Heart of Lille: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Experience French culture without breaking the bank in Lille, the budget-friendly gem of northern France.

21 June 2023

Travel to Lille, France on a limited budget and explore its beautiful architecture, culture and cuisine. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or budget hotels and try local street food like frites and waffles. Experience the city's rich history and vibrant nightlife through free or low-cost activities such as exploring the Old Town, visiting museums, and enjoying a pint at one of the many student bars.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Discovering the Heart of Lille

  • Start the day early with a stroll to the Old Town area, where you can explore the charming cobbled streets and quaint cafes.
  • Take a visit to the Palais des Beaux-Arts for some art and history. The museum is one of the largest in France and has a collection of over 22,000 works of art.
  • Treat your taste buds with some classic French cuisine at Chez La Vieille, a local favorite for traditional rustic dishes and regional specialties.
  • Explore the local markets on Rue de la Grande Chaussée. Here you'll find fresh ingredients, regional specialties, and other unique local products.
  • Visit the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral, another must-see attraction in Lille. The Gothic architecture and intricate details are sure to impress.
  • End the day with a relaxing stroll around the Vauban Gardens, where you can catch the sunset and enjoy stunning views of the city.

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

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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