visit lille in one day

The Perfect One Day in Lille Itinerary

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Its convenient location in northern France near the border with Belgium has given Lille a rich history which can be seen all across the city in one day in Lille. Though relatively small in size, Lille is France’s fourth most populous city, and the locals are never short of things to do as the city is full of many attractions to easily fill a Lille itinerary.

We’ve carefully handpicked the best things to do on a day trip to Lille and ordered them so you can easily go from stop to stop on your French sightseeing adventure. If you’ve got more than just a day, we’ve also got some great ideas on how you can spend them!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Lille?

Lille is a perfectly sized city for a weekend away, with a broad range of activities to take part in as well as cuisine influenced by the French, Germans and Belgians to indulge in.

Towards the end of November and throughout December, Lille has a wonderful Christmas market with quaint pop-up shops lining the central square Place du Général de Gaulle. It’s a great place to spend the whole day, but you can also just enjoy a spontaneous afternoon there after arriving in 90 minutes from central London via Eurostar!

You can take a similar trip on the first weekend of September for Lille’s annual flea market, or braderie. The largest in Europe, Lille’s braderie has been a tradition for almost a millennia and draws millions of visitors to the stalls that cover most of the central streets each year.

However, if you want to incorporate this into a culture-filled weekend in the city, you might be disappointed as many businesses and most tourist attractions close during the flea market.

There are great venues across the city too, so you can time a trip to Lille with a concert or exhibition to make the most of your stay in the lovely city. If you’re wondering how many days to spend in Lille, just see what’s on over your holiday dates and decide from there!

Getting To & Around Lille

The easiest way to get to Lille from the UK is by Eurostar from London St Pancras station – you can arrive in Lille in 1 hour 30 minutes, with luggage and in a comfortable seat. You can take a train in the morning, experience a great deal in Lille in one day and be back in London by 9.30 pm, without needing to worry about parking or airport security.

You can also arrive in Lille from Paris Gare du Nord station by train in an hour, or from Brussels in 45 minutes, both with reasonably priced tickets and well-running trains. You can view train schedules here.

If you prefer to shorten your journey or make it even more convenient, however, you can also drive to Lille from the UK, crossing the channel on the Eurotunnel in 30 minutes and driving an hour to reach Lille. If you need to rent a car, you can browse options here.

Within Lille, it’s very easy to get around on foot or with the comprehensive public transport system. There are 2 metro lines, 2 tramways and around 60 bus routes to take you all around the city every day of the year, except 1 May.

1 Day in Lille Itinerary

Our itinerary will take you on a historic journey from the north of the city into the centre, passing through remnants of the 1600s to the present day, ending with a night to remember in Lille’s cultural centre.

If you want to explore with a guide then you can join a walking tour and if you plan to visit a number of attractions then the Lille City Pass might be worth purchasing.

Maison Natale Charles de Gaulle

Arguably the most famous Lillian – or Lillois – is Le Général himself, Charles de Gaulle. You can begin your one day in Lille with a visit to de Gaulle’s grandparents’ house, where the former French President was born.

This magnificent property with a wonderfully ornate art deco conservatory has been redecorated to appear as the house would have done at the time, complete with family photos of the bourgeois family, de Gaulle’s toys and christening gown.

In the annexe, you can learn about the life of the World War One war hero turned leader of the Free French in their permanent exhibition as well as the auditorium that hosts relevant displays on the World Wars and French interwar period.

Citadelle de Lille

Walking for 10 minutes eastward to the Citadel, crossing over the canal on the picturesque Pont Napoleon, you arrive at the incredible Citadel, conceived by legendary engineer Vauban at the behest of King Louis XIV after he conquered the city in the 1660s.

This star-shaped fortress is a small village protected by five bastions, with several royal gates welcoming you into its centre today to explore the historic ruins and enjoy rambling through the grounds.

The citadel is still a military base so visitors cannot see the inside of the citadel, however, the grounds, entrance gates and canal make for a lovely scenic walk.

You can also walk through the Esplanade du Champ de Mars Lille, a historic walkway that now houses a large funfair, with some rides giving thrill-seekers excellent views over the city of Lille.

Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral

Known for its statue of Mary protected by an iron trellis since mediaeval times, this formerly small basilica was converted into a huge cathedral in the 1850s, although war and financial difficulties meant plans changed and the cathedral’s façade was only completed in 1999.

You can marvel at the imposing exterior of the cathedral as well as enter to get a glimpse of the white marble and orange-yellow stained glass window that gives the cathedral a wonderful warm glow.

Just behind the Lille Cathedral is the Place Aux Oignons and the city’s old town where you can find the best places in the city for lunch or a drink in the beautiful buildings reminiscent of those you might find in Bruges or Amsterdam .

A day trip to Lille is incomplete without a walk through the old town – this is absolutely one of the best things to do in Lille. So wander the charming streets, take in the Place du Theatre, maybe visit the Hospice Comtesse Museum and consider finding a restaurant that appeals to you.

Try excellent local cuisine for a decent price in l’Estaminet Au Vieux de la Vieille at 2-4 rue des Vieux Murs. With strong influences from Flanders, you can find all kinds of local dishes on the menu, from Andouillettes to Gratin de la Vieille and excellent Belgian beers on draft.

La Vieille Bourse

Having indulged in a luxurious Lillois lunch, it’s time for the main event: Place du Général de Gaulle which is one of the top places to visit in Lille. This square is in the heart of the city and is the main location of the Christmas market and September flea market, so it should definitely be on your Lille itinerary if you’re on a strict schedule for your Lille day trip.

The buildings surrounding the square demonstrate the Flemish-influenced yet remarkably diverse architectural styles on display in the city, and none is more stunning than la Vieille Bourse – the Old Stock Exchange.

This dark salmon pink building with yellowish stone decorations on its exterior captures the attention of all visitors to the square due to its bright colours and wonderful design. While briefly under Spanish rule, King Philip IV permitted a stock exchange to be built in the 1600s, giving way to this fantastic building comprising 24 houses, each identical, surrounding an equally beautiful courtyard.

After the new stock exchange was built in 1921, La Vieille Bourse gained its nickname and was classified as a historic site. Today, you can go into the courtyard to find a second-hand book market, florists and chess players while you snap some photos of the architecture.

Hôtel de Ville de Lille

Continue down for a kilometre to Place Augustin Laurent, or take the metro from Rihour station to speed things up, and you’ll come across Lille’s town hall. This magnificent building is visible from miles away, thanks to its 104-metre tall bell tower, known as the Beffroi de Lille (the Lille Belfry) which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s as great up close.

Built in the 1920s by Emile Dubuisson, the building possesses the same Flemish pointed roofs found across the region, although it adds an unusual round turret while still keeping to the art deco style of its time period.

You can go up the bell tower, walk all the way or take the lift from halfway up to enjoy fantastic views over Lille and down over the Porte de Paris, which you’ll walk past on your way to the next stop on your Lille itinerary.

This triumphal arch in the middle of the roundabout was built to celebrate King Louis XI’s capture of the city and is a spectacularly large and ornate structure. On occasion, the city gate provides the backdrop for light displays, so it’s worth walking past at night too!

Palais des Beaux Arts

Heading West for ten minutes for the penultimate stop of your trip to Lille, or the last stop if you don’t have time to spend an evening in the city, you’ll find the stunning Palace of Fine Arts.

Built in the late 19th century, the building itself is a testament to its era with its immense size and strong, symmetrical archways, but more interestingly, the museum itself holds hundreds of works by some of the world’s most famous artists.

With paintings by Rubens and Manet, sculptures by Rodin and Barthouldi, and numerous drawings by Raphaël – to name just a few – the permanent collection has plenty to see and is well worth the entrance fee.

There are also some ancient artefacts in the museum, with some paintings and ceramics up to 2,500 years old! The Palais des Beaux-Arts makes for a perfect activity for a day trip to Lille as the variety of items mirrors the breadth of history displayed in the city.

The museum is also free to enter on the first Sunday of the month, and for women on International Women’s Day as well as on Museum Nights, which you can look out for in the website’s calendar.

Maison Folie Moulins

One of Lille’s best cultural centres, La Maison Folie Moulin hosts many artistic performances throughout the year from theatre to love music and dance. Despite its name, the building is actually a former brewery, although it is located in the Moulins district, and the brick walls lend it a rustic aesthetic enhancing the space.

Most tickets are reasonably priced, below 15 €, however, some are free. If you haven’t planned anything for the evening of your Lille day trip, head over and get your ticket on the door up to 45 minutes before the performances, which usually start between 7 and 9 pm.

Have 2 or 3 Days in Lille?

If you’d rather not rush around the city, you should definitely spend more than a day in Lille so you can travel at convenient times and leisurely walk around the city. Plus, over 2 days in Lille, you can take the opportunity to go further out to the La Piscine – Musée d’Art et d’Industrie.

This art and science museum is located in a former swimming pool and its art deco interior makes it a fantastic spot for photographs, especially for fans of Wes Anderson!

For history buffs, you can spend one of 3 days in Lille visiting the war memorials along the border with Belgium to pay your respects and take in the awe-inspiring monuments, as well as have tours of famous battlefields such as the Somme. You can visit independently or arrange a guided tour.

Where to Stay in Lille

Moxy Lille City – Mid-range visitors to Lille will love this centrally located hotel. They have an excellent location within the city, they have great rooms to choose from along with an on-site bar and breakfast available in the mornings.

Grand Hotel Bellvue – Located on the Grand Place in the centre of Lille, this luxury hotel is great for those looking for an upmarket stay in this French city. They have a range of sophisticated and opulent rooms on offer along with plenty of other plush amenities.

Aparthotel Adagio – If you’d like to have your own flat while staying in Lille without sacrificing all of the amenities and benefits of a traditional hotel, then this aparthotel is a great option. There are several different flats to choose from along with an excellent location in the centre of Lille.

The People – Lille – This hostel is an excellent option for those looking for a great budget place to stay. Offering both dorms and private rooms, there is also an on-site bar and restaurant and a great location for exploring all the city has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Lille hotels!

It may be a small city, but it’s impossible to see all of Lille in one day. That’s why it’s the perfect city to keep coming back to for a day trip from London, Paris or Brussels to enjoy the historic sites, wonderful food and mesmerising culture.

Are you planning to visit Lille? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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How to Spend the Perfect One Day in Lille Itinerary

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 10th August 2023

Categories France , Itineraries

Last Updated on 10th August 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Lille is located in northern France just a stone’s throw away from the border with Belgium. A lively city with strong ties to Flemish culture, Lille is fairly small and compact, meaning that all of its major attractions can be seen on foot. Here’s your guide to spending one day in Lille .

The Flemish city is characterised by its unique Flanders style of architecture, many bars serving up strong beers, and smattering of UNESCO world heritage sites.

Lille has a rather chequered history and was under Flemish, Burgundian, and Spanish rule during various periods, before becoming French in 1667.

The best time of the year to visit is between May and October when the weather is at its best, though there is also a Christmas Market held in December if that’s something you’re interested in.

Getting to Lille

Is one day enough time in lille , eat a  merveilleux for breakfast , climb the belfry, porte de paris, palais des beaux arts , grand place, book market , patisserie méert , notre-dame-de-la-treille cathedral, place aux oignons , free time in lille, enjoy a beer, dinner in lille, where to stay in lille , watch the lille video.

With easy transport links to Paris and the rest of France, it couldn’t be easier to reach Lille. We personally took the fast train between Paris Gare du Nord and Lille-Flandres and the journey time is only an hour.

There are two main train stations in Lille, Lille-Flandres and Lille Europe. Whereas the Flanders branch tends to serve train stations in France, Lille Europe serves destinations further afield and is where the Eurostar departs from.

Though Lille is one of the largest cities in northern France (and the fourth largest urban city in metropolitan France), all of its major attractions are fairly close together, meaning that everything can be explored on foot.

For the most part, the best things to do in town are centred around the historic city centre and this area can be easily seen over the course of a day. Just be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes as there are lots of cobbled lanes and you’ll likely clock up well over 10,000 steps over the course of the day.

Lille is a popular day trip from Paris and also a pretty popular day trip from Brussels . It takes an hour on the train from either city to get to the city centre. There are also train links to further away destinations such as London via Eurostar.

One day in Lille suggested itinerary

If you’re the type of person who enjoys starting your day with a sweet treat, then you’re in luck: the sweet speciality of Lille is known as Le Merveilleux.

This small cake originated in either Belgium or France (no one is quite sure about its origins) and is a sandwich of two light meringues filled with cream. The best place to get a Merveilleux in Lille is from Aux Merveilleux de Fred.

After enjoying breakfast, head to the highest view point in town, at the top of the belfry. Known as the Beffroi de Lille, this 104 metre tall bell tower (though curiously it has no bells) is UNESCO World Heritage listed and was inaugurated in 1932.

The belfry is part of a larger town hall complex, which was completely destroyed during WWI before being reconstructed in the 1930s. The new belfry is constructed in classic Art-Deco and neo-Flemish elements.

Today, visitors can head up around 100 steps before arriving at a reception where you can pay to take the lift (or climb the rest of the stairs) to reach the top of the tower and enjoy a 360 degree view of the city.

The belfry is open from Wednesday through to Sunday. In the mornings, reservation is required, whereas in the afternoon, you can just turn up and wait. Please note that only 18 people are allowed at the top of the tower at any given moment so you could be waiting for up to an hour to visit.

Directly beneath the Belfry, you’ll soon spy the Porte de Paris. Much like Paris has its own triumphal arch, so does Lille (indeed, it has several) . However, the most impressive of these arches is most certainly the Porte de Paris, which was constructed in the latter half of the 17th-century.

The Porte de Paris is also known as the Porte des Malades (Gate of the Sick) on account of the fact that, when the city walls existed, this was where the city gate that led to a leper colony (maladrerie in French). The Porte de Paris itself was constructed to celebrate the victories of Louis XIV, i.e. the Sun King.

A short distance away, visitors will soon arrive at the Palais des Beaux Arts, a cultural space dedicated to fine arts, modern art, and antiquities. The museum was established in 1809 and today is one of the top places to visit in Lille. Dedicate a couple of hours to discovering this cultural gem.

The most grandiose place in town is Grand Place, also known as La place du Général-de-Gaulle, which boasts plenty of regal buildings constructed in typical Flemish fashion. Highlights of the large square include the 19th-century colonne de la Déesse and great views of the Beffroi de la Chambre de Commerce de Lille.

One of the best hidden gems of the city that’s tucked away in plain sight is the Old Bourse book market , which is located just off the Grand Place.

The book market is open throughout the year from Tuesday through to Sunday and between 1.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m (and is closed on Mondays). 

Throughout the week, the inner courtyard is also home to people playing chess. Visit the Vieille Bourse of Lille in the summer and you’ll discover people dancing Tango every Sunday evening from 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM.

After a morning filled with exploration, head to one of the many bars, restaurants, or cafés in the city for lunch. Don’t have dessert yet though, as there is an extra special sweet treat for after your main (if you still have room!)

The Lillois speciality dish to try is Le Welsh. But no, it actually has nothing to do with the principality of Wales! This northern French food comprises of brown bread soaked in beer flavoured with mustard and topped with melted cheese and slices of ham.

Served with a side of fries and salad, the entire meal is typically washed down with a local beer. One of the top rated places to enjoy this dish is Estaminet Du Welsh, though you can find this cuisine pretty much all over the city.

If you still have room for dessert after lunch, be sure to head to Patisserie Méert, which is located in the Old Town and boasts the status of being the oldest patisserie shop in town. Founded in 1761, there is a café within the establishment or alternatively you can pick up their sweet treats to take away.

The modern and not entirely aesthetically pleasing main church in town is the Notre Dame de Treille, an ecclesiastical building with a rather complex history. Groundbreaking for the cathedral was initiated in 1854, though the church wasn’t completed until 1999.

You see, the church ran out of funds part way through construction and so had to be built in stages. The resulting structure is a unique blend of architectural styles, melded together with an über modern façade. The cathedral is free to visit and one particular highlight is a rose window depicting astronauts and UFOs.

Just a short walk away from the cathedral is the Place aux Oignons, which is undoubtedly the most attractive square in Lille. Situated close to the old castle mound, the pretty Place boasts a handful of bars where you can enjoy a local beer while watching the world go by.

After heading to Place aux Oignons, there are a few ways you can spend the next few hours. If you want to see even more of the city but are tired of walking, then consider booking a bus tour like this one . For those who want a more private experience, consider booking a driving tour like this one.

Before finishing your day trip or look for a venue to enjoy dinner, I suggest sampling one of the local Flemish beers at one of the many bars in Lille. Just be warned- the alcohol percentage is likely to be much higher than the strength of the beers that you’re used to so be sure to drink with caution!

Whether you want to enjoy local cuisine or have dietary preferences, the size of Lille means that there’s something for almost everyone in the city centre. Some of the best vegetarian restaurants in town include Itsy Bitsy and Annie’s Kitchen.

During our time in Lille, we actually opted to visit one of the Big Mamma restaurants. The chain began in Paris but has since spread to further afield cities, including Lille. The eatery is Lille is called La Bellezza Big Mamma and I loved my truffle pasta. Just be sure to reserve a table in advance as this place is very popular!

Thanks to its status as one of the largest Metropolitan areas in France, Lille has no shortage of places to stay to suit almost any budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city based on location and web-reviews:

Gastama: Though a little bit out of the historic city centre, one of the best reviewed hostels in Lille is Gastama. Highlights of this budget place to stay include dorm rooms or private rooms, free Wi-Fi and a bar onsite.

OKKO Hotels Lille Centre: A mid-priced accommodation that is particularly well-reviewed is OKKO Hotels Lille Centre. Amenities include room service, breakfast for an extra charge, and baggage storage. Check prices and availability here.

L’Hermitage Gantois, Autograph Collection: When it comes to the crème de la crème of Lille accommodation, one of the most luxurious places to stay is the five-star L’Hermitage Gantois, Autograph Collection. Check prices and availability here.

Enjoyed reading about the best way to spend one day in Lille? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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11 top things to do in Lille, France on a day trip

October 18, 2021 | Posted in: France

Looking for things to do in Lille, France ? I've got you covered! Below you can read exactly which Lille attractions dad and I visited when we explored the city, and which Lille activities you can't miss.

Want to do some Lille sightseeing with me? Come along!

1. Walk through the Porte de Paris and take a photo of the Mairie de Lille on the Place Augustin Laurent

2. place de charles de gaulle, 3. book market on vieille bourse, 4. opéra de lille, 5.go shopping in lille, 6. check out the notre dame de la treille, 7. have lunch at tous les jours dimanche, 8. have a merveilleux at aux merveillieux, 67 rue de la monnaie), 9. walk over the place aux oignons, 10. check out the citadelle de lille from afar and feel like a child again at the amusement park, 11. check out the palais des beaux arts, tours and ticket deals in lille, some interesting facts about lille, france, is lille worth visiting, how many days in lille, la maison du champlain, hotel l'arbre voyageur, l'art de vivre bed & breakfast, where is lille in france, how to get to lille by plane, how to get to lille by train, how to get to lille by car, stay connected while visiting lille, don't forget travel insurance.

• Free entry to more than 30 sites and activities
• Free use of Lille's public transport network
• Discounts in selected restaurants and shops in Lille, Roubaix, and Tourcoing

Top things to do in Lille, France

The Porte de Paris with the Belfry in the background

Across the street from the Porte de Paris, there's something we're familiar with here in Belgium too: a belfry. Belfries are something typical of Belgium and the north of France and Lille's belfry can be seen by City Hall at the Place Augustin Laurent.

Good to know You can climb to the top of the Belfry at 104 meters to get a panoramic view of the city. It's also the highest viewpoint in Lille. You'll get binoculars to see all the things and an audioguide.

Get your ticket to the Belfry here  

The Place Charles de Gaulle

This was our first stop during our Lille day trip and it's a great place to start because – as with many central squares – you can explore the entire center from here.  

The Vieille Bourse

If you go in the morning, it'll be rather calm and you'll be able to admire the architecture, but in the afternoon, secondhand booksellers open their stands and people come to play chess here.  

The Opera House is one of those typical things to see in Lille, France

Like opera houses all around the world, it's one of those typical landmarks listed as one of the things to see in Lille in guidebooks.  

Old Town Lille is great for shopping. Yes, you can find some of the big retailers here, but I recommend diving into streets like the rue de la Grande Chaussée (for luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Hermès), the rue de la Clef and the Rue Masurel (for independent boutiques and trendy stores), the rue Basse (for antiques), the rue Nationale, the rue de la Vieille Comédie and the Place Rihour.

That last square is also where you can find the Lille Tourism Information in case you'd like to get a Lille tourist map or have some questions.  

And the weird Notre Dame de la Treille is another one

I'm a fan of “tight” architecture without any fringes, but this facade… I wasn't convinced.

By the time we got to the cathedral, I was also getting hungry, so we didn't go in. Instead, we headed to our next stop…  

Eating is another one of the fun things to do in Lille, France :-)

Tous les Jours Dimanche is much bigger than it looks from the outside, but it's compartmentalized in such a way that no matter what table you're sitting at, it always feels cozy and you get the impression of having food in someone's living room.

The restaurant has an open kitchen, personnel is friendly and the food is good. I had a lovely quiche and, if I recall correctly, my dad had steak.

I think we got lucky to get a table around lunchtime on a Saturday because the place was rather full. So maybe it's best to go a bit early or later if you want to be sure to snatch a spot.

Read more reviews for Tous les Jours Dimanche.  

Having a merveilleux in Lille

I opted for a small version of the classic, but Aux Merveilleux also sells “modern” versions with different kinds of flavors. Yum!  

Place aux Oignons

The amusement park for kids in Lille, near the Citadel and the zoo

Lille Zoo is located in the same park and so is a fairground for children. Just outside the park, you can walk through the Jardin Vauban.  

The side of the Palais des Beaux Arts in Lille

Because of its size, the museum is often called the Second Museum of France, with the Louvre being the first. If you're an art lover wondering what to see in Lille, France this is the answer.  

If you plan on visiting a lot of tourist attractions in Lille and using public transportation while you're there, have a look at the Lille City Pass . It includes:

• Free entry to more than 30 tourist sites and activities in Lille
• Free usage of Lille's public transport network (metro, bus, tram)

The city pass is available for 24, 48 or 72 hours.

Get your City Pass

If you'd rather learn about Lille with a guide, check out these recommended tours:

• In the Middle Ages, Lille was part of the County of Flanders. Sometimes people wonder: “Is Lille in France or Belgium?” because Lille also has a Dutch name, “Rijsel” from when it was part of the County of Flanders, but that was long before the country of Belgium was founded.
• Lille was Cultural Capital of Europe in 2004.
• Lille has a completely automated subway system. This means you won't see any subway drivers!
• The name “Lille” evolved from “L'Île”, meaning “island”. The city originated on a tiny island in the river Deûle.

I definitely think so. It's easily walkable, has a nice Old Town with plenty of shops and sightseeing opportunities and art lovers will definitely find some places to go in Lille as well. I wouldn't mind going back :-)  

In that case, you could plan a weekend in Lille or go during the week when it's calmer in the center (and in the shops ;-).  

Where to stay in Lille

If you go to Lille and want to stay at a hotel, the following three cater to different budgets and styles but are all located in the city center and get great reviews. They also all offer free WiFi and breakfast.  

La Maison du Champlain is a Bed and Breakfast located in a charming 19th-century building. The spacious suites are soundproof and equipped with a flatscreen tv and Nespresso machine but you can also get your cup of coffee with your included continental breakfast. Guests can use the spa for an extra cost and come by train or park at the paid public parking nearby.

This Bed and Breakfast is ranked third of all B&Bs in Lille on TripAdvisor.

Read reviews on TripAdvisor / Book a room  

Hotel L'Arbre Voyageur is a four-star hotel located just a 5-minute walk from the Lille Flandres Train Station and a 10-minute walk from the Lille Europe Train Station. Aside from its individually styled rooms, this hotel also has its own bar and two restaurants – perfect for when you want to stay in at night. There's paid public parking nearby.

This hotel is ranked number 1 of all hotels in Lille on TripAdvisor.

L'Art de Vivre Bed & Breakfast is a bit softer on the wallet while still getting great reviews. It has its own garden and only serves organic and local products at the included breakfast. Water, as well as organic coffee and tea, are available all day long, and there's free public parking nearby.

I hope the above gave you a better idea of what to do in Lille, France. Now, for the practical side of things…

How to travel to Lille?

Lille lies in the north of France, by the border with Belgium and about 225 km/140 miles from Paris. It's the capital of the Hauts-de-France department and one of the biggest cities in France.  

Lille-Lesquin International Airport is only 10 km away from Lille's city center and 20 minutes by airport shuttle. Another option is to fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) Airport.

Click here to compare flight prices.

If you're coming in by plane, you might not want to bother dragging your luggage around the city to get to your hotel. To make things easier, consider booking a transfer to drop you off right at the reception.

Welcome Pickups is great for booking airport transfers. Their site is super userfriendly and you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand if needed.  

Lille has two train stations: Lille Flandres Train Station and Lille Europe Train Station. The former is where you arrive on regional trains from within France or on the high-speed train to Lille from Paris. The latter is where you can get in when arriving on the Eurostar from Brussels or London to Lille or on high-speed trains from within France.

Because of the easy connection and short travel time, London, Brussels, and Paris all make great day trips from Lille by train. And of course, you can also travel the other way around to do a Paris to Lille day trip, for example.

Check here for timetables, prices and tickets for train travel within Europe.  

We drove to Lille as it's only about an hour and a half from Leuven. There are plenty of underground parking lots near the Old Town, so we just searched for one on Google Maps before leaving and entered that address in the GPS.  

I hope this post has given you a good idea of what to see in Lille in one day and has made you curious about visiting Lille as well. If you go, be sure to let me know how it was!  

Traveling to Lille from outside the EU and want to stay connected so you can share photos, call loved ones over WiFi and easily use apps like Google Maps? Then check out Solis Wifi mobile WiFi .

They offer both day passes and monthly subscriptions providing you with 4G throughout your trips. I've been using their daily passes not just when I travel outside the EU (no roaming charges for me in the EU) but also as a backup for when I think I'll go over my phone's data plan.  

Plan for the best, prepare for the worst. Travel insurance has you covered in case (part of) your trip gets canceled, you get sick or hurt abroad and even when your electronics break or get stolen. I've had ongoing travel insurance ever since I started traveling to make sure I'm covered for every trip I go on.

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georgette says

We went to Lille a few years ago for a wedding and I have to say that I LOVED it. The beautiful streets, the cheese shops, the hearty food. It’s really worth a visit. Great post girl!

I totally agree! Thanks girl, appreciate it :)

AlicevstheWorld says

All these places look so beautiful!

The Old Town is really quaint and even a bit further out it’s a charming city :)

Christine Knibb - Scarff says

My daughter spent half her year abroad ( for her degree) in Lille. It’s so close to Belgium that the chocolate shops are just ‘ out of this world’ and as De Gaulle was born there you can visit ‘ his house ‘ which is now a museum , though very rarely open ! The main square is beautiful as is La Vielle Bourse .

So lovely! Seems like you got to enjoy the city as well :)

Taste of France says

Lille has a vibrant Argentine tango scene! (so does Brussels)

I had no idea! Do you dance tango?

Suzanne Fluhr says

We visited Lille after visiting Normandy. A French physician trained in my husband’s lab in the United States and my husband was invited to Lille when he defended his dissertation. We had a lovely time. I’ve pinned this post as we have a standing invitation to return.

Sounds like the time to return might have come :)

A beautiful place, hope to visit all places and try all the food in your list! Thank you very much for providing this great recommendation

You’re welcome!

Hey, good job on that post, maybe i will someday travel to France!

Jackie says

You forgot the bars. and the awesome beers.

I didn’t do them, so I didn’t add them :-) Thanks for the tip!

Farenexus says

Was there last week and totally loved it, but didn’t get the chance to visit Tous les Jours Dimanche, food looks yummy

Glad you liked it! And not having eaten at Tous les Jours Dimanche might be a good reason to go back :-)

Angela says

I am finishing my lunch at Tous Les Jour est Dimanche and loving it! Thanks

Whaaat! That is so cool! Thanks so much for letting me know. I’m happy you’re enjoying it :-)

Scorpio says

Globally famous city is Paris. This city is also very beautiful.

Oh Sofie, what a nice place to go for sight seeing. Can we find a budget friendly accommodation easily?

It sure is! Aside from the hotels I mentioned, I recommend checking Booking.com for accommodation as it allows you to filter on price per night.

Is it easy to reach to places from train station?

Sandhya says

You are highlights all the best in France. You are cover the post with beautiful pic.

Monzee says

Nice places to see, I have a business trip after some days to this charming city I hope to meet you soon.

Celine says

Hello, I’m french but not from Lille and I think your article is very interesting. I enjoyed Lille a lot and especially the driving tour in 2CV that Tradi’Balade does!! I recommend

Cool! Thanks for commenting :)

Marcela Jiménez says

The Marveilleux were amazingly god!!! I followed your recommendation, bought the six pack, different flavours. We are heading now to Paris, I am glad to find out there are these delicious marvellous desserts there too. Rest tip!!!

Marcela says

After Lille we visited Paris. Found AUX MARVEILLEUX after walking many squares with Google Maps and ate the delicious dessert again. Today we are back home in Panama. I will try to replicate it somehow!

Ch'ti Girl says

Too bad you didn’t enter Notre Dame de la Treille: it does look weird from the outside, but it’s when you step in that this odd looking facade comes to life! You’ll have to come back and check it out… Another church worth having a look at: l’église Marie-Madeleine. It’s a desecrated church that’s become an arts gallery. Especially worth having a look is Subodh Gupta’s piece “God Hungry”.

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Visit Lille in 1 day   Where to go and what to do in less than 24 hours?

• Escapades in Lille
• Lille in 1 day

Lille is a city overflowing with things to see and do. It’s hard to know where to start… Fortunately, we’ve put together a handy guide to help you make the most of Lille’s treasures in less than 24 hours. Grab your shoes and let’s go!

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€

La Grand Place

• Just a few hundred meters from the Lille-Flandres and Lille-Europe train stations, the Grand Place is a must-see! You'll be amazed by the diversity of architecture and colors. Look up and you'll see details invisible at first glance.

La Vieille Bourse

• This magnificent building, designed by architect Julien Destrée and built in 1653, stands between the sumptuous Place du Théâtre and the mythical Grand Place. When the doors are open, stroll inside and admire the decor. Go when the booksellers' stalls are open.

• Directly accessible from the Grand Place, the Vieux-Lille district welcomes you with its authentic cobbled streets, full of charm. Step through the doors of these stores to see the size of their interiors, in stark contrast to their pretty little facades. Fancy a gourmet break? Take a seat in an authentic estaminet.

The Hospice Comtesse Museum

• Nestled in rue de la Monnaie, in the Vieux-Lille district, the Hospice Comtesse museum offers an overview of the city's history, as well as a reconstruction of 17th-century interiors. This former hospice was founded by Countess Jeanne de Flandre, an important figure in the city's development.

Book your activity   among a multitude of experiences

Book your activity.

Guided tours, gourmet walks, workshops, treasure hunts, themed evenings, shows… we offer 1001 ways to experience the destination!

Here are our favorites for a complete tour of the city, its belfry and Old Lille.

Unusual getaways and culinary experiences, visit the city like nowhere else.

Visit more and pay less with our exclusive offers.

Stock up on bargains and new products.

Rihour Palace

• It's one of the few buildings dating back to the Middle Ages. When you arrive at the Place Rihour, imagine an immense residential palace spreading out over the entire space around you. Originally built to house the Dukes of Burgundy, the Palais Rihour became Lille's town hall several centuries later. Sadly, the building fell victim to devastating fires. Today, the Palais Rihour is home to the Lille Tourist Office.

Palace of Fine Arts

• One of France's richest museums. Lille's Palais des Beaux-Arts is impressive not only for its size, but also for the richness of its collections. Step through the doors to discover the museum's famous and carefully preserved works.

Town hall and belfry

• This is where you'll get the highest view of the whole city and its surroundings. The town hall is not open to visitors, but you can climb the 415 steps to the belfry, or take the authentic elevator up the first 100 steps. On a clear day at the top of the belfry, you can even see the Flanders mountains and the slag heaps!

The citadel park

• It's the city's largest green space! On a clear day, you'll find plenty of walkers and sports enthusiasts. Walk along the Deûle and get as close as you can to the ramparts of the "Queen of citadels". A stroll around the foundations of this colossus is sure to invigorate you.

Ideas for   exits

The Lille Tourist Office has put together a list of the best places to go and things to do in Lille and the surrounding area. Get ready for a great time!

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DESTINATIONS , EUROPE , FRANCE

One day in lille, france: itinerary + self-guided walking tour.

Featuring grand cobblestoned squares lined with exuberant Baroque buildings, Lille is one of France’s best-kept secrets. And thanks to its excellent rail connections, it is easy to take a day trip to Lille from other major cities, including London on Eurostar.

But which are the best things to see during one day in Lille? As a three-time visitor, this is where I can help.

Make the most of your time in this fascinating Flemish city by following my 1-day Lille itinerary. There’s a map you can use for a self-guided walking tour as well as practical information, including where to stay and how to get there and get around.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

Is One Day in Lille Enough? 

One day in Lille is enough to cover its main sights. Despite its size, the city’s main attractions are close together, making it easy to explore on foot. However, I recommend spending two days in Lille to appreciate it at a more relaxed pace. This also means that you can take a look at the UNESCO-listed Lille Citadel and visit the extraordinary La Piscine de Roubaix.

1-Day Lille Itinerary + Map

My Lille 1-day itinerary starts at Musée de Hospice Comtesse and finishes at the Beffroi de Lille:

• Musée de Hospice Comtesse

Place aux Oignons

• Notre Dame de la Treille
• Place de Théâtre
• La Veille Bourse
• Place du Générale-de-Gaulle

Church of St. Etienne

Palais des beaux-arts, lille.

• Porte de Paris
• Beffroi de Lille

This walk follows a logical route from north to south but you may need to tweak it and dog-leg back to a few places to accommodate their opening hours. Check these in advance.

The distance between these sights is less than 2 miles . To help you on your way, here’s a map you can use as a  self-guided Lille walking tour . Click here or on the image for step-by-step directions and to send to your phone.

Musée de Hospice Comtesse (Hospice Compesse Museum)

Founded in 1237 by Countess Jeanne de Flandre, the Hospice Comtesse Museum is the first stop on our Lille itinerary. This hospital remained in service until 1939 and is now the city’s museum and home to a collection of Flemish paintings, tapestries, wood sculptures and porcelain.

Aux Merveilleux de Fred

No Lille day trip is complete without trying Merveilleux. The best place to pick these up is Aux Merveilleux de Fred and there’s a shop opposite the Hospice Comtesse Museum.

Literally marvellous, these little cakes are made from clouds of light meringue liberally smothered in fresh cream and chocolate shavings.

Despite what its name suggests, onions have played no part in the history of Place aux Oignons. Back in the Middle Ages, this photogenic square formed part of the fortress of the Counts of Flanders, none of which remains. Today, it is home to several good restaurants.

Notre Dame de la Treille (Lille Cathedral)

I have walked down the nave of many cathedrals over the years but the Notre Dame de la Treille ranks amongst the most interesting that I have visited.

Lille Cathedral owes its unique appearance to its troubled genesis. Originally conceived as a Gothic building, the cathedral’s foundations were laid in 1854. However, workers had to down tools in 1947 when funds dried up, and construction was not resumed until 1999.

The resulting cathedral is a dizzying mix of traditional meets contemporary. The ugly modern façade, made from 110 marble sheets, contrasts with the cathedral’s interior with its soaring Gothic arches.

Its glass  rose window  above the main entrance features unusual symbols including UFOs & astronauts, said to represent the cycle of death and resurrection.

However, for me, Lille Cathedral’s star turn is La Sainte Chapelle  behind the main altar. Housing a small 12th-century statue of the Virgin Mary, it has an exquisite mosaic floor.

Place de Théâtre & La Veille Bourse  

Two flamboyant buildings dominate Lille’s Place du Théâtre.

The first is its gleaming white opera house topped by an overblown sculpture of the  Triumph of Apollo. 

The other is the ornate, albeit more restrained, La Veille Bourse .

La Veille Bourse was one of my favourite places to visit in Lille. Formerly the city’s stock exchange, this structure comprises 24 small houses arranged around an elaborate, porticoed inner courtyard, embellished with decorative plaques and stone sculptures.

Now home to a book market, La Veille Bourse has an interesting history.

Before its construction in the 1650s, most trading took place outside, and traders were at the mercy of the elements. Battling wind, rain and a damp chill during one of my days in Lille I felt their pain!

To prevent the traders from falling sick, La Veille Bourse was commissioned to provide private houses supporting trading in the coldest months.

Place du Générale-de-Gaulle (Grand Place)

Walk through La Bourse to Lille’s beating heart, the Grand Place. Once the site of the city’s medieval market, today it’s the focal point for celebrations and a popular meeting place.

At Christmas time, it is home to a giant Ferris wheel.

The Déesse Column , commemorating the 1792 Austrian siege, is in the centre of the square.

More exuberant Flemish buildings flank the square, including the  La Voix du Nord  building , home to the largest newspaper in Northern France.

Climb the steps to the entrance of Théâtre du Nord for a birds-eye view of the Grand Place.

Place Rihour & Lille Christmas market

Lacking the architectural bravado of the Grand Place or Place du Théâtre, the smaller and unremarkable Place Rihour, is home to the friendly  Lille Tourist Office  and the city’s Christmas market.

The 18 th  Century Church of St. Etienne (L’Église Saint Etienne) is a few minutes walk southwest of Place Rihour.

This is one of France’s largest Jesuit churches and features an exquisite pulpit, sculpted by François Rude. It is crowned by angels and cherubs with Faith and Hope holding a vessel of St. Stephen’s martyrdom.

Ten minutes southeast of the Church of St. Etienne is Lille’s cultural calling card, the Palais des Beaux-Arts .

Flanking the southern side of the vast Place de la République, this fine art gallery is second only to the Louvre in Paris in size and stature. It was established by Napoleon in the early 1800s to popularise art, its collection curated from the spoils of war.

I recommend working your way chronologically, starting at the basement level with art from the Renaissance period.

Don’t miss a pair of paintings by  Dirk Bouts  (1420 – 1475) that were once part of a triptych.

The painting to your right depicts the righteous ascending into Heaven. The souls featured in the left-hand side painting weren’t so lucky, with the dammed falling into Hell to be tortured by demons for eternity.

It is thought that the central painting of this triptych represented Judgement Day.

On the upper floor, there is an impressive collection of muscular Rubens, a smattering of Sisleys and expressive Goyas. The Palais des Beaux-Arts is also home to a fine collection of Rodin sculptures, the most striking of which is Les Bourgeois de Calais.

Porte de Paris and Lille Belfry (Beffroi de Lille)

Porte de Paris , the final stop on our Lille walking tour, is five minutes east of the Palais des Beaux-Arts

Built by Simon Vollant in the late 17 th  Century to celebrate Louis XIV’s capture of Lille for the French, this is the most striking of Lille’s surviving city gates.

