Things to do in Lille

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Photo provided by © ATOUT FRANCE/Michel Angot
Photo provided by © ATOUT FRANCE/Corey Littlefair
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Photo provided by © ATOUT FRANCE/Eric Larrayadieu
Photo provided by © ATOUT FRANCE/Eric Larrayadieu

Lille Attractions

For many centuries, Lille—the capital of the Hauts-de-France region in northern France—has been overlooked as one of the country’s major cities. However, Lille has undergone a renaissance in recent years, and the once-gritty industrial destination now shines with a mix of 17th-century architecture, world-renowned museums, incredible culinary offerings, and a vibrant nightlife scene driven by a large student population. The historic center of the city is marked by elegant palaces, cobblestone squares, and flamboyant Flemish townhouses. Across the city’s plazas and luxurious parks, events take place throughout the year, including the Lille Christmas Market, the Lille Piano Festival, and the Grande Braderie flea market, which attracts millions of visitors each September with more than 10,000 vendors covering 62 miles (100 km) of road. Thanks to transportation options including the Eurostar and the TGV train, Lille has become a popular destination for weekend getaways from Paris, Brussels, and London.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Lille

Divided into 10 primary neighborhoods, the majority of Lille’s attractions can be found in the north and central parts of the city.

Vieux-Lille — Sitting in the north end of town, Vieux-Lille—or Old Lille—is made up of the oldest streets in the city. Brick townhomes and colorful hotels reveal the Flemish soul of the city, and you may feel as if you’re wandering through a Belgian neighborhood rather than a French one. Here, find landmarks including the childhood home of Charles de Gaulle, the eye-catching Notre Dame de la Treille, and the Hospice Comtesse Museum, housing furniture and art from the 17th and 18th centuries. In the south end of the district, quaint restaurants and quirky cafes line the streets of Gand, Monnaie, and Basse, while the north end boasts trendy bars on and around Rue Saint-André. Place du Général de Gaulle, known locally as Place Grand, connects the border of Vieux-Lille to Lille-Centre, and features the Renaissance Old Stock exchange and Théâtre du Nord.

Lille-Centre — To the south of Vieux-Lille, Lille-Centre is the commercial and cultural hub of the city, boasting the largest number of Lille’s hotels, a large cluster of boutiques and shopping malls, and both the Fine Arts Museum and the Natural History Museum of Lille. Gare Saint Sauveur, an old cargo station, is a cultural center hosting art exhibits, concerts, movies, and family-friendly events, many that are free to the public. At night, the area around Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino thrives with restaurants and bars ranging from upscale French to inexpensive international eats.

Esquermes — To the west of Vieux-Lille sits Esquermes, a district in which you’ll find Citadel Park, a sprawling green space surrounded by water and the largest park in the city. Spanning over 170 acres (70 ha), the site features a star-shaped fortress, an amusement park for kids, and a free-to-the-public zoo that houses around 500 mammals, reptiles, and birds. Just south of the park across the river, 19th-century Vauban Garden has English-style lawns, a grotto with a waterfall, and trails for walking and biking.

Wazemmes — To the southwest of Lille-Centre, Wazemmes is an eclectic neighborhood with an ethnically diverse population—an area where students, artists, and immigrants from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East live harmoniously side by side. Jules Guesde and Sarrazins streets are lined with restaurants, bakeries, and shops, many of which are owned by and cater to these different groups. Of the neighborhood’s draws, the most popular is undoubtedly the covered market and adjacent outdoor market, where locals flock on Sunday mornings to buy fresh pastries, produce, and flowers.

What to See in Lille

Once you’ve explored the streets of Lille, you can see the city from a new perspective from the top of City Hall. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, the historic monument soars to the height of 340 feet (104 m) above the city. With an audio-guide to provide commentary along the way, begin an ascent up 100 steps inside the tower. Once you’ve conquered the stairs, you can choose to take an elevator the rest of the way or finish the climb on foot. Upon arrival at the top, you’re met with unencumbered views of Lille that stretch in all directions. Gaze down at the old Flemish architecture, the contemporary concert hall, and, on a clear day, all the way to the misty mountains of Flanders.

Sightseeing in Lille

Visit all of Lille’s must-see landmarks and cultural institutions with the Lille City Pass. Taking advantage of unlimited use of public transportation, gain admission to sites across the city such as the Fine Arts Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Birthplace of Charles de Gaulle. Explore at your own pace while enjoying discounts at restaurants, shops, and additional attractions.

