tourist guide to lille

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Capital of the Hauts-de-France région, Lille may be France's most underrated metropolis. Recent decades have seen the country's fourth-largest city (by greater urban area) transform from an industrial centre into a glittering cultural and commercial hub. Highlights include its enchanting old town with magnificent French and Flemish architecture, renowned art museums, stylish shopping, outstanding cuisine, a nightlife scene bolstered by 67,000 university students, and some 1600 designers in its environs.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Palais des Beaux Arts

Inaugurated in 1892, Lille's illustrious Fine Arts Museum claims France's second-largest collection after Paris' Musée du Louvre. Its cache of sublime…

La Piscine Musée d'Art et d'Industrie

An art deco municipal swimming pool built between 1927 and 1932 is now an innovative museum showcasing fine arts (paintings, sculptures, drawings) and…

Musée d'Art Moderne, d'Art Contemporain et d'Art Brut – LaM

Colourful, playful and just plain weird works of modern and contemporary art by masters such as Braque, Calder, Léger, Miró, Modigliani and Picasso are…

Hôtel de Ville

Built between 1924 and 1932, Lille's city hall is topped by a slender, 104m-high belfry that was designated a Unesco-listed monument in 2004. Climbing 100…

For an authentic taste of grassroots Lille, head to the ethnically diverse, family-friendly quartier populaire (working-class quarter) of Wazemmes, 1.3km…

Musée de l'Hospice Comtesse

Within a red-brick 15th- and 17th-century poorhouse, this absorbing museum features ceramics, earthenware wall tiles, religious art, 17th- and 18th…

Le Tripostal

Splashed with street art murals, this cavernous red-brick postal sorting centre was transformed into an arts centre in 2004, when Lille was the European…

Maison Natale de Charles de Gaulle

The upper-middle-class house in which Charles de Gaulle was born in 1890 is now a museum presenting the French general and president in the context of his…

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Latest stories from Lille

Oct 3, 2019 • 4 min read

Our writer reveals why he avoided the Paris crowds and headed instead for the handsome architecture, great food and fabulous art museums of Lille.

Jun 14, 2019 • 6 min read

Feb 10, 2014 • 6 min read

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A local’s guide to Lille: 10 top tips

Lille and its neighbour Roubaix have been reinvented as cultural hubs. Curator Didier Fusillier and local artist Fanny Bouyagui pick their highlights

Book browsing

Smack in the middle of Lille’s main square, La Vieille Bourse is its former stock exchange, probably the most beautiful building in the city, dating from 1652. Walk into the open courtyard to discover book stalls, chess players, street musicians and, on summer Sunday evenings, tango dancing. There are eight permanent bouquinistes , booksellers who since 1982 display thousands of rare tomes, cinema posters, prints and maps, plus bandes déssinées , comics from vintage English-language Marvel and DC to Tintin and Mickey Mouse. We may be in the age of Kindle but in Lille, print culture is alive and well. Afterwards, enjoy a chocolat chaud and signature gau fre pastry at Meert’s 17th-century tearoom and pâtisserie.

Open Friday and Saturday nights only, Magazine Club is the prime after-hours rendezvous in Lille. It resembles a concrete bunker, but only houses 800 people, so when it is packed and dancing, it feels very intimate. Music is house and techno, recreating the vibe of 1980s Belgian electro clubs. DJs are mostly French, with guest exceptions like Detroit’s Jeff Mills and Terry Francis from London. Regulars are already queueing when doors open at midnight, and the place gets going seriously after 2am, shutting around 6.30am. Prices are reasonable: entry €10-15, drinks from €4. 84 rue de Trévise, on Facebook

Go to market

For a slice of local life, try the Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday morning market in the old industrial neighbourhood of Wazemmes . We say here that this is the land of 100 nationalities, from Portuguese and Italians who worked in mines and textile factories, to present-day migrants from Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, Albania and Moldavia, Iraq and Afghanistan. Around the packed square, cafes, stalls and trucks sell goods of all kinds plus an irresistible mix of world cuisine. Inside the historic covered food hall (Tue-Sun from 8am), Lillois specialities such as pungent maroilles cheese and jars of potjevleesch , a delicious terrine of veal, rabbit, chicken and pork, are on display. At Le Cheval Blanc on rue des Sarrasins, Madame Monique hosts a heaving bal populaire with live music.

Animal magic

The Musée d’Histoire Naturelle is perfect for family visits away from the crowds. Housed in a grand 1822 building, it is one of France’s most important natural history museums. Apart from giant skeletons of elephants and whales, there are thousands of stuffed animals and birds, strange living insect installations and a geological wing with scary dinosaurs. During the Lille 3000 festival, it will host a show on Mexican folk art. Right outside is Parc Jean-Baptiste Lebas, perfect for a picnic in summer. The park is a typical example of how Lille has changed, as this green space with modern sculptures and flower gardens used to be an ugly car park. 19 rue de Bruxelles, mhn.lille.fr , adult €3.70, 12-25s €2.60, under-12s free

Young designers

Roubaix is a 20-minute Metro ride from central Lille, home to La Piscine , a resplendent art deco municipal swimming pool converted into a museum and exhibition venue. But fashion lovers should pop next door, to the brilliant Vestiaire, a textile factory converted into a showroom for emerging fashion designers. Incubator Maisons de Mode runs eight pop-up boutiques inside, helping young designers make a start. Vestiaire has a health food diner, but across the road is L’Etoile de Damas , whose owner, a Syrian refugee, and has become a local favourite, ringing his mum at home for great family recipes. 27 rue de l’Espérance, Roubaix, maisonsdemode.com

Lille’s eat street

Once a quiet backstreet, rue des Bouchers has become Lille’s new foodie rendezvous, with half a dozen new bistrots popping up in the past year. Latest is Le Petit Bougnat specialising in Auvergne cheeses and charcuterie (from €5), while next door the more fashionable Ripaille (two-courses from €19) serves dishes such as cockles with chorizo and saffron. Book for Bloempot , a Flemish canteen whose €25 three-course lunch, including beer or wine, is the best deal in town. Michelin-starred chef Florent Ladeyn’s menu ranges from red mullet on braised sprouts to wild mushroom velouté and nettle sorbet. After lunch, check out Lille’s top avant-garde art gallery, Cédric Bacqueville , on rue Thiers.

Alternative arts centre

Les Maisons Folie Moulins , founded in 2009 in a 19th-century red-brick brewery, is a thriving creative centre for street art, photography, dance and music. It is also the site of Micro-Folies, a permanent digital museum showing 250 works from museums around the whole of France. Its Mini-Lab workshop is great for kids and adults, providing not just colouring books and papier-maché but the latest 3-D printers. Just up the road from the Maison, don’t miss a cone of frites at the best chippy in town, Friterie Sensas, on rue de Cambrai. 45 rue d’Arras, maisonsfolie.lille.fr

Wine and tapas

Lille, and most of northern France, is known for beer, from local artisan ales to the hundreds of Trappists, tripels and lambics brewed just over the border in Belgium. But recently new spots have opened for wine lovers and those who prefer simple plates of tapas rather than a proper meal. Top spot is JaJa , overseen by the knowledgeable Fred Challe, whose wine list stretches to some 600 different bottles. The generous plates of cheese, ham, salamis and even octopus are perfect for sharing. If craft beer is more your scene, don’t miss the rock’n’roll Bellerose bar, with 11 taps of IPAs and Porters. Jaja , 36 rue Saint-André, on Facebook

Dinner and dancing

The rebirth of the immense St Sauveur goods station in 2009 as a contemporary arts centre has seen it host exhibitions, concerts, dance clubs and cinema. The old entrance hall is now the unmissable Bistrot de St So . At lunchtime, choose from a tasty menu of world cuisine dishes, from tom yum soup to vegetarian lasagne (two-courses €19). At night, the tables disappear and this chameleon locale becomes the packed-out Apéromix, with live bands, DJs and even karaoke up on stage, tasty pizzas, tapas and terrines, wine €2 a glass, cocktails and craft beers. Sundays are quieter, more a long lazy brunch for families and kids. 17 boulevard Jean-Baptiste Lebas, on Facebook

Artists’ studios

Roubaix was France’s textile capital in 1900, but fell into decline in the 1970s. It has reinvented itself as a centre for artists and artisans. A glass-roofed textile warehouse, Ateliers Jouret was squatted in the 1980s then abandoned before the installation in 2017 of 30 multimedia artists’ studios. This is a perfect opportunity for the general public to get an peek into Roubaix’s creative world, with artists working in ceramics, printing, painting, sculpture and illustration. Locals and tourists can sign up for half-day workshops (mostly in French) for around €30 - I’m studying ceramics myself. The first weekend of each month is Jouret Market, when the whole place is open for visits and sales, concerts and performances. 13 rue de l’Hospice, Roubaix, on Facebook

The fifth Lille 3000 biennial arts festival runs from 27 April, with a grande parade , to 1 December, with more than 50 exhibitions, plus gardens, street art and banquets. This year’s event, called Eldorado, is on a Mexican theme.

Getting there

Eurostar runs seven trains a day from London St Pancras to Lille, taking 1hr 20 minutes, from £58 return.

Where to stay

Why Hotel , a boutique hotel in a kitsch 1970s building, has doubles from €100 room-only. Hotel Brueghel is cosy, old-fashioned and right in the centre, with doubles from €89.

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Things to Do in Lille (France)

15 Best Things to Do in Lille (France)

The capital of the northern Hauts-de-France region, Lille has a reputation as a hard-working industrial city, and has a fabulous historical centre. Until it was invaded by Louis XIV in 1667 Lille was actually Flemish, and this heritage is clear in the city’s architecture.

Old Lille has an abundance of baroque buildings, with delicately gabled roofs, and plush late-19th-century homes on engaging streets. If you’re on the hunt for culture you’ll be pleased with what you find: The Palace of Fine Arts is second only to the Louvre and there’s a clutch of smaller attractions that deserve your attention.

Lets explore the best things to do in Lille :

1. Old Lille

Lille’s historic district is a delight, with restored bourgeois houses on cobblestone streets.

You’ll  pick up on the city’s Flemish influence when you see the baroque architecture dating to the 17th and 18th centuries.

Place Louise de Bettignies and Rue de la Monnaie are the best places to start a stroll, and you’ll spend most of the walk looking up at the decorative facades and gables, so be careful not to bump into anyone! Old Lille is a dynamic area too, with more than its fair share of bars and congenial nightspots.

2. Palais des Beaux-Arts

A simply enormous museum, Palais des BeauxArts is behind only the Louvre for size.

It’s in a lovely Belle Époque summer palace from the end of the 19th century, and you may need as long as half a day to get the most out of the museum and its art from the 1400s up to the 1900s.

There are works by Monet, Raphael, Gustave Courbet, Rubens, van Gogh, Donatello, Jacob Jordaens and Picasso, but this is just the swiftest breeze through what’s on show.

Make time for the plans-reliefs, which are high-detail 17th and 18th-century scale models of cities around modern day Belgium and northern France, including Lille.

3. La Vieille Bourse

Most agree that Lille’s old stock exchange is the finest building in the city.

It dates to the mid-17th century and consists of 24 Flemish renaissance houses, all around a central arcaded courtyard.

If you’re wondering how the facades can be so ornate, the main architect, Julien Destrée, was a decorative furniture designer by trade, and was given free rein to express himself on this project.

After more than 350 years La Vieille Bourse still a fixture of daily life in Lille; people come to play chess in the courtyard, and beneath the arcades there’s a daily flower and book market.

If you fancy it in summer you can watch dance demonstrations in this marvellous space.

4. Grand Place

Lille’s expansive main square is the place where locals and tourists converge to meet up or see the sights.

On all sides are wondrous old gabled buildings.

Pause to look at the Théâtre du Nord, set in Lille’s former guardhouse from 1717. That classic Flemish style has also been adopted by more modern structures, like the art deco Voix du Nord building next-door, which was built in 1936 and has a high crow-stepped gable.

At the heart of the  square is the Colonne de la Déesse, put up in the 19th century to honour the city’s part in repelling the Habsburg Empire in the Siege of Lille in 1792.

