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Lille in 4 Days: Art, Beer, and Escapes

Discover the charm of Lille, a vibrant and historic city in the heart of Europe.

22 April 2023

As a tourist visiting Lille, you can experience a mix of French and Flemish cultures through its architecture, food, and art. Visit the iconic Palais des Beaux-Arts museum, explore the charming old town, eat delicious waffles and chocolate, and sip on some local beer while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Lille is a great destination for a weekend break or as a starting point for exploring the nearby Belgian cities.

Travel plan

• Check-in at the Hotel Carlton, a charming historic hotel in the heart of Lille's old town
• Get lost in the winding streets of Vieux-Lille, lined with brightly colored buildings and cute boutiques
• Visit the stunning Notre-Dame de la Treille Cathedral, with its unique blend of Gothic and contemporary architecture
• Stop for lunch at La Cave aux Fioles, a cozy wine bar with fabulous charcuterie boards
• Treat yourself to a famous gaufre from Meert, a legendary patisserie known for its delicious waffles

• Start your day at La Piscine, a former art deco swimming pool turned museum with an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and textiles
• Have lunch at Le Pain Quotidien, a cute bakery-café perfect for a quick bite before the next stop
• Stroll through the Museum of Fine Arts, housed in a beautiful 18th-century palace and featuring masterpieces from Rubens, Goya, and Delacroix
• Walk to the nearby Tripostal, an industrial warehouse turned contemporary art center with temporary exhibitions and a trendy bar
• End your day with dinner at Le Bloempot, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving innovative French cuisine in a chic atmosphere

• Start your morning at the Wazemmes Market, a lively open-air market selling everything from fresh produce to vintage clothing
• Head to La Vieille Bourse, a beautiful old stock exchange building now housing a collection of antique books and vinyl records
• Take a tour of the La Choulette brewery, a family-owned business producing traditional regional beers
• Have lunch at l'Assiette du Marché, a charming bistro where the menu changes daily based on the freshest ingredients
• In the afternoon, visit the Citadel of Lille, a massive fortified complex built under the reign of Louis XIV
• Grab a drink at Le Dandy, a cozy cocktail bar with a retro vibe and friendly bartenders

• Take a short train ride to the Parc Mosaïc, a stunning botanical garden with over 500,000 plants and sculptures
• Have a picnic on the lush lawns or enjoy some tea at the charming tea house
• Walk through the Bois de Boulogne, a peaceful forest with walking trails and picnic areas
• Head back to Lille for lunch at L'atelier des Augustins, a trendy restaurant with an ever-changing menu focused on seasonal ingredients
• Spend your last hours in Lille shopping for souvenirs at the stylish shops of Rue Esquermoise or relaxing at the hotel's spa before departing.