ratings

Category	Rating	Your Rating
atmosphere
culture
food
nightlife
scenery
tourism

Things to do in Lille

• Shop at Marché de Wazemmes

  
  

  The Marché de Wazemmes is one of Lille’s most vibrant markets, especially lively on Sunday mornings when it reaches its full energy and color. Located in the Wazemmes district around Place Nouvelle Aventure, this market is a favorite among locals rather than tourists, giving it an authentic and unfiltered feel. Stalls stretch across the square and nearby streets, offering a wide range of goods from fresh fruits and vegetables to North African spices and vintage clothing. The food section is particularly impressive, with an abundance of cheeses, meats, olives, and fresh bread, along with ready-to-eat options like crêpes and falafel.

  What makes the market stand out is its lively and multicultural atmosphere. The space is crowded and full of energy, with a mix of voices, music, and the scent of cooking food in the air. It offers a genuine reflection of the city's diversity and rhythm. Beyond the market itself, the surrounding neighborhood is worth exploring for its variety of bars and restaurants. The experience captures the dynamic spirit of Lille and offers a rewarding visit for those interested in local life.

  
  

• Vintage Lille: A Citroen 2CV Convertible Tour Experience

  
  

  Exploring Lille in a classic Citroën 2CV convertible adds a distinct charm to discovering the city. This small, iconic French car offers a memorable experience as you ride through Lille’s cobblestone streets with the roof open, weather permitting. Guided by a local expert, the tour provides stories, historical context, and interesting details along the route. Tour durations vary from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, allowing for a relaxed yet engaging way to admire the city’s architecture and landmarks while enjoying the character of this vintage vehicle.

  The 2CV is perfectly suited for navigating Lille’s narrow lanes, offering access to areas that are difficult to reach with larger transport. The ride itself is part of the appeal, with each bump in the road adding to the car’s authentic feel. Along the way, the guide points out places worth revisiting on foot and shares personal insights that help create a deeper connection with the surroundings. The small size of the car allows for a more intimate perspective of the cityscape.

  Some tours include thoughtful additions such as champagne, wine tastings, or local chocolate sampling, enhancing the overall experience. With space for up to three guests, the 2CV tour is a fitting choice for couples or small groups who want a unique and enjoyable introduction to Lille. The combination of nostalgic transport and personalized storytelling creates a tour that is both entertaining and informative.

  
  
  Powered by GetYourGuide

• Walking Through Time: Vieux Lille Historical Tour

  
  

  Walking through the cobbled streets of Vieux Lille offers a rich glimpse into the city's layered past. This two-hour guided tour leads you through the old quarter, where each stop reveals architectural beauty and historical significance. Highlights include the stately Palais Rihour, the vibrant main square, and the finely detailed Old Stock Exchange. The route also features the grand Opera House, the Flemish-style Chamber of Commerce, and the striking Notre-Dame de la Treille Cathedral, known for its blend of classical and modern elements.

  What sets this experience apart is the guide’s ability to weave together the city’s heritage through engaging stories and lesser-known facts. The influence of both French and Flemish culture is visible throughout the walk, from the ornate façades to the local customs still observed today. These insights help visitors see beyond the surface, making the tour as informative as it is visually rewarding.

  The group size remains small, allowing for personal interaction and space to ask questions along the way. The tour concludes near the Hospice Comtesse, a 13th-century structure founded by Jeanne de Flandre that now serves as a museum, showcasing objects that reflect Lille’s history. It is a thoughtful way to end a walk through a district that continues to preserve the character and legacy of the city.

  
  
  Powered by GetYourGuide

• Electric Bike Taxi Tour of Lille's Hidden Gems

  
  

  The electric bike taxi tour offers a relaxed and environmentally friendly way to discover Lille in just one hour. This open-air ride takes you through parts of the city that larger vehicles cannot access, allowing for close-up views of Lille’s architecture and historical landmarks. The route includes highlights such as the grand square, theater square, old Lille, the town hall, several belfries, and the fine arts museum, all while gliding through narrow streets at a comfortable pace.

