Lille is an architecturally superb city no longer seen as just an industrial metropolis. Retaining the convenience of a commercial hub, today one of France’s largest metropolitan areas highlights its heritage roots and breathtaking Flemish streetscape. Wander through the old city’s streets for a stunning display of heritage buildings, which house a collection of museums, galleries, hotels and restaurants. Try regional cuisine and enjoy the city’s nightlife, energized by the large student community.
Stroll along Le Vieux Lille’s historic city streets and investigate Flemish-influenced buildings tracing the city’s former Spanish Netherlands reign. Wander the stone-paved streets and notice brown-and-red brick façades and golden sandstone buildings. A notable example is the Palais des Beaux-Arts, a gorgeous museum filled with works by Goya, Rembrandt and Rubens within one of France’s largest art collections. See a contemporary collection of artworks at the Lille Métropole (LaM).
With a city heritage closely tied to the textiles industry, Lille is a fantastic place for shopping. Check out large retailers and forward-thinking new designers. La Grande Braderie is an eagerly awaited flea market that attracts thousands to the Old Town’s pedestrianized streets in the first weekend of September. Find year-round market action in the bustling Marché de Wazemmes. Pick up useful items ranging from fresh produce to furniture and electronics.
Visit Lille’s beautifully maintained botanical gardens, including a medicinal garden and a garden dating back to the 16th century. Lille’s largest public park and its compact zoo sit astride the massive fortress walls of the 17th-century Citadel.
Relax with a cup of coffee at one of Lille’s traditional terrace cafés. Sample Lilloise cuisine, including beer-stewed beef, or a more traditional Belgian meal of mussels and chips.
Lille is easy to reach by flights to the city’s international airport. It is located within a convenient railway triangle that links Paris, London and Brussels. Instead of passing through, disembark at Lille to experience the charms of this dynamic city in France’s far north.