The adjacent red brick and stone Art Deco belfry rises over the city like a giant exclamation mark. At a height of 104 meters, the UNESCO-listed Beffroi de Lille is the highest civilian belfry in Europe.

To climb Lille’s belfry, walk the first 100 steps and then take 300 or so steps or the elevator to the top. I recommend taking the lift up and walking down as there is information about the belfry on each floor.

Check opening hours and find out how to book here .

The Best Time to Visit Lille, France

For longer days and the best chance of sunny skies, visit Lille between May and September. I was there most recently in May and basked in balmy temperatures and drank cooling beer under blue skies. If Christmas markets are your thing, plan your visit for December (this was my first visit). Although it can be cold and damp, there is something magical about the festive lights.

Getting There

Lille has two train stations: Lille Flandres and Lille Europe. It is a ten-minute walk between the two train stations.

Most trains from other French cities and Belgium arrive at Lille Flandres station in the heart of the old town. Some TGV services go into Lille Europe , which also serves Eurostar trains from Brussels and London.

Thanks to short journey times and the central location of the train station, it’s easy to do a Lille day trip from Paris, Brussels and London. You can check train times here .

Eurotunnel  trains run from Folkestone to Calais up to four times per hour from 7 am. The last train back from Calais is at around midnight.

Alternatively, take the  car ferry from Dover to Calais , a 90-minute crossing.

There are underground car parks near the old town.

Getting Around

The best way to get around Lille is on foot. As most of the city’s attractions are close to one another, Lille lends itself beautifully to a self-guided walking tour

Lille also has an excellent bus, tram and metro network , which I used to visit La Piscine de Roubaix on my third visit. Public transport is included in the  Lille City Pass , which also includes free access to attractions and a selection of discounts and special offers.

Where to Stay in Lille

As one of France’s biggest cities, Lille is not lacking in accommodation options. However, to be in the thick of things, pick a central location near the old town.

Ibis Lille Centre Gare

I chose this 3-star hotel on my first visit to Lille for its central location close to Lille Flandres station. It’s perfect if you want a comfortable stay in a good location at an affordable price

>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK AVAILABILITY & BOOK

Hotel Boa, BW Signature Collection

This 4-star hotel, where I stayed on my most recent trip to Lille, is perfect if you are looking for a quiet, centrally-located hotel with superb customer service. Its location, between Lille Flandres Station and Place de Théâtre, could not be better and the complimentary minibar a bonus.

>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK AVAILABILITY & PRICES

Here are some other hotels that I have found that may suit different budgets:

Splurge – Grand Hotel Bellevue – Grand Place

This 4-star hotel is right in the thick of things on the Grand Place. A good breakfast is included in the room rate.

Budget – Hotel Lille Europe

Close to Lille-Flandres Station, this budget hotel looks terrific value and its helpful staff get a special mention in online reviews.

Thank you for reading my Lille day trip itinerary

Each time I have visited, I have been seduced by Lille’s grandiose Flemish architecture, its old town, the friendliness of its people and its hearty cuisine. For those taking a solo trip to France , it’s relatively safe and easy to explore. Although Lille may lack the immediate charm of other northern French cities such as Reims , Colmar  or  Strasbourg , dismiss it at your peril.

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

One Day In Lille France Itinerary

Lille is one of France’s largest cities, located in the north in French Flanders. But you’d never know it!

The city center is chock full of chocolate box 17th and 18th century townhouses, giving it a village feel. They made me fall in love with the city straight away.

Lille has it all — medieval charm, a hopping craft beer scene, some seriously pungent Maroilles cheese, and restaurants galore.

But Lille is not just about old world charm. Lille is full of contemporary energy with festivals, breweries, and museums.

Snapshot of One Day In Lille

Here’s a quick glance of what you can see with this Lille itinerary:

Grand Place

Old stock exchange.

• City Hall Belfry
• Palais des Arts

Vieux Lille

Here are a few tours you may want to pre-book, especially in high season:

• guided walking tour of old town
• convertible Citroen tour of the city
• city Segway tour

One Day In Lille Itinerary

Begin your day in the heart of Lille at the main square Place du Général-de-Gaulle, simply called Grand Place.

This exquisite plaza is surrounded by impressive Flemish Renaissance buildings, including the Vieille Bourse (Old Stock Exchange).

Enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes around the square and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

The statue in the center of the square is the Column of the Goddess. It commemorates the city’s resistance against the Austrian siege in 1792.

You can visit the Vieille Bourse, which is a splendid example of 17th century Flemish architecture. Built by Julien Desiree, it’s a gorgeous gold, red, and brown brick building made up of 24 identical private homes.

The facade of the Vieille Bourse is richly decorated with ornate sculptures, intricate carvings, and medallions, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic prowess of the time.

The medallions feature portraits of famous Lille merchants, further emphasizing the building’s commercial significance.

The inner courtyard is decorated with 24 Corinthian columns and a tasteful mix of brick an stone.

The courtyard is a meeting place for dealers of antique books. It often hosts book markets and flower stalls. It’s a perfect spot to browse through old books and enjoy the intricate details of the building.

Tip : The Bourse isn’t just a landmark. It also hosts performances and cultural activities, so you should check the website .

Another must do in the old town is to climb the tower of the City Hall in Place Augustin Laurent.

To reach the top for a breathtaking view of the town, you’ll first climb 104 steps and then take an elevator.

An audio guide is available for a small fee of €2 and you can rent binoculars for €1 to enhance your experience. To enter, simply ring the doorbell.

>>> Click here to book a guided walking tour of Lille’s old town

The Bourse is surrounded by enchanting alleys, old buildings, and picturesque squares.

A short walk from Grand Place, Rihour Square is home to the Palais Rihour, which houses the Tourist Office. It’s a retail area that often hosts fairs and festivals.

Pick up a city map or any information you might need for the day. The square is also a great place to admire more of Lille’s architecture.

Palais des Beaux-Arts

Lille’s premiere museum, the Palais des Beaux-Arts, is an impressive cultural treasure. It’s the second most important museum in France after the Louvre !

It’s housed in a grand 19th century Beaux-Arts building, which combines elements of classical architecture with a grand, elaborate style.

Designed by architects Gaspard André and Edouard Bérard, the museum was inaugurated in 1892. It features a spacious, light-filled interior, making it ideal for displaying its vast collections ranging from medieval to modern art.

The museum displays a vast collection of European paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.

Spend a couple of hours marveling at works by Goya, Rubens, Rodin, Van Dyck, Delacroix, Manet, Bosch, and the Impressionists. I loved Delacroix’s Medea and Monet’s House of Parliament .

There are also some works by Flemish and Dutch masters, as well as quite a few Italian Renaissance paintings.

Tip : If you are planning on seeing most of Lille’s attractions, you may want to buy the 24 city pass to save time and money.

Head to the charming streets of Vieux Lille (Old Lille) for lunch. This area is full of quaint bistros and restaurants serving traditional Northern French cuisine.

Try some local Lilloise specialties like carbonnade flamande (Flemish stew), moules-frites (mussels with fries), or potjevleesch (terrine with pig, rabbit, and chicken).

Another Lille delicacy is its stinky cheese called Maroilles . It’s an orange rinded pungent cow’s milk cheese. It’s served on its own or mixed with added goodies like gratins or tarts.

I can’t say I recommend the Lille sausages though. They seemed rather uncooked and had an odd, thready texture that put me off.

As another alternative, you’ll also find shops and cafes serving up gaufres , which are Lille’s delicious waffles. They are crispy and topped with powdered sugar or chocolate and whipped cream.

Two places to get your waffles fix are Meert and Waffle Factory. You can also check out Lille’s many bakeries.

After lunch, explore more of the narrow cobbled streets of Vieux Lille. Admire the beautiful old buildings, chic boutiques, and art galleries.

Stroll down the Rue da la Monnaie, one of the city’s oldest streets, dating back to the 11th century. The buildings are in vivid hues of orange and red, and reminded me a bit of the city of Toulouse in southern France .

There are upscale eateries, chic boutiques and gorgeous architecture, including the Hôtel de la Monnaie, established by Louis XIV.

If you need a coffee, stop at Honore. It’s a quaint tea shop serving up delicious pastries.

Have a glass of wine at la Part des Anges or indulge in handcrafted chocolates at Mathilde’s Comptoir.

Notre Dame de la Treille

On your walkabout, don’t miss the Cathedral Notre Dame de la Treille, a beautiful basilica. It has a rather wacky modern facade, but the rest is Gothic Revival architecture. it’s recognized as a national monument.

The reason for the odd juxtaposition of old and new is that construction began in 1854 but wasn’t completed until 1999. The cathedral honors the Virgin Mary and is named after a 12th century statue known for its miraculous properties.

Saint-Maurice Church

Just a few minutes’ walk from Grand Place, you can admire the historic Neo-Gothic Saint Maurice church.

The church has a lofty nave, beautiful stained glass, and artworks. (It’s facade could use a power wash though.)

Citadelle de Lille

Take a relaxing walk to the Citadelle de Lille, a star-shaped fortress built in the 17th century.

The surrounding park, Bois de Boulogne, is a lovely place for a leisurely stroll. It has large lawns, avenues lined with trees, a lake, and even a small zoo.

Not far from the citadel is the Paris Porte. Part of Lille’s fortifications, this hidden treasure is a triumphal arch with elaborate detailing and sculptures.

For a more sedate option, you can take a stroll through the Jardin des Planets. This undiscovered treasure is incredibly peaceful, with ponds, pathways, and a wide variety of vegetation.

If you want a pre-dinner cocktail, Lille is awash in delightful bars. I really enjoyed Le Capsule, a rustic shrine to craft beers.

Quai Des Bananas is a funky cocktail bar with a wide choice of drinks. Le Dandy is a combination of old school and hipster chic.

For dinner, return to the city center or explore the bohemian Wazemmes district, known for its multicultural vibe and excellent dining options. You can find everything from traditional French to international cuisines here.

Tip : Wazemmes also has a lovely market, open on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday morning. If you are staying at at an Air Bnb, you can shop for fresh good to make your own seasonal feast.

For a Michelin experience, try L e Bloempot . It’s one of Lille’s most famous restaurants. It’s a cozy and rustic spot serving up seasonal specialities.

End your day with a walk around the beautifully lit city center or along the Quai du Wault.

Alternatively, you may want to take in a performance. You have several options:

• Lille Opera (classical music, ballet, and opera)
• Theatre du Nord (theatrical events and modern plays)
• The Grand Bleu (avant garden modern pieces)
• The Magnificent (comedies & musicals)

Tips For Spending One Day in Lille

How to get to lille.

You can definitely do Lille as a day trip from Paris. It’s quite manageable thanks to the high-speed train service connecting the two cities. By TGV, the journey is only 1 hour.

Trains depart from Paris Gare du Nord, one of the main train stations in Paris and arrive at Lille Europe or Lille Flandres stations. Both are centrally located in Lille.

Given the short travel time, you can leave Paris in the morning, enjoy a full day in Lille, and return to Paris by evening.

You can also fly to Lille. The airport is less than 5 miles from the city center. You can take a shuttle bus, taxi, rent a car, or book a private transfer to your hotel.

If you are driving to Lille, you’ll find plenty of public parking spaces and garages. Driving also gives you the flexibility to take side trips to Bruges, Arras, or Ypres.

How To Get Around Lille

Lille is easy to navigate. It’s compact and most of the attractions can be easily reached on foot.

However, the city also has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and a metro, for covering longer distances. And taxis are easy to find.

When To Visit Lille

The ideal time to visit Lille depends on your personal taste. In the spring, Lille awakens with a symphony of blossoming flowers in parks and gardens. You may get some rain, but the city is splendid.

In summer, Lille hosts a number of festivals and is extremely vibrant. Plus, despite being high season, it won’t be nearly as crowded as Paris.

In fall, crowds recede and Lille is filled with beautiful fall foliage.

Winter is cold in Lille. After all it’s in the very north of France.

Still, there are Christmas markets and you can warm up with hot chocolate or mulled wine and enjoy the holiday decor.

If you’re interested in flea markets, you need to visit Lille the first weekend in September. That is when the Braderie de Lille takes place. It’s one of Europe’s biggest fleas and the city is transformed into an outdoor market.

Conversely, if you just can’t take crowds, stay away during this time as Lille’s population nearly doubles.

Where To Stay In Lille

You have plenty of options if you overnighting in Lille.

La Grand Hotel Bellevue is a luxury hotel offering up views of the Grand Place. Couvent des Minimes is a 4 star hotel near the old town located in a 17th century former convent.

For rewards members, L’Hermitage Gantois is a 5 star autograph Marriott hotel with a gourmet restaurant and spa.

On my last visit, I stayed in Clarance Hotel , a luxury boutique spot. It’s housed in an 18th century mansion. The hotel features 27 rooms and suites, each with its own personality. Plus, there’s a Michelin-starred gastronomic onsite.

I’ve also stayed in L’Esplanade Lille , a lovely and immaculate boutique hotel. It has spacious rooms and is a fairly easy walk to the city center.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one day in Lille itinerary. You may find these Paris travel guides useful.

• 5 Day Itinerary for Paris
• 3 Day Itinerary for Paris
• 2 Day Itinerary for Paris
• Tips for Planning a Trip to Paris
• Top Attractions in Montmartre
• Top Attractions in the Latin Quarter
• Top Attractions in the Marais
• Best Museums In Paris
• Hidden Gems in Paris

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Last Updated on February 29, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

Lille in 1 day – My self-guided walking tour of the most beautiful sites

On a weekend or on vacation in the North of France, do you want to visit Lille in 1 day and are looking for a tourist circuit to do on foot?

Well, why not follow my self-guided walking tour to follow on the attached Google Maps.

This tourist circuit tours the most beautiful sites in Lille. It allows you to have an overall overview of the city and its hidden treasures in one day.

Less touristy than cities like Strasbourg , Lyon , Toulouse ou Bordeaux However, Lille is a city that is worth the detour because it has a rich heritage that you absolutely must discover. So, here is my walking route and its Google Map that you can follow to explore all the most beautiful sites of this beautiful city of character!

How to visit Lille in 1 day?

To discover Lille in 1 day, you will have several possibilities:

• Guided group tour of old Lille
• Panoramic tour of Lille by tourist bus
• Visit of Lille by tuk-tuk
• Visit Lille on foot at your own pace by following my self-guided walking tour. See details of my itinerary below.

THE Lille tourist office Also makes available on its website brochures with 3 walking routes:

• Old Lille route
• Circuit Lille 19th
• Lille Saint Sauveur route

These 3 routes are interesting but the ideal is to do a single route that combines the 3! This is what I did to take advantage of more varied and well organized tours for a full day tour.

Itinerary to visit Lille in 1 day

Lille, through its history, has kept traces of its time when its territory belonged in turn to Flanders, Burgundy, Spain and finally to France (since 1667). It was from there, to protect the largest Flemish city that Vauban undertook the construction of the Citadel.

The tourist sites in Lille are therefore numerous and very varied. By visiting Lille on foot, we cross the Middle Ages, the Renaissance period, the modern period without forgetting the military architecture of Vauban.

Here is the program for your day in Lille and the itinerary to visit the city's most beautiful sites:

• Palace of Fine Arts (Parking-République)
• Lille Town Hall and its belfry

Rameau Palace

Church of the sacred heart, rihour palace, grand place of lille, old stock exchange, cathedral of notre-dame de la treille, countess hospice, sainte-catherine church in old lille.

• Citadel and its Vauban garden

Tour to visit Lille on foot

Here is the map on Google maps of the circuit which allows you to visit the old town of Lille on foot:

Program for your day in Lille

So that your visit to Lille is optimized for a day, you can follow my 6 kilometer walking circuit according to this program:

• Morning itinerary : from the Town Hall to the Grand Place (3,6 kilometers or about 45 minutes walk).
• Gastronomic stopover : Lunch in a typical Lille restaurant
• Afternoon Itinerary : Old Lille to the Citadel Park (2,4 kilometers or approximately 30 minutes walk).

Lille in 1 day - Morning tours

If you come by car, to park as close as possible to the start of my circuit, I recommend Parking-République.

Only 750 meters from the town hall (1st stop on my tour), this car park is perfect for visiting Lille. Especially since it is a stone's throw from the pedestrian streets and under the Palace of Fine Arts.

In this magnificent 19th century monument, there is a museum which is one of the richest art museums in France. You can visit it if you have one more day in Lille because it presents prestigious collections of European paintings from all eras.

Town Hall and its belfry

The first stage of my tourist circuit is at the City Hall  on the Roger Salengro square. Listed as a historical monument in 2002, it is known for its belfry (large tower of civil use) from 1930 listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.

This belfry is the highest in Europe with its 104 meters high. To have a unique point of view over the whole city of Lille, you can go up to the top.

Opposite the Town Hall, you will be on a magnificent square adorned with statues dating back more than 3 centuries and the Porte de Paris. It is a 17th century arch which is simply majestic.

25 minutes walk and you arrive at the Palais Rameau. Today a cultural center, this 1878 palace was originally reserved for exhibitions of all kinds (flowers, fruits, but also works of art or music concerts). It then served as an examination center from 1930 to 1960.

Just 300 meters retracing your steps, you will pass a church with a very beautiful facade. It dates from the 19th century and has 11 stained glass windows classified as historical monuments.

On your way back to Place de Strasbourg, you will walk about ten minutes to reach the Palais Rihour. You can admire the remains of a palace built from 1453 typical of Flamboyant Gothic architecture.

Then, a 5-minute walk away you will arrive in the heart of Vieux-Lille on its magnificent Grand Place!

Also called Place du Général de Gaulle, this Grand Place is the most emblematic place in Lille.

Opposite the Vieille Bourse, the Grand Garde, which dates from 1717, which today houses the Théâtre du Nord.

In the Middle Ages, this Grand Place was intended for commerce, the largest transactions of which took place within its old Stock Exchange which dates from the 17th century.

Lille Opera

Just behind the Grand Place, a 2-minute walk away, you have to admire a magnificent monument with a beautiful facade in neoclassical style: the Lille Opera.

Restaurant at lunchtime

For the lunch break, you can't visit Lille without tasting some fries! It is a 2-minute walk from the Opera, that there is a good address that I recommend with my eyes closed: The Flying Counter at 22 Place des Patiniers

In the heart of the historic district of Old Lille, a young team has set up in the premises of an old jewelry store from 1683! So, of course it's not a gourmet restaurant but the burgers and fries they serve will satisfy your taste buds!

Lille in 1 day - Afternoon visits

The afternoon program is less busy but just as interesting because it starts from old Lille which has incredible charm!

300 meters from the Comptoir Volant, you will arrive in front of the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de la Treille.

To my taste, it is not the most beautiful religious building in Lille, but it is the Cathedral all the same. A few photos then we continue to the side for a more interesting visit: the Hospice Comtesse.

150 meters from the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de la Treille, is an old hospital from medieval times. Today this place houses the Lille Art and History Museum.

By heading in the direction of the Citadel, 600 meters further, you will be able to discover the Sainte-Catherine Church. Without spending too much time there, this beautiful church is worth a visit.

Its Citadel

It was Louis XIV who ordered Vauban to build this Citadel in 1667. Indeed, Louis XIV wanted to protect the city he had just conquered and which had become the capital of the northern provinces.

Surrounded by 5 bastions which form a star, the citadel opens through its royal gate onto a set of military buildings in red brick.

Vauban Garden

When you are at the Citadel, you can visit the Zoo or stroll in the cool of the Jardin Vauban. This English-style garden created in 1863 invites you to relax with its beautiful lawns and ponds.

Where to stay to visit Lille on foot?

