city on the Meuse, known for its elegant square and puppet theater.
Charleville
Charleville is the historic heart of Charleville-Mézières, famous for the magnificent Place Ducale and as the birthplace of poet Arthur R…
Thionville
Thionville sits on the Moselle near Luxembourg and combines a border location, industrial history, and daily commuting.
Épinal
Épinal is a Vosges city known for its picture prints, printing history, and peaceful river valley.
Haguenau
A historic city in Alsace, surrounded by a vast forest, boasting a rich imperial past and traditional architecture.