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

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.

Live on a budget and love Lille!

Lille, France is a charming city with plenty to offer for those on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the historic architecture of the Old Town, wander through the vibrant local markets, and indulge in delicious French cuisine at affordable prices. For accommodations, hostels and budget hotels are readily available, making it easy to enjoy all that Lille has to offer without breaking the bank.

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.

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.