For a successful weekend in Lille, you should not neglect the hotel or Airbnb rental. My good tip is a wonderful hotel at the price of an Airbnb (€89).

In a historic monument (former faculty of medicine), with its listed facade and majestic courtyard, staying in this hotel is a privilege!

And the icing on the cake: it is located a stone's throw from the Palais des Beaux-Arts, an ideal location for my one-day walking tour and the other day to visit the Fine Arts museum.

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4 thoughts on “Lille in 1 day – My self-guided walking tour of the most beautiful sites”

Ola! Vou fazer esse itinerário esse fds! A única coisa é que eu não consegui reservar mesa no restaurante indicado, vou tentar a sorte e ver no que dá! Segunda eu conto como foi a experiencia! Obrigado!

Brilliant! Por isso, espero que aprecie o passeio. Quanto aos restaurants, não há falta deles em Lille, mas é difícil saber quays permanecem abertos dure o Covid e especialmente às segundas-feiras.

Really very nice article, simple, clear and which makes you want.

Thank you Sarah for this comment. I hope that my article will allow many Internet users to discover the gems of this beautiful city!

How to Make the Most of a Day Trip to Lille, France

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During my visits to Belgium , each time I looked at the map for trip ideas, one city kept drawing my eye. And it wasn’t a Belgian city. No, my eye kept crawling just across the border to the French city of Lille far in the country’s north. Upon returning to Belgium the idea of making a day trip to Lille grew too hard to resist. Ultimately visiting Lille proved to be a great decision as it allowed me to see a completely different side of France .

A modern city with a historical core, there’s no shortage of things to do in Lille. The fifth largest urban area in France, Lille is not a ‘lil destination. A day trip here works if you’re short on time, but several days in the city won’t go to waste. But if you’re committed to a Lille day trip from Paris or Belgium then here’s how you can make the most of it.

Table of Contents

How to Do a Day Trip to Lille

Trains from Belgium , whether it’s from Ghent or Brussels, arrive in at Lille Flandres station. From both Ghent or Brussels to Lille by train takes around an hour. Since you’re travelling between two Schengen and Euro-using countries, the trip shouldn’t be too complicated. Alternatively, you could be coming from Paris for the day, with the option of taking either the train or going by Flixbus .

Another way is to rent a car , ensuring it’s okay to take it into France. Either way, remember to bring your passport since you are indeed leaving the country.

Feeling a little uninspired when it came to finding somewhere for lunch, we ended up at Le Pain Quotidien on Rue Basse . A chain of bakery/restaurants also found in Belgium, the food and coffee there was pretty good so it was a decent choice after all.

While waiting for our train back, we also stepped into Les 3 Brasseurs , a pub across from the station for a beer. Often establishments around train stations can be quite rough and substandard but the area around Lille Flandres seemed to be an exception.

If you decide not to visit just for the day, Lille is home to a wide range of choices in hotels, hostels and guesthouses , much like any big city.

Start with the Place du Théâtre

Unless you’re planning on doing a walking tour of Lille , you’ll want a plan for sightseeing around the city. When arriving at Lille Flandres Station by train the best starting point for your day is just several blocks away at Place du Theatre .

It’s here on this central square that you can immediately begin to absorb some of the city’s more impressive sights. A quick suggestion as you make your way there is to divert your route past the eye-catching Paroisse Saint Maurice church.

The real show begins though once you set foot on Place du Theatre and take a quick look around. There’s the city’s grand neo-classical Opera House , the reaching spire of the CCI Grand Lille building , not to mention the classic architecture of the Hotel Carlton across the way.

Yet the building most likely to garner attention is La Vieille Bourse , a sublime renaissance building that once housed the old stock exchange. It’s expressive facade and ornate inner courtyard are sure to draw looks of admiration. Built in the mid-17th century, it certainly sticks out among its more recent neighbours.

On the far side of the Vieille Bourse lies the Place Charles de Gaulle , an even larger square lined with more interesting architecture. More notable here though is the large  Colonne de la Déesse that memorializes the 1792 siege of the city. But even this landmark is essentially overshadowed by the massive  La Grande Roue ferris wheel that dominates the square. Personally not sure whether it’s a positive addition to the space but oh well.

Notre Dame de la Treille Cathedral

Suitably impressed by the heart of the city, it’s best to move on through to Vieux Lille – Old Lille – with the Notre Dame de la Treille Cathedral first stop. At first glance, the Lille Cathedral doesn’t invite much confidence.

The building’s exterior appears to be made from concrete and stone, and really lacks much aesthetic appeal. This underwhelming exterior exists because of the drawn out and financially troubled construction of the building. Started in 1854, the construction of the cathedral wasn’t completed until 1999!

As I said though, this is all just at first glance. Venture inside the cathedral and you find a vastly different story. Since most aspects of the cathedral is so fresh, there’s been no time for the interior artwork or stained-glass windows to deteriorate. Thus, in the dim halls of the Lille Cathedral you’re treated to some extraordinarily beautiful scenes.

Back outside, it’s worth doing a quick lap around the building, if only to admire the pleasant and colourful little townhouses found there.

Streets of Vieux Lille

Although visiting in winter didn’t seem to come with much downside, I would love to see what the streets of Vieux Lille are like in summer. Their bright, cheerful architecture felt at odds with the gloom and grey that it hard to shake during European winters. The red brick buildings emboldened with splashes of colour including bunting hanging overhead really made it seem like somewhere that’d be fun and lively in better weather.

It’s possible to take a guided walking tour of Vieux Lille so that you really get a feel for the place.

Citadel of Lille

As soon as I looked at a map of Lille, I spied somewhere I wanted to visit. The jagged outlines of a fortified moat were unmistakable and sure enough, what I was looking at was the Citadel of Lille .

This 17th century citadel was designed by Vauban, a renowned for his masterful design of military fortifications. As the citadel actively hosts France’s rapid reaction forces headquarters, there are understandable limits on public access.

Still, the Citadel of Lille is surrounded by an immense park that also hosts the city zoo. The paths and trails through the park seemed extremely popular with local fit people, all out exercising despite the winter chill.

We settled instead on a short walk along the citadel’s moats, soaking in the awesome winter vibes on display. The still moat water in particular made for some great reflections.

Place de la République

Somewhere that we definitely didn’t spend enough time exploring was the few blocks around Place de la Republique . Although the square isn’t much to look at on its own, it’s what’s around the square that is so enticing. For starters there’s the palatial government offices for the  Prefecture Du Nord at one end and the  Palais des Beaux Arts at the other.

By all accounts, this fine art museum is meant to be superb and one of the best places to visit in Lille. Unfortunately, time is a factor with day trips and we made the executive decision to not go. No question that visiting this museum is at the top of my list for next time though.

Just a short walk from Place de la Republique down the city’s boulevards lies the monumental Porte de Paris . While I imagine this triumphal arch is quite the sight normally, we had the misfortune of finding it half-covered in scaffolding. Truly one of my greatest bugbears of travel! Anyway, the arch commemorates the “other” siege of Lille in 1667. Truth be told, google “siege of Lille” and the number of dates is truly staggering.

The Belfries of Lille

It’s time for one hard truth about the essential things to do in Lille – the city’s belfries really aren’t one. Yes, Lille is home to two UNESCO world heritage listed belfries and neither frankly left a major impression on me. In their favour though is the fact that both benefit from quite distinctive designs and aren’t just more of the same.

The first belfry is the narrow bell tower on the Lille Town Hall , situated right by the Porte de Paris. At 104 metres high, the tower can be climbed by stairs or via lift for panoramic views.

Except, it turns out, during the lunch hour from 1-2pm when it’s closed, which is when we arrived. Impatient to wait around, we pressed on to the other belfry of Lille. You could book tickets online for the tower, but it’s not clear if that’s still possible.

Well, the second belfry isn’t really in Lille proper, but rather the outer suburb of Loos. Found on the local town hall Hôtel de Ville de Loos , it may be one of Belgium’s shortest UNESCO belfries. Taking a local bus out from the city centre to see it felt a little like a waste of time honestly. That’s not to say that it isn’t an elegant building, but after snapping a few photos, we basically left again.

Would you like to make a day trip to Lille during your next visit to Belgium? If you’ve visited the city before, what were your thoughts and favourite Lille things to do? Please share in the comments below.

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

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Beautiful town! Love the architecture, and the colors on the houses. Great photos! Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard

Such majestic buildings do command one’s respect, so much fine workmanship in all the exterior and interior details. But I like the simple yet colorful townhomes you show us in this post. I like seeing everyday people going about their lives in smaller cities like this one. #TheWeeklyPostcard.

I feel guilty now. I have been to Lille many times for Christmas shopping but it seems I missed a lot of other nice things. Next time! #TheWeeklyPostcard

The only reason I’ve heard of Lille is from The DaVinci Code book! (Should I be embarrassed to admit that… probably… lol.) I’m obsessed with the architecture though! It looks like it is the perfect blend of all the grand squares and building I love in Belgium and the beautiful, classic architecture of France! That stained glass is lovely. You did a great job capturing it, too! I know it can be difficult to do that with the ever-changing light in a cathedral! #TheWeeklyPostcard

Looks like a lovely city for a day trip or a weekend! It’s funny we had Le Pain Quotidien in New York so I have eaten there several times. Food is good, but it’s pricey. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.

it looks very beautiful #TheWeeklyPostcard

Haha love you lil’ pun! What a pretty city but sad that you felt the two belfries weren’t that exciting and that the tallest one was closed for lunch! I bet the view would have been amazing! Thanks David for linking up with #TheWeeklyPostcard!

I visited Lille during Christmas , have not had a chance to explore the city much. But I loved the Vieux Lille and loved the architecture. And my favourite memory was to tasting the Marveilleux from Aux Marveilleux. I would love to visit the city again sometime and explore the rest. Thank you very much for your post , it reminded me of the wonderful dessert. Happy travelling. #theweeklypostcard

Streets of Vieux Lille look so charming! I´ve only been to Paris, French Riviera, Strasbourg/Colmar and Biarritz – so it would be great to explore the different part of France! I didn’t realize Lille was so close to Belgium – would love to visit one day! #TheWeeklyPostcard

You’ve reconfirmed our suspicions that we should head north on our next trip to France! What a gorgeous town – and coupled with Belgium, it sounds like a great few days. Pinning this one for later. Thanks David!

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Is Lille Worth Visiting? A One Day in Lille Itinerary

Last Updated on June 3, 2024 by April Nicole

So you’ve been thinking about traveling in France, but wondering… is Lille worth visiting ? Let’s break it down!

Lille, a charming city in the northern part of France, is undoubtedly worth a visit.

Speaking from personal experience, having lived in France since 2021 , I’ve had the pleasure of exploring Lille multiple times, and each visit has been a delightful journey.

In this article, I will share the unique qualities that make Lille a must-see destination. From its rich cultural tapestry to the vibrant street life that echoes through its historic streets, you’ll discover why Lille has captured my heart time and again.

Expect to delve into insightful tips, hidden gems, and personal anecdotes that will give you a comprehensive view of what makes Lille not just a stopover, but a destination in its own right.

🇫🇷Top Picks in Lille: Not enough time? My top picks for Lille are as follows: 🚅 Transportation: Book an airport transfer and get from the airport to Lille hassle-free Reserve your train ticket to Lille and discover the ease of rail travel in France Rent a car and enjoy the freedom of the open road on your way to Lille 🏨Accommodation: Hotel l’Arbre Voyageur Hôtel Barrière Lille (Hotel I stayed at and recommend!) Hotel Carlton ➡️ A complete list of hotels in Lille, can be found here. 📍Best Lille Tours: Unique Tour of Lille by Convertible 2CV Vimy and Flanders Fields Canadian Battlefield Tour from Lille Lille Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour 💰Discover the best sights in Lille at a reduced cost by using a Lille City Pass

If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of one day in Lille:

Table of Contents (expand ⬇️)

Is Lille Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, Lille is a must-visit destination. Its blend of stunning architecture, rich cultural offerings at the Palais des Beaux-Arts, and unique culinary delights make it an undiscovered jewel in France.

Additionally, Lille’s proximity to Paris makes it an ideal day trip for those exploring the French capital. Just a short train ride away, it offers a charming escape from the hustle of Paris.

Lille’s vibrant atmosphere and picturesque streets are compelling reasons to include it in your travel itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Lille

Lille is a city for all seasons, each bringing its own unique flavor. While summer offers vibrancy and a packed calendar, the quieter months allow for a more relaxed exploration of the city’s cultural treasures.

December in Lille is magical, marked by the enchanting Lille Christmas Market . As for me, I’ve found Lille enchanting in the crisp air of fall, a time when the city’s historical beauty stands out in vivid relief. is lille worth visiting

Morning in Lille: Historic Beginnings

Begin your Lille adventure at the heart of the city – the Grand Place . This bustling square, surrounded by impressive architecture, including the stunning 17th-century Vieille Bourse , sets the tone for a day steeped in history. is lille worth visiting

A short walk takes you to Le Vieux Lille , the city’s old town, where narrow cobbled streets and charming buildings from the 17th century await. Here, every alley and corner reveals quaint bookshops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.

Don’t miss the chance to savor a coffee and a fresh croissant at a local café in Place aux Oignons , a picturesque square nestled within the old town.

Midday: Cultural Immersion

As midday unfolds, immerse yourself in Lille’s rich art scene with a visit to the Palais des Beaux-Arts . This prestigious museum, housing an extensive collection of European art, offers an artistic journey through time. is lille worth visiting

Nearby, indulge in Lille’s culinary heritage with a traditional meal at a local brasserie. I recommend trying regional specialties like carbonnade flamande , a sumptuous Flemish beef stew. After lunch, a visit to the Saint Maurice Catholic Church provides a serene escape.

This hidden gem, with its awe-inspiring Gothic architecture and peaceful ambiance, offers a moment of tranquility amidst the busy city life.

Midday in Lille is a perfect blend of cultural enlightenment and gastronomic pleasure, creating a fulfilling and enriching experience.

Afternoon: Exploring the Birthplace of a Legend

The afternoon in Lille is the perfect time to explore the Maison natale Charles de Gaulle . This historic house, where Charles de Gaulle was born and raised, offers a fascinating insight into the early life of one of France’s most influential figures.

The museum showcases personal belongings, family photographs, and artifacts that narrate de Gaulle’s childhood and the era he grew up in.

Surrounding the museum, the quiet streets of this residential area reflect a different aspect of Lille’s character. Elegant houses line the avenues, and small shops and cafes dot the neighborhood, each with its own unique charm.

This part of the city, less frequented by tourists, offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the everyday life of the locals.

Visiting de Gaulle’s birthplace and exploring the neighboring streets provides a meaningful contrast to the bustling city center.

It’s a part of Lille where history is felt in every corner, offering a moment of tranquility and reflection in the midst of a busy travel itinerary.

Evening: Shopping and Leisure

As evening sets in, Lille’s shopping and dining scene comes alive. Wander through Le Vieux Lille to discover an array of unique boutiques and antique shops, each offering a glimpse into the city’s eclectic style. is lille worth visiting

For a more contemporary shopping experience, Euralille mall presents a variety of brands and stores. When it’s time to dine, immerse yourself in Lille’s diverse culinary landscape.

Choose from traditional French bistros to modern eateries, each serving up a fusion of local and innovative flavors.

I enjoyed a memorable meal that perfectly blended traditional French cuisine with modern touches. Cap off your evening with a leisurely walk through the illuminated city, enjoying the serene ambiance and reflecting on the day’s discoveries.

Night: Lille’s Vibrant Nightlife

Lille’s nightlife is as diverse as the city itself. In Vieux Lille , cozy bars offer a warm, friendly atmosphere where conversations flow as easily as the local beer.

These intimate settings are perfect for those seeking a relaxed, social evening. is lille worth visiting

For a livelier night, head to rue Solférino and rue Masséna , where clubs and music venues buzz with energy. Here, the night comes alive with dancing and vibrant music, catering to those looking for an upbeat experience.

Alternatively, Quai du Wault provides a peaceful retreat. Its serene riverside setting is ideal for a quiet drink, offering a tranquil end to your day in Lille.

Where to Stay in Lille

Lille offers a variety of accommodation options catering to all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly hostel, a comfortable mid-range hotel, or a luxurious stay, Lille has something for everyone.

Recommendations :

• Budget: Hostel Gastama – located in the heart of Vieux Lille, known for its vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff. 🌟 Reserve your room at Hostel Gastama today!
• Mid-Range: Hôtel Mercure Lille Centre Vieux Lille – offering modern amenities in a convenient location, ideal for exploring the city.🌟 Reserve your room at Mercure Lille Centre Vieux Lille today !
• Luxury: L’Hermitage Gantois – a 5-star hotel housed in a 15th-century building, offering a blend of history and luxury. 🌟 Reserve your room at L’Hermitage Gantois today !

Location Considerations : Where you choose to stay in Lille can greatly influence your experience. Staying in the city center, particularly in Vieux Lille, puts you within walking distance of major attractions, cafes, and shops.

However, if you prefer quieter surroundings, consider accommodations in the residential areas, which are still well-connected by public transport.

Is Lille worth visiting based on what you’ve read? What part of Lille’s charm captivates you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Lille Travel Planning 🇫🇷 Accommodation 🛌 Booking.com – Find diverse accommodations, enjoy easy booking with great deals, and rely on real reviews and 24/7 support. Expedia.com – With its user-friendly interface, it simplifies the process of booking hotels and holiday packages to France. VRBO.com – Your go-to platform for unique and comfortable vacation rentals in France. Transport ation 🚘 DiscoverCars.com – Offers a seamless booking experience, ensuring you find the ideal car for your adventures in France. GetTransfer.com – Is the ultimate solution for your travel transfer needs, offering an efficient, flexible service and comfortable transportation. Trainline.com stands as a quintessential tool for savvy travelers seeking to navigate France’s extensive rail network with ease and confidence. Skyscanner.com – Simplifies your travel planning with its user-friendly interface, offering a comprehensive comparison of flights. Attractions, Activities and Tours 🇫🇷 Viator.com – Stands out as a trusted resource for travelers seeking unparalleled experiences across the globe. GetYourGuide.com – Offers an extensive collection of tours, activities, and attractions in France. ParisCityVision.com – This tour company specializes in crafting exceptional experiences across Paris and France. Communication 📱 Orange Sim Card – Discover seamless connectivity on your French travels with an Orange Holiday Europe Sim Card, a top choice for tourists. Airalo.com – The world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving travelers access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards). Travel Insurance ✈️ SafetyWing.com – Travel with peace of mind knowing you’re protected in almost every corner of the world. Travel Insurance Master – Visit their website to discover the ideal insurance plan that aligns with your travel dreams. These are only a few of my favorites; for more, see my comprehensive guide to the top travel booking websites for France .

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Meet April Nicole , the Paris-based adventurer at the helm of Dreaming in French Blog. With an eye for the exquisite and a love for all things French, April's blog is a treasure trove of Parisian delights and French escapades, showcasing the beauty of France through its rich history, stunning architecture, and culinary wonders. Recognized in notable travel platforms and embraced by a community of Francophiles, April has been sharing her experiences for over three years, combining her extensive knowledge of Paris and France with a passion for enlightening and engaging travel tales.

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What to see in Lille in one day

Lille is a city in the northernmost region of France, close to the border with Belgium. Its historical center (Vieux Lille), Flemish style architecture, UNESCO-listed belfry tower with scenic views and centuries old Citadel of Lille are just a few reasons why you should visit this city. 

We have visited Lille as part of our weekend road trip to Ghent , Lille and Baarle , and in this post you will find our suggestions on what to see in Lille in one day.