5. Parc Zoologique

Located in the upmarket Esquermes quarter, Lille’s zoo is free to enter, placing it among the most-visited zoological attractions in all of France.

The zoo is pretty compact, but has 450 animals from 70-odd species and takes part in international conservation programs for endangered species.

The enclosures are all large and natural-looking too, so you won’t feel guilty about a family day out here.

There are seven areas in all, most organised geographically, so in Les Terres d’Afrique are zebras and rhinos, while the American zone has alpacas and tapirs.

Lille’s museum of modern art is a first-rate contemporary cultural attraction with more than 6,700 works from the 20th and 21st centuries.

It really took off in 1999 when it received a donation from L’Aracine, an association of Art Brut collectors, and now contains the largest set of Art Brut works in France.

Outsider artists like Augustin Lesage, Henry Darger and the famous schizophrenic Carlo Zinelli are all featured.

You can also see works by giants like Picasso, Georges Braque, Paul Klee, Joan Miró, Amedeo Modigliani and Alexander Calder.

The verdant sculpture park is good for a stroll too, with contributions from Jacques Lipchitz, Eugène Dodeigne, Picasso and Calder.

7. Lille Citadelle

After conquering Lille in 1667 Louis XIV wasted little time reinforcing the city’s fortifications.

The star-shaped citadel was built in just three years, and was designed by none other than Vauban, the famed military engineer who left his mark all across France in this time.

The speed of the project is all the more amazing when you see the quantity of material needed for its construction: Three million stone blocks, 70,000 lumps of sandstone and 60 million bricks.

The Citadel is still a French military base today, so you can’t enter, but you can admire the various gates and outer walls on a ramble in the canal-side park, in Esquermes, the same posh part of the city as the Zoo.

8. Stade Pierre-Mauroy

The local football team, Lille OSC have been a mainstay of Ligue 1 for many years, and managed to win the league in 2011. Things have been up and down for them since then, but the club has a swish new stadium if you’re up for some live football action.

Stade Pierre-Mauroy can seat 50,000,was built for EURO 2016 and hosted six matches during the tournament, including the quarter-final between Wales and Belgium.

In the summer the stadium doubles as a concert arena for major artists like Rihanna.

9. Maison Natale Charles de Gaulle

On Rue Pincesse, in a leafy neighbourhood north of Old Lille, is the house where Charles de Gaulle was born on November 22 1890. It belonged to his maternal grandparents, and his family was well-off, although it had lost its land in the Revolution almost a century before.

With the help of family keepsakes and contemporary memorabilia the house is now a museum doing a good job of recreating a 19th-century bourgeois home.

There are some artefacts that will catch the eye, like the general’s cradle, and the officer’s sword he received at the end of his first year at the Saint-Cyr military academy.

10. Town Hall and Belfry

The art deco Hôtel de Ville went up in the 1920s and took inspiration from Lille’s famous gables.

Flanders, to which Lille belonged for centuries, is a region noted for its belfries, and the town hall boasts the most recent and the highest of them all: It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site on its own, and rises to 104 metres.

In a low-rise city like Lille this concrete landmark is a useful marker wherever you are.

There are 400 steps to get to the top, but most sensible people will choose the lift!

Ticket available online : Town Hall Belfry Entry Ticket

11. Maison Folie Wazemmes

One of Lille’s massive textile mills has been transformed into a modern cultural centre.

It’s a red brick factory dating to 1855, and in 2004 the Dutch architectural agency NOX re-evaluated the two  buildings to create a new landmark for the city.

Contemporary design harmonises with 19th-century architecture here: There’s more than 5,000 square metres for exhibitions, and an auditorium that can seat 250 and stand more than 700. When you’re in town check out the sinuous sheet metal facade and pop inside to see what’s on.

12. Villa Cavrois

Less than ten kilometres from Lille-Centre is the suburb of Croix where aficionados of modern architecture will be keen to tour this mansion designed by Robert Mallet-Stevens.

Villa Cavrois was built at the turn of the 1930s for the rich textile industrialist Paul Cavrois.

Mallet-Stevens was a proponent of the modernist school and the building is a physical manifesto constructed with guidelines demanding the provision of “air, light, work, sports, hygiene, comfort and efficiency”. The villa has conveniences almost unheard of at the time, like air-conditioning, electric lighting in all rooms and telephones for people to speak to each other in different rooms.

13. La Piscine Museum

Next-door to Croix is Roubaix, where there’s an imaginative cultural attraction set in a former indoor swimming pool.

The pool was completed in 1932 and was conceived in an exquisite art deco style.

It shut down in the 80s but was reopened as a wonderful space in which to showcase a large archive of textile samples gathered from Lille’s many textile factories.

This collection goes all the way back to 1835, so the museum will help you connect with Lille’s industrial past in a graceful venue

14. Palais Rihour

There aren’t many flamboyant gothic buildings in Lille, but this mansion completed for the Duke of Burgundy in 1453 is a nice example.

It now contains Lille’s tourist centre in the Salle des Gardes on the ground floor.

Upstairs the Sacristy, with lovely stained-glass windows, and the Salle du Conclave are venues for exhibitions and public events.

The square in front is also where Lille’s first-rate Christmas Market takes place in December, and where you could come to taste Lille’s cuisine.

Just between Place Rihour and Grand Place are typical restaurants cooking Flemish-style dishes like carbonnade Flamande, a beef stew made with beer and served with French fries.

15. Marché de Wazemmes

One of northern France’s best-loved and largest outdoor markets is held at Place Nouvelle Aventure on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday mornings.

Of the three, Sunday is far the most vibrant and colourful, when there are hundreds of stalls and thousands of people show up to browse and buy.

You’ll note a Maghreb accent at Wazemmes, in the spices and exotic fruits and vegetables used in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine.

But really, you can find anything you desire, from rotisserie chicken hot from the spit to antiques, fresh fruits and veg and even clothing.

Cap your visit with a beer at one of the bars around the square.

15 Best Things to Do in Lille (France):

• Palais des Beaux-Arts
• La Vieille Bourse
• Grand Place
• Parc Zoologique
• Lille Citadelle
• Stade Pierre-Mauroy
• Maison Natale Charles de Gaulle
• Town Hall and Belfry
• Maison Folie Wazemmes
• Villa Cavrois
• La Piscine Museum
• Palais Rihour
• Marché de Wazemmes

11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lille

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lisa Alexander spent two years living in France and has traveled the country extensively.

A worthwhile detour between Paris and Brussels leads to Lille, the historic capital of Flanders (a medieval principality that encompassed part of northern France, as well as Belgian and Dutch provinces). Today, Lille is the largest and most important metropolis in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region of France.

Lille's Flemish cultural heritage is seen in its distinctive Baroque architecture and hearty cuisine. Lilloise gastronomy incorporates typical Belgian dishes, and unique local specialties like " waterzo" " (fish or poultry in cream sauce with vegetables) and " potjevleesch " (potted meat terrine).

When visiting Lille, the most enjoyable things to do include wandering the cobblestone pedestrian streets of Vieux Lille (the old town), stopping at cozy cafés, and discovering its many tourist attractions. A world-class fine arts museum, the avant-garde cathedral, and Charles de Gaulle's birthplace are among the highlights.

This vibrant urban destination has a pleasant city center and friendly atmosphere without any pretensions. Plan your sightseeing visit to the city with our list of the top tourist attractions in Lille.

See also: Where to Stay in Lille

1. Place du Général de Gaulle (Grand Place)

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The bustling main square of Lille, the Place du Général de Gaulle is surrounded by stately Renaissance and Baroque Flemish buildings with ornately adorned Neoclassical façades. Also known as the Grand Place, the square is a favorite meeting place for Lillois. This center of social activity is filled with cafés and brasseries.

In the middle of the square, the bronze Goddess monument ( La Déesse ) commemorates Lille's resistance to the Austrian siege of September 1792. The Goddess holds a linstock (the instrument used to light the fuses on cannons). On the base, an engraved inscription reads: "The courageous response of the Mayor of Lille, André, who refused to surrender the besieged city." The Goddess was sculpted in 1845 by Théophile Bra, who also created bas-reliefs on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

On the south side of the square is one of Lille's most beautiful buildings, the Vieille Bourse (Old Stock Exchange), which was established in 1652. The Vieille Bourse is comprised of 24 houses that surround an arcaded courtyard. Exemplifying opulent Flemish Baroque style with its elaborate decoration, the courtyard features a monument to Napoleon I at the center.

The galleries of the Vieille Bourse courtyard host the Marché de Bouquinistes (Booksellers' Market), held year-round (Tuesday through Friday from 1pm until 7pm and Saturday and Sunday from 11am until 7pm). To find the market, enter the Vieille Bourse at the Place du Théâtre/Grand Place. Tourists and locals alike enjoy browsing the selection of used books and collectible editions as well as comic books, DVDs, vintage newspapers, lithographs, and posters.

In summertime, Tango Dancing events take place on the Vieille Bourse courtyard's patio.

Also found on the Place du Général de Gaulle is the Grande-Garde , former housing for sentry guard soldiers. Constructed in 1717, the Grande-Garde has been converted to the Théâtre du Nord .

One of the essential things to do in Lille is visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts, considered the second most important museum in France after the Musée du Louvre in Paris. Renowned for its size and quality, this prestigious art collection is housed in an impressive building with a spacious and bright atrium.

The museum displays an exceptional collection of European paintings by the Old Masters, including Rubens, Van Dyck, Goya, Delacroix, and David. There are also wonderful examples of 19th- and 20th-century French paintings, as well as Impressionist art, an antiquities collection, and a sculpture gallery with pieces by Rodin and other artists.

Those who appreciate military history will enjoy the 18th-century relief maps of fortified towns in Northern France and Belgium (which were used by French Kings during wars).

Amenities at the Palais des Beaux-Arts include a library and a boutique that sells books and gift items. Well-designed to welcome visitors, the museum provides casual dining and refreshment options (breakfast, coffee, lunch, and snacks) at Le Beau Café , which is open during museum hours. The café's seasonally updated menu features dishes prepared from fresh, local ingredients.

Address: Place de la République, Lille

Official site: http://www.pba-lille.fr/en

The Musée du Louvre-Lens dazzles visitors with its sleek exhibit spaces and top-notch collection. The source of the artworks on display couldn't be more prestigious. The Louvre-Lens Museum gets its rotating art exhibits on loan from the Musée du Louvre in Paris. Exhibitions are updated on a regular basis.

In a wide-open gallery space of 3,000 square meters, the Galerie du Temps presents a chronological exhibition of more than 200 Louvre masterpieces. The artworks are arranged in a novel way, with multidisciplinary exhibits that show the evolution of art through different periods of history, from antiquity to the modern era.

For art lovers, the Musée du Louvre-Lens is a worthwhile excursion from Lille. The drive takes about 30 minutes by car. The direct train ride from Lille to Lens takes around 45 minutes. At the Gare de Lens (train station), there is a pedestrian pathway that leads to the Musée du Louvre-Lens. It takes about 25 minutes to walk from the train station to the museum.

Address: 99 Rue Paul Bert, Lens 62300

Official site: http://www.louvrelens.fr/en/home

About 12 kilometers northeast (a 20-minute drive) from Lille is Villeneuve d'Ascq, renowned for this prestigious museum of modern art. The Lille Métropole Musée d'Art Moderne, d'Art Contemporain, et d'Art Brut, which also goes by the acronym LaM , has one of the most comprehensive collections of modern (20th-century) and contemporary (21st-century) art in France.

The museum displays more than 7,000 works in bright exhibition spaces. Highlights of the collection include works by famous artists such as Braque, Kandinsky, Klee, Miró, Modigliani, and Picasso.

Lush parkland surrounds the museum, including a pathway overlooking a series of ten art installations. Visitors will enjoy taking a stroll through the grounds while admiring the monumental sculptures by Alexander Calder and Picasso, among others.

The museum also has a bookshop/boutique and a café with outdoor patio seating. The café prepares French, Italian, and fusion cuisine from scratch, using locally-sourced seasonal ingredients. Specialties are the salmon en papillote , lasagna, and homemade pastries such as lemon tart and chocolate cake.