  One of the key strengths of this tour is the personal touch provided by the drivers. They are well-informed about the city's history and culture, sharing stories that feel genuine rather than scripted. Their knowledge helps connect the landmarks to the broader narrative of Lille, making the tour both informative and enjoyable. The quiet nature of the electric bike also allows for a more peaceful and engaging way to explore the city.

  The flexibility of the tour adds to its appeal. At the end of the ride, your driver can drop you off wherever you prefer in the city center, whether that is your hotel, a café, or another site you would like to visit. It is a convenient option for those with limited time who still want to experience Lille’s atmosphere and character. The strong positive feedback from past participants reflects the quality and value of this experience.

  
  
  Powered by GetYourGuide

• Lille Food Tour: A Culinary Adventure

  
  

  This three-hour food tour through Lille offers a flavorful introduction to the city’s culinary scene, guided by a local expert. With a small group of no more than eight participants, the experience feels personal and engaging. Along the way, you will sample regional favorites such as Maroilles fries, known for their rich local cheese, as well as expertly prepared French burgers, charcuterie, cheeses, and traditional pastries. Each stop introduces a different aspect of Lille’s food culture, from savory snacks to sweet specialties like cream puffs, pralines, and macaroons.

  What sets the tour apart is the balance between food and cultural discovery. Guides such as Raphy are praised for sharing not only great places to eat but also interesting stories about Lille’s history and traditions as you walk between stops. The relaxed pace allows for real enjoyment at each location without feeling rushed. The route includes a variety of neighborhoods and venues that you might not find on your own, giving you a more complete picture of the city.

  Beyond tasting, the tour gives you a glimpse into everyday life in Lille through the lens of food. Starting at Au Chat Bleu, it leads you through picturesque streets while offering insight into local customs and flavors. Vegetarian options are available, so dietary preferences can be accommodated. With thoughtful planning and generous tastings, this tour combines the pleasure of eating with the experience of connecting to the city’s culture in an authentic and enjoyable way.

  
  
  Powered by GetYourGuide

• Lille City Tour: Convertible Bus Adventure

  
  

  Touring Lille by convertible coach offers a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the city's highlights in just 75 minutes. With an audio guide available in nine languages, the ride provides insight into Lille's transformation from its early history to its present-day neighborhoods. Notable stops include the Grand Place, where the iconic Goddess statue stands, the elegant Opera House, and the Chamber of Commerce with its striking design. The Town Hall and its towering belfry leave a strong impression, while views of the Citadel and Old Paris Gate reveal layers of the city’s past.

  This tour stands out for its efficient and well-planned route, allowing visitors to discover many of Lille’s landmarks without the need for extended walking. The open-top coach offers a comfortable setting, and the experience is particularly helpful for those new to the city or short on time. The route includes areas that may be difficult to find independently, giving a fuller picture of what Lille has to offer.

  The onboard audiovisual guide enhances the experience by providing historical and cultural context for each site along the way. It helps travelers connect more deeply with the city, offering background information that adds meaning to the visual impressions. Whether as an introduction or a relaxed alternative to walking tours, this ride makes discovering Lille both accessible and informative.

  
  
  Powered by GetYourGuide

• Relax in Parc de la Citadelle

  
  

  Parc de la Citadelle serves as a peaceful retreat within Lille, offering a welcome break from the pace of the city. The park surrounds a 17th-century star-shaped fortress designed by Vauban, whose military architecture appears across France. The blend of historic stonework and expansive greenery gives the area a calm and balanced atmosphere. Wide lawns provide space for picnics, and tree-lined paths invite visitors to jog or walk at a leisurely pace. The park also features a small, free zoo that houses species such as monkeys, red pandas, and rhinos, along with a charming amusement park designed for young children.

  Throughout the year, the landscape shifts in color and character. Spring brings bursts of blossoms from cherry and magnolia trees, while summer fills the lawns with people reading or sharing outdoor meals. In autumn, the changing leaves create vivid scenes of red, orange, and gold. Whether for a quiet walk, a family outing, or a morning run, the park’s atmosphere makes it easy to stay for hours. For those tracking exercise, the loop around the citadel offers a measured 2.5-kilometer path.

