Adventures in Lille: Family Fun on a Budget

Discover the charm of Lille, where your family adventure begins!

19 July 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Bonjour Lille! Exploring the Historic Center

  • Check into Hotel Carlton, a charming family-friendly hotel in the heart of the city
  • Stroll around the Vieille Bourse, a stunning 17th-century stock exchange building with a lovely courtyard full of book market stalls
  • Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts, an art museum boasting masterpieces from Delacroix, Rubens, and Rembrandt
  • Savor a delectable lunch at La Chicorée, a cozy brasserie serving traditional Flemish cuisine, including mouthwatering carbonade flamande
  • Wander through the charming streets of Vieux Lille and admire the striking architecture and quirky boutiques
  • Indulge in a heavenly scoop of ice cream from Gelato Gusto before heading back to the hotel
Day 2

Parks, Gardens, and Chocolate Delights

  • Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at Hotel Novotel Lille Centre and get ready for a day of greenery
  • Visit Parc de la Citadelle, a picturesque park perfect for picnics, boat rides, and even a zoo for the little ones
  • Discover Jardin des Géants, a whimsical garden with oversized sculptures that will make you feel like you've entered a magical world
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth at Meert, a legendary pastry shop known for its delectable waffles and exquisite chocolates
  • Explore the Natural History Museum, home to fascinating exhibits and an impressive collection of fossils from the region
  • Relax in Jardin Vauban, a peaceful oasis with stunning views of Lille's skyline, before retiring for the night
Day 3

History, Shopping, and Waffles Galore

  • Embark on a voyage through history at the Lille City Museum, housed in a former hospice with artifacts dating back to ancient times
  • Get lost in the vibrant streets of Wazemmes, home to the city's largest market where you can find everything from fresh produce to vintage treasures
  • Sample the irresistible gaufres from Aux Merveilleux de Fred, delicate waffles with a cloud-like texture and a sprinkle of sweetness
  • Explore the striking Saint-Maurice church and admire its beautiful stained glass windows
  • Take a break at La Cave aux Fioles, a charming café with a quirky decor that will transport you back in time
  • End the day with a delicious dinner at Le Barbier qui Fume, a family-friendly restaurant serving mouthwatering Flemish specialties
Day 4

Art and Waffles, the Perfect Combo

  • Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at Boulangerie Méert, famous for its buttery croissants and freshly baked bread
  • Visit La Piscine Museum, a former art deco swimming pool turned into an enchanting museum showcasing art and fashion
  • Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the citadel's ramparts, offering panoramic views of the city
  • Indulge in a savory gaufre salée at Chez La Vieille, a cozy eatery famous for their savory waffles topped with scrumptious toppings like smoked salmon and goat cheese
  • Explore LAM (Lille Métropole Museum of Modern, Contemporary and Outsider Art), an offbeat museum with an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artworks
  • Bid au revoir to Lille with a final treat, a warm gaufre Liégeoise from Maison Méert, gooey and irresistible! Bon voyage!

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

Romantic Long Weekend: Lille, France Guide

Lille, France is perfect for a romantic getaway with its picturesque cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and captivating architecture. Immerse in the French culture with a visit to the stunning Palais des Beaux-Arts, savor delightful French cuisine at numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, and stroll hand-in-hand through the stunning Parc de la Citadelle. Experience the magic of Lille with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and exquisite charm.

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.

Lively Lille: A Romantic Day Trip Guide

A romantic trip to Lille, France promises a charming escape from modern life with its authentic Flemish belle-époque architecture and cobblestone streets. This vibrant northern city is a perfect destination for a romantic break, providing everything from artisanal chocolatiers to candlelit dinners in its many Michelin-starred restaurants. Visit Lille's iconic Grand Place, explore local antique markets, and take a stroll through the picturesque streets, making unforgettable memories with your loved one.

Bonjour, Lille! A Fun-Filled Family Adventure

Lille, France, is a great destination for a family-friendly trip. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and welcoming locals, this charming city offers a wide range of activities and attractions suitable for all ages. From exploring the historic Old Town to visiting interactive museums and enjoying delicious local cuisine, Lille provides a delightful experience for the whole family.