LaM is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am until 6pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.

Address: 1 allée du Musée, 59650 Villeneuve d'Ascq

In the heart of the old town (Vieux Lille), the Musée de l'Hospice Comtesse occupies a medieval hospital founded in 1237 by the Countess Jeanne de Flandre. The countess built the hospital in a wing of her own palace, which was later used by Augustine nuns. The hospital remained in service until 1939, and the property was converted to a museum in 1962.

The museum grounds include buildings dating to the 15th through 18th centuries: the old hospital ward, convent buildings, and a chapel that belonged to nuns. The buildings are arranged around two courtyards and a garden where medicinal plants were grown.

A visit to this museum allows tourists to admire a collection of tapestries, sculptures, and porcelain from the 17th-century Flemish convent. The museum occasionally hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art.

Address: 32 Rue de la Monnaie, Lille

The Eglise Saint-Maurice is a beautiful Gothic church that was founded in the 14th century. The church has been renovated several times, as recently as the 19th century, yet has retained a sense of architectural unity. With its tower on the façade, the building is an example of an "Hallekerque" (barn-like church), a type of structure adapted to the fragile, marshy soil of Flanders.

The Saint-Maurice Church is also distinguished by its harmonious interior featuring five aisles and 36 tall columns. The sanctuary is decorated with 17th- and 18th-century paintings by Lille artists.

Another interesting church nearby is the Eglise Sainte-Catherine on Rue Royale, which is lined by lovely historical buildings. This 15th-century Gothic church boasts an exceptional painting, the Martyrdom of Saint Catherine by Rubens, in the north aisle.

At the other end of Rue Royale is the Eglise Saint-André . This 18th-century church was built for the Order of Carmelites.

Address: Rue de Paris, Parvis Saint-Maurice, Lille

The elegant 17th-century buildings of the Rang du Beauregard stand resplendent on the Place du Théâtre opposite the Vieille Bourse. The row of houses was created in 1687 by Simon Vollant based on guidelines from the City Council of Lille to achieve uniformity of architecture in the city center. The buildings were required to conform to specific design standards aligning with the Vieille Bourse.

Builders had to follow a blueprint of three floors with an attic above and were only allowed to use stone and brick. The buildings feature harmonious classical lines and decorative sculptural details such as cartouches, scrolls, cornucopias, and angels.

The Rang du Beauregard exemplifies Lilloise Neoclassical Baroque style and is intertwined with the history of Lille. Contained within the façades are cannonballs from the 1792 Siege of Lille by the Austrians.

Address: Place du Théâtre, Lille

Built in 1854, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de la Treille is a Neo-Gothic structure with surprising details. The somber contemporary-style façade (completed in the 1990s) features an arched "veil" of translucent pink marble with a modern rose window at the center. Unique in architectural style, the façade creates a striking impression and brightens the sanctuary.

The cathedral takes its name from a medieval statue of the Virgin Mary ("Notre-Dame de la Treille") that was protected by a wrought-iron gate (trellis). This statue was considered to have miraculous powers and for centuries was venerated by pilgrims from all over Europe. Saint Louis (King of France) made a pilgrimage here in the 13th century.

A short stroll north of the cathedral is the Eglise Sainte-Marie-Madeleine . Built in 1675, this church boasts an attractive Baroque design and an impressive 50-meter high dome; the façade dates from 1884.

Address: Place Gilleson, Lille

One of France's greatest statesmen, Charles de Gaulle was born in Lille on November 22, 1890 and baptized at the nearby Saint-André Church. His birthplace and childhood home on 9 Rue Princess is listed as a Historic Monument , as well as a " Maison des Illustres " ("House of the Illustrious") in recognition of Charles de Gaulle's historical significance and political distinction. The home has been restored and converted into a museum.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the home to view a collection of family mementos and other personal items including Charles de Gaulle's cradle, his christening robe, and a Saint-Cyr sword from his youth. Guided tours in French are available.

A multimedia center provides a historic overview of Charles de Gaulle's life and accomplishments. The Maison Natale Charles de Gaulle also presents temporary exhibits.

Address: 9 Rue Princess, Lille (Take Bus 14 or 50 to Les Bateliers stop)

Lille is one of the best places to visit in Europe for flea market shopping. The city's famous and well-attended annual event, the Braderie de Lille, takes place the first weekend of September.

The " braderie " (French for "low-price sale") has been a tradition in Lille since the 12th century. The first flea market was held in 1127. By the 16th century, the braderie became a larger event with more participants, including servants who sold used items from the estates where they worked.

More than 10,000 exhibitors sell their wares at open-air market stalls placed throughout the city. Items for sale include used books, old records, vintage furniture, antique silverware and dinnerware, and second-hand clothing, jewelry, artisan crafts, and artwork.

Besides the flea market, there are concerts and soirées, which give the event a convivial ambience similar to a festival. The Braderie de Lille draws huge crowds and features a food and drink fair plus carnival rides. Tourists will enjoy the local street food, including mussels, French fries, grilled fish, and other regional specialties.

This exceptional modern art museum surprises visitors with its unexpected venue: the former Art Déco swimming pool in Roubaix, 15 kilometers from Lille. Although no longer used for swimming, the pool provides a unique setting for the museum's collections.

Galleries of art on three floors display a wide variety of artworks. An interesting assortment of ceramics by Picasso, Dufy, and Chagall (among others) adorns the area around the pool. Not to be missed are the 19th- and 20th-century paintings by famous artists such as Ingres, Vuillard, Bonnard, Vlaminck, Mondrian, and Dufy in the Fine Arts collection.

After viewing the artwork, visitors may enjoy a casual meal or refreshments at the Restaurant du Musée (open Tuesday through Sunday from noon until 5:30pm). On sunny days, it's especially pleasant to sit at the restaurant's shaded outdoor terrace that overlooks a garden.

The museum is open every day except Mondays, and has a boutique that offers a selection of books, postcards, games, and jewelry.

Address: 23 Rue de l'Espérance, 59100 Roubaix

Most tourists prefer to stay in the historic center of the city, known as Vieux Lille . This area is the best place to experience Lille's old-world charm and vibrant urban energy. Vieux Lille also includes many of the top tourist attractions, such as the Grand Place, Eglise Saint-Maurice, Rang du Beauregard, Musée de l'Hospice Comtesse, and Palais des Beaux-Arts. Close to these landmarks are these highly rated hotels in Lille:

Luxury Hotels :

• Near the Palais des Beaux-Arts, the five-star L'Hermitage Gantois, Autograph Collection provides charming accommodations in a renovated 15th-century building; some rooms have fireplaces and wood-beamed ceilings. Amenities include gourmet dining options, a spa, an indoor swimming pool, and a courtyard garden.
• A short walk from the Grand Place is the Best Western Premier Why Hotel . This four-star hotel features spacious guest rooms with stylish décor and Nespresso coffee machines.
• Sumptuous old-fashioned décor is enhanced with contemporary touches at the elegant four-star Grand Hotel Bellevue . Some of the guest rooms feature splendid views of the Grand Place.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A short walk from the train station, the three-star ibis Styles Lille Centre Grand Place offers contemporary-style accommodations with courtyard or city views. A generous breakfast buffet is included.
• The four-star Novotel Lille Centre Grand Place features modern guest rooms and a convenient location, within easy walking distance to the Grand Place and the restaurants and shops of Vieux Lille.
• The three-star Holiday Inn Express Lille Centre, an IHG Hotel is just steps away from the Palais des Beaux-Arts museum, a 10-minute walk to Grand Place, and a 20-minute walk to Vieux Lille. This sleek contemporary-style hotel has a snack bar and also offers meal delivery from off-site restaurants.

Budget Hotels:

• On a pedestrian street between Grand Place and Palais des Beaux-Arts museum, the family-owned three-star Kanai Hotel offers cozy guest rooms at an affordable price. Some rooms feature rooftop views. Stairs provide the only access to rooms; there is no lift.
• About a 10-minute walk from the Musée de l'Hospice Comtesse, the ibis budget Lille Centre provides basic guest rooms at a great price. A breakfast buffet is available.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Nearby Places to Visit : For many tourists, a visit to Lille is taken as a day trip from Paris or as a detour on the way to Brussels , the capital city of Belgium. Within France, the peaceful countryside and historic attractions of the Champagne region are easily accessible from Lille in less than two hours by train or car. The lively city of Amiens , in France's Picardy region, is less touristy but worth the trip (about 90 minutes by train or car).

Charming Towns in Belgium : Lille could also be incorporated into various vacation itineraries, such as a tour of Belgium's highlights: The picturesque old city of Ghent is just over an hour away by train; the dreamy medieval city of Bruges is two hours away by train; and bustling Antwerp , rich in culture and history, is also just over two hours away by train.

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Best Things to Do in Lille, France

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Visit Lille in Northern France

The beautiful city of Lille , in Northern France, is the capital of the region Hauts-de-France . Lille delights everyone with its Flemish heritage, visible in every corner.

While in Lille, you will be astonished by the beauty of the Old Town with the lively streets and many buildings listed as Historical Monuments. If you love art, history, delicious food, and relaxing walks, you will love Lille! The city is also known internationally for the “Grande Braderie.” This annual flea market (the biggest in France) takes place on the weekend of the first Sunday of September but is only one of the many things to see in Lille.

In July and August 2024, Lille will host the handball and basketball competitions during the Paris Summer Olympics 2024 . Keep reading to discover our suggestions for things to do in Lille, France, for an unforgettable holiday.

Are you planning a trip to Lille last minute?

Below are some of the best Lille tours, hotels, and more!

• Book your train to Lille

Looking to travel around Lille independently? Click here for the best rental rates in Lille!

Top Experiences and Tours in Lille

• Vieux Lille Walking Tour
• Lille Segway Tour

Want discounts and skip-the-line access at museums & attractions in Lille? Get your hands on a Lille City Pass !

Top Lille Accommodation and Lodging

• L’Hermitage Gantois (5-star hotel in an elegant 15th-century building) 
• Boa Hotel (a design hotel in central Lille)
• Mama Shelter Lille   (central, 3-star hotel with quirky decoration and lively atmosphere)
• Check out the full list of favorite hotels in Lille

Don’t leave for Lille without travel insurance!

Compare plans, prices, and coverage with  Travel Insurance Master , a comparison site that will find the perfect fit for you amongst the world’s leading programs.  Travel Insurance Master is also the best place to look for senior travelers .

What to Do in Lille, France

Lille is one of the best weekend getaways from Paris , thanks to the fast TGV train connection with the French capital. The city also has easy TGV train connections from London, Bruxelles, and Amsterdam.

What to do in Lille? Here’s the list of the best things to do in Lille, France – places to visit and activities in Lille – with something for every traveler.

1. Take a Walking Tour of the Old Town

There is nothing better than taking a walking tour of Lille’s Old Town to admire its stunning architecture and discover the city’s history and heritage. Lille belongs to the historical region of Flanders, and the Flemish influence is so deep that the city is still known in France as the “Capital of Flanders.”

That’s why Lille’s architecture, food, and traditions are similar to that of the Netherlands and Belgium. If you are ready to visit Lille on foot, we recommend you join this walking tour . For a more fun and adventurous tour of Lille’s Old Town, opt instead for this segway tour .

2. Hôtel de Ville’s Belfry

Lille’s Town Hall is a magnificent Art Deco building that is a must-visit! This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a beautiful belfry that dominates the entire city with its 104 meters of height.

The Hôtel de Ville was built in the early 20th century in a classic Flemish style but reconstructed in Art Deco style after being destroyed during World War I.

The best part of the visit to the Town Hall is the breathtaking view of Old Lille you can admire from the top of the tower. To visit this spot, we suggest you purchase the Lille’s City Pass (24 or 48 hours), which also includes access to the Hotel de Ville’s Belfry. Discover Lille’s most famous monuments, get free public transport, and save money with the Lille City Pass.

3. Grand Place

Lille’s central square is the city’s main meet-up place for both locals and tourists. Surrounded by old gabled buildings, the square’s official name is Place du Général Charles de Gaulle , the first President of the Fifth Republic who was born and raised in the city.

