• Countries
• France
• Lille

5 Days of Fun: Lively Lille Travel Guide

Discover the charming and vibrant city of Lille, where French and Flemish cultures meet.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

• Check into your charming hotel, the Hotel Carlton, located in the heart of the city.
• Take a stroll around the historic Old Town, with its cobbled streets and colorful Flemish-style buildings.
• Admire the ornate façade of the Grand Place, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe.
• Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts, which houses an impressive collection of art from the 15th century to the present day.
• Treat yourself to a delicious tea and pastry at Meert, a famous patisserie dating back to 1761.

• Start your day with a coffee and croissant at La P'tite Table, a charming café in the Old Town.
• Join a food tour with Flavors of Lille and taste local specialties like Maroilles cheese, waffles, and beer.
• Visit the Marché de Wazemmes, a bustling market where you can sample fresh produce and regional delicacies.
• Have lunch at Aux Moules, a casual seafood restaurant famous for its moules-frites (mussels and fries).
• In the evening, head to La Part des Anges, a trendy wine bar in the city center.

• Explore the Citadel of Lille, a vast military fortress built by Vauban in the 17th century.
• Learn about the textile industry and its impact on the city at the Musée de l'Industrie, housed in a former factory.
• Visit La Piscine, a unique museum of art and industry located in a beautifully restored Art Deco swimming pool.
• Walk through the Jardin des Géants, a whimsical garden featuring giant sculptures and topiaries.
• Have dinner at Bloempot, a cozy bistro renowned for its inventive cuisine and friendly service.

• Take a train to Bruges, a picturesque medieval town in Belgium known for its canals, chocolate, and beer.
• Visit the Champagne region and go on a tour of the cellars and vineyards of prestigious brands like Moët & Chandon.
• Spend the day in Ghent, another beautiful Flemish city with a castle, a cathedral, and a vibrant student scene.
• Explore the Battlefields of Flanders, where some of the deadliest battles of World War I took place.
• Return to Lille and have a traditional Flemish dinner at Chez la Vieille.

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and say goodbye to the friendly staff.
• Visit the LaM, a modern art museum located in a verdant park on the outskirts of the city.
• Pick up some souvenirs at the boutiques and specialty shops of Rue Esquermoise and Rue de la Monnaie.
• Have a final lunch at Le Pain Quotidien, a cozy bakery and café where you can indulge in fresh bread and pastries.
• Depart from Lille with fond memories of its charm, culture, and cuisine.