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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Bonjour Lille!

  • 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
Day 2

Art Delight

  • 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
Day 3

From Antiques to Beer

  • 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
Day 4

Green Escape

  • 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.

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

Experience Lille's Charm: A Day Trip Guide

Lille is a charming and historic city in the north of France, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets and colorful markets of the Old Town, wander through world-class museums, and indulge in some of the region's famous cuisine and wine. From art lovers to history buffs to foodies, there's something for everyone in Lille.

Lively Lille: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Escape

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.

2 Days of Family Fun in Lille, France

Lille, France is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a blend of history, culture, and entertainment. Explore the charming streets of the old town, visit the impressive Palais des Beaux-Arts museum, and enjoy a picnic in one of the beautiful parks. Children will be delighted by the interactive exhibits at the LaM (Lille Métropole Museum of Modern, Contemporary, and Outsider Art), making Lille an unforgettable destination for the whole family.

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.