The Grand Place is the perfect place to admire Lille’s history and heritage, as its buildings are in classic Flemish style and date back to the 17th century. Here and there, you will also see some Art Deco buildings.

Relax in one of the many restaurants and bars around the square for a great meal, a beer, and some people-watching.

4. Vieille Bourse /Old Stock Market

One of Lille’s most beautiful buildings is the Old Stock Market. Built in the mid-17th century by Julien Destrée, the Vieille Bourse is made of 24 identical houses surrounding an arched courtyard.

The Old Stock Market boasts a Flemish Renaissance facade, finely decorated. The same opulence can be seen in other parts, such as the windows, doors, and the courtyard’ pilasters.

Listed as a Historical Monument, the inner courtyard features books, flower stalls, and chess players’ tables. Among locals’ favorite spots, Vieille Bourse’s courtyard also hosts tango and salsa performances during the summer.

5. Marché de Wazemmes

If you like shopping and mingling with locals, don’t skip the Marché de Wazemmes in Lille. Held in Place Nouvelle Aventure on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday mornings, this is one of France’s largest outdoor markets.

Marché de Wazemmes will strike you with its fragrances thanks to the many stalls selling spices and exotic fruits and vegetables from North Africa and the Middle East.

Strolling around the market, you will also find stalls with typical French food products, like cheeses, and many other objects, from clothing to antiques.

Browse the Marché de Wazemmes, one of the best places to visit in Lille, for a very local experience!

6. Admire the Citadel from Outside

Nicknamed “the Queen of Citadels”, Lille’s Citadel still is a French military base, so you can’t enter the building. However, the citadel is surrounded by 60 hectares of park which is the locals’ favorite place to enjoy the outdoors when there is nice weather.

The star-shaped citadel was designed by the famed military engineer Vauban in 1667 after King Louis XIV conquered the city.

Walk towards the citadel to admire its various gates and outer walls, then head to the park’s many landmarks.

7. Taste Lille’s Local Food

A must-do in Lille is trying the delicious local food. The city has a unique culinary tradition, predominantly Flemish.

Among the many hearty dishes, make sure to try the Carbonade Flamande , a beef stew with the meat slow-cooked in a flavorful mix of sugar, beer, mustard, herbs, and spices. End your meal in Lille with a slice of tarte au sucre, a brioche-based cake covered in butter, egg, and a lot of sugar.

Check out our Lille food guide to learn what to eat in Lille. A great idea to sample Lille’s food is by joining a food tour, and this one with four tastings always gets excellent reviews.  

8. Visit the Museum of Beaux-Arts

Lille has one of the richest museums in France, the Museum of Beaux-Arts . Housed in a huge Belle Époque palace, it displays impressive collections of paintings and sculptures from antiquity to the 21st century.

One of the top Lille attractions, the more prominent galleries are entirely dedicated to the works of some of the most famous painters of all time, such as Rubens, Goya, Delacroix, Courbet, and Rodin – just to name a few. Besides its incredible permanent collections, the Palais des Beaux-Arts has interesting temporary exhibitions that change constantly.

Whether you are an art lover or not, this museum is one of the best things to do in Lille!

9. Visit Charles de Gaulle’s Family House

The politician Charles de Gaulle was born in Lille in 1890, and visiting his family house is one of the best things to do in Lille, France. 

The house is located on 9 Rue Princesse and is listed as a Historic Monument. It now houses a museum where visitors can discover de Gaulle’s childhood through family keepsakes and personal objects.

Charles de Gaulle’s family house perfectly shows the atmosphere of a typical late 19th-century middle-class home in Lille and Northern France, and the entrance is included in the Lille City Pass .

10. Take a Day Trip to Roubaix Swimming Pool

One of the best Lille day trips , which you can visit with the Lille City Pass , is the Roubaix Swimming Pool . Located on Lille’s outskirts, this former municipal swimming pool built in an Art Deco style is a must on any visit to Lille. In 2001, the venue was turned into a museum, displaying rich collections of paintings, sculptures, industrial artifacts, and textiles.

As much as the works shown are beautiful and interesting, what makes La Piscine worth a visit is the building itself, which has been considered the most beautiful swimming pool in France for decades.

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Discover   a multi-faceted metropolis

All the inhabitants of Lille will tell you: Lille is a sight to behold! Enjoy an unforgettable experience among the sites and monuments that trace the city’s history. As you stroll through the streets of Lille, look up and take in every facade. To rest your neck, reserve a table in an authentic estaminet.

6 good reasons   to visit Lille

City Pass Free access to 40 tourist and cultural sites in Lille, its metropolitan area and the surrounding region, including transport. 24h 25€ 48h 35€ 72h 45€

Explore Lille   and its many facets

• Tours and activities
• Souvenir gifts

Lille Guide: Planning Your Trip

Laurent Ghesquiere / OT Lille

Lille, a lively city in northern France, located an hour from Brussels and two hours from Paris, makes a perfect stop-off if you're headed to France from the U.K. on the high-speed train or ferry. This ancient trading center and the fourth largest city in France is steeped deep in history and houses museums, cathedrals, and World War I battlegrounds, making it a must-see on any history buff's itinerary. With a great selection of restaurants, Lille is known as a foodie enclave, famous mostly for its perfectly flaky pastries and Meert vanilla wafers. Lille is deservedly popular for its vibrant nightlife (thanks to the large student population), chic shopping, and a full range of lodging options, from classical downtown inns to luxury resorts. Don't miss a performance from Lille's notable symphony orchestra, Orchestre National de Lille, while immersing yourself in cultural attractions to suit all tastes.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Lille are during the late spring, early summer, and in the fall. The Lille 3000, a biennial art fair takes place at the end of April. June offers long, sunny days, perfect for squeezing in the most sites. In September, 2 million people descend on Lille for its annual flea market; and the Christmas Market also makes a good outing, if you don't mind visiting during the rainiest month of December.
• Language: French is the main language spoken in Lille, although Flemish is still spoken in some areas of the countryside.
• Currency: The euro is the official currency used in Lille, as in all of France.
• Getting Around: Lille is very easy to navigate on foot. It’s nicely compact and offers a good metro and tram system that can take you to many sights, like the museums in Roubaix and Tourcoign. Driving in this city, by contrast, is a bit of a nightmare. Still, if you decide to bring a car, some of the larger hotels will valet it for you, for a fee, and then you can take public transportation from there.
• Travel Tip: If you eat at a local restaurant or cafe, it is customary to tip your waitstaff. Tip amounts can range from 7 to 15 percent of the total bill, depending on the range of the dining establishment.

A Bit of History

Dating back to 1066, Lille was considered part of the estates of the powerful counts of Flanders. When Baudoin IX became the emperor of Constantinople in 1204, the family’s fortunes were sealed and dynastic marriages throughout the centuries brought wealth and prestige. Lille became an important trading center, strategically located on the road between Paris and the Low Countries. You can see some of this ancient past today in the cobblestone streets that make up Vieux Lille (Old Lille).

Lille became a textile city, moving from tapestry manufacturing, to cotton, and then to linen in the 18th century. Its outlying towns, Tourcoign and Roubaix, produced wool. Modernization brought casualties, however, as peasants from the countryside poured into the cities in search of work and were housed in shocking conditions. Heavy industry followed, and inevitably declined, along with the fortunes of this region of France.

During World War I, the Battle of Fromelles took place just outside Lille. This first important battle, involving Australian troops, was said to be the bloodiest 24 hours in Australian military history, with 5,533 Australians and 1,547 English soldiers being killed, injured, or left missing. The memorial of this battle still stands today and can be visited alongside the battlefield for a glimpse into history.

In the 1990s the unemployment rate in Lille was high. But the arrival of Eurostar (the high-speed train)—championed by the mayor—restored the city’s position as the major hub of northern France. The new train station became the heart of the city's downtown and marked the turning point for Lille's commercial revival. In 2004, Lille was deemed the "European Capital of Culture" and the French government poured money into revitalizing the city and the suburbs, making it the largest and most vibrant city in the region.

Things to Do

Lille is the place to be if you want to discover the country's prized arts, architecture, shops, and historical sights. Spend one day visiting museums, and another touring battlefields, then wrap things up with a visit to one of France's biggest shopping centers, where you can buy souvenirs and other items to commemorate your trip.

• Palais des Beaux Arts: This museum is France’s second-largest art museum, aside from the Louvre. It’s packed with works by artists like Rubens, Van Dyck, and Goya. French impressionists, like Monet, and artists like Picasso, also have works that decorate the museum's walls. This art museum also houses prints and drawings, as well as 17th- and 18th-century ceramics, 19th-century French sculptures, and 18th-century scale models.
• Musée de l’Hospice Comtesse (Museum of the Hospice of the Countess): Admire a building dating back to the 13th century, as this museum is full of old furniture, paintings, and odd objects, like globes and instruments meant to "measure the heavens." There's a chapel on one side of the cobbled courtyard which acts as a venue for concerts and events.
• Center Commercial Euralille : located between the two main railway stations, this shopping center is one of France’s biggest and contains household names, like Adidas and Levis, as well as specialty shops, like Naf Naf and MAC. There is also a pharmacy, a bank, and two travel agencies nestled among the shops.
• Ancienne Bourse: Standing to the east of Grand Place, this red brick and orange, 17th-century building is a testament to the fact the Lille was, above all, a mercantile and trading city. The region surrounding this former Chamber of Commerce contained 24 houses situated around a central courtyard, which today, is home to a second-hand book market.
• Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille: This neo-gothic cathedral, located just off Rue de la Monnaie, was constructed in the mid-19th century, but due to various financial vicissitudes, it was not completed until the year 1999. Inside, its modern stained glass and extraordinarily large west doors stand out as architectural highlights. Sculptor George Jeanclos, a Holocaust survivor, used a barbed-wire motif on his works inside to symbolize human suffering and dignity in the face of the horrors of life.
• Citadelle de Lille: Created by Vauban on the orders of Louis XIV after he had taken Lille, this historical building is still occupied today by the French army. Visit the complex, through a guided tour, by entering the Porte Royale into a huge courtyard with buildings scattered around the perimeter. You'll need to book your tour in advance at the Tourist Office.
• World War I battlefields: Just outside of Lille, in Somme, Fromelles, Vimy Ridge, and Ypres, lie famous battlefields. Touring these sites will take you on a blood-ridden journey through history, as you learn about some of the biggest, and most victorious, battles that took place on these grounds.

For more attractions and details, see our  guide to the top attractions in and around Lille .

What to Eat and Drink

Located just 30 miles from the Belgium border, Lille's cuisine offers a peek into the French Flanders way of life, with its mussels cooked in beer broth ( moules frites), potjevleesch (an unpronounceable layered meat and vegetable casserole), waffles, and pastries. Nearly everything is cooked in beer (not wine) in this Northern part of France and you’re spoilt for choice in this city of famed restaurants .

Fish lovers should try Aux Moules de Lille , a classic little fish restaurant specializing in mussels cooked nine ways. Shrimp croquettes also grace the menu here, as do signature seafood platters and lobster. Le Barbier qui fume prides itself on its traditional slow-cooked meat, perfectly smoked to preserve all the vitamins, nutrients, and tenderness. A former butcher’s shop on the ground floor, this space is now filled with tables, alongside its upstairs dining room, serving imaginative local ranch-inspired dishes. On their menu, you'll find classics like gravlax trout, various meat pates, and beef brisket. Lille-based brasseries, like Brasserie de la Paix , which despite being on the main tourist square, is mostly favored by locals, changes its menu every two weeks, offering both seafood and meat dishes to highlight what's in season.

For sweets, Patisserie Meert (27 Rue Esquermoise) is the place to visit to sample the region's specialty waffles or to indulge in cakes and chocolates in a magnificent setting. And, for drink, this Dutch-influenced town is known for its small-batch beer breweries (it's not wine country around here), and B-148 has over 20 of the local favorites on tap.

Where to Stay

Lille has an extra good offering of hotels that put you smack dab in the middle of the tourist sights, whether you're visiting to see the historical architecture, to experience the local arts, to shop, or to eat and drink your way through the city. A traveler's favorite is the solidly old-fashioned, but extremely comfortable, Hotel Carlton . It's located right in the heart of the city's historic center, only a six-minute walk to the Lille Cathedral, a one-minute walk to the Old Stock Exchange, and just down the street from Rihour Square. This 59-room hotel is also close to two train stations, making getting out of town a breeze.

