Roubaix Revealed: 5 Days of Family-Friendly Fun

Unleash family adventure in Roubaix, France!

29 August 2023

Experience the charm of Roubaix, France on a family-friendly trip that offers both cultural and recreational activities. Discover the city’s rich textile heritage at the La Piscine Museum, which houses a collection of art and textiles in a converted Art Deco swimming pool. Make sure to also visit the Parc Barbieux, a picturesque park perfect for picnics and leisurely walks, complete with playgrounds and a small zoo for the little ones to enjoy.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Artistic Wonderland

  • Check into the charming Hotel de la Treille, a family-friendly gem nestled in the heart of Roubaix's historical center.
  • Start your artistic adventure at La Piscine Museum, housed in a former Art Deco swimming pool, showcasing a breathtaking collection of sculptures, textiles, and more.
  • Explore the maze-like passages of La Condition Publique, an old textile factory turned into a creative hub with art installations, pop-up shops, and vibrant events.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic Parc Barbieux, with its lush gardens, sparkling lakes, and charming swans.
  • Savor a delectable dinner at Le Pain Quotidien, a rustic-chic bakery-turned-restaurant offering wholesome dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Day 2

Bike Tales

  • Rent bikes from V' Lille, a bicycle-sharing service, and embark on an exciting ride along the famous Roubaix's cobblestoned streets, known for the thrilling Paris-Roubaix cycling race.
  • Make a pit stop at the iconic Roubaix Velodrome, where cycling legends have pedaled to victory, and catch a glimpse of upcoming races.
  • Visit the fascinating Manufacture des Flandres, a preserved textile factory showcasing Roubaix's industrial heritage, including vintage machines and interactive exhibits.
  • Satiate your hunger at L'Atelier des Flandres, a cozy bistro offering delicious Flemish specialties like carbonnade flamande and moules-frites.
  • End the day at the eclectic L'Imaginaire, a quirky bookstore worthy of any bookworm's dreams, where you can lose yourself in a world of literature and imagination.
Day 3

Retail Therapy

  • Spend a morning browsing through the treasure trove of bargains at the sprawling La Grand-Place Mall, which offers a diverse range of fashion, electronics, and homeware stores.
  • Indulge in a well-deserved break at the charming Cafe Emilie, a cozy spot serving delightful pastries and aromatic coffees.
  • Unleash your inner fashionista at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, where you can shop till you drop, discovering fabulous designer deals amidst a chic and glamorous setting.
  • Discover the hidden rooftop garden of Eglise Saint-Martin, a serene retreat away from the bustling streets, boasting stunning panoramic views of Roubaix.
  • Relish a mouthwatering meal at Les Sales Gosses, a trendy eatery that serves inventive European cuisine with a playful twist, perfect for both kids and adults.
Day 4

Exploring Nature

  • Embark on a family-friendly excursion to the enchanting Jean Stablinski Forest, a nature lover's paradise with winding trails, enchanting wildlife, and peaceful picnic spots.
  • Discover the fascinating La Cave aux Coquillages, a unique museum dedicated to seashells and marine life, where you can journey through the wonders of the ocean depths.
  • Visit the stunning Parc de la Mairie, a picturesque green oasis boasting vibrant flower beds, duck-filled ponds, and a charming carousel that takes visitors back in time.
  • Tantalize your taste buds at the quaint La Dolce Vita, a renowned Italian trattoria serving authentic pizzas and heavenly pasta dishes.
  • Treat yourselves to a well-deserved family movie night at the historic Le Duplexe Cinema, showcasing a diverse selection of international and art-house films.
Day 5

Cultural Immersion

  • Begin your day with a visit to the Roubaix National Higher School of Visual Arts, where you can admire the works of talented young artists and perhaps even catch an interactive exhibition.
  • Dive into the vibrant world of contemporary art at La Villa Cavrois, an architectural masterpiece designed by the legendary Le Corbusier, with its stunning gardens and thought-provoking exhibits.
  • Discover the rich history of Roubaix at the intriguing Croix-Roubaix Memorial Museum, where the fascinating tales of brave resistance fighters come to life.
  • Feast on a delightful lunch at Chez Hop', a charming bistro known for its inventive fusion cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Bid adieu to Roubaix with a sweet treat from the renowned Pâtisserie Majerus, where you can indulge in exquisite pastries and cakes for the perfect end to your family-friendly trip.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Roubaix by plane is to fly into Lille Airport (LIL) and then take a taxi or bus to Roubaix.

Car

Driving to Roubaix is convenient, and you can take the A22 motorway from Lille or Brussels, following the signs to Roubaix. The estimated travel time by car is around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Train

To reach Roubaix by train, you can take a high-speed train (TGV) to Lille Europe Station and then transfer to a regional train to Roubaix Station.

Boat

As Roubaix is an inland city, there are no direct boat routes. However, you can consider traveling by boat to nearby ports such as the Port of Dunkirk or the Port of Calais and then continue the journey to Roubaix by train or car.

Bus

Taking a bus to Roubaix is possible by using Eurolines or Flixbus services, which offer routes to Lille. From Lille, you can then take a local bus or train to Roubaix.

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