  
  

• Visit La Piscine Museum in Roubaix

  
  

  A short metro ride from central Lille brings you to La Piscine Museum in Roubaix, a unique cultural space housed within a restored Art Deco swimming pool from the 1930s. The former pool now serves as the centerpiece of the museum, where sculptures are thoughtfully arranged along the water’s edge, their reflections creating a tranquil and atmospheric setting. Original features such as the stained glass window and tiled walls remain intact, preserving the historic charm of the building while enhancing the viewing experience.

  The museum’s collection spans painting, ceramics, textiles, and fashion, with many pieces highlighting the region’s industrial heritage. Former changing rooms have been repurposed into intimate gallery spaces, offering visitors a close look at various artworks. The acoustics retain the echo of the original pool hall, adding a nostalgic element to the visit. La Piscine stands out for its creative reuse of space, offering a museum experience that is both visually captivating and rooted in local history.

  
  

• Explore Palais des Beaux-Arts

  
  

  The Palais des Beaux-Arts in Lille ranks among the largest art museums in France outside Paris and offers an impressive collection that spans centuries. Visitors can explore artworks from the Middle Ages through the 20th century, including pieces by renowned artists such as Rubens, Goya, Delacroix, and Monet. The museum presents a rich overview of European art history in a setting that feels spacious and uncrowded, making it an ideal place for those who appreciate art or are curious to learn more.

  The museum’s layout is thoughtfully arranged, guiding visitors naturally through different artistic periods. Housed in a grand 19th-century building that underwent renovations in the early 2000s, the space combines historical architecture with modern functionality. One of the highlights is the basement level, which features detailed relief maps of northern French cities once used for military planning. These models provide a fascinating visual record of urban design from past centuries. Whether or not you typically visit museums, the Palais des Beaux-Arts offers an experience that is both accessible and rewarding.

  
  

• Climb the Belfry of Lille

  
  

  The Belfry of Lille, part of the City Hall complex, stands as the tallest municipal building in France at 104 meters and holds UNESCO World Heritage status. Reaching the top involves climbing over a hundred steps before taking an elevator to the viewing platform, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Once there, visitors are treated to panoramic views across Lille and beyond, with visibility stretching to Belgium on clear days. Informative panels help identify key landmarks, offering a deeper understanding of the city's layout and architecture from above.

  Built in the 1930s, the Belfry features an Art Deco design with a striking red and white striped facade that makes it a distinctive feature on the skyline. Inside, a small exhibition details the building’s construction and the broader history of Lille. The experience is especially memorable at sunset, when the fading daylight gives way to the soft glow of city lights, adding a peaceful and reflective ending to the visit.

  
  

• Wander through the Old Quarter

  
  
  
  
  

  Vieux Lille is considered the most enchanting part of the city, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful Flemish-style buildings, and a variety of boutique shops. The district showcases a blend of French and Flemish architecture that reflects Lille’s rich cultural history. Walking through this area feels like stepping into another era, with its historic charm and carefully preserved facades offering a visual journey through time.

  The streets surrounding Rue de la Monnaie and Place Louise de Bettignies are especially scenic, where both locals and visitors gather at outdoor cafés to enjoy coffee or local beer. Independent shops line the area, offering everything from gourmet products to stylish clothing. The relaxed atmosphere encourages slow exploration, and a walk through the neighborhood reveals intricate architectural details above eye level that are easy to overlook. With its inviting streets and vibrant local life, Vieux Lille is a place where you can easily spend hours enjoying the surroundings.

  
  

Where to stay in Lille

Best hotels in Lille:

• B&B Hotel Lille Lillenium Eurasanté (budget hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  B&B Hotel Lille Lillenium Eurasanté is a modern and comfortable place to stay, offering spacious and well-kept rooms with air conditioning and free WiFi. The lobby has a relaxed atmosphere, featuring games and a coffee bar where guests can unwind. Since the hotel is fairly new, everything feels fresh and well-maintained.