Lille is easily reachable by public transport: 1 hour by train from Paris, 1-1.5 hours from Belgian Ghent and Brussels, and 1.5 hours from Calais (if you travel from the UK via ferry or through the Eurotunnel). We have decided to go by car (from Utrecht , Netherlands) simply because it was right after the Covid-19 related travel restrictions were lifted within the EU and we wanted to avoid public transport. 

Due to the Covid-19 we didn’t travel anywhere for 4 months straight (yeah, I can not believe it too!) and were really eager to go somewhere. As soon as we got the opportunity we looked at the map, found the city we haven’t visited before – Lille – and decided to go there by car on a weekend. On our way there we also made a stop at Ghent, about which you can read in our  One day trip to Ghent post.

We found that there are many things to see in Lille and it’s absolutely worth visiting. Here is our list of must sees in Lille, France.

Le Vieux Lille (The old Lille)

Let’s start with the very heart of Lille – its old town. Vieux Lille is a historical center of the city with many beautiful buildings dating back to the 17th century, narrow cobbled streets and brick and stone houses with well preserved and restored facades.

We parked our car next to the hotel we stayed in and simply explored Lille’s old town by foot, walking around old streets lined with cafes and restaurants, admiring architecture and simply enjoying the atmosphere of the city.

Place Charles de Gaulle

Place Charles de Gaulle is a grand central square (formerly known as the Grand Place) of Lille.

There are few historical buildings around the square, and in the center is Colonne de la Déesse (or Column of the Goddess) surrounded by a water fountain.

Perhaps the most eye-catching historical building at the place is the 17th century stock exchange house – La Vieille Bourse . Walk around the building to see all the nice ornaments and details. Go inside to see its inner yard, which hosts a book market on some days of the week. 

Place Charles de Gaulle is nicely lit in the evening, and if you’re staying in the city for the night make sure to walk around the old town after dark. 

Tip: Place Charles de Gaulle is always busy with people. If you want to take some pictures with less people in the frame or simply enjoy the square with less crowds, try going there on Sunday morning – shops and cafes won’t open until later in the day and the place will be much quieter than usual.

Place du Théâtre

Right behind the Place Charles de Gaulle and the old stock exchange building you will find Place du Théâtre – another square in the old city surrounded by historical buildings.

The square took its name from the old theater which was unfortunately destroyed in a fire in 1903. As a replacement for the theater a new Opera House was built on the square.

Palais des Beaux Arts

If you are interested in art then you would want to visit Palais des Beaux Arts at the Place de la République (Republic Square). It’s one of the largest art museums in France.

Even if you are not planning to visit the museum, the building itself is quite beautiful. Walk around the Republic Square with its monument, fountain and nice views to the Palais des Beaux Arts at one side and the building of Préfecture de Lille on the other side of the square.

Beffroi de Lille (Belfry of Lille) and Lille City Hall

A UNESCO World Heritage Bell Tower – Beffroi de Lille – is one of the tallest belfries in Europe. It is attached to Lille City Hall and together they form a complex, which is slightly off the city central area but still within easy walking distance from it.

You can buy a ticket (book it online) to get to the top of the tower to enjoy scenic views over the city. 

Unfortunately it was closed during our visit, so we just looked at it from the outside and passed to the next landmark – Porte de Paris.

Porte de Paris

Porte de Paris is a beautiful 17th century arch monument standing at the Place Simon Vollant. The square it’s standing at is named after the architect of one of the arch’s facades. That’s right – the facades of the arch were created by two different architects (second one being  Louis-Marie Cordonnier) and moreover, centuries apart – in the 17th and 19th centuries. 

If you look at the arch at its side you will notice that one of the facades is higher than another.

Tip: If you are travelling with kids and need a break from walking around the city then just a little further from the Porte de Paris arch is a small city park with a playground for children – Parc Jean-Baptiste Lebas.

Porte de Roubaix and Porte de Gand

Two other city gates (des Portes) are far less impressive than Porte de Paris, but I will mention them nevertheless so you can decide whether to see them or not.

Porte de Roubaix and Porte de Gand are two historical monuments 10 minutes walk apart, both were city gates back in the days. Unfortunately, the prevailing impression and memory I’ve got from visiting the Porte de Roubaix gate is that it smells terribly of pee everywhere near and inside the arch 🙁

Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral (Basilica of Notre Dame de la Treille)

Basilica of Notre Dame de la Treille or simply the Lille Cathedral is a national monument (and a working Roman Catholic church), which construction started in 1854 and has been fully completed only in 1999. 

The square in front of the Lille Cathedral is busy with outdoor cafes during warm weather. If you walk around the cathedral, you can also spot nice and colorful Flemish style houses (stick to each other with small yards in front of them):

Place aux Oignons and Ilôt Comtesse

Explore the narrow streets near the Lille Cathedral and walk to the Place aux Oignons – a square surrounded by restored and rebuilt houses from the 17th-18th centuries. It’s now a pedestrian only area lined with cafes and restaurants.

Lille city doesn’t have a shortage of nice public squares 🙂 One more square I’d suggest to visit when walking in the city is Ilôt Comtesse . It has a nice green space surrounded by historical buildings.

Saint Maurice Catholic Church

Another beautiful architectural monument and church to visit in Lille is Saint Maurice Catholic Church . Its construction was spanned over centuries too – from the end of the 14th century and up to the end of the 19th century. 

Built in a Gothic style with lots of stained glass windows inside, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Citadel Park, the Citadel and Pont Napoléon

Last but not least the point of interest in Lille I’d like to mention is Citadel park with its big green spaces, playgrounds, a zoo and the Citadel – a working military base.

The Citadel of Lille is a pentagon-shaped 17th century fortress designed by the famous French Field Marshal Vauban. Nowadays the citadel hosts Headquarters Rapid Reaction Corps-France and hence it is closed to the public. 

On the east border of the park is a lovely Pont Napoléon bridge. Interesting fact about the bridge is that it was destroyed twice by German army: first time during World War I in 1918 (and rebuilt later in 1920) and second time – during World War II in 1944. 

Pont Napoléon was finally rebuilt in 2014 and is now a nice entrance to the Citadel city park.

How many days to spend in Lille?  

We have spent a little less than a day in Lille. Arriving at noon, spent some time in Citadel park, then after a nice lunch in a not too busy brasserie we walked in the Vieux Lille and in the evening watched the city center lit by street lights and the next morning we spent some more time sightseeing. 

Unless you are planning to visit museums or other attractions (like Zoo) or do some shopping, one day should be enough to see the main sights of Lille.

Is Lille worth visiting?

Absolutely! A city with many historical landmarks, a large art museum, beautiful old town and an architecture with a mix of Flemish and French influences – Lille is a must visit city in France.

Where to stay in Lille?

We always book accommodation for our travels at Booking.com :

After Lille, on our way home to Utrecht , we visited quite unique towns of Baarle-Nassau and Baarle-Hertog. Read about it in the next post: Visiting Baarle – a town split by Belgium–Netherlands borders.

6 thoughts on “ What to see in Lille in one day ”

Thanks for joining in #TravelBlogTuesday. Lille is certainly a city I’d love to visit. The architecture is stunning. I shall find myself there for a day, someday.

Thanks for reading, John. Lille is definitely worth a visit 🙂

This is my type of city. I love the Old Town, especially La Vieille Bourse. What beautiful architecture. It’s, even more, a place I want to visit after reading this.

I loved the architecture too! And nice atmosphere – with lots of pleasant outdoor cafes at the open squares and streets of the old city.

What a beautiful place! I definitely need to explore more of France. I love the look of Old Lille and the colourful Flemish houses are too cute.

It’s a lovely city indeed. Well worth of exploring 🙂

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Best things to do in Lille, France

• Sofía Pozuelo
• UPDATED: 31/07/2023

Lille is a small yet charming city in northern France. Due to its close proximity to Belgium (around 18 kilometers), Lille showcases a blend of French and Belgian culture, evident in its architecture and cuisine. While it may not be one of France's most well-known or visited cities, there are plenty of things to do in Lille.

In addition, thanks to its proximity to cities like Brussels, Paris, Amsterdam, and even London, it serves as a perfect base for exploring other parts of Europe. If you're considering a visit to this French city, feel free to take a look at this guide to make sure you don't miss out on any of the best places to visit.

Table of contents

Where to stay in lille.

Here are some recommendations for the best hotels in Lille across various budgets. Keep in mind that Lille is not a budget-friendly city for accommodations, so if you have a tight budget, it might be challenging to find an ideal place to stay. All the hotels listed below are located in the city center or within walking distance.

• $: The People .
• $$: ibis Lille Centre Grand Palais .
• $$$: Au Cœur du Jar din .
• $$$$: Hotel L’Arbre Voyageur .

Things to do in Lille, France

As I mentioned before, Lille is not a very large city. Instead, what I love about it is that, despite its size, there are plenty of things to see and do. Additionally, there are activities to suit all tastes! Below, I will show you the must-visit places in Lille.

1. La Grand Place: General de Gaulle Square

The Grand Place is in the centre of Lille. It is the city’s historic and main square. It is bordered by painstakingly maintained buildings of various colours, many of which are historical landmarks, such as the Théâtre du Nord and the Vieille Bourse. The Colonne de la Déese (Column of the Goddess) on a circular fountain lies in the centre of the area.

Today, you can find a large number of shops and restaurants in the square. I recommend going up the stairs in the Théâtre du Nord to get a higher vantage point and enjoy a view of the square. Another option is to sit on the edge of the fountain and take in the surroundings while watching people go by. This simple activity becomes a truly magical experience in such a place.

🏥 Remember that it is very important to travel with the best travel insurance, since you never know if you are going to suffer any inconveniences during your stay. Without adding a lot of money to the final budget, you can go with the peace of mind that if something happens to you, all your expenses will be covered, as well as having a team of people who will help you. I always use and recommend Heymondo travel insurance, where I can offer you a 5% discount on your travel insurance. .

2. La Vieille Bourse (Old Stock Exchange)

Located between the Grand Place and the Place du Théâtre, you’ll find the Vieille Bourse, the most prestigious building in the city. It has a square structure and is composed of 24 identical houses joined together to form a large inner courtyard. If the exterior of this building grabs your attention, don’t hesitate to go inside through one of its four entrances.

Inside, you’ll often find small markets selling books, paintings, and antiques. Don’t be surprised if you come across intense chess matches being played. Perhaps what you’ll find most intriguing about this building is that it was constructed during the Spanish rule of the city. In my opinion, the Vieille Bourse is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Lille.

3. Explore Vieux-Lille, one of the best things to do in Lille

Vieux-Lille is the most beautiful neighborhood in the city, thanks to its architectural charm and cobblestone streets. My advice is to simply wander through its captivating corners, discover the city’s best restaurants, and explore charming shops. If you want, you can join this 2-hour guided walking tour around Vieux-Lille . Or maybe you want to add this Lille city tour to your to-do list in Lille.

4. Fine Arts Museum of Lille

The Palais des Beaux-Arts houses the second-largest art collection in France, with around 60,000 works, just behind the Louvre. It was also one of the first museums built in the country. In addition to the permanent collection, there are usually temporary exhibitions as well. Keep in mind that the museum is closed on Tuesdays if you plan to visit.

The opening hours are from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Mondays and from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM from Wednesday to Sunday. The museum is located in the vast Republic Square in Lille.

🎟️ If you plan to visit multiple tourist attractions, it may be worthwhile to purchase the Lille City Pass to save some money. It provides free access to major attractions, public transportation, and discounts at shops and restaurants. You can book the Lille City Pass in advance here .

5. Citadel Park

Parc de la Citadelle is the largest green area in the city. The citadel located within the park was built between 1667 and 1673. Vauban dubbed it the “queen of citadels,” and it truly lives up to its name, boasting immense beauty. Inside the park, you can also find canals and various pathways to stroll along and get lost in.

If you’re visiting Lille during the summer and the weather is nice, having a picnic in Parc de la Citadelle can be a perfect plan. Head to a supermarket, grab a good baguette, your favorite cheese, and some cold cuts. I’m sure you’ll thoroughly enjoy this simple activity.

6. Theatre Square, Lille (France)

Place du Théâtre is located just behind the Grand Place. In fact, before the construction of the Vieille Bourse in 1652, these two squares formed a single square. The square gets its name from the old theater that was destroyed by fire in 1903. Today, instead of a theater, you can find the Grand Opéra de Lille, built between 1907 and 1913. Another notable building in this square is the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie.

7. Visit the Cathedral of Notre Dame de la Treille

Construction of the Cathedral of Notre Dame de la Treille began in 1856, but it wasn’t until 1999 that its construction was completed. What is most intriguing about this cathedral is its blend of styles. It features a contemporary-style facade and a neo-Gothic interior. You will find it in the famous neighborhood of Vieux-Lille.

8. Vieux Murs Street

Rue des Vieux Murs is my favorite street in the city. Yes, I insist that you go and see this beautiful street if you visit Lille. I remember that one day, while strolling aimlessly, I came across it and fell in love. The colorful banners hanging from side to side, the art galleries, and the aromas from the restaurants create a captivating atmosphere.

9. Enjoying a treat at Méert Patisserie, a must-do in Lille

Méert Patisserie is the most famous pastry shop in Lille. Located on Esquermoise Street, Méert opened its doors in 1761. It now has establishments in Paris and Brussels as well. The shop features a tearoom and even a restaurant. What is their specialty? Gaufres fourrées.

You cannot leave Lille without trying them. If they don’t pique your interest, you can opt for any other delicious treat or simply visit the shop to have a look around. It is definitely worth it.

10. Visit Lille’s City Hall and climb its Bell Tower

Lille’s City Hall, known as l’Hôtel de Ville, was constructed between 1924 and 1932. It is inspired by Flemish tradition and features a distinctive architectural style. The bell tower stands tall at 104 meters, making it the tallest in Europe, and it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You’ll be delighted to know that it is possible to visit the bell tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Inside the City Hall, you can also explore a great collection of contemporary artworks.

11. Stroll through Lille’s shopping streets

If you’re in the mood for some shopping, Lille offers several options. One of them is the Euralille shopping center, which houses numerous stores, restaurants, and a Carrefour supermarket. Another option, which I highly recommend, is exploring Rue Béthune. It’s a beautiful walkway where you’ll find well-known clothing stores. Lastly, if you prefer luxury shopping, I suggest heading to Vieux-Lille, where you’ll find brands like Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Lacoste, and more.

12. La Porte de Paris

The Porte de Paris was rebuilt in the late 17th century as an Arch of Triumph to celebrate the victories of Louis XIV . Its structure consists of two distinct facades: the entrance and the exit of the city. It is considered a masterpiece of military art. It was designated as a historical monument in 1875.

13. Enjoy the nightlife in Lille

Lille is a city with a vibrant nightlife thanks to its large student population, many of whom are international students. If you’re in the mood for dancing, meeting new people, or simply enjoying some drinks, I recommend two streets: Masséna and Solferino. Here, you’ll find a casual and youthful atmosphere. If you prefer more upscale venues, I recommend exploring the nightlife options in Vieux-Lille.

Tips for visiting Lille

Below you can read a series of tips to organize your visit to this beautiful French city.

How to get to Lille, France

Lille has its own airport, but flights can be quite expensive. My recommendation is to fly to Brussels Charleroi Airport (with Ryanair, you can find very cheap flights) and then take a bus from the airport to Lille. The ticket price is usually around 15 euros, and the journey takes just under 2 hours.

If you are already in this area of Europe, Lille is well-connected by buses, trains, and also has the TGV (high-speed train). Another popular option is BlaBlaCar, a carpooling service frequently used for travel between cities.

Where to eat in Lille

As I mentioned before, Lille (France) is very close to Belgium, so you’ll be able to find the best of both countries’ cuisine. Don’t leave Lille without trying moules et frites (mussels and fries), crêpes and gaufres (waffles), welsh, or raclette. If you’re interested in this topic, keep reading, as I’ll tell you the best places to eat these dishes.

1. Crêperie Beaurepaire

In this restaurant, you can find both savory and sweet crêpes. It’s a great idea to have a savory crêpe as your main course and a sweet one for dessert, don’t you agree? My favorite sweet crêpes and the ones I recommend are the Kinder Bueno and Speculoos flavors.

This crêperie has two locations in the city. However, I recommend going to the one on Saint-Etienne Street as the establishment is much more charming. If you plan to go, I advise making a reservation.

2. Le Domaine de Chavagnac

It is a very elegant restaurant located in Vieux-Lille, specifically at 43 rue de Gand. Their specialty is the traditional cuisine of Southwest France, making it an exceptional place to try several dishes. One thing that caught my attention about this place is its rustic decor. The tablecloths have red and white checkered patterns, and each table is equipped with a toaster.

3. Elizabeth’s

This charming café-patisserie is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or tea accompanied by a delicious sweet treat. You can find cheesecake, carrot cake, muffins, apple pie, sponge cakes, sandwiches, and more. Trust me, if you take a peek at the counter (71, rue Basse), you won’t be able to leave without buying some delicacies. I recommend going to the ground floor of the establishment as the atmosphere is even more delightful.

4. Estaminet Au Vieux de la Vieille

This is a good place to try the Welsh. And what is Welsh? Although it has Welsh origins (as the name suggests), it is also very typical of this region of France. It is basically a slice of bread soaked in beer, topped with a generous amount of cheese and an egg, and baked in the oven. You can also add a sausage. Yes, I know, it’s pure fat but… it’s delicious!

Day trips from Lille

Lille’s strategic location on the map is one of its strengths (and one of the reasons that led me to do my Erasmus here). Lille is located 225 km by road from Paris, 286 km from London, 120 km from Brussels, and 290 km from Amsterdam.

Here are the main European cities near Lille:

• Paris. There are two highly recommended options for traveling to Paris. The fast and more expensive alternative is to take the TGV (high-speed train), which takes just over an hour each way. The other alternative, cheaper but longer, is to take a bus, which takes around 3 hours each way. By car, it takes about 2.5 hours. If you decide to do a day trip, don’t miss my guide to visiting Paris in a day .
• London. The Eurostar train can take you to London in just one and a half hours, but the price is quite high. Another option, which is much longer but more affordable, is to take a bus. You can find very cheap tickets compared to the train, but the downside is that it takes almost 6 hours. Lastly, by car, it takes a little over 4 hours.
• Brussels. Belgium is very close to France, so you can visit any Belgian city. By bus, it takes only one hour and 40 minutes to Brussels. Other Belgian cities you can easily visit from Lille are Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp.
• Amsterdam. By bus, it takes a little over 5 hours. Another option is to take the train, which is more expensive but takes only 2.5 hours. If you decide to go by car, it takes about 4 hours. Other cities in the Netherlands you can visit are Rotterdam, Utrecht, or The Hague.

Map of Lille, France

On the following map, I have marked the best things to do in Lille mentioned in this article, as well as the recommended restaurants and hotels. If you click on the accommodation icons, you will be directed to the Booking page.

Don’t miss my travel guide for France if you plan to visit other destinations in the country.

I hope my article on what to see in Lille has been helpful in organizing your visit to this French city. If you have any other questions, feel free to leave a comment or send me an email. Until next time!

• PLAN A TRIP STEP BY STEP

↠ Book free tours and guided visits on Civitatis or GetYourGuide . I always use these platforms to check what organized activities there are at my destination.

↠ To pay with card in foreign currency or withdraw money from ATMs, I always use this card (there are free and paid plans). It works the best!

↠ Traveling with travel insurance to a destination where you don’t have healthcare coverage is a must. Get your insurance 5% cheaper with this link .

↠ If you want to have cellphone data at your destination from the moment you land and don’t want to waste time, there is nothing like this eSIM . Use the code “comeamaviaja” for a 5% discount.

↠ Check out Booking’s offers , a platform I always use, as I always find very good options thanks to its search engine with filters.

