A Day in Lille: Exploring the Delights of France

Uncover Lille's charm together on a family adventure!

19 July 2023

Lille, France, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for a family trip. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of Vieux Lille, where you'll find picturesque architecture, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. Explore the interactive exhibits at the Palais des Beaux-Arts or head to the sprawling Jardin Vauban park for picnicking and playtime, ensuring an enjoyable and enriching experience for the whole family.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Charms of Lille

  • Start your day by indulging in a delightful French breakfast at La Patisserie du Coin, where the aroma of freshly baked croissants will transport you to pastry heaven.
  • Lace up your walking shoes and stroll through the charming streets of Vieux Lille, admiring the elegant architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Venture into the Palais des Beaux-Arts, a majestic art museum boasting masterpieces by Rubens, Monet, and Van Gogh – even art enthusiasts with the most discerning taste will be left in awe.
  • Treat your taste buds to a mouthwatering lunch at Les Compagnons de la Grappe, a cozy bistro serving up delectable regional dishes that will leave you wanting seconds (or thirds!).
  • Climb to the top of the enchanting Belfry of Lille, taking in panoramic views of the city's rooftops and picturesque squares – the perfect Instagram-worthy moment.
  • Round off the day with a visit to La Braderie, an annual flea market that transforms the city into a bargain hunter's paradise. From vintage treasures to quirky trinkets, you're sure to find something unique to take home.

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

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Lively Lille: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Escape

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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.