  While it’s not right in the center of Lille, getting around is easy, with the main sights about a 25-minute scooter ride away. Secure parking is available, which is convenient for those traveling by car. The staff are welcoming and helpful, with many speaking English. Guests appreciate the breakfast buffet, which offers a variety of tasty options to start the day. With clean rooms, solid amenities, and a laid-back ambiance, this hotel is a great choice for those looking for a comfortable stay slightly outside the main tourist area.

  
  

• Les Cariatides (homestay)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Les Cariatides is a charming spot set in a lovely old building near Place de la République. The rooms may be compact, but they’re thoughtfully designed with kitchenettes that include everything needed for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a cozy atmosphere with all the essentials while being close to Lille’s key attractions.

  What truly sets this place apart is the warm hospitality of Patrizia, the welcoming host. She adds thoughtful touches like stocking the fridge with drinks and leaving out cookies and snacks for guests to enjoy. Always ready with local recommendations, she makes sure visitors get the most out of their time in Lille. The rooms, though not large, are clean, comfortable, and offer pleasant city views. With its convenient location and personal touch, Les Cariatides provides a memorable and inviting stay.

  
  

• L'Hermitage Gantois (luxury hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  L'Hermitage Gantois is a unique hotel set in a stunning 15th-century building that blends historic charm with modern comforts. The rooms are spacious and inviting, featuring thoughtful details like plush bathrobes and high-end toiletries. With its rich history and elegant design, the hotel offers a special experience for those visiting Lille.

  The location is ideal, just a short stroll from the main attractions in the Old Town. After a day of sightseeing, guests can unwind at the spa or take a dip in the indoor pool. The dining options are excellent, with a gourmet restaurant serving seasonal French cuisine and a relaxed brasserie for a more casual meal. In the evening, the piano bar is a perfect spot to enjoy a drink while soaking in the historic ambiance. With its blend of luxury and character, this hotel is a fantastic place to stay while exploring Lille.

  
  

• Boa Hotel (medium range hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  Boa Hotel in Lille is a chic and convenient place to stay, located just a short walk from the city's main train stations. The rooms have a sleek, modern design with cozy beds and thoughtful details like L'Occitane toiletries in the bathrooms. Whether you're in town for a quick visit or a longer stay, the stylish atmosphere adds a touch of comfort to your trip.

  Guests love the breakfast selection, which offers plenty of delicious options to start the day. The staff are known for their warm hospitality, always ready to assist with recommendations or any needs during your stay. After exploring the city, you can relax with a drink at the hotel bar. The central location makes it easy to walk to Lille’s top attractions, including the old town and opera house, while soundproofed rooms ensure a peaceful night’s rest despite being in a lively area.

  
  

Best hostels in Lille:

• The People (hostel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  The People in Lille is a stylish and welcoming hostel located in the city's Old Town. It offers a mix of dorms and private rooms, making it a great option for both solo travelers and groups. The bar downstairs is a great place to grab a drink and connect with fellow guests, creating a laid-back and social atmosphere.

  With a prime location, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the main square and many of Lille’s must-see attractions. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with privacy curtains on the bunks for added convenience. Guests can relax in the spacious common area or use the kitchen to prepare their own meals. The friendly staff are always happy to share recommendations on the best places to visit. If you're looking for a lively and affordable stay in Lille, this hostel is definitely worth considering.

  
  

• JOST Hostel Lille Centre (party hostel)

  
  
  
  
  
  book now on booking.com

  JOST Hostel Lille Centre is a lively and convenient place to stay in Lille, located just a short walk from the metro and the city's top sights. The atmosphere is energetic, especially in the food court and bar on the ground floor, where guests and locals gather to enjoy good food and drinks. Whether you're exploring during the day or unwinding in the evening, the social vibe makes it easy to connect with others.

  The hostel offers clean and comfortable dorms with pod-style beds that provide a bit of privacy, along with private rooms for those who prefer more space. The staff are welcoming and always happy to share tips on the best spots to visit. A highlight of staying at JOST is the delicious and varied breakfast, perfect for fueling up before a day of sightseeing. Whether traveling solo or with friends, this hostel is a fantastic base for discovering Lille.