If you're in Lille to shop, make sure to stay in the heart of the city's center, especially if you're visiting in December during the Christmas Market. That said, the eclectic Wazemmes neighborhood is the place to be during the flea market. This area's Asian and Arabic influences yield fantastic food stalls for when you tire from French Flanders comfort food.

Amateur art critics may want to book their lodging in Place de la République to be close to the art museums, Le Palais des Beaux Arts de Lille and Palace of Fine Arts, and a magnificent fountain. This is also ground zero for many civic demonstrations, so the people-watching is fantastic. Hôtel Couvent Des Minimes offers a stay in an architectural wonder, complete with its historical facade, modernly luxurious rooms, and a breathtaking atrium.

Getting There

Lille-Lesquin International Airport is located 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the center of Lille. An airport shuttle (located at door A) gets you into the center of Lille in 20 minutes. The airport offers service from all the major French cities, as well as from Venice, Geneva, Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia.

You can also take the high-speed TGV or Eurostar trains, with service from Paris, Roissy, and major French cities to the Lille-Europe station , which is about a five-minute walk into the city's center. Regional trains from Paris and other cities arrive at Gare Lille-Flandres railway station. The historical building was originally Paris’s Gare du Nord, but was brought to Lille brick by brick in 1865.

By car, Lille is 222 kilometers (137 miles) from Paris, making the trip around 2 hours and 20 minutes on toll roads. And, if you’re coming from the UK by  ferry , the Calais Ferry Port is an easy 111-kilometer (69-mile) boat ride, taking around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Money Saving Tips

• For those keen on hitting all the tourist spots, purchase the Lille City Pass . It gives you access to 28 museums and historical sites, local transport (the metro, tram, and bus), plus VIP deals for shopping and nightlife.
• Hit the town on foot and carry your own water. Lille is small enough to be circumnavigated in one day, and carrying a water bottle will save you 1.44 euros a pop.
• If you choose to get around the city by taxi, purchase a monthly pass, especially if you're staying for multiple weeks.

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• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Climate
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 3.1 By public transport
• 4.1 Must see
• 4.2 Museums
• 6.1 Students
• 8.1.1 Around La Vieille Bourse
• 8.1.2 Around the Citadelle
• 8.1.3 Gambetta
• 8.1.4 East Lille
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge
• 11 Stay safe
• 12.1 Consulates

Lille ( Dutch : Rijsel ) is the capital of the Hauts-de-France region in northern France and the core of one of the largest metropolitan agglomerations in the country. Historically, it has also been the capital of Flanders , and later an industrial powerhouse, thanks to which it now boasts a large and handsome historic centre. Today, it is known as a major economic and academic centre, with a very large student population. Situated at the literal crossroads of Europe, Lille is within a 90-minute train ride from Paris , Brussels and London .

Understand [ edit ]

Lille is France's fifth largest metropolitan area, and its most northerly. The city sits on the Deûle River, very near to the border with Belgium . While the city is moderately sized (236,000 inhabitants in 2020), over 1.5 million people live in the French side of the metropolitan area, while the cross-border metropolitan area, which covers both French and Belgian territory and includes Kortrijk and Tournai , is estimated to have more than 2.1 million inhabitants. It is the capital of the Hauts-de-France region and the prefecture of the Nord department.

50.635554 3.061937 1 Lille Tourist Office , Palais Rihour ( Rihour    M1   ), ☏ +33 359 579 400 , [email protected] . 10:00-12:30, 13:30-17:30 . City tourist office located at Palais Rihour. Sell City Passes but you need to visit a lot of attractions to make them worthwhile. ( updated May 2023 )

History [ edit ]

While the area of present-day Lille has been inhabited since as early as 2000 BC, the first mention of the city dates back to 1066, when it was referred to as apid Insulam in Latin. Meaning "at the island", this toponym is reflected in both the French and Dutch names of the city, both being contractions of the same expression ( L'île and ter ijsel ).

Climate [ edit ]

Climate type is : degraded oceanic of northern plains. Average temperature during the year is 10.8 degrees. Total hours of sunshine during the whole year is 1617.5 hours. Average speed of the wind is 15.5km/h.

Get in [ edit ]

Most visitors will probably arrive by train at Gare de Lille Europe or Gare de Lille Flandres. It is possible to land at the Charles de Gaulle Paris airport and then continue by train, but do not try this at the Ryanair's Paris airport (Beauvais) as there is no train connection at all and the only bus is back to Paris itself.

By plane [ edit ]

Lille has its own international airport, but it is mostly served by flights to holiday destinations around the Mediterranean and other airports within France. That said, proximity to Paris and Brussels allows one to use the airports of either metropolis to visit Lille, especially those with direct train connections to Lille. Visitors from other continents may also entertain the option of landing in one of London's airports and transferring to a Eurostar train to Lille from the British capital.

By train [ edit ]

Lille has two major train stations:

• Check the SNCF website to see train timetables

If you are travelling from the United Kingdom , Eurostar is the best option to reach Lille through the Channel Tunnel. The journey time to Gare de Lille Europe is 1 hr 22 min from London St Pancras International, though you have to check in at least 90 minutes before departure in order to complete border formalities due to COVID restrictions and Brexit. Train connections run regularly by ferry from Calais.

Lille is also linked by TGV to Lyon (3 hours), Nantes (4 hours), Strasbourg (3 hr 20 min), and Marseille (5 hours).

The two train stations are located within easy walking distance of each other, meaning it is therefore possible to connect between services at either station, provided you leave yourself enough time to walk between the stations and find your train, as well as go through security and customs if you are transferring onto a Eurostar service to London.

Another option is to take the TER or the regional, slower moving trains, where a ticket can be purchased fairly cheap to many locations in France and Belgium. The transit bureau for the Nord-Pas-de-Calais offers weekend "Trampoline" passes, where a round trip on TER trains between Lille and several Belgian cities can be purchased for a set price of €20-40, with the freedom of choosing your own train times. Be careful though: depending on the train, cities may be referred to by either their French or Dutch names, which can get confusing.

By bus [ edit ]

BlaBlacar Bus and Flixbus run coach services between Paris , Brussels , London , Amsterdam , Bruges, and more. The bus stop station is located at Gare de Lille Europe.

Get around [ edit ]

By public transport [ edit ].

Lille has two metro lines that connect the centre of the city with several suburbs:

• Metro line   M1   mostly serves suburbs on the south side of the city, as well as cutting straight through the centre.
• Metro line   M2   starts in the western suburbs, skirts along the boulevard on the southern edge of the centre, and continues to Roubaix and Tourcoing, finally ending at a hospital adjacent to the Belgian border.

Both lines serve both railway stations.

There are also two tram routes, both starting at the railway stations:

•   R   serving Roubaix.
•   T   serving Tourcoing.

There are also bus lines that service all parts of the city.

• ilévia [dead link] Public transportation in Lille, In French, English and Dutch. There are also Android and iPhone app in English.

As of May 2023, single tickets are €1.80 + €0.20 charge for the rechargeable ticket. X10 Single ticket €15.40. 24-hour day passes are available for €5.30. Other ticket types are available for longer stays. Machines accept cash and cards. The tickets cover the ilévia metro, buses and trams to any destination, Longer distance intercity trains (to Roubaix for example) require separate tickets.

See [ edit ]

Lille is a cultural and commercial hub with a wide range of restaurants, bars, clubs, museums, shopping malls, and more. A highlight is the old city with beautiful, Flemish influenced architecture. The night life, thanks to the city's large student population, is cutting edge and lively. It is a diverse, dynamic, and beautiful city--there is something in Lille that will appeal to everyone.

Must see [ edit ]

• 50.637552 3.064434 6 Chamber of Commerce ( Chambre de Commerce et d'Industrie Grand Lille ), Place du Théàtre . Built in 1921, now an upscale co-working and office building. Offers a magnificent sight, especially when lit-up at night. ( updated Jun 2017 )
• Take a stroll through the old quarter of the city, known as Vieux Lille , and enjoy the cobble-stone streets, the variety of stylish designer shops, gourmet restaurants, and museums. At Christmas Town, you may visit the Christmas Market, take a ride on the ferris wheel in the main square, and take pictures with Father Noel by Christmas Lights. More notable streets like Rue de la Monnaie and Rue Esquermoise are definitely worth the trip.
• 50.666834 3.164066 9 Villa Cavrois , 60 avenue John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Croix ( Villa Cavrois    R   + 15min walk or Croix Centre    M2   + 25-min walk ). Large modernist mansion built in 1932 by French architect Robert Mallet-Stevens for industrialist Paul Cavrois. Occasional temporary exhibitions. €9.50, under 18 free. Joint tickets with Le Musée La Piscine or La Manufacture available. . ( updated May 2023 )

Museums [ edit ]

• 50.629111 3.074542 13 Museum of the Pasteur Institute of Lille , 18 Bd Louis XIV ( Lille Grand Palais    M2   ). Sa Su 10:00-12:00, 14:00-17;00 . Presents the research conducted by Louis Pasteur, Camille Guérin and Albert Calmette in Lille and which puts them in perspective with the research conducted today by the Institut Pasteur de Lille. ( updated May 2023 )
• 50.723308 3.161812 16 MUba Eugène Leroy , 2 rue Paul Doumer, Tourcoing ( Tourcoing Centre    M2     T   ). A mixture of modern and classical art. Named after local artist Eugène Leroy whose archives are owned by the museum. ( updated May 2023 )
• 50.683023 3.196171 18 La Manufacture , 29 Av. Julien Lagache, Roubaix ( bus Roubaix Man Fraternite    L3   connect from Eurotéléport    M2     R   ). Textile Industry museum including machines and lives of workers. Guided tours are in French. €6 with guided tour, €4 with video tour or self-guided tour, Free access to temporary exhibitions . ( updated May 2023 )
• 50.692476 3.087273 19 Resistance Museum , 2 Chem. Saint-Georges, Bondues ( Bus# L91, 86 ). M, Sa 08:30-12:00; Tu-F 08.30-12:00,13:30-17:30. Longer opening hours in school holidays. . The story of WW2 resistance under German occupation in the remains of an old fort. €6 free for U12 . ( updated May 2023 )

Other [ edit ]

• The subway in the long-distance train station Lille Europe is an attraction on its own. In the expansive, main hallway, the wall is covered in a beautiful, large mural depicting various famous landmarks around the world.

Do [ edit ]

• Chalice Sound System hold regular reggae gigs at various locations around Lille. Check their Facebook page to know when the next event will be.
• Watch football at Lille Olympique , who play soccer in Ligue 1, the country's top tier. Their home ground (Stade Pierre-Mauroy, capacity 50,000) is in the eastern township of Villeneuve-d'Ascq. Metro Line 1 gets you there (get off at the 4 Cantons terminus and follow the crowd) or park your car at Les Prés station on Line 2 and get the free shuttle bus to the stadium and back.
• visit Celestin Micro Brewery , 19 Rue Jean Jacques Rousseau ( Rihour    M1   + 500-m walk ), ☏ +33 9 81 21 67 20 . Visits at set times on Saturdays. On weekdays as available. There is beer shop as well. Visits in English on request. €14 tasting of 3 beers . ( updated May 2023 )

Events [ edit ]

• The annual Christmas Market . A must for visitors. You can access this market from the main square, where you can also enjoy the Ferris wheel and Christmas lights strung up all throughout the old city. The beautiful lights, warm atmosphere, local shops, and restaurants make this enjoyable for everyone. There are unique, local shops that sell items such as handmade soaps, artisanal honey, saucisson, and handmade crafts. There are many food stalls that sell a range of delicious Christmas food such as hot, spiced wine, pretzels, tartiflette, raclette, warm waffles with your choice of sweet topping, cider, soup, chocolate, and even cocktails.  

Learn [ edit ]

Students [ edit ].

Lille has a very large student population, thanks to the many schools and universities located in the city. There is also a significant international student population, thanks to the Erasmus program.

