Lively Lille: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Escape

Experience the charm of Lille without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Lille on a limited budget is perfect for travelers who want to experience the charm of the French countryside without breaking the bank. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, rich history, and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore the local markets, museums, and parks while still saving money on accommodation and food.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Lille

  • Start the day right with some delicious pastries and coffee from Aux Merveilleux de Fred.
  • Head to the Palais des Beaux-Arts for a dose of culture and art. The museum houses an impressive collection of European art.
  • Wander around the old town and soak in the traditional architecture. Stop by the Notre-Dame De La Treille Cathedral for breathtaking views.
  • Visit the Citadel Park and enjoy a leisurely walk while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
  • It's time for some shopping at Rue De Bethune. Browse through the boutiques and grab some souvenirs to take back home.
  • Stay at the Hotel Balladins Lille, which offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
Day 2

Foodie Heaven in Lille

  • Start the day with a warm bowl of moules-frites from Aux Moules restaurant. The dish is a local speciality and is perfectly paired with beer.
  • Visit the Hospice Comtesse Museum, an ancient hospital turned museum that depicts life in Lille from the 13th to the 17th century.
  • For lunch, indulge in some hearty tarte au Maroilles, a traditional cheese tart, from Le P'tit Boujou restaurant.
  • Head to the Vieux-Lille neighbourhood and explore the street art scene.
  • End your day with some delicious waffles from Meert, a charming patisserie that offers a range of desserts.
  • Stay at the Hotel Brueghel, located in the heart of the city and close to all major attractions.
  • Lille is a charming city with plenty of history, culture and food to offer. Enjoy your time here and soak in the Flemish culture. Au revoir!

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.

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A trip to Lille, France as a tourist offers a mixture of old-world charm and cosmopolitan flair. The historic city is known for its culture, architecture, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore museums, wander through the cobblestone streets, sample delicious French cuisine, and soak up the local vibe.

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Travel to Lille, France on a limited budget and explore its beautiful architecture, culture and cuisine. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or budget hotels and try local street food like frites and waffles. Experience the city's rich history and vibrant nightlife through free or low-cost activities such as exploring the Old Town, visiting museums, and enjoying a pint at one of the many student bars.

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