Lively Long Weekend: Discovering Lille in 3 Days

Experience French charm in Lille, a city of historic beauty and modern flair.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Lille, visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of northern France with its gothic architecture and picturesque cobblestone streets. The city's bustling markets offer a unique blend of French and Flemish cultures, providing an authentic taste of the region's vibrant food and drink scene. With a plethora of museums, galleries, and theaters, Lille offers plenty of entertainment options to suit all tastes.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

The Best of Lille

  • Stay at the charming Hotel Carlton, just a stone's throw from the historic center of Lille
  • Start your day with a traditional French breakfast at La Patisserie, a cozy bakery with mouth-watering pastries
  • Visit the impressive Palace of Fine Arts, home to an impressive collection of art and sculptures
  • Stroll through the atmospheric streets of the Old Town, filled with lovely boutiques, cafes, and restaurants
  • Stop by Aux Merveilleux de Fred to try one of their famous "merveilleux" sweet treats
  • Grab a beer or two at Le Barbier qui Fume, a trendy bar with an extensive selection of local and international brews
  • Indulge in a delicious dinner at La Poke Bowl, a hip restaurant serving healthy and tasty poke bowls
Day 2

A Day of Culture and Relaxation

  • Spend a leisurely morning at the hotel's spa, treating yourself to a relaxing massage or facial
  • Explore the fascinating LaM (Lille Museum of Modern, Contemporary and Outsider Art) for an unparalleled insight into modern art
  • Take a stroll in the Jardin Botanique Nicolas Boulay, which boasts over 4000 plant species
  • Head to Rue de Gand, a street famous for its excellent restaurants, and enjoy a hearty lunch at Estaminet Au Vieux de la Vieille
  • Discover Lille's rich brewing history at La Brasserie du Singe Savant, a microbrewery where you can sample their delicious beers
  • Treat yourself to a final dinner at Le Pain Quotidien, a cozy bakery-restaurant which serves fresh, organic, and vegan cuisine.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Lille, France by plane is to fly into Lille Airport (LIL) from major international airports such as London Heathrow, Amsterdam Schiphol or Paris Charles de Gaulle.

Car

If driving, the best way to get to Lille from Paris is to take the A1 motorway towards Lille. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and there are tolls along the way.

Train

If travelling by train, take the Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Lille Europe Station. This journey takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Lille as it is an inland city. The closest port is Calais, which is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.

Bus

There are several bus companies that operate routes from major cities in Europe to Lille. FlixBus and Eurolines are popular options.

Destination

Lille

If Paris had a quirky little sister, Lille would be it. This charming city may be lesser known, but don't let that fool you - it's packed with art, culture, and some seriously amazing food.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Adventures in Lille: Family Fun on a Budget

Lille, France offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its rich history, vibrant culture, and numerous attractions suitable for all ages. Visit the famous Palais des Beaux-Arts museum, treat the kids to a fun-filled day at the zoo, and explore the charming streets of Vieux Lille where you can indulge in delicious local cuisine. With its welcoming atmosphere and various activities, Lille is the perfect destination for an unforgettable family adventure.

Escape for a Romantic 2-Day Getaway to Lille

: Lille, France offers the perfect backdrop for a romantic trip with its picturesque streets, charming cafes and historic architecture. Whether strolling through the old town, sharing a bottle of wine in a cozy bistro, or discovering the city's impressive art scene, Lille promises to create unforgettable memories for any couple. From its romantic atmosphere to its delicious cuisine, Lille is the ultimate destination for a romantic escape.

5 Days of Fun: Lively Lille Travel Guide

Lille is a charming city in Northern France that offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Visitors can stroll through the historic Old Town with its picturesque cobblestoned streets, marvel at the ornate Gothic architecture of the Notre-Dame de la Treille Cathedral, and indulge in some of the finest French cuisine in the city's many restaurants and cafés. Additionally, Lille is home to several world-class museums, including the Palais des Beaux-Arts and the LaM contemporary art museum, making it an ideal destination for culture vultures.

Live on a budget and love Lille!

Lille, France is a charming city with plenty to offer for those on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the historic architecture of the Old Town, wander through the vibrant local markets, and indulge in delicious French cuisine at affordable prices. For accommodations, hostels and budget hotels are readily available, making it easy to enjoy all that Lille has to offer without breaking the bank.