• Business schools : Skema , Edhec , IAE Lille, IESEG School of Management , etc.
• Engineer : École centrale de Lille, ENSAM, HEI, ISEN [dead link] , etc.
• University : Lille 1 (Scientific) , Lille 2 (Medicine,Law,Political Science,Management,Sports) [dead link] (and the IEP Lille [dead link] ), Lille 3 (Human Sciences, Arts and Letters), Lille Catholic University (Multi-disciplinary) [dead link]

For any foreign students wishing to come to Lille, the following website could come in handy: Web Site du Crous

French [ edit ]

• ICL-Clarife is the language centre for the Institut Catholique de Lille, France's largest private university. Located in the heart of Lille, ICL-Clarife organises complete French language and civilisation study programmes for non-Francophones. Web Site ICL-Clarife

Buy [ edit ]

• The pedestrian streets just past Grand Place (rue de Béthune, rue Neuve, Rue du Sec Arembault, rue des Tanneurs, etc.) offer popular clothing chain stores such as Etam, Pimkie, Zara, H&M, Sinéquanone, as well as small pubs, restaurants, and two large cinemas. These buildings reflect beautiful architectural designs and styles from the 1930s.

• 50.633 3.05 3 Le Furet du Nord . A bookstore in the Place du Général de Gaulle. It is the largest bookstore in Europe with eight floors and more than 420,000 titles. It is a perfect place to spend a day.  
• Printemps . A luxury department store located in Vieux Lille offering brands such as Burberry, Chanel, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, and more.  
• There are dozens of upscale boutiques (e.g. Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Hugo Boss, Kenzo) and trendier, independent stores and restaurants in Vieux Lille .

Eat [ edit ]

Food lovers will find themselves in a foodie heaven in Lille. The dishes of the north are delicious, hearty, and warming, and restaurants pride themselves on serving authentic food at affordable prices. Typical dishes include Potjevleesch, the Welsh, which is a hearty melt of cheddar cheese and fried egg, carbonnade flamande, a hearty beef stew, and, of course, moules frites. Try the maroilles cheese if you're feeling brave--it's the special cheese of Lille with a powerful odor.

Those with a sweet tooth will find hundreds of little patisseries and boulangeries selling more cakes, pastries, and macarons than they knew existed along with an exquisite number of chocolate shops. Guillaume Vincent (12 Rue du Cure Saint Etienne), sells beautifully decorated, rich chocolates.

One of the more popular and affordable (but greasy) eating options are the multitude of kebab shops around the city. For a few euro, you can get a hearty sandwich with shaved chicken or lamb with a side of frites. A local speciality is the kebab with "Fricandelles": sausages that are native to this region. These are a great (and more local) alternative to a fast food chain for a quick bite.

A Lille must have: Delicious stuffed waffles enjoyed at Meert , probably the most beautiful pâtisserie in France. These waffles were the favorite of President Charles de Gaulle. Meert is located on the Rue Esquermoise next to the Grand Place (place du Général de Gaulle). Take the metro Line 1 and get off at station Rihour. There is another location at the Piscine (Museum of Arts and Industry) of Roubaix (Station: Gare Jean Lebas on Line 2). Pastries bought here are to be enjoyed fully and without self restraint.

Budget [ edit ]

• Au roi soleil , 65 Bd Louis XIV , ☏ +33 3 20 90 16 66 . ( updated Mar 2023 )
• Le Buzz , 55 rue Basse . ( updated Mar 2023 )

Around La Vieille Bourse [ edit ]

• 50.638343 3.065225 2 Oh Gourmand'In ! , 13 Bd Carnot . Simple and good traditional cuisine. Very nice ambience and people. Friendly atmosphere and welcoming staff. The dishes are very good. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.637863 3.065977 3 Le Dracir , 12 Rue Léon Trulin . Very friendly brasserie bar. Varied menu. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.636659 3.068468 4 Nachos - Fajita, burrito, tacos, bowl , 74 Rue Faidherbe . Very good Mexican food. Tasty with fresh ingredients. Great selection of meat and veggie options for your burrito or taco. Opportunity to sit inside and outside. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.635473 3.069294 5 Les Delices de l'Inde , 22 rue Sainte Anne . Lovely family-run restaurant serving Indian food. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.634478 3.064076 6 Grand Scène , 31 Rue de Béthune ( Rihour    M1   ). Food court with bars in former department store ( updated May 2023 )

Around the Citadelle [ edit ]

• 50.640647 3.055316 7 Pizzeria Il Piccolino , 57 rue Sainte Catherine . This small pizzeria in a quiet street serves Italian, pizza, and Mediterranean food. The staff is also very friendly. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.639466 3.05825 8 Bierbuik , 19 Rue Royale ( Rihour    M1   + 600m walk ). Brewpub with Flemish food ( updated May 2023 )

Gambetta [ edit ]

• 50.633106 3.053462 9 Au Bon Poulet , 151 Rue Nationale . Very nice little grill. Good chicken, good fries, good mint tea. Very friendly place, ambient music. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.63084 3.060199 10 Le Ici Bar & Restaurant , 10 Rue d'Inkermann . Quality cooking experience with fresh products. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.624262 3.05012 11 Restaurant Nakhil , 40 Rue Jules Guesde . Traditional Maghrebian cuisine. Warm welcome. Very good tagine. Varied menu. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.625195 3.048663 12 Au Cheval Blanc , 56 Rue des Sarrazins . Great atmosphere. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.626607 3.049983 13 DINA Feu de bois Lille , 19 Pl. Nouvelle Aventure . Hearty meals. The homemade ricotta / spinach ravioli are excellent as well as the sauces. ( updated Mar 2022 )

East Lille [ edit ]

• 50.639092 3.086694 14 Friterie des Lilas , 40 rue Saint Gabriel . Homemade fries. Over 10 sauces to choose from, fries served with side salad and sausage. ( updated May 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• You can try some of Lille's famous "estaminets" (typical restaurants): for instance rue de Gand has two nice restaurants: T'Rijsel and Chez la vieille . The atmosphere is very agreeable, and you can taste some of Lille's typical dishes: Potje'vleesch, Carbonade flamande etc. These restaurants, being rather notorious in Lille, are very popular and it is strongly recommended to book a table two or three days in advance.
• Flam's , 8 rue du Pas ( near La Grand Place ). From €11.40 for the "all you can eat" flammekueche menu (March 2022). A flammekueche is an Alsatian speciality with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon on a thin crust of dough. Yummy. ( updated May 2022 )
• Pâtisserie du Lion d'Or , 11 Place du Lion d'Or . This pâtisserie has all sorts of goodies, including THE best croissants in Lille. ( updated May 2022 )
• The Sherlock Pub , 150 Rue Solférino . Hearty pub food with a British influence. Great hamburgers and selection of beer on tap. ( updated May 2022 )
• Creperie de la Vielle Bourse , 6 rue des 7 Agaches . Bretagne crepes in a historic building. ( updated May 2022 )
• Kyoto , 44 Place de la Gare . Good Japanese food including sushi, sashimi. ( updated May 2022 )
• Brasserie Flore , place Rihour ( beside La Chicorée, near 'Rihour' metro station ). Large choice of good meals. Menus from €13.50 . ( updated Nov 2019 )
• Crowne Plaza Euralille , 335, Boulevard de Leeds . Opened in 2002, this modern hotel has light airy rooms with long rectangular windows, giving excellent view over the city of Lille. Opposite Lille Europe train station, just a short walk to the historic heart of the city. Restaurant offering excellent buffet meals and "à la carte".  
• La Chicorée , place Rihour ( beside le Flore, near 'Rihour' metro station ). Food served nearly 24/24 and 7/7 . Typical meals, typical beers. But do not expect to find excellent food here : this restaurant may just be useful if you don't know where to have dinner at 03:00 in the morning. Do not miss the awesome plate collection on the walls. Each was signed by an artist or a famous person, as La Chicorée is the place were they usually eat after the show. You might even meet someone famous if you try it after 02:00 or 03:00! It's also the place where a lot of casual people eat at night, after their job, after a trip in café, after a show. It's of course rather popular with tourists, but if you wish to appreciate Lille's cuisine at its best, try some other place. Menus from €13.50 .  
• L'Omnia , 9 Rue Esquermoise . The entrance of this restaurant/bar is difficult to miss and situated close to la Grand Place. Ramps and murals combine to create a perspective that evokes the feeling of being in Alice in Wonderland. Inside the decor appeals to the same childish sense of wonder- all red lights and plush, appropriate to this ex-theatre and ex-brothel (you'll find the history of the building on the placemats). The food is affordable - the lunch time menu starts from €9. The 'potjevles' are regional specialty but recommended only to the adventurous. Otherwise, the chicken tikka skewers are very enjoyable. The bar also seems to be very proud of their wide range of beers, and the wine was reasonably priced and good.  
• Pubstore , 44 rue de la Halle . This somewhat intimate restaurant is a great place for lunch or dinner. Candles on each table make it a nice spot for couples to have a quiet dinner. The menu, found under the glass tabletop, is full of diverse, delicious dishes. Each dish also has a clever name, usually a play on words.  
• L’ Gaïette , 30, rue Masséna . The menu in this restaurant focuses on regional specialties and is written in Ch'ti, the local patois/dialect. Great food and a warm, friendly waitstaff make this restaurant a great place to have dinner.  
• Pancook , 125 rue Colbert . This restaurant is a perfect spot for lunch and dinner offering high quality, delicious meals for a reasonable price. Restaurant specials are Flemish-influenced, including regional dishes such as potjevleesch and carbonnade flamande.  

Splurge [ edit ]

• Le Compostelle , rue saint-Etienne . May offer some good dishes in a beautiful environment.  
• The Barbue d'Anvers , rue St Etienne . Flemish cuisine.  
• Monsieur Jean , Rue Pierre Mauroy ( next to the Vielle Bourse ). Fancy restaurant ( updated Dec 2017 )
• L'Huitriere , rue des Chats Bossus . Behind the early 20th-century art-nouveau fish store lay one of the best seafood and fish restaurants in the country, appreciated by many famous people. The upscale restaurant is definitely closed, but you can still have oysters (and other small seafood) with a drink on the 1st floor  

Drink [ edit ]

Lille has an amazing nightlife, wonderful bars and nightclubs, and a world of drinks to try. Because it is the north of France, beer is the most popular drink. Try as many kinds as you can, including Belgian ales which are very popular.

Rue Solferino has many bars and clubs. This is the street to visit if you enjoy a lively nightlife and party scene. On Rue Masséna , you will also find countless bars, nightclubs, and restaurants including small delicious kebab stands that are open late until the wee hours of early morning.