↠ For destinations where I need to rent a car, I always check Discover Cars and Auto Europe search engines. I recommend them!

↠ If you still need to buy flights for your trip, there is no better search engine than Skyscanner (although I always recommend booking the flight on the company’s website).

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• Culture and Events
• Everyday life
• Lille restaurants
• Sports and hobbies

What are the essential tourist attractions in Lille?

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Table of Contents

Morning discovery: the historic heart of Lille

Discover the morning charm of Old Lille, where cobbled streets, Flemish buildings and charming boutiques come together to offer early risers a unique atmosphere. When the first rays of the sun kiss the honey-colored facades, a stroll is essential to capture all the richness of a heritage that is just waiting to be discovered in the tranquility of the morning.

The Wazemmes Market: The Awakening of the Senses

Even before dawn has completely broken, the Wazemmes market is already starting to buzz with activity. Here, the colorful stalls offer a variety of fresh products: fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, and regional specialties. Strolling through this market is an authentic way to soak up the Lille atmosphere and taste the local flavors.

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Local products
• Local crafts

The Grand’Place: Beating Heart of Lille

The nerve center of the city, the Grand’Place, also called Place du Général-de-Gaulle, slowly awakens in the light of day. The historic facades of the guild houses, the imposing Old Stock Exchange and the delicate fountain of the Goddess create a setting of great elegance. It is the ideal place to feel the pulse of the city and observe the passage of Lille residents.

• The Old Stock Exchange
• The Pillar of the Goddess
• The Northern Theater

Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral: An Architectural Jewel

In the heart of Old Lille stands Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral. This cathedral is a surprising mix of Gothic and contemporary architecture. Early in the morning, the brilliance of the contemporary stained glass window contrasts with the ancestral stone, inviting visitors to a moment of contemplation or simply to admire this emblematic site.

The cobbled streets of Old Lille

Getting lost in the cobbled streets of Old Lille is a morning pleasure not to be missed. The raking light enhances the warm colors of the Flemish facades and reveals the details of the sculpted doors. These ancient streets, lined with designer boutiques and tempting pastries, are all the more pleasant as the crowds are not yet there. – Rue de la Monnaie – Rue Esquermoise – Rue des Chats Bossus

The Vauban Citadel: A Strategic Work

To end this morning of discovery, go to the Citadelle Vauban, considered the queen of citadels. This impressive fortress, built by Vauban during the reign of Louis XIV, is surrounded by greenery and offers a bubble of oxygen. It’s the perfect place for a morning jog or a meditative walk along the moat. “` List of points of interest: – The Royal Gate – The Saint-André Bastion – The Zoological Park “` The historic heart of Lille is full of treasures which, under the morning light, take on a whole new dimension. Armed with a plan and a good pair of shoes, early morning visitors will be rewarded with a peaceful atmosphere and enriching discoveries.

Gourmet break at midday: Lille specialties and local lunch

Lille, capital of Hauts-de-France, is renowned for its flamboyant architecture and dynamic cultural life. However, it is also a city that knows how to delight the taste buds of its inhabitants and visitors thanks to its generous cuisine full of character. If you find yourself on the cobbled streets of this charming town at lunchtime, prepare yourself for a gourmet experience with Lille specialties. Here’s a guide to a local lunch break full of flavor and tradition.

The essential Lille specialties

Lille cuisine is a happy mix of Flemish traditions and French influences. Here are some of the essential specialties to taste for a typical lunch break:

This specialty of Welsh origin was adopted and adapted by the people of Lille. The Welsh is a hearty dish consisting of beer-soaked bread, topped with melted cheddar and often accompanied by a fried egg and ham. A treat for cool days.

The Potjevleesch

If you want something lighter, but still typical, opt for the Potjevleesch , which literally means “little Pot of Meat”. This traditional dish is made with different jellied white meats, served cold, often with homemade fries.

Flemish Carbonnade

During your lunch break, don’t miss the Flemish stew . This beef stew simmered in dark beer has a bittersweet flavor, enhanced by a sprig of thyme and bay leaf, and a slice of gingerbread smeared with mustard to thicken the sauce.

Where to have lunch in Lille? The best spots for a gourmet break

Here is a selection of establishments where you can enjoy these specialties:

• La Petite Table Lilloise – a friendly bistro offering a daily menu with local dish options
• Estaminet Chez la Vieille – a place steeped in history, perfect for discovering the atmosphere of traditional Lille estaminets.
• Le Barbue d’Anvers – a restaurant which offers you the authentic setting of an old Lille building to taste regional cuisine.

How to integrate local products into your lunch?

If you prefer a quick lunch or even prepare your own meal, consider incorporating local products into your preparations. The Wazemmes market, open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, is the ideal place to find regional cheeses, fresh vegetables and cold meats. Why not make a sandwich with melted Maroilles, a slice of country bread and some crunchy endives for a local touch?

Sweet Treats to Finish Your Meal in Beauty

Your gourmet break would not be complete without a typical dessert:

• Sugar Tart – simple and delicious, this tart is a true celebration of brown sugar and gooey brioche.
• Lilloise Waffles – different from Brussels waffles, they are thinner and crispier, often served with vergeoise.

Take advantage of your lunch break in Lille to immerse yourself in the culture of the North through its flavors and gastronomy. Whether in one of the traditional restaurants or through market products, Lille has something to satisfy gourmets in search of authenticity and taste.

Cultural afternoon: museums and art galleries

Introduction to Lille’s cultural offerings

Lille, capital of Hauts-de-France, is a city where culture and history blend harmoniously. Renowned museums, avant-garde galleries, temporary exhibition spaces: the range of places dedicated to art is vast and varied. An afternoon cultural journey can therefore begin in renowned establishments before continuing in more confidential but equally captivating places.

The essential Lille museums

When we talk about museums in Lille, certain names immediately stand out:

• The Palais des Beaux-Arts in Lille: housing the second richest collection in France after the Louvre, the Palais des Beaux-Arts offers exhibitions of paintings, sculptures and graphic arts from the 15th to the 20th centuries.
• LaM – Lille Métropole Museum of modern art, contemporary art and outsider art: located in Villeneuve-d’Ascq, this museum is an essential place for lovers of modern and contemporary art, but also a reference space for outsider art.
• The Hospice Comtesse Museum: installed in a former medieval hospice, it offers an overview of art and regional history through art objects and antique furniture.

Art galleries and contemporary creative spaces

In addition to museums, Lille is full of art galleries offering temporary exhibitions:

• Gare Saint Sauveur: a former railway station transformed into a cultural space, it hosts exhibitions, concerts and artistic events throughout the year.
• La Galerie des Tanneurs: specialized in contemporary art, it represents emerging and established artists and promotes artistic exchanges.
• The Tripostal: temporary exhibition space, the Tripostal is at the heart of Lille’s cultural programming with exhibitions often of international scope.

The little extras for an enriched cultural experience

For a complete cultural afternoon, it is recommended to check opening times and current exhibitions on the websites of museums and galleries, or by inquiring directly via tourist offices. Many establishments offer guided tours or audio guides to deepen your discovery of the works.

Practical advice for organizing your journey

Where to start your cultural discovery.

Ideally, start your afternoon with the museums and save the art galleries for the end of the day. Here is a suggested itinerary:

• Start at the Palais des Beaux-Arts in Lille to appreciate the classic works and major temporary exhibitions.
• Then, join LaM with a short journey by metro or bus to discover a modern and contemporary world.
• Finish with the city center galleries, such as La Galerie des Tanneurs, to explore today’s contemporary art and sometimes even take part in openings.

How to optimize your time?

Planning your route in advance and taking into account the days when various establishments are closed can save you valuable time. In addition, some places offer combined prices or free days, which are not to be missed.

Eat between two visits

Between two exhibitions, the streets of Lille are full of small cafes and brasseries where you can relax. Some museums also have their own café or restaurant, combining a gourmet break and artistic relaxation. The cultural afternoon in Lille is an ideal way to immerse yourself in the artistic wealth of the city, while making memorable encounters with works from all periods. Whether you are a resident or passing through, this museum and artistic offering will help make your Lille experience unique and enriching.

Relaxing evening: walk and nightlife in Lille

Lille, a vibrant and charming city in northern France, offers a wealth of options for those looking to relax in the evening. Between historic walks and vibrant nightlife, the capital of Flanders never disappoints. This article is your guide to fully enjoying a relaxing evening in Lille.

Introduction to Lille: a charming city at night

The city of Lille, rich in an impressive cultural and historical heritage, blossoms once the sun sets. With its old-fashioned lit cobbled streets and Flemish architecture, Lille offers a unique atmosphere for a magical nighttime stroll. But beyond its nocturnal beauties, the city is transformed to welcome night owls looking for a festive atmosphere.

A walk in the heart of Lille

Venturing on foot through the streets of Lille in the evening is the guarantee of a pleasant and exotic experience. Here are some steps not to miss:

• The Grand’Place: also known as Place du Général de Gaulle, it is the beating heart of Lille with the famous statue of the Goddess.
• Old Lille: this historic district is perfect for a romantic stroll or a leisurely stroll to admire the old facades and lit shops.
• The Citadel Park: for nature lovers, a nighttime escapade in the city’s largest green space is ideal for recharging your batteries.

Lille nightlife: thrills and conviviality

When night falls, Lille transforms and offers atmospheres for all tastes:

• Bars and pubs: from Old Lille to rue Solférino, the options are varied to taste local beers or original cocktails in warm settings
• Clubs and discos: to dance until the end of the night, Lille has several famous clubs with international DJs.
• Concert halls and theaters: for cultural entertainment, the city is not left out thanks to its numerous venues such as the Zénith or the Sébastopol.

The essentials of the Lille evening

Tips for a successful evening in lille.

To fully enjoy your relaxing evening in Lille, here are some recommendations:

The city of Lille offers a range of activities to enhance your relaxing evenings. Between cultural walks and festive escapes, every corner of this historic city has something to satisfy curiosities and desires for nighttime relaxation. So, let yourself be tempted by Lille and its unique atmosphere: it is just waiting for you to reveal its nocturnal charms!

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France , Europe · 08/08/2020

One Day In Lille: Best Things To Do

Last updated on April 16th, 2024 at 09:29 am

Lille is one of the significant cities in France and a great day trip from Paris. Lille is famous for its Christmas market, which makes it a perfect destination for families and couples during the winter holiday. Another event that makes this city famous every year is La Braderie de Lille, but Lille has much more to offer than those two significant events. If you’re looking to plan the perfect one-day in Lille to soak up the atmosphere of this fascinating and lively city, I’ve got you covered! Here are the six best things to do in Lille; you’ll have the best day trip if you only spend one day!

One Day In Lille: Day Trip Travel Guide

Lille is a big city located in the north of France and is visited annually by people. It is quickly becoming one of the most famous cities in France and a great day trip from Paris and Belgium as it is very close. It is rightfully so, as it has everything that makes it a great city destination: good food, beautiful architecture, and history.

Best Things To Do In Lille France

Grand Place

One of the first things you’ll see in Lille is the emblematic Grand Place and its baroque facade, which is the city’s heart, where you can find restaurants and cafés to enjoy a coffee or a meal. On the Grand Place of Lille (which might remind you of the main places in Bruges or Bruxelles because of their similar architecture), you can find many areas of interest in the city. This makes it the great city it is today over the years and is part of its history and heritage. – Vieille Bourse – Theatre de Nord – Chambre de Commerde et d’industrie de Lille – Local newspaper building: La voix du nord This place is very famous amongst photo amateurs. It has so many beautiful different angles you can take photos from there. It’s also a perfect spot to snap a cute Instagram photo as a memory!

Visit the “Vieux Lille”

The” Vieux Lille”, or the old town of Lille, is probably one of the city’s most famous spots after the Grand Place; it’s well known for its quaint charm and picturesque architecture. One famous spot there is La Place aux oignons, a cute place only accessible to walkers, with many shops and restaurants.

Here are some great activities you can pre-book to start planning your one-day trip to Lille.

Visit Notre Dame de la Treille Cathedral

The Cathedrale of Lille isn’t your usual cathedral as its modern facade draws a big contrast to the rest of the neo-gothic and more classic built of rest of buildings.

Which sounds weird, right? It is pretty weird; to be fair, it was not my cup of tea. However, the reason behind this is pretty simple: the construction of the cathedral took place over not less than 150 years; the facade was the last part of the tower to be built in 1999 to replace a simple wall of wood and bricks.

You can find other remains of the city’s history behind the cathedral with the hospice of the Comtesse. A hospital built for the poor and pilgrims in 1237 and held now is a little museum that showcases what it’s like inside a typical flemish house.

Climb up the Beffroi de l’Hôtel de Ville de Lille

You can find two belfries in Lille, one on the Grand Place and another a little further. If you want to get a different view of Lille than from the street, you can climb up one of the belfries of the city. However, at the time of our visit it was unfortunately closed on Mondays when we visited so that we couldn’t climb to the top.

But I thought I would include it nonetheless on my one-day itinerary of Lille, as it is cool to do if you’re visiting the city.

Close by the Belfry, you can see another city landmark, “La Porte De Paris.” It’s a pretty cool place to take photos; maybe not as cool as the great place or the Vieux Lille, but it’s worth checking out.

Stroll around Parc de la Citadelle

The “Parc de la Citadelle” is located on what was initially a military construction built during the XVIIth century, composed of 5 strongholds and shaped like a star. This park is full of history and beautiful flowers and offers different paths to choose what interests you the most. It’s also a great spot to relax away from the city and to enjoy a break during your one day in Lille.

There is also a zoo and a small fair for children there.

You can check the different paths here .

On the way to the park, you can find the Place de la République with a beautiful fountain in front of the stunning Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille , the city’s art museum, one of the most prominent museums of France outside of Paris.

Map Of Lille, France

• Parc de la Citadelle
• Palais Rihour
• Grand Place De Lille
• Cathédrale Notre-Dame de la Treille
• Place aux Oignons
• Rue De La Monnaie
• Palais des Beaux Arts de Lille

Extra things to do in Lille if you have more time: Palais Rihour, an old palace built during the XVe century, can also find the office of tourism. Eat a Vanilla Waffle at Meert, a well-known famous address of a charming café with beautiful decorations. Not to be mistaken with the Belgian waffles; they’re not the same!

Suppose you happen to be visiting Lille for more than one day or want to include this in your itinerary instead of one of the things to do near Lille in this list. In that case, you can check out La Piscine – Musée d’art et d’industrie André Diligent de Roubaix, a museum! Here’s the catch: this museum is not an ordinary museum; it is built in what used to be a swimming pool. And, in my opinion, and other people, this place looks pretty impressive; if I had heard about it before late in the afternoon, we would have checked it out.

What is Lille famous for?

Lille is renowned for its vibrant culture, highlighted by its exquisite Flemish architecture and bustling Grand Place. Travellers flock to Lille for its delectable cuisine, including the mouthwatering local speciality, the “Welsh” dish, and its charming cobblestone streets teeming with boutique shops and cafes.

Lille is also pretty famous for its Christmas Market in winter; it’s one of the best Christmas markets to visit in France . Another note worthy event in Lille that I mentioned before is “La Grande Braderie de Lille” a huge open flea market that takes places once year and bring people from all around the France looking for great finds and good deals.

This concludes my one day in Lille and the best things to do in Lille if you have only one day to spend there to make the most of your day trip. I hope you have a great time in Lille, just like I did on my day trip from Paris.

Also, follow me on Instagram to check out my travel adventures around Europe and more lifestyle content @cpt_lyne!

If you like me, pin me! One day in Lille, France Itinerary

✈ Best Travel Ressources To Plan Your Next Trip If you need help planning your next trip, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered! Here are my favourite websites and apps to plan a trip! ✈ How To Find Flights? My favourite website for booking flights is Skyscanner; it is a good comparator for finding the cheapest flights. Google Flight is also a good help when it comes to comparing flights. ✈ Where To Book Accommodations? The best sites to book accommodations are Booking.com or Expedia. They both allow you to collect points for a discount; it’s worth comparing the two as they often have different pricing for the same hotels. Another perk of Booking.com and Expedia is that you can sometimes get bundle deals for flights and accommodations, which can help you save a lot of money. ✈ Best Sites To Book Activities My go-to website when I need to book an activity is GetYourGuide when I can’t get a ticket directly on the website or if it’s easier to go through them. I always check if the price is the same, though, as the whole point is for it to be easier but not more expensive. You can also check out Klook if you need to book more than just activities and would like to get everything from the same website—(i.e. transport cards, car rental, hotel…). ✈ Other helpful travel resources – Radical Storage: If you need a place to keep your luggage for an extended period when you travel, I recommend using them. It was a great help when we needed a place to keep our luggage safely while we left the city for a few days. – TheTrainline : If you love to travel by train like me, then TheTrainline needs to be your go-to website for train travel in Europe. It is very reliant and easy to use. ————————————————————————————————————- Disclaimer: This resources box contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you book anything through my links at no additional cost. These links help me support the blog and generate more content. Happy travels!

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You’ll also love.

08/08/2020 at 20:31

Now you’ve made me want to visit Lille. It’s definitely been under my radar until now.

Francesca says

08/08/2020 at 20:40

Lille looks absolutely beautiful! I love the architecture.

shanyyizhaki says

09/08/2020 at 06:28

I wish I’d heard about Lille when I visited France. I’m gonna need to come back and visit this place 🙂 Thank you for sharing this guide!

ariellekurtze says

10/08/2020 at 06:39

Lille is just beautiful! We’ve been to France several times but have never visited Lille. Definitely on our bucket list and I loved your trip ideas! Great photos too, really made me feel I was right there. Thanks for sharing!

Nikhar says

10/08/2020 at 10:39

The places look amazing, will definitely try to visit whenever I am in France again next time. I only explored Paris in my last France trip but you have gave me a reason to travel France again. Thanks for sharing this.

Bill Wilson says

12/08/2020 at 15:55

I’m just in love with France and ready to return there again and again, at least reading your blog about the trip. Thanks for sharing!

15/08/2020 at 12:12

I adore Lille and often feel it doesn’t get enough love, so thrilled to see it highlighted here. The Christmas Markets are fantastic, and the town is such an easy trip from so many places – even London!

contactadventureswithnellcouk says

15/08/2020 at 12:26

I’d love to visit Lille, especially as it’s so easy to get to from the UK! Pinned for future reference 🙂

elinamic says

15/08/2020 at 12:35

I remember when I visited Lille for a weekend trip from London in late January and parts of the Christmas market were still on! My favourite part of Lille was the Vieux Lille, so picturesque!

Ophelie says

15/08/2020 at 12:55

Awww so fun to read your list! I am originally from North of France and I have studied in lille. I love this city so much, the ambiance is nice and the people are warm and welcoming!

25/08/2020 at 19:23

They truly are it’s much more chill than Paris and so beautiful, especially the Old Lille, loved it!

Poppy Mae Higgins says

15/08/2020 at 13:45

France is my fave country and this is giving me major envy

15/08/2020 at 15:27

Lille looks amazing! I love it’s architecture and can’t wait to visit 🙂

25/08/2020 at 19:24

It is amazing! x

iemexploring says

15/08/2020 at 17:34

I would love to visit! I just love France its so beautiful. Ill be adding Lille to my bucket list!

25/08/2020 at 19:21

Yes, there are many beautiful places in France!

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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

What to do in Lille: three days in a creative city

Jun 14, 2019 • 6 min read

The rooftops in Lille © Meiqianbao / Shutterstock

Just an hour north of Paris by high-speed train, and with fast, direct rail links to London and Brussels, Lille makes an accessible, eco-friendly city break. And there's plenty to fill a weekend: France's fourth-largest city has an exquisite old town filled with ornate French and Flemish architecture, unique cuisine that incorporates the area's renowned beer, sublime art museums, and cutting-edge cultural centres. Its design studios and artisan shops will take centre stage throughout 2020 when Lille is France 's first World Design Capital .

