The Ultimate 3-Day Lille Adventure!

Discover the charm of Northern France in Lille, the city of art, culture, and gastronomy.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Bonjour, Lille!

  • Check-in at the stylish and well-equipped Hotel Carlton, located in the heart of the city center.
  • Grab a coffee and a croissant at one of Lille's charming cafés, such as Meert or Les 3 Brasseurs.
  • Visit the impressive Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest museums in France.
  • Stroll around the picturesque Old Town, with its colorful buildings, cobbled streets, and numerous shops and boutiques.
  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Aux Moules, a traditional seafood restaurant where mussels are the star of the show.
Day 2

Art & Culture

  • Take a guided tour of the La Piscine Museum in nearby Roubaix, housed in an old Art Deco swimming pool.
  • Explore the trendy Wazemmes district, with its vibrant street art, lively markets, and diverse cuisine options.
  • Visit the Hospice Comtesse Museum, a former hospital turned museum that offers a glimpse into Lille's medieval past.
  • Attend a performance at the grand Opéra de Lille, known for its exceptional acoustics and eclectic repertoire.
  • Enjoy a nightcap at L'Imaginaire, a cozy bar that offers a wide range of cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere.
Day 3

Green Lille

  • Visit the beautiful Jardin des Plantes, a botanical garden that dates back to the 18th century.
  • Rent a bike and explore the stunning Citadelle Park, a vast green space that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
  • Have a picnic or a barbecue by the lakeside at the Parc de la Deûle, a peaceful and picturesque park on the outskirts of the city.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Deûle river, which winds its way through the heart of Lille.
  • Sample some of the delicious local specialties, such as gaufres (waffles), Maroilles cheese, and beer from one of the city's many craft breweries.

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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