• Coming Out . LGBT-friendly bar. This relatively new bar has a diverse clientele. Virginie and Alain, the friendly, personable owners and operators, are there every day, working hard to make their clients happy, and they are! Red walls, blue lights, and a black bar create a very cool environment with ample seating in comfortable chairs. Open from 17:00 on, stop in for a beer or a cocktail (the specials are written on the chalkboard on the wall), or ask about their Karaoke or other special nights.  
• Maison du Moulin D'Or (Morel & Fils) , 31 Place du théâtre , ☏ +33 3 20 55 00 10 . This place used to be "une bonneterie," which is still reflected in the decorations inside. Dress forms, wooden dolls, cloth, and beautiful colours (soft sea green and pink) are found throughout two floors. A great place to stop for a coffee or beer when you're out and about.  
• The Drugstore , 21 Rue Royale , ☏ +33 3 20 12 00 53 . Very small, groovy lounge with two floors and a few tables outside when the weather warms up. Ambient music and orange lighting complement the vintage-looking movie and music posters on the walls. My advice: grab a table upstairs - the chairs are comfy and you can see down onto the street and people-watch. This bar is more for cocktails than beer, and their happy hour special offers all their cocktails for €6.  
• Café Oz/The Australian Bar , 33, Place des Bettignies , ☏ +33 3 20 55 15 15 . Very cool bar with a lively atmosphere, good mix of music played, and a mélange of Francophone and Anglophone bartenders. They also have a terrace open during the day when the weather warms up for those who wish to enjoy an afternoon refreshment. Check their website or head on in and ask about their various happy hour specials, which fluctuate depending on the day/season.  
• La Capsule , 25 Rue des trois Mollettes . Specialises in French and foreign artisanal beers on tap and bottled. Over 100 choices of beer to choose from. Cozy, wonderful interior, perfect to meet friends in.  
• Le Quai des Bananes , 84 Rue Royale . Every type of cocktail you can think of if you'd like a change from beer.  
• Le Lobby , 10 Rue Royale . A large selection of beer and draft beers at reasonable prices. Popular with college students.  
• Salsa the night away at Le Latina Café , 42/44 Rue Masséna . You will find all things Cuban including portraits of Che Guevara, hot Spanish tunes, and their famous Havana Club Mojitos. As well, indulge in a Desperado (tequila beer) or two. Drinks are a bit pricier, but the ambiance makes it all worth it.  
• Pub Mac Ewan's , 8 place Sébastopol . offers about 140 different beers Starting at €1.90 .  
• Hermitage Bar ( in the Hermitage Gantois ). Luxury hotel is open to the general public (dress appropriately). It is one of the most refined spots to enjoy a drink in Lille (priced accordingly). The hotel also hosts art exhibitions that you can enjoy free of charge.  
• La Part des Anges , 50 Rue de la Monnaie .  
• Le Farafina , 165 bis, rue de Solferino .  
• 50.638886 3.070927 1 Le Hein , Place Saint-Hubert ( Lille Flandres    M1     M2   ). Taproom for Brique Beers in city centre halfway between the main rail stations. Burgers & sandwiches available. ( updated May 2023 )
• 50.664701 3.055521 2 Brique-Land , 27 Rue Felix Faure, Saint-Andre-Lez ( Bus #L90 Sainte Helene, go down to the end of Rue de la Filature and ignore sign aimed at car drivers! (If driving there use the address) ). Out of town craft beers & pizzas from Brique House at their brewery. ( updated May 2023 )

Sleep [ edit ]

• 50.638038 3.055097 1 Alliance Lille , 17 Quai du Wault , ☏ +33 3 20 30 62 62 . Luxury hotel in the centre of Lille.  
• 50.637098 3.072551 2 Citadines City Centre Lille , Avenue Willy Brandt - Euralille , ☏ +33 3 28 36 75 00 , fax : +33 3 20 06 97 82 , [email protected] . The residence is near to the railway station. Each apartment houses a bathroom with a separate toilet, a separate kitchen area complete with stove, microwave, fridge and dishwasher, and TV with cable channels. 5 apartments are equipped for people with reduced mobility. Daily rates starts from €96 .  
• 50.624188 3.080834 3 Lille Hostel-Stéphane Hessel (HI) ( Auberge de Jeunesse ), 235 Bd Paul Painlevé ( Porte de Valenciennes   M2   400 m ), ☏ +33 3 20 57 08 94 , [email protected] . An HI hostel, can be booked on website. about €17.30/night (shared room) . ( updated May 2023 )
• ibis budget Lille Centre , 10 Rue de Courtrai . Reliable no frills accommodation close to old town. ( updated May 2023 )
• Nord Hotel , in the southern part of Lille, about a ten-minute ride on the subway away from the centre of town. When first arriving, the area seems a bit intimidating, but is actually quite quiet. Fairly basic accommodation. Small, clean room and friendly staff. €60/night for a twin room.
• 50.636076 3.066901 4 Hotel Brueghel , 5 Parvis Saint-Maurice , ☏ +33 3 20 06 06 69 . Peacefully overlooking a church, but in a very central location. about €80/night.  
• 50.633499 3.063418 5 Mister Bed City Lille , 57, Rue de Béthune , ☏ +33 3 20 12 96 96 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Central location, basic but clean. About €60 .  
• 50.636796 3.06319 6 Hôtel Carlton , 3 Rue Pierre Mauroy ( opposite the Opéra ), ☏ +33 3 20 13 33 13 . €110-150 . ( updated Apr 2019 )
• 50.638861 3.076622 7 Novotel Suites Gare Lille Europe , Boulevard de Turin, 59000 Lille ( opposite the train station ), ☏ +33 3 20 74 70 70 , [email protected] . Check-in: 12:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Its entrance is in front of where the long-distance coaches stop. Spacious studio apartments for up to 3 adults or a family of 4, all with both a bath and a shower, as well as a separate toilet. Basic self-catering facilities, including microwave, in every room. Breakfast is very basic and better taken care of by means of shopping around than paying extra at hotel. No views to speak of and a bit of a walk from the historic city centre. Starting at €60 per room per night . ( updated Jul 2019 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Despite its charm and dynamic vibe, Lille is not without its share of crime and other socioeconomic issues, and the media have at times portrayed Lille as a dangerous city. As a former industrial powerhouse, Lille suffered greatly from the fall of heavy industry, and right up until the late 1990s the city was marred by crime and poverty. Even if the city and its metropolitan area have made a remarkable economic comeback, crime-related issues are more common here than in other French cities.

During the daytime, taking the basic precautions you would take elsewhere should suffice to avoid trouble. However, do be cautious at night and stick to well-lit streets as much as possible. As a rule of thumb, the city center, old town, and northern half of the city are safe for the most part. On the other hand, try to avoid Lille's southern neighborhoods as much as possible.

By far the most common issue you will encounter is pickpocketing, which is particularly common on the metro, in the railway station, and in crowded areas (especially on Saturday nights). Alcohol and drug fueled behaviors are also common; this is exacerbated by the large student population., which tends to frequently get rowdy on weekends and at the end of the school year (May to June).

Finally, Lille has one of France's most visible homeless populations. They tend to be more aggressive than in other cities, so watch out for any dubious-looking individuals. They are an unfortunately common sight near the Lille-Flandres station.

Cope [ edit ]

Consulates [ edit ], connect [ edit ].

As of Sep 2021, Lille has 5G from all French carriers. Wifi is widely available in public places, transport, cafes and so on.

Go next [ edit ]

• Kortrijk and Tournai are in Belgium, but part of the metropolitan area of Lille, quickly reached by local trains.
• Bruges is a charming old city. Watch out at the border in case you need to change trains or coaches.
• Arras , with an impressive central square, has most of the Allied memorials from the First World War.
• Lille is the centre of the Eurostar-TGV network, so Paris, London and Brussels are all within an hour's ride.

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Travel Guide To Lille

Once an island, now just two stops from St Pancras, the old capital of Flanders mixes local tradition with modern design and is making its mark as a cultural centre. Lille is a prosperous place, with a quaint old core filled with chic boutiques, luxury food shops and superior restaurants specialising in northern French cuisine. The town is also home to the Palais des Beaux-Arts, widely touted in France as second only to the Louvre. The place to shop is the Vieux Lille, the city's 17th-century Flemish heart just behind the classical opera house, the tall, narrow buildings housing the shops are themselves worth a look.

Where to stay in Lille

HOTEL CARLTON 3 rue de Paris (00 33 3 20 13 33 13; www.carltonlille.com ). This has an unbeatable location overlooking the Vieille Bourse and opera, and a duplex Cupola suite with a jacuzzi; but the décor is a riot of tartans and flowered fabrics. ££ CROWNE PLAZA 335 boulevard de Leeds (00 33 3 20 42 46 46; www.lille-crowneplaza.com ). Set in a shimmering, copper-look building behind Lille-Europe, this is the best top-end option. Bedrooms are large and urban in feel; bathrooms have unpolished glass 'glow-in-the-dark' walls. £ HERMITAGE GANTOIS 224 rue de Paris (00 33 3 20 85 30 30; www.hotelhermitagegantois.com ). Recently opened in a former hermitage, and well-situated for visits to the Palais des Beaux-Arts, Art Deco Hôtel de Ville and Maison Colliot (14 rue de Fleurus), an Art Nouveau chemist's shop by Hector Guimard (of Paris metro fame). £ HOTEL BREUGHEL 5 parvis Saint-Maurice (00 33 20 06 06 69; www.hotel-brueghel.com ). For budget chic, this two-star has smallish rooms which can be noisy but have character and style with white, country-house furniture and wrought-iron balconies. £

Where to eat out in Lille

A L'HUITRIERE 3 rue des Chats Bossus (00 33 3 20 55 43 41; www.huitriere.fr). Dining at this fish and seafood institution, accessed via a fantastic fishmonger's with a mosaic façade by Breton artist Meheut Mathurin, is a magical experience - enough to justify a trip to Lille on its own. The dining room, with crisp, white-linen tablecloths and chandeliers, overlooks the cathedral gardens; the staff are courteous and discreetly attentive; and the food is faultless, from the appetiser of tiny new potatoes filled with melting Maroilles cheese to the asparagus, new peas, Parmesan and truffle gratin, sole served with lobster, black pasta and baby broad beans, and delicious chicory ice cream.

L'ECUME DES MERS 10 rue Pas (00 33 3 20 54 95 40; www.ecume-des-mers.com ). A popular fish and seafood bistro with a changing menu and nautical décor, run by the son of the owner of A L'Huitriere.

LA TERRASSE DES REMPARTS Logis de la Porte de Gand, rue de Gand (00 33 3 20 06 74 74; www.lilleremparts.fr ). Another Lille institution, largely on account of its location in the old guardhouse above one of the city gates, at the top of Lille's main restaurant street. The menu is largely French with a few Asian spices thrown in.

ESTAMINET 'T RIJSEL 25 rue de Gand (00 33 3 20 15 01 59). Named after the Flemish for island, this small, rustic Flemish pub combines rickety wooden furniture with assorted bric-a-brac and is a cosy place for a few beers.

PAUL PRESTIGE 12 Rue de Paris (00 33 3 20 78 20 78). It now has more than 250 branches in France and the UK, but the original confectionery/bakery opened in Lille in 1889 and is still run by the same family. Go for a breakfast of crunchy baguette and hot chocolate overlooking place du Théâtre, and to stock up on raspberry charlottes and chocolate tarts.

LE PAIN QUOTIDIEN 35 Place Rihour (00 33 3 20 42 88 70). The Lille outpost of the successful Belgian bakery and restaurant chain, which now has branches all over France and further afield. The brunch (including scrambled eggs, charcuterie, salad, yoghurt and pain du chocolat is heavenly.

L'ARRIERE PAYS 47 rue Basse (00 33 3 20 13 80 07). Bakery, grocery, restaurant and salon du thé in Vieux Lille serves tasty salads, pastas and tartines in a rustic-chic setting.

AU GRE DU VIN 20 rue au Peterinck (00 33 3 20 55 42 51; www.vinomedia.fr ). As well as buying wine here, you can sit down to a platter of charcuterie or cheese and drink it.

Where to shop in Lille

VIEUX LILLE Outside La Braderie (the huge flea market), the place to shop is Vieux Lille , the city's 17th-century Flemish heart just behind the classical opera house, which has been restored in time for the Lille 2004 European City of Culture celebrations.

SHOPPING Each street has its own identity, Rue de la Grande Chaussée has a gold arm, the symbol of a former glove merchant's, points the way for luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Hermès. Rue de la Clef, heralded by a large blue sign of key hanging over the street, is younger and edgier, with shops selling records, comics, skatewear and clothing by DieselStyleLab (try Rouge at number 15). Rue Basse is more elegant, with antique shops, art galleries and chic boutiques in 18th-century mansions. Agnès B (number 15) was recently joined by Cotelac (number 5), which sells linen separates and crumpled polyester prints in an interior with a carriage entrance, glass-roofed courtyard and green panelling painted with pink roses.

MEERT 27 rue Esquermoise. A pâtisserie feted as much for its oriental, galleried interior as for its thin waffles filled with an exquisitely sweet vanilla cream. De Gaulle was a fan, as was the French-Belgian writer Marguerite Yourcenar.

MADELEINE ESTIENNE 8 rue des Vieux Murs. A tiny shop with tables decked out in red-checked cloths, it sells regional classics such as organic beers, genevièvre (the local gin), potje vleesch (chunks of chicken, rabbit, veal and pork, served as a terrine or preserved in their gelee in a jar) and carbonade flamande (beef braised in beer and onions). I tasted a surprisingly palatable dandelion wine, and a delicious cider jam.