Here's how to get the most out of a three-day visit.

Day one: architecture and fine art

Lille's Flamboyant Gothic–style Palais Rihour makes an ideal starting point. The mid-1400s building is home to the tourist office : pick up a City Pass (there are 24-, 48- and 72-hour versions), which covers entry to key museums and attractions in the greater Métropole Européenne de Lille (MEL) area, as well as public transport.

Place Rihour is footsteps from Lille's grand square, place du Général de Gaulle, which is ringed by elaborate buildings including the Flemish Renaissance former stock exchange Vieille Bourse . Pop into its colonnaded interior to browse its stalls selling used books, vinyl and vintage advertising posters. Exiting on its eastern side brings you out on place du Théâtre, graced by the early 20th-century neo-Flemish Chambre de Commerce , topped by Lille's signature 76m-high gilded clock tower; and, from the same era, the adjacent Opéra .

After lunch at one of the old town's enticing bakery-cafes, such as 1833-opened Boulangerie Brier , zip up the Unesco-listed belfry of Lille's Hôtel de Ville (town hall) for sweeping city views. Then spend the afternoon exploring one of France's finest arts museums, the 1892-inaugurated Palais des Beaux Arts . Archaeological finds and medieval works are located in its basement, with pottery and a temporary exhibition space on the ground floor, but the highlight is the top floor. This succession of galleries contains a treasure chest of works by masters such as Rodin, Renoir, Picasso, Delacroix, Manet and Monet (including one of his impressionist paintings in the series,  Houses of Parliament, London ).

Rue de Gand is the city's premier dining strip, lined with crêperies, bistros and estaminets (Flemish-style taverns); try the hop-filled Le Bistrot Lillois for local specialities like carbonade flamande (braised beef slow-cooked with beer, onions, brown sugar and gingerbread). Plenty of bars on the same street make it a great place to continue the evening, or catch an opera, ballet or classical concert back at the city's opera house.

Day two: local designers and chocolate shops

Trains connect the centre of Lille with the northern area of Roubaix, where La Piscine Musée d'Art et d'Industrie is a must-see. Renovations in 2018 expanded its exhibition space, and this glorious art deco municipal swimming pool has been repurposed as a fine and applied arts museum, with sculptures reflected in the water-filled pool. Original tiles line the former changing rooms, which are now nooks displaying artworks.

La Piscine has an excellent modern French restaurant. Next door there's a fabulous organic cafe at Maisons de Mode , where you'll find locally crafted fashion, accessories and shoes by up-and-coming designers. Maisons de Mode's workshops also fan out in the surrounding streets; there's a second location 3km southwest of the centre.

For more shopping, return to Lille's old town boutiques. Momentum displays furniture, ceramics, textiles and other locally designed homewares. Chocolates and sweets at Meert are showcased in an enchanting early 19th-century former pharmacy. Stop by its tearoom to try the renowned gaufres (waffles) with Madagascan vanilla, or visit the gourmet restaurant here. More chocolate shops proliferate throughout the old town, including the boutique of lillois (Lille native) Quentin Bailly . The handmade ice creams here are a summertime treat.

Hidden in a cobbled courtyard, L'Assiette du Marché rambles over a series of romantic rooms and serves standout, unexpectedly contemporary French cuisine. Afterwards, rue Doudin and rue Royale are good bets for bars, or catch a live music gig at Le Splendid , inside an erstwhile cinema.

Day three: cultural events and local beer

Kick off your third day at Musée d'Art Moderne, d'Art Contemporain et d'Art Brut – LaM , 9km east at Villeneuve-d'Ascq (easily reached by metro then bus), where works by artists including Braque, Miró, Modigliani and Picasso are displayed in the museum and sculpture park.

Check Lille3000  for details of exhibitions, concerts, festivals and more at two of Lille's coolest cultural centres. Gare Saint Sauveur sprawls over a former freight-train station; there's a great onsite restaurant serving French standards like œufs mayonnaise (mayo-stuffed hard-boiled eggs) and tartare de bœuf (beef tartare). Around 1km north, opposite the vast Euralille shopping mall, Le Tripostal occupies an enormous red-brick building that was originally a postal sorting centre.

Estaminet Au Vieux de la Vieille is a top spot for a final Flemish meal (try its Welsh au Maroilles – beer-soaked bread, ham and mustard topped with Maroilles cheese); on a sunny day, the best seats are on pretty place aux Oignons. Before leaving, stock up on Lille-brewed beers at specialist purveyor L'Abbaye des Saveurs , or right at the source at microbrewery Célestin's .

Lille makes a perfect long-weekend escape, with rates dropping (often dramatically) on Friday and Saturday nights. Tack on extra days late in the week, when more places are open, and in particular skip Tuesdays, when most of the city's museums close.

Where to stay in Lille

The city's hippest hostel accommodation is Gastama , in the heart of the old town and with a pumping in-house bar, while the 2018-opened Eklo Lille is an eco-conscious hybrid hostel/hotel with a restaurant in a nearby shipping container.

For midrange accommodation in the pedestrian centre, Hotel Kanaï is a superb spot, with regional cheeses and local jams on the menu at breakfast. Antique-filled Brueghel has a charming wood-panelled lobby.

Lille's design credentials are on show at guesthouse Koh' Coon , with three rooms (Scandinavian, Riad and World Tour) all with Jacuzzis forming centrepieces of the eye-popping spaces; and at Hôtel L'Arbre Voyageur , in the stunningly post-Soviet former Polish consulate, with an on-site luxury deli, and organic and cocktail-pairing restaurants.

Getting there

The Eurostar zips between Lille's gleaming Gare Lille-Europe and London St Pancras in 90 minutes. Fast trains run between Gare Lille-Europe and Brussels-Midi in just 35 minutes, and between both Gare Lille-Europe and the older Gare Lille-Flandres and Paris Gare du Nord in 60 minutes. All services typically run hourly or better.

Eurolines and Flixbus serve European destinations; Isilines and Ouibus run to destinations throughout France.

From Lille you can reach Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport in an hour by direct train, but the city also has its own small airport, the Aéroport de Lille , serving a handful of French and European destinations.

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A Blog About Life & Travel in France

2 Days in Lille: The Perfect Itinerary (Local’s Guide)

• By Jen Ciesielski
• Updated: 2 April 2024
• 13 February 2024

Lille, a city renowned for its cultural heritage and historic architecture, is one of the most underrated destinations.

When I moved to France more than six years ago, Lille was the first place I visited in the Hauts-de-France region. Since then, I’ve come back several times.

I love the charm of Vieux Lille, the warmth of Lillois hospitality, and the local food.

In this post, I’ve put together the ultimate itinerary for spending 2 days in Lille. There are popular sites to help you get to know the city and some lesser-known spots.

Please note : This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking on a link (at no extra cost to you). Privacy Policy .

2 Days in Lille Overview

If you’re short on time, here is an overview of my helpful guide.

• Day 1: Grand Place, Old Town, Maison Natale de Charles de Gaulle, Musée de l’Hospice Comtesse, Book Market, Aux Merveilleux de Fred
• Day 2: Wazemmes Market, Parc de la Citadelle, Palais des Beaux-Arts, Palais Rihour, Beffroi de Lille, Méert

48 Hours in Lille – Day 1

Your first day in Lille will be spent exploring the heart of the city, known as Vieux Lille.

This area is filled with picturesque cobblestone streets, quaint cafés, and stunning architecture.

Visit Grand Place

There’s no better place to start your day than at the Grand Place.

During the Middle Ages, it was used to host the city’s local market. It’s now a popular meeting point for locals.

Here you’ll find stunning architecture with varying styles , including Flemish, Renaissance, and Neo-classical. The most famous building is, undoubtedly, La Vieille Bourse.

There are also tons of cafés and restaurants where you can sit and enjoy the atmosphere. There are some pickpockets in the area, but it’s overall very safe .

My favorite place was Bibi’s café. It’s next to La Vieille Bourse and, since the weather was nice, I sat outside and watched the city unfold.

Stroll Around Vieux Lille

Vieux Lille, or Old Lille, is a charming district full of cobbled streets and gorgeous brick houses.

It’s most known for its Flemish-Baroque architecture, which gives it a distinctive character.

Some notable landmarks include:

✓ Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral – a stunning fusion of old and new architectural styles.

✓ Musée de l’Hospice Comtesse – a former hospital showcasing art from the Middle Ages.

But what I loved the most about this district was the hidden streets and courtyards. It reminded me of Lyon’s secret passageways called traboules .

There’s the Abbaye de Loos Garden, which I almost missed because the entrance was so discreet.

Here you’ll find beautiful houses surrounding a lush garden. And when I was there it was empty.

Place Gilleson is another hidden gem.

It has a picturesque courtyard surrounded by colorful houses, but you’ll have to walk behind the Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral to find it. That’s where I took the photo above.

Explore the Maison Natale de Charles de Gaulle

Charles de Gaulle is one of the most famous individuals in French history. He’s most known for leading the French resistance during World War II and founding the Fifth Republic during his Presidency.

You can visit his birthplace, Maison Natale de Charles de Gaulle, which has been turned into a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.

Here you’ll learn about his childhood, military career, and political contributions.

The museum also features furniture and paintings, giving you a glimpse into the everyday life of de Gaulle’s family. They even had his baptismal dress (photo above).

I enjoyed touring the different rooms and seeing where de Gaulle spent his early years. It was a great way to gain a deeper understanding of this influential figure.

Discover the Musée de l’Hospice Comtesse

The Musée de l’Hospice Comtesse is a former medieval hospital from the 13th century that is, now, a museum.

It houses a vast collection of artwork and ceramics, which offer a glimpse into life in Lille before the French Revolution.

The building itself is also spectacular. It features architecture from the 15 th , 17 th , and 18 th centuries, showcasing the elegance of the Renaissance era.

Of the museums I visited in Lille, I loved how the Musée de l’Hospice Comtesse showed the city’s evolution throughout history. They even had a toilet from the Middle Ages and a painting of someone using it!

Check Out Lille’s Book Market

If you’re like me and love to read, Lille’s book market is for you. It’s housed in the courtyard of La Vieille Bourse, which is, itself, stunning.

Here you’ll find a wide selection of second-hand books. It’s predominantly French literature, but I find this is the best way to learn new French words and immerse myself in the culture.

It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday, between 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Stop by Aux Merveilleux de Fred

The Merveilleux is an airy, light confection, made from two meringues and topped with whipped cream. It’s a specialty that was born in Belgium but has since become a staple of northern France.

There’s only one place to try them in Lille, and that’s Aux Merveilleux de Fred . This popular patisserie is run by none other than Frédéric Vaucamps, who created his own version of the Merveilleux.

And I have to say it’s far better than the original. It’s somehow lighter and tastier at the same time.

They also sell tons of different flavors. But the pastry chef told me the chocolate Merveilleux was the best, so I tried that one.

Compared to other treats in northern France, like the macaron from Amiens , I found the Merveilleux to be much more unique.

48 Hours in Lille – Day 2

Your second day in Lille will focus on the city’s art and culture. You’ll visit the best of the best parks, museums, and markets.

I’ve also added some must-visit sites in Lille’s Euralille neighborhood, which is a stark contrast to Vieux Lille.

Shop at the Wazemmes Market

The Wazemmes Market, or Marché de Wazemmes, is easily one of the most popular markets in Lille.

It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, fresh produce, and diverse selection of vendors.

As you wander through the stalls, you’ll find everything from cheese and charcuterie to flowers and clothing.

The open-air market is only open on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday mornings. But, if you can’t make it, the covered market is open every day except Monday.

I went early in the morning to grab some fresh fruit for breakfast and picked up a few things for a picnic in the Parc de la Citadelle.

Walk Around Parc de la Citadelle

The Parc de la Citadelle is the largest green space in Lille. It spans a whopping 60 hectares (123 acres).

And, at the center, is the historic Citadelle de Lille, a 17th-century military structure designed by Vauban.

Here you’ll find tons of recreational activities.

Go for a stroll along one of its picturesque paths, picnic on the lawn, or relax on a bench and people-watch.

There are also beautiful bridges, like the Pont Napoléon, that offer spectacular views over the Deûle canal.

Of the walking paths, I found the Tour des Remparts de la Citadelle to be the most peaceful.

It circles the Citadelle de Lille and is completely engulfed in greenery.

You won’t find a better place to escape the hustle and bustle.

Helpful Tip : The Citadelle de Lille is still used by the French military and is not open to visitors.

Tour the Palais des Beaux-Arts

The Palais des Beaux-Arts is one of the best art museums I’ve been to in France .

It houses an impressive collection of works ranging from modern art to antiquities. There’s also a large section dedicated to fine art.

The museum is spread across several floors, so you can expect to spend at least an hour here.

There was so much to see I had to revisit a few sections to be sure I didn’t miss anything.

My two favorite pieces were the Feast of Herod by Donatello and the Houses of Parliament, London by Claude Monet (photo above).

I also enjoyed the exhibit dedicated to the relief maps. This section showed what various fortified towns once looked like along the French border, including Lille.

Helpful Tip : The collection of relief maps is easy to miss. It’s located on the bottom floor and there’s a big arrow pointing to the exhibit.

Marvel at the Palais Rihour

The Palais Rihour is a striking Gothic-styled building located in the heart of Lille.

It was built in the 15th century by Philippe le Bon, Duke of Burgundy, and now houses the Lille Tourist Office.

Helpful Tip : In the 15th century, the Dukes of Burgundy lived in Dijon, which is an incredible place to visit if you want to learn more about their history.

I stopped by the Palais Rihour to pick up my Lille City Pass from the tourist office and I was surprised by the stunning interior. There was even a free exposition on Michel Serrault.

Climb the Beffroi de Lille

The Beffroi de Lille is the tallest municipal building in France at 104 meters (341 feet).

It was built between 1924 and 1932 in an Art Deco style, and, in 2005, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can climb to the top for a stunning 360-degree view of Lille.

In total, it’s 400 steps, but, if you don’t want to walk up the last 300, there’s an elevator.

Unlike the time I climbed to the top of the Strasbourg Cathedral , I opted for the elevator here. The last 300 stairs were not enclosed, and I didn’t want my vertigo to get out of control.

At the top, there were two viewing platforms, one inside and one outside. Both were spectacular.

And compared to my visit to the Beffroi de Saint-Éloi in Dunkirk , where the viewing platform was entirely open, this one was completely enclosed. There was even a fence, which blocked some of the view.

Dine at Méert

Méert is most known for its exquisite pastries.

But beyond the sweet treats, the restaurant also boasts a menu full of classic French dishes with a modern twist.

I ordered the salmon and scallops, which were cooked to perfection. And for dessert, I had the Exotic, a sweet yet tangy pastry made from mango, pineapple, and almonds.

It was easily one of the best meals I had in Lille.

Helpful Tip : The dining room was elegant and sophisticated, so don’t do what I did and show up in jeans and a t-shirt.

Where to Stay

There are so many hotels to choose from in Lille. But for this two-day itinerary, I recommend staying near the center. Below is a list of hotels that I recommend.

✓ Hotel Chagnot – This is where I stayed, and I couldn’t have been happier. The room was comfortable and the warm croissants at breakfast were incredible.

✓ Best Western Premier Why Hotel – This hotel is in the beautiful Euralille district. The rooms are modern but cozy, and the staff are helpful.

✓ Grand Hotel Bellevue – Grand Place – Located in downtown Lille, this hotel has comfortable, quiet rooms. The breakfast is delicious and the safe are helpful.

Where to Eat

There are so many places to try in Lille. Below is a list of my favorite restaurants:

✓ Estaminet Au Vieux De La Vieille – This is the best place to try regional dishes. The menu is varied, and the atmosphere is lively.

✓ La Petite Table – A small restaurant that specializes in local dishes. Everything here is homemade. What more could you ask for?

✓ Table N9uf – The menu is varied and features fresh ingredients. Most regional dishes are heavy, so, if you want something lighter this is the place to go.

Conclusion: A Weekend in Lille

Spending a weekend in Lille is the perfect amount of time to experience this charming city.

From the top of the Beffroi de Lille to exquisite cuisine at Méert, there is something for everyone here.

I loved every minute of my stay in Lille, and I can’t recommend it enough.

Now that you have your itinerary, it’s time to book your trip.

Most visitors fly into Paris and take the train to Lille for the day , so I recommend reserving your train tickets as early as possible.

Read More Articles About France

I hope you enjoyed my post and found it useful. Here are some other articles that I think you might find interesting.

• What to Do in Amiens on a Sunday: 15 Incredible Activities
• One Day in Dijon – The Perfect Itinerary
• 3 Days in Lyon – The Perfect Itinerary

Jen Ciesielski

Jen Ciesielski is the creator of Dabbling in Jet Lag. She has lived abroad for over ten years, traveled to more than 50 countries, and speaks French and English fluently. Her areas of expertise include moving abroad, learning languages, and travel planning. Originally from the United States, she now lives in France, where she has been for more than six years. She has also traveled extensively around the country. She shares her experiences as an expat living in France and helps thousands of people plan their trips every month.

• France Guides
• October 5, 2022

Lille, France: What to Do for Three Days in the City

Lille, France is a beautiful and historic city located in the northern part of the country. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many interesting attractions. Visitors to Lille can explore the city’s architecture, visit its museums and galleries, or simply enjoy its lively atmosphere. With so much to see and do, three days is just enough time to get a taste of what this charming city has to offer.

Lille: Where Is It?

Lille is a city located in the north of France. It is the capital of the Hauts-de-France region and the prefecture of the Nord department. Lille is a major economic and cultural center in northern France.

The city has a population of 232,286 as of 2018. Lille is located on the Deûle River, at the eastern edge of France’s border with Belgium. The city is part of the Eurodistrict Lille-Kortrijk-Tournai, which had 2,155,161 inhabitants in 2008.

Lille is a member of the Great Metropolitan Places project initiated by the Greater Paris Metropolis. The city has several places listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO: Old Lille, Vieux Lille; Grand’Place; Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille; and parks and gardens of Petite Cité Flandres.

These museums display collections from many centuries ago up to contemporary art.

There are also ancient buildings such as cathedrals, churches, and palaces that give insight into the rich history of this amazing city.  It is also a major commercial and industrial center. In recent years, Lille has become increasingly popular with tourists.

Here’s the map for Lille, France, click here .

How To Get To Lille?

Lille is a beautiful city located in the north of France, just a stone’s throw from the border with Belgium. There are many ways to get to Lille, depending on your starting point and budget. If you’re coming from Paris, the easiest way is to take the high-speed TGV train from Gare du Nord station.

The journey takes just over an hour, and there are several trains per day. If you’re coming from London, you can take the Eurostar train from St Pancras International station. The journey takes about 2 hours. If you’re on a tight budget, you can take a coach or bus from London or Paris. These journeys take longer but are much cheaper than taking the train. However you choose to get to Lille, you’re sure to have a great time in this charming city.

Day 1: Arrive in Lille

It will be a relief to reach Lille and settle into your hotel after a long trip. Lille is the capital of the French region of Nord-Pas-de-Calais and the country’s sixth-largest city. The urban area of Lille has a population of over 1.2 million people, making it one of the most populous cities in France.

Take some time to explore the city after settling into your hotel. The city is also well known for its architecture, with many noteworthy buildings. Visitors to Lille will find plenty to see and do in this vibrant city.

Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, one of the largest museums in France

The Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille is one of the largest museums in France. Located in the city of Lille, it houses a large collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Visitors can explore the museum’s many galleries at their own pace or take part in guided tours. The Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille is an excellent way to learn about the history and culture of France. It is also a great place to simply enjoy some of the world’s most beautiful works of art.