If you prefer to see the city with an expert, cruise around town with a private chauffeur. In a vintage Citroen 2CV, sit back and relax as your driver leads you through the streets to the most significant sites in the historic center. After your tour, make a stop at a shop to sample authentic food from the region, including beer, liqueur, candy, waffles, and other locally made creations.

To immerse yourself even further in the culinary delights of northern France, embark on a tasting tour of Vieux-Lille. With a menu of delicacies designed to introduce you to the traditions of the region, pop into eateries ranging from classic cafes and shops to modern bakeries and bars. Tuck into an age-old favorite known as potjevleesch, learn about the various cheeses that are made nearby, and sink your teeth into chocolate and pastries at an 18th-century candy shop.


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What to do in Lille

Free Things to Do in Lille

Leave your wallet in the hotel. It's easy to amuse yourself in Lille without spending a cent.

Le Musee de la Maison Natale de Charles de Gaulle - Loaded with artifacts and displays, this gallery is heaven for minds that thirst for knowledge.

Old Stock Exchange - Get ready to feel like you've stepped back in time while exploring this historic site.

Lille Grand Square - Meet some local residents and seek out the real personality and spirit of this wonderful place.

La Grande Braderie de Lille - Widely recognized among those who live here, this place is worth exploring.

Saint-Étienne Church - Spend a moment in prayer or meditation at this respected religious site.

Henri Matisse Park - Organize a picnic date and enjoy a relaxing stroll around the trees and shrubs.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Lille

Divided into 10 primary neighborhoods, the majority of Lille’s attractions can be found in the north and central parts of the city.

Vieux-Lille — Sitting in the north end of town, Vieux-Lille—or Old Lille—is made up of the oldest streets in the city. Brick townhomes and colorful hotels reveal the Flemish soul of the city, and you may feel as if you’re wandering through a Belgian neighborhood rather than a French one. Here, find landmarks including the childhood home of Charles de Gaulle, the eye-catching Notre Dame de la Treille, and the Hospice Comtesse Museum, housing furniture and art from the 17th and 18th centuries. In the south end of the district, quaint restaurants and quirky cafes line the streets of Gand, Monnaie, and Basse, while the north end boasts trendy bars on and around Rue Saint-André. Place du Général de Gaulle, known locally as Place Grand, connects the border of Vieux-Lille to Lille-Centre, and features the Renaissance Old Stock exchange and Théâtre du Nord.

Lille-Centre — To the south of Vieux-Lille, Lille-Centre is the commercial and cultural hub of the city, boasting the largest number of Lille’s hotels, a large cluster of boutiques and shopping malls, and both the Fine Arts Museum and the Natural History Museum of Lille. Gare Saint Sauveur, an old cargo station, is a cultural center hosting art exhibits, concerts, movies, and family-friendly events, many that are free to the public. At night, the area around Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino thrives with restaurants and bars ranging from upscale French to inexpensive international eats.

Esquermes — To the west of Vieux-Lille sits Esquermes, a district in which you’ll find Citadel Park, a sprawling green space surrounded by water and the largest park in the city. Spanning over 170 acres (70 ha), the site features a star-shaped fortress, an amusement park for kids, and a free-to-the-public zoo that houses around 500 mammals, reptiles, and birds. Just south of the park across the river, 19th-century Vauban Garden has English-style lawns, a grotto with a waterfall, and trails for walking and biking.

Wazemmes — To the southwest of Lille-Centre, Wazemmes is an eclectic neighborhood with an ethnically diverse population—an area where students, artists, and immigrants from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East live harmoniously side by side. Jules Guesde and Sarrazins streets are lined with restaurants, bakeries, and shops, many of which are owned by and cater to these different groups. Of the neighborhood’s draws, the most popular is undoubtedly the covered market and adjacent outdoor market, where locals flock on Sunday mornings to buy fresh pastries, produce, and flowers.

What to See in Lille

Once you’ve explored the streets of Lille, you can see the city from a new perspective from the top of City Hall. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, the historic monument soars to the height of 340 feet (104 m) above the city. With an audio-guide to provide commentary along the way, begin an ascent up 100 steps inside the tower. Once you’ve conquered the stairs, you can choose to take an elevator the rest of the way or finish the climb on foot. Upon arrival at the top, you’re met with unencumbered views of Lille that stretch in all directions. Gaze down at the old Flemish architecture, the contemporary concert hall, and, on a clear day, all the way to the misty mountains of Flanders.

Sightseeing in Lille

Visit all of Lille’s must-see landmarks and cultural institutions with the Lille City Pass. Taking advantage of unlimited use of public transportation, gain admission to sites across the city such as the Fine Arts Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Birthplace of Charles de Gaulle. Explore at your own pace while enjoying discounts at restaurants, shops, and additional attractions.

If you prefer to see the city with an expert, cruise around town with a private chauffeur. In a vintage Citroen 2CV, sit back and relax as your driver leads you through the streets to the most significant sites in the historic center. After your tour, make a stop at a shop to sample authentic food from the region, including beer, liqueur, candy, waffles, and other locally made creations.

To immerse yourself even further in the culinary delights of northern France, embark on a tasting tour of Vieux-Lille. With a menu of delicacies designed to introduce you to the traditions of the region, pop into eateries ranging from classic cafes and shops to modern bakeries and bars. Tuck into an age-old favorite known as potjevleesch, learn about the various cheeses that are made nearby, and sink your teeth into chocolate and pastries at an 18th-century candy shop.

Things to Do in Lille with Kids

There's fun for the whole family in Lille. Here are a few family friendly experiences you can do together that are bound to make your escape memorable:


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Lille

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Lille

Lille Centre Ville showing street scenes, a sunset and a city

Lille Centre Ville

4/5(16 area reviews)

Art galleries, museums, and historic sites highlight some notable features of Lille Centre Ville. Make a stop by Porte de Paris or Le Palais des Beaux Arts de Lille while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Mairie de Lille Station or Rihour Station to get around town.

Lille Centre Ville
Old Lille which includes heritage architecture, street scenes and a city

Old Lille

4.5/5(6 area reviews)

Shopping, historic sites, and restaurants are just a few things travelers enjoy about Old Lille. Check out Lille Cathedral or Le Musée de la Maison Natale de Charles de Gaulle while you're exploring the area.

Old Lille
Historic Center showing a city

Historic Center

4.5/5(36 area reviews)

Travelers choose Historic Center for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Rihour Station or Republique Beaux Arts Station and check out top sights like Rihour Square.

Historic Center
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Le Marais

While there might not be top attractions in Le Marais, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Citadel of Lille and Zoo Lille.

Le Marais
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Lomme

3.5/5(2 area reviews)

Noted for its shopping and restaurants, there's plenty to explore in Lomme. Top attractions like Planet Bowling and Tao et Lina are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Bourg Station or Maison des Enfants Station to see more of the city.

Lomme
Citadel of Lille which includes a river or creek, a park and fall colors

Vauban Esquermes

The bars and zoo are just a few things visitors like about Vauban Esquermes. Zoo Lille and Citadel of Lille are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Port de Lille Station or Cormontaigne Station to get around the larger area.

Vauban Esquermes

 

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Popular day trips from Lille

Frequently asked questions

Is Lille worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor activities and history, there are loads of great things to do in Lille. Don't forget to enjoy the area's mix of cool attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Lille?
Start your adventures with a visit to Zoo Lille and Pasteur Institute Museum. Then, check out other parts of Lille for local dining and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Lille?
The top tourist attraction in Lille is Le Palais des Beaux Arts de Lille, so make sure to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Lille?
Three days in Lille is enough to enjoy the city's major attractions. Many travelers spend two days on average. Le Palais des Beaux Arts de Lille, Theater Sebastopol and Palace of Fine Arts are among the most popular sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a little longer to visit nearby hotspots like Ypres.
Is Lille a walkable city?
That comes down to what you'd like to see and do in Lille. Several sights, such as Le Palais des Beaux Arts de Lille and Theater Sebastopol, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Lille's neighborhoods, Lille Centre Ville is 0.4 miles away from downtown, while Historic Center is 0.2 miles away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Lille with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a schedule filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Check out our ideas for what to do in Lille with kids.

What to do in Lille for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or outdoor adventurer, there's no shortage of things to do in Lille for adults including Pierre Mauroy Stadium and Auchan Villeneuve d'Ascq V2.
Are there free things to do in Lille?
In Lille, Lille Cathedral is an unmissable spot for anyone wanting to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's a simple way to explore the best free things to do in Lille.