Kimberly Grant

Olivia Morelli

Connor Sturges

LA BOTTEGA Number 8 bis rue au Peterinck ( www.la-bottega.com ). Run by Gilberto d'Annnunzio who is something of a local celebrity. In the run-up to 2000, he and a handful of local traders in and around rue de la Monnaie posed naked for a calendar as a joke. The first edition (of 500 copies) made it onto the front page of Le Figaro , and since then they have raised more than €90,000 for charity.

What to see in Lille

LA BRADERIE The Grand' Place (also known as place du Général de Gaulle) takes centre stage during La Braderie, the huge flea market that takes over the city during the first weekend of September. This tradition, which is accompanied by the unrestrained consumption moules-frites , dates back to medieval times when servants sold their masters' cast-offs in the streets.

PALAIS DES BEAUX-ARTS Place de la Republique (00 33 3 20 06 78 00; www.pba-lille.fr ). Widely touted as second only to the Louvre, Lille's recently renovated fine arts museum is a light, airy space with sweeping staircases, lofty columns, claret walls and floppy chairs by Gaetano Pesce. Look out for Goya's Les Vieilles , a portrait of two old crones playing the coquette, and portraits by Lillois artists Carolus-Duran, who taught John Singer Sargent. The basement has some intriguing relief models of the fortified towns of northern France built by military engineer Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban under Louis XIV - including Lille with its pentagonal citadel, considered his masterpiece.

MUSEE DE L'HOSPICE COMTESSE 32 rue de la Monnaie (00 33 3 28 36 84 00). Founded in 1237 as a refuge for the sick, it is now a showcase for the arts and crafts of Lille and the Low Countries from the 15th to the 17th century, in a glorious Flemish interior of blue and white tiles and carved wood. The hospital ward is used for exhibitions.

MUSEE D'ART ET D'INDUSTRIE 23 rue de l'Espérance, Roubaix (00 33 3 20 69 23 60; www.roubaix-lapiscine.com ). This is housed in a beautiful Art Deco swimming-pool complex built to keep thousands of textile workers happy and healthy. The architect, freemason Albert Baert, modelled the complex on a Cistercian abbey, with bath cubicles surrounding a cloistered garden and a 40-metre pool under a vaulted chapel roof with stained-glass windows. It reopened in 2001 after restoration by Jean-Paul Philippon (one of the architects who worked on the conversion of the Musée d'Orsay), with many of the original details intact.

ROUBAIX If you only have time for one trip out of town, make it to Roubaix. The former heart of the French textiles industry and now the centre of mail-order shopping, it provides the perfect antidote to the cosy charm of Vieux Lille. Roubaix used to be known as the 'city of 1,000 chimneys' and the old factories still stand. There's L'Usine, a bargain shopping mall on three floors selling 200 brands of discounts of up to 60 per cent.

How to get to Lille

EUROSTAR Eurostar (08432 186 186; www.eurostar.com ) takes one-hour and 40-minutes each way.

Lille city and visitor guide

Discover the lille and roubaix area,   lille - once the industrial capital of france.

Tourist attractions in Lille

• The Grande Place -  The Old Stock Exchange square (photo top of page), one of Lille's fine urban piazzas.
• The Belfry - A Unesco world heritage site (Belfries of Flanders). 104 metres tall. There is a lift to the viewing terrace... but visitors first need to climb 100 steps to reach the lift.
• The Fine Arts Palace.  Palais des Beaux Arts -  One of the largest provincial art galleries in France, with a good collection particularly of French and Flemish art. Includes paintings by Rembrandt and Rubens.
• The Museum of Modern and contemporary Art . in the suburb of Villeneuve d'Ascq. One of the best modern art collections in France.
• The Piscine gallery (the Swimming Pool). Fascinating gallery of 19th and early 20th century painting and sculpture, housed in and around a 1930s Art Deco former swmming pool.
• The zoo and the Citadel.  Lille Zoo is housed in grounds outside the 17th century Lille military citadel. A very popular weekend outing for local inhabitants. A walk round the outer ramparts is over 2 km. The Citadel, still a military site, is normlly closed to visitors.
• La Manufacture. In Roubaix, housed in a former textile mill, this museum tells the story of the textile industry in the Lille area. Has 15 working historic looms.

Places to visit near Lille

• Cassel 40 km northwest of Lille, is an attractive hilltop town - built on one of the rare hills in this essentially flat part of France.
• Ypres (Belgium) , One of the major battle sites of the first World War. It's magnificent Cloth Hall has been meticulously rebuilt.
• Lens .  Le Louvre, Lens.  A modern satellite of the Paris Louvre, in a former mining town, le Louvre Lens exhibits works of art from the main Louvre, including major works that wre leant temporarily.

Accommodation 

Location and access.

• By air   Lille airport is not served by any regular flights from the UK. Nearest airports are Paris Charles de Gaulle or Brussels.  For details see  Fly to France . 
• By train   Lille is accessible by direct Eurostar services from London and Ashford, or direct  Thalys services from Amsterdam and Brussels, as well as direct high speed train services to Paris and many other French cities.  For timetables and online tickets (SNCF, Eurostar) , see  Trainline.com   .
• By car  Lille can be reached by car from Calais in about an hour.

Lille hotels

Lille travel guide

Visit Lille (Hauts-de-France, France)

Lille is a major city in north-eastern France, close to the frontier with Belgium. It is a substantial city, and the centre of the largest conurbation in this region of France.

Following the industrial revolution of the 19th century Lille fell into the same problems of decline that affected many such cities. In recent years it has made great efforts to revive itself and make the most of its character, and is now perhaps the most important tourist destination in this part of France. This 'rebirth' was celebrated in 2004 when the city was European City of Culture.

Explore Lille

Many of the interesting buildings and monuments in the city have been given a new lease of life in recent years. The most interesting part of a visit to Lille now is centred around the 'old centre', a substantial district containing numerous 17th and 18th century townhouses and other buildings, in a regenerated region of the town.

Allow plenty of time to explore the streets of the old town because there are numerous places of interest, squares where you can pause, and historical houses.

Start your visit to this part of Lille in the large open square called La Grand Place. The square is surrounded by numerous interesting buildings and gives a fascinating introduction to the architecture of the town.

Most important among these buildings (and the highlight of a visit to Lille) is the 'Vieille Bourse' . The Vieille Bourse is a fine 17th century building composed of 24 identical houses surrounding a large inner courtyard. These  impressively decorated houses are now mostly shops at ground level and have some of the most intricate arcades to be found. There are numerous carvings and statues on the buildings.

This beautiful courtyard is often used to stage events such as second-hand book fairs and demonstrations of tango dancing.

Also on the Grand Place you will notice the flemish-style building with the triangular facade. This is the Grande Garde and was built in 1717. Decorating its facade is the sun emblem of Louis XIV.

The Chamber of Commerce is situated at the entrance to the Boulevard Carnot and has a belfry that is 76 meters high: from the square you can see the tall belfry of the chamber of commerce standing above the buildings. Listen out for the bells ringing as they often play typically northern tunes such as "Le P'tit Quinquin"!

Next to the Chamber of Commerce the Opera House was built in 1907 following a fire in the previous theatre. Inside the "salle à l'Italienne" is one of the last examples to be built in France.

The 15th century Palais Rihour (where you will find Lille Tourist office) is another impressive building. It too was damaged by fire early in the 20th century but has been extensively rebuilt.

One of our favourite parts of Lille is the area known as "Vieille Lille" or "Old Lille" and is particularly attractive. Its 17th century houses have a distinctly Flemish style and the buildings often have colourful facades. The "Place aux Oignon" is a very attractive square, surrounded by bars and restaurants making it a perfect refreshment stop.

A more recent addition to the architectural heritage in Lille is the town hall, built in the early decades of the 19th century. It is most notable for its high belfry which is 104 meters high. It is one of the more than 50 belfries in the region which as a group have UNESCO World Heritage classification.

There is a substantial cathedral in Lille, the cathedral Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille, built in the 20th century that is of passing interest.

Another substantial construction is Vauban's citadelle, said to be the strongest in France and surrounded by parkland, well maintained and open for limited visiting.

Some remnants of the fortifications that once surrounded the old town can still be seen, and gateways along their length - of varying stature from the very old Noble Tower, through the entrance gates at Porte de Roubaix and Porte de Gand, to the grandiose structure and decoration of the Porte de Paris (the current Porte de Paris replaces the original, more modest, entrance that stood here).

Lille museums

There are several museums of note in Lille, but one stands far ahead of the others in terms of interest and visitor numbers. Lille Museum of Fine Arts (Palais des Beaux-Arts) is the second most popular museum in France (the Louvre is number 1) and contains a very wide selection of paintings covering all art-forms and most artists from the 16th century to the 20th century.

Other museums in Lille include:

• the Museum of Natural History
• Museum of the Hospice Comtesse - an interesting look at life here in the 14th-17th centuries (in a very attractive 13th century Flemish building)
• Museum of the Cannoniers - shows the military importance of Lille and the battles and attacks it underwent

Lille markets

There are several weekly markets in Lille including:

• the unmissable market here is the Wazemmes Market, where an innumerable number of stands cater to an innumerable number of visitors, with a very wide range of food products and other items available. One of the largest markets in France, it is open on Place de la Nouvelle Aventure on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday mornings. Be sure to buy some of the local cheese - 'Vieux Lille' - while you are there.
• the Arts Market at place des Archives (Sunday morning) is a good place to see (and buy) arts, crafts, paintings etc.
• the Lille christmas market is also among the most poular of the markets held in the run-up to Christmas across northern France.

Public gardens in Lille

• To the south of the town are the extensive Botanical Gardens, and an impressive tropical greenhouse
• The pretty English style gardens at Vauban Garden are a haven of peace in the city
• The extensive Citadel Park associated with Lille Zoo covers a very large area, with the trees in the Bois de Boulogne being one of the highlights

Places to visit nearby

More UNESCO classified belfries can be seen at Aire sur la Lys , Arras , Cambrai and Boulogne-sur-Mer .

Explore elsewhere in the North East France . You can find more travel ideas in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais guide .

Photos of Lille

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Arrange a visit to Lille

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Hotels in Lille

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Map of lille and places nearby, visit near lille with france this way reviews.

Although its not a major tourist destination, the centre of the large town of Roubaix has several sights of interest

Douai has a pleasant old town and one of the most impressive belfries in France

Saint-Amand-les-Eaux

Established as a spa centre for more than 2000 years, it is still the spa treatments that attract visitors to Saint-Amand-les-Eaux today

Arras Carriere Wellington

The Carrière Wellington museum in Arras is a series of tunnels that were used during the First World War, now brought to life with historical artefacts

The town of Cassel is built on the highest hill in the Flanders region and has extensive views

The belfry and the large number of baroque style houses make the centre of Arras very appealing with little clue that most were rebuilt less than 100 years ago after WW1 damage

Tourist classifications for Lille

Lille has received the following tourist classifications: historical protected town centre' (secteur sauvegardé); listed town of Art and History ;

Address: Lille, Nord-Pas-de-Calais, 59000, France || GPS coordinates: latitude 50.6372, longitude 3.06333

Plan your visit to Lille, Nord

Sightseeing & tourist attractions to visit nearby.

• Cathédrale Notre Dame de La Treille (Lille): religious monument
• Beffroi de Lille (Belfries of Belgium and France) : heritage site
• Parc zoologique de Lille: zoo or wildlife park
• Réserve naturelle du Jardin écologique du Vieux-Lille: site of natural beauty
• Beffroi de Loos (Belfries of Belgium and France): heritage site (4 km)
• Wattignies: ville fleurie 4* (6 km)
• Wasquehal: ville fleurie 4* (6 km)
• Le parc Barbieux: remarkable garden (8 km)
• Roubaix : town of art and history (10 km)
• Tourcoing: ville fleurie 4* (12 km)
• Beffroi d'Armentières (Belfries of Belgium and France): heritage site (14 km)
• Beffroi de Comines (Belfries of Belgium and France): heritage site (14 km)

The French version of this page is at Lille (Francais)

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