Address: Place de la République, 59000 Lille, France

For pictures, booking, and more information, click here .

Wander around the Old Town and see sights like Grand Place and Notre Dame de la Treille

One of the best places to explore in Lille, France is the Old Town. This area is full of beautiful architecture and interesting history. Start your wander around Old Town by checking out Grand Place. This square is the heart of the city and home to many important landmarks.

After admiring the architecture of Grand Place, head over to one of the most notable landmarks, the Notre Dame de la Treille, a gothic cathedral that dates back to the 13th century. The interior of the cathedral is just as awe-inspiring as the exterior, with soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and intricate carvings. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of a bustling city, the Old Town of Lille is sure to impress.

Grand Place : For pictures, booking, and more information, click here .

Notre Dame de la Treille: Address: Pl. Gilleson, 59800 Lille, France

Spend some time in one of Lille’s many parks, like the Jardin des Plantes

Lille is home to a number of parks, each with its own unique character. The Jardin des Plantes, for example, is a large botanical garden that features a variety of plant life from all over the world. The garden is also home to a number of sculptures and fountains, making it a beautiful place to spend an afternoon.

For those who enjoy more active pursuits, Parc du Héron is located just outside of the city center and offers a variety of hiking and biking trails. And for those who simply want to relax in the sun, the Jardin Pâquerette is a small park with a refreshingly tranquil atmosphere. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find a park in Lille that suits your needs.

Jardin des Plantes : Address: 306 Rue du Jardin des Plantes, 59000 Lille, France

Parc du Héron : Address: 59650 Villeneuve-d’Ascq, France

Day 2: Venture into The City’s Neighborhoods

Lille is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. The Vieux Lille (Old Lille) is the historical center of the city and is home to many of its most famous landmarks. The Quartier des Arts et de la Culture is Lille’s arts district and includes several museums and art galleries.

The Quartier de la Gare is the central business district and is home to the city’s main train station. The Quartier Rihour is a lively neighborhood with many restaurants and bars. And finally, the Quartier Pont-de-Boieldieu is a residential area located just outside of downtown Lille. Regardless of where you stay in Lille, you’re sure to find plenty of things to see and do in this beautiful French city.

Do some shopping at one of Lille’s many markets or shops

Lille is home to a variety of shops and markets that are perfect for those looking to do some shopping. The city center is home to a number of high-end retailers, as well as smaller boutique stores. For those looking for a more traditional shopping experience, the city’s many markets are a great option.

From the fresh produce of the Marché de Wazemmes to the antiques of the Marché aux Puces, there is something for everyone at Lille’s markets. There is also no shortage of options when it comes to food shopping, with a number of supermarkets and specialty food stores located throughout the city. Whether you’re looking for fashion, food, or anything in between, Lille has got you covered.

Grab a bite to eat at a traditional brasserie or bistro

Lille is a charming city in the north of France that is well-known for its traditional brasseries and bistros. These local eateries are the perfect place to enjoy a hearty meal and watch the world go by. The menu typically features classic French dishes such as boeuf bourguignon and coq au vin, as well as lighter fare such as salads and quiche.

The atmosphere is usually casual and relaxed, making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat after a long day of exploring the city. So next time you’re in Lille, be sure to stop by one of these traditional eateries for a delicious meal.

Day 3: Visit One of Lille’s Nearby Towns or Villages

Lille is a vibrant and historic city and it’s surrounded by a number of delightful towns and villages. If you’re looking for a day trip from Lille, consider visiting one of these charming places. Whether you’re interested in history or art, you’ll find plenty to see and do in Lille’s surrounding towns and villages. So take advantage of your proximity to these lovely places and explore all that they have to offer.

Visit Armentières or Tourcoing

Armentières and Tourcoing are both charming towns with plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy. History buffs will love exploring the museums and art galleries in each town, and there are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. If you’re looking for a more active vacation, consider visiting one of the many hiking trails or biking paths in the area. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Armentières or Tourcoing.

Take a day trip to the ruins of the Abbey de Saint-Sauveur

One of the best ways to experience this is to take a day trip to the ruins of the Abbey de Saint-Sauveur. The Abbey was founded in the 11th century and was once one of the most important religious sites in the region. Today, it is a ruin, but it is still an impressive site to visit. You can explore the remains of the Abbey, and learn about its history.

Explore some of Lille’s many historical churches and cathedrals

Lille is a beautiful city in France with a rich history. The city is home to many historical churches and cathedrals, as well as nearby towns and villages that are worth visiting. However, there are also a number of smaller churches and chapels worth exploring, such as the Church of St. Maur, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament.

These churches and cathedrals are not only beautiful architectural feats, but they also offer a glimpse into the religious history of Lille. There is something for everyone to enjoy in Lille, and the city is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Tips When Visiting Lille

If you find yourself in Northern France, in the beautiful city of Lille, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the most of your visit.

When Sightseeing:

• Check the opening times of attractions before you go, as many places have limited hours or are closed on certain days.
• Purchase a Lille City Pass if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, as it will give you access to over 30 attractions and discounts at some restaurants and shops.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as pain au chocolat, waffles, and Belgian beer.
• If you’re visiting in the winter, dress warmly as it can get very cold.
• Enjoy the lively atmosphere and take some time to people-watch in one of the city’s many squares or parks.
• Lille is a very safe city, but be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all the beautiful sights.
• The best time to visit Lille is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.

When Dining:

• It is considered rude to not finish your plate of food, it is also considered good manners to ask for the check when you are ready to leave.
• Most restaurants will have a set menu du jour or plat du jour which is usually a three-course meal and is a great way to try some traditional French dishes; it is also usually cheaper than ordering à la carte.
• Be aware that many businesses in Lille close down for lunch from noon until 2 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
• If you want to try some of the local wines, be sure to ask for a vin du pays (wine of the region) as opposed to a vin de table (table wine); the former is usually of better quality.
• It is customary to leave a small tip (5-10%) if the service was good.

In conclusion

Lille is a beautiful city in France that is perfect for a three-day trip. From exploring the city’s many historical churches and cathedrals to enjoying the lively atmosphere, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to keep these tips in mind when planning your trip to make the most of your time in Lille.

We are here out of a desire to help and of course out of a great love for France. Our goal is to help you find everything you are looking for under one roof, to get the most out of your vacation in France, without having to travel all over the web.

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Morning Rundown: Outrage after British PM leaves D-Day early, prosecutors reveal 'planning document' in serial killings, alleged 'Baby Reindeer' inspiration sues Netflix

Veterans gather for their last big D-Day anniversary under the cloud of a new war in Europe

CAEN, France — For almost 80 years, the United States and Europe told themselves that a lasting postwar peace had been won here, in the bloody shallows and sands along 6 miles of Normandy beach.

On Thursday — the 80th anniversary of D-Day , perhaps the last major milestone for many of the invasion’s dwindling heroes — that peace in Europe finds itself shattered .

Replacing it are fears of another world war that until recently seemed outlandish, uncertainty about Washington’s European allyship that the Normandy landings cemented, and questions about the future of the Western alliance itself.

For many, the ideals that D-Day helped win are at risk of fading along with its survivors.

“I believe that freedom and democracy are definitely under threat,” D-Day veteran Harold Terens, 100, told NBC News on Monday.

He spent that day working as a radio operator mechanic based in Yorkshire, northern England, communicating with 60 P-47 Thunderbolt fighter planes flying over France — only 30 of which returned. Twelve days later he traveled to Normandy in person to transport freshly freed American prisoners of war back to England, and pick up newly captured Germans.

“It was one of the most disgusting things I’ve seen in my life,” said Terens, who lives in Lake Worth, Florida. “Bodies without arms and legs, bodies without heads — war is hell,” he added, referencing the quote first attributed to Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, who fought on the side of the Union during the Civil War.

More than 150,000 Allied troops landed in Nazi-occupied France on June 6, 1944, including 73,000 Americans, 60,000 British and 15,000 Canadians. It was the largest amphibious invasion in history, a meticulously planned assault that altered the course of World War II — and the 20th century.

Around 4,500 Allies died, including some 2,500 Americans, in their historic bid to loosen Nazi Germany’s grip over mainland Europe. 

And so for a few weeks every year, Normandy is transformed into a festival of remembrance, with cities, villages and cemeteries festooned with flags — including many American flags flown by French locals — while playing host to concerts, parades and ceremonies.

It’s not clear how many veterans are still alive. But some 150 Americans who took part in the monthslong Battle of Normandy, including two dozen D-Day veterans, are expected to make the trip to France this year, according to the American Battle Monuments Commission, the government agency overseeing cemeteries and monuments abroad.

The centerpiece will be a ceremony attended by President Joe Biden, his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Britain’s Prince William and other world leaders. Biden will give a speech about defending freedom and democracy.

“D-Day is a critical moment for President Biden to speak to what our collective security has done to deliver mostly a peaceful Europe since the second world war,” said Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., a friend of Biden and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “This is a chance to demonstrate what I think President Biden has been so good at. It’s not America alone. It’s not America first, but America as a critical leader in the world and as the indispensable nation.”

Still, the stars are the veterans.

NBC News is spending part of the week traveling with a busload of 50 American vets who have been brought over by the Best Defense Foundation charity, based in California.

They are set to include Richard “Dick” Ramsey, aged 100, a coxswain aboard the USS Nevada as it fired shells into the D-Day battlefield and narrowly missed getting hit in return. Also expected on the bus is Richard Rung, 100, who ferried troops to Omaha Beach while hosing his fellow soldiers’ blood from the small landing craft.

The youngest D-Day veterans are in their 90s; for many this will be the last major milestone they see as this event begins to pass out of living memory.

For the French, the legacy of D-Day is more complex. There is the decadeslong veneration of their Allied liberators, but also lament for the 20,000 Normandy locals killed in the assault, with cities such as Caen razed to rubble.

Macron says now is the right time to acknowledge these memories. On Wednesday, the French  president is expected to emphasize this point at a ceremony in Saint-Lô, a city whose destruction in the battle was so complete that in 1946 Irish novelist Samuel Beckett named it “the Capital of Ruins,” a moniker that has become widely used since.

With questions over Washington’s long-term commitment to Europe, Macron has attempted to cast himself as a de facto leader on European security, calling for more defense spending and refusing to rule out deploying French troops to Ukraine — much to Moscow’s fury.

It’s perhaps no surprise, then, that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not invited this year.

This presents an awkward juxtaposition for those involved. Many feel it would be untenable to include a Russian delegation while its soldiers wage unprovoked war on Ukraine, an attritional grind of tanks, troops and artillery whose scale evokes WWII itself.

At the same time, it is impossible to tell the story of Nazi defeat without the Soviet Union.

After Adolf Hitler reneged on a nonaggression pact and invaded the Soviet Union, the Red Army spent millions of lives fighting back, repelling the Nazi advance in what was a pyrrhic Soviet victory on the Eastern Front.

“It’s a very changed time,” said John M. Koenig, a veteran American career diplomat who served as ambassador to Cyprus and was posted in Belgium and Italy before retiring in 2015 . “The perception of Russia, and the way ahead, is far darker than it was back when we used to invite Vladimir Putin to the celebrations.”

“It’s a different Europe than it was,” he added. It is not “one of compromise, cooperation and common interests that we had hoped even, I would say, up until at least 10 years ago.”

Many in Europe fear that if Moscow’s aggression goes unpunished, other countries, such as the Baltic states and perhaps even Poland, could come into the Kremlin’s crosshairs.

Ukraine has been armed to the teeth by the West, receiving $50 billion of missiles, tanks and air defense systems from Washington. But many observers are nonetheless questioning the future of the Western unity.

Looming large is the American presidential election between Biden and Donald Trump, the former president and presumptive Republican nominee. Trump has previously suggested he would withdraw from NATO, and many Ukraine allies fear he could end support for its defense against Russia.

Compounding this, European Parliament elections this month look certain to herald victories for far-right and nationalist parties, some of which share Trump’s skepticism on the importance of helping Ukraine resist Russia’s invasion.

John Kelly, a retired four-star general and Trump’s longest-serving White House chief of staff, said in an interview: “People make the argument that American forces should come home. We made that mistake once after World War I.”

“Yes, our allies and partners need to do more for themselves and live up to their financial commitments,” added Kelly, who had a falling out with Trump. "But we tested isolationism once before, and it didn’t work. The rules-based world order works and if it’s going to work America must lead it.”

Also testing Washington’s relationship with its historic partners is the Israel-Hamas war. 

Israel faces accusations of genocide and possible arrest warrants in international court, leaving the country and its chief ally, the U.S., increasingly isolated on the global stage. They have both rejected the accusations.

Israel’s assault on the Gaza Strip has killed more than 36,000 people, according to local officials, and the Palestinian enclave needs $40 billion in postwar reconstruction — the largest since 1945 — the United Nations estimates. Meanwhile, eight decades since the Nazi murder of 6 million Jews, the deadly Oct. 7 attack and its aftermath have stirred fears of rising antisemitism in the U.S. and Europe.

And yet, amid the horror both historical and contemporary, there are shards of light here, among the hedgerows and headstones of mild-but-overcast northern France.

Terens, the D-Day radio operator, has traveled back here to get married, at the age of 100, to his 96-year-old fiancee Jeanne Swerlin.

“Love is not reserved for the young,” he said. “We need a little action ourselves.”

The pair met in 2021, and 40 family members have traveled over from the U.S. for their ceremony and parade June 8. Most poignant will be those not able to attend in person.

“I’m spiritual, and I came here to invite all those soldiers buried on Omaha Beach, 9,836 of them, to my wedding,” he said. “I’d like them to attend in spirit. And I want them to know that they’re not forgotten.”

Alexander Smith is a senior reporter for NBC News Digital based in London.

Peter Nicholas is a senior national political reporter for NBC News.

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• Fact Sheets

Fact Sheet: Presidential Proclamation to Suspend and Limit Entry and Joint DHS-DOJ Interim Final Rule to Restrict Asylum During High Encounters at the Southern Border

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration took decisive new action to strengthen border security, announcing a series of measures that restrict asylum eligibility, and significantly increase the consequences for those who enter without authorization across the southern border. These extraordinary steps, which will be in effect during times when high levels of encounters exceed our ability to deliver timely consequences, will make noncitizens who enter across the southern border ineligible for asylum with certain exceptions, raise the standard that is used to screen for certain protection claims, and speed up our ability to quickly remove those who do not qualify for protection.

These actions follow a series of steps that the Administration has taken over the past three years as it prepared for the end of the Title 42 public health Order, and since it was lifted last year, including surging personnel, infrastructure, and technology to the border, issuing the Circumvention of Lawful Pathways Rule, and referring record numbers of noncitizens into expedited removal. Over the past year, we have removed or returned more than three quarters of a million people, more than in any fiscal year since 2010. Despite these efforts, our outdated and broken immigration and asylum system, coupled with a lack of sufficient funding, make it impossible to quickly impose consequences on all noncitizens who cross irregularly and without a legal basis to remain in the United States.

The Administration has repeatedly called on Congress to provide the resources and legal authorities needed to secure our border. The measures announced today will better enable the Department to quickly remove individuals without a legal basis to remain in the United States, strengthening enforcement and change the calculus for those considering crossing our border irregularly. However, they are no substitute for Congressional action. We continue to call on Congress to provide the new tools and resources we have asked for to support the men and women on the frontlines.

President Biden issued a Presidential Proclamation to temporarily suspend the entry of noncitizens across the southern border. The Secretary of Homeland Security and the Attorney General also jointly issued an interim final rule that, consistent with the Proclamation, generally restricts asylum eligibility for those who irregularly enter across the southern border – including the Southwest land and the southern coastal borders. The rule also limits fear screenings to those who manifest a fear or express a desire to file for protection and heightens the screening standard for statutory withholding and claims under the Convention Against Torture. Taken together, these measures will significantly increase the speed and scope of consequences for those who cross our borders irregularly or who attempt to present themselves at Ports of Entry without authorization, allowing the Departments to more quickly remove individuals who do not establish a legal basis to remain in the United States. The restriction on asylum eligibility will be discontinued when encounters fall below certain levels but will come back into effect if encounters rise again.

The rule makes three key changes to current processing under Title 8 immigration authorities during periods of high border encounters:

• First, noncitizens who cross the southern border unlawfully or without authorization will generally be ineligible for asylum, absent exceptionally compelling circumstances and unless they are excepted by the Proclamation.
• Second, noncitizens who cross the southern border and are processed for expedited removal while the limitation is in effect will only be referred for a credible fear screening with an Asylum Officer if they manifest or express a fear of return to their country or country of removal, a fear of persecution or torture, or an intention to apply for asylum.  
• Third, the U.S. will continue to adhere to its international obligations and commitments by screening individuals who manifest a fear as noted above and do not qualify for an exception to the Rule for withholding of removal and Convention Against Torture protections at a reasonable probability of persecution or torture standard – a new, substantially higher standard than is currently applied under the Circumvention of Lawful Pathways rule.  

Like the Proclamation, the rule provides for an end to these enhanced measures following a sustained reduction in southern border encounters. Specifically, these measures are in effect until 14 calendar days after there has been a 7-consecutive-calendar-day average of less than 1,500 encounters between the ports of entry. The measures would again go into effect, or continue, as appropriate, when there has been a 7-consecutive-calendar-day average of 2,500 encounters or more.

During periods of high encounters, the Proclamation will apply across the southern border. Lawful permanent residents, unaccompanied children, victims of a severe form of trafficking, and other noncitizens with a valid visa or other lawful permission to enter the United States are excepted from the Proclamation.

In addition, the suspension and limitation on entry and rule will not apply to noncitizens who use a Secretary-approved process—such as the CBP One mobile app—to enter the United States at a port of entry in a safe and orderly manner or pursue another lawful pathway.

Noncitizens who cross the southern border and who are not excepted from the Proclamation will be ineligible for asylum unless exceptionally compelling circumstances exist, including if the noncitizen demonstrates that they or a member of their family with whom they are traveling:

• faced an acute medical emergency;
• faced an imminent and extreme threat to life or safety, such as an imminent threat of rape, kidnapping, torture, or murder; or
• satisfied the definition of “victim of a severe form of trafficking in persons” currently provided in 8 CFR 214.11.

Consequences

Noncitizens who are subject to the rule’s limitation on asylum eligibility and who manifest or express a fear of return to their country or country of removal, express a fear of persecution or torture or an intention to apply for asylum, but do not establish a reasonable probability of persecution or torture in the country of removal will be promptly removed.

Those ordered removed will be subject to at least a five-year bar to reentry and potential criminal prosecution.

The Proclamation and rule will significantly enhance the security of our border by increasing the Departments’ ability to impose swift consequences for individuals who cross the southern border irregularly and do not establish a legal basis to remain in the United States.  Together, the Proclamation and rule make critical changes to how the Departments operate during times when encounters are at historically high levels—levels that, in the absence of these changes, undermine the government’s ability to process individuals through the expedited removal process. These changes will enable the Departments to quickly return those without a lawful basis to stay in the United States and thereby free up the asylum system for those with legitimate claims.

These extraordinary measures are a stop gap. Even with these measures in place, the Departments continue to lack the authorities and resources needed to adequately support the men and women on the frontlines. The Administration again calls on Congress to take up and pass the bipartisan reforms proposed in the Senate, which provide the new authorities, personnel, and resources that are needed to address the historic global migration that is impacting countries throughout the world, including our own. Until Congress does its part, we will continue to take any actions needed under current law and within existing resources to secure the border.

• Border Security
• Immigration
• Biden-Harris Administration
• Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• Department of Justice (DOJ)