Lille, the jewel of northern France, is a vibrant city that blends history, art and an irresistible cosmopolitan vibe, just the ticket for a weekend getaway.
With its charismatic old town, internationally renowned museums and fine cuisine to satisfy even the most discerning gourmet, Lille promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Whether it’s culture, entertainment or just a stroll through the bustling streets, you’ll find everything you need for two rich and fascinating days.
Must-see: Lille’s key attractions
A first visit to Lille wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through its historic centre. Start at the Grand Place, the heart of the city, flanked by majestic Flemish Revival buildings including the Old Stock Exchange, one of Lille’s most iconic landmarks. From there, lose yourself in the cobbled streets of Old Lille, where you will find stylish boutiques, art galleries and welcoming cafés.
Be sure to admire the imposing cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille, a modern architectural marvel with a surprising translucent façade. For a spectacular panoramic view, climb to the top of Lille’s belfry. From there you can admire the city in all its splendour.
Things to do and see
A great way to learn more about Lille’s history and culture is to take a guided tour organised by the Tourist Office (book here). Join expert guides to unlock the secrets of the city and delve into its fascinating past.
For art lovers, the Palais des Beaux-Arts is not to be missed when visiting Lille. Recognised as one of the finest museums in France, it houses over 60,000 works, including paintings by Rubens, Goya and Delacroix, sculptures by Rodin and Claudel, as well as a collection of ceramics and scale models of fortified towns designed by Vauban.
For those who prefer a more interactive and fun approach to exploring the city, Hunting Town offers an outdoor escape game. This treasure hunt will lead you through Lille’s most iconic landmarks, solving puzzles and discovering hidden stories along the way. An original and fun way to discover the city. More information here.
Where to eat: Lille’s culinary highlights
The best way to end a day of exploring is to indulge in the local cuisine. For refined dining, La Terrasse du Parc, next to the Casino de Lille, serves high-class cuisine in a stylish setting.
For a trendy and fun place to eat or drink, Mama Shelter is a great option with its relaxed vibe and eclectic menu.
For an authentic experience, La Chicorée is a typical Lille brasserie where you can sample regional specialities such as welsh or Flemish carbