This review summarizes the state-of-the-art on the use of transition metals in synthetic steps inspired by biosynthesis. After an introduction showing the importance of metals in life processes, with special emphasis on biosynthetic processes, their place in biomimetic synthesis will be described. Topics include oxidative cyclizations for polyether synthesis, electrophilic and radical cyclizations of polyprenoids, the role of palladium in electrocyclizations, oxidative biaryl couplings and other rearrangement steps.