Romantic Long Weekend: Lille, France Guide

Fall in love with the charming streets and cozy cafes of Lille, France.

22 April 2023

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.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival

  • Check into the charming Hotel Carlton in the heart of Lille
  • Head to La Vieille Bourse, a stunning 17th-century building for a leisurely walk
  • Visit Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, the second-largest museum in France with impressive art collections
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at Le Pain Quotidien and indulge in local specialties like Carbonnade Flamande
Day 2

Exploring the City

  • Start the day with a trip to Vieux-Lille, an enchanting district full of elegant facades and lovely cafés
  • Stroll through Parc de la Citadelle, a lush green oasis with scenic landscapes and a zoo
  • Visit La Piscine Museum, a unique venue housed in a former Art Deco swimming pool
  • Try some mouthwatering chocolate from chocolatier Frederic Blondeel
  • Cap off the day with a cozy dinner at L'Huitriere, known for its amazing seafood platters
Day 3

Day Trip to Bruges

  • Take a 50-minute train ride to the splendid Belgian town of Bruges
  • Admire the picturesque medieval architecture and explore the charming canals on a boat ride
  • Visit the famous Belfry Tower and climb the 366 steps for panoramic views of the city
  • Wander through Markt, the central square lined with enchanting restaurants and artisan markets
  • Have a romantic dinner at the elegant De Karmeliet, which boasts three Michelin stars
Day 4

Foodie Fun

  • Begin with a visit to Meert, a legendary patisserie known for its waffles and pastries
  • Go on a Les Nouveaux Fromagers cheese tasting and wine pairing adventure
  • Head to Wazemmes Market, one of the largest open-air markets in France, for a fascinating experience
  • Visit the trendy Bar Le Triporteur for a refreshing apéro and some delicious tapas
  • End the day with a dinner at L'Auberge du Vert Mont, with its farm-to-table philosophy and unique ambiance
Day 5

Departure

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Boulangerie Barbare, a small bakery with amazing bread and pastries
  • Take a scenic walk around the Citadel Gardens, with stunning views of the city and the old fortifications
  • Visit Maison Natale de Charles de Gaulle, the birthplace of the famous French leader
  • Shop for souvenirs at Les Tanneurs, a historic arcade full of quirky gift shops
  • Bid adieu to Lille and head home, reminiscing your romantic 5-day escape.

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

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.

Lille: A Delightful 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

A family-friendly trip to Lille, France offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment. Explore the charming streets of Vieux Lille, filled with colorful architecture and boutique shops, while indulging in delicious pastries at traditional French bakeries. Discover the city's rich art scene at the Palais des Beaux-Arts, the second-largest fine arts museum in France, and end your day by visiting Parc de la Citadelle, where kids can enjoy playgrounds, a zoo, and even boat rides on the lake.

The Ultimate 3-Day Lille Adventure!

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.

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.