In need of a city break idea? Lille could be the one...
Looking for a European city break that doesn't involve journeying too far? Already explored Paris and want to see more of France? Step forward: Lille. Another French city – with a totally different flavour – that's easy (and inexpensive) to reach. If you're heading via the Eurostar it takes just 1 hour 22 minutes (from London), equally plane tickets start from just £36.
And for those who've got a little more time on their hands beyond a 48 hour-weekend? Lille is ideally located beside Brussels and Bruges too, with direct links to both via train or bus, making it a great place to start or end a mini European road trip (which is what I did over the course of five days, starting in Brussels, heading to Bruges and then capping things off in Lille).
And given its proximity to these Belgian sites, it's no surprise that Lille has benefitted from a Flemish influence, making France's fourth-largest city feel totally different to its Parisian or Maseille-ian cousins. Known for its thriving creative scene, rich history, emerging foodie hotspots and more, it's well worth adding to your 'must visit' list.
Want some more intel before booking? Keep scrolling...
Where to stay in Lille
MAMA Shelter
We set our heads down in the ideally-located MAMA Shelter, Lille, which is just a couple of minutes from the main train station (Lille-Flandres) and a short walk to the main square with plenty of shops, bars and restaurants. The hotel is part of the cheeky MAMA chain, that first began life in France and now has properties in the UK, US and beyond, and like in every other one I've stayed in, the staff in Lille couldn't be more welcoming.
The vibe? Youthful, tongue-in-cheek (vintage cartoons playing in the communal spaces and free porn in the room, anyone?) and hipster-cool, with a breakfast buffet that's sure to please and a bottomless brunch offering if you're around over a weekend. It has a tidy price point too, with rooms in MAMA Shelter Lille starting at just £80 per night.
Find out more about MAMA Shelter Lille
Where to eat (and drink) in Lille
ARTCHIVES
A space that does it all: not only home to an edgy art gallery, but also a decadent restaurant (featuring a pro sommelier and quirky menu inspired by the artwork on display) and a buzzing bar that plays jazz on a Thursday night, and hosts DJs on a Friday and Saturday.
The ever-changing, high-end french dining options are truly special and the modern setting provides the perfect spot for a memorable meal, whether you want to feel like a cool local at lunch or dinnertime. *Spoiler alert* every single area of ARTCHIVES is perfect for the 'gram, too.
A four-course tasting menu at ARTCHIVES starts from €65 per head
Bierbuik
Found in the heart of Old Lille, the two-storey Bierbuik is part brewery, part pub, part eatery – and prides itself on only using organic, sustainable products from within a 100km radius. Given that the Flemish word 'bierbuik' literally translates to mean 'beer belly' you'd be right in thinking that the hearty menu is designed for soaking up the beers created on-site (Bierbuik is especially famed for its Maroille French Fries). A great place to while away a happy evening.
The average spend in Bierbuik is typically between €9 and €23 per person
What to do in Lille
Get a City Pass
Head to the tourism office on day one and invest in a Lille City Pass (you can choose from ones lasting 24, 48 or 72 hours), which not only has you covered on public transport but also acts as a ticket to 29 attractions and museums. Prices start from €25.
La Piscine Museum
A former art deco swimming pool converted into a breathtaking museum, featuring sculptures, fashion, paintings and a look back at how France's industries have evolved over time. Every now and then, a soundtrack of water splashing and children playing drifts through the building, reminding visitors of days gone by and that they're standing within a magical piece of history. The most beautifully unique museum, located in Roubaix (just a short metro ride away from the centre of Lille), that you could easily spend half a day in.
The Old Stock Exchange
Part of Lille's appeal is its rich and varied cultural history, which means the architecture is quite something – and the old stock exchange building (La Vieille Bourse), from the Flemish Renaissance period, is the perfect example of 17th century gothic vibes. Right in the heart of the old town, these days the building's interior courtyard is best known for its daily flea market, housing stalls that sell used books, vinyls and posters.
Grab a coffee and stroll
That aforementioned architecture? Honestly, Lille is full of it. So grabbing a coffee and wandering around the old town and beyond is a great way to pass an afternoon, with minimal spending required. Plus, given the city's Belgian influence, it's no surprise that Lille also has a tonne of delicious chocolate shops to explore – perfect for picking up souvenirs (for loved ones... or just yourself tbh). Méert, a former 18th century pharmacy, that's now home to confectionary shop and tea salon, is loved by locals and tourists alike. If you've the time and the funds, I hear it's great for afternoon tea too (or a Belgian waffle).
Good to know
Time your meals wisely. As is the French way, many kitchens in Lille tend to shut at around 2 or 2:30pm for a few hours, until evening service begins. So if you're hoping for a late lunch, be sure to double-check that the place you had in mind is, err, actually open when you want it to be!
There are two train stations in Lille, Lille-Flandres and Lille Europe – but if you get off at the wrong one, don't panic! They're both within a ten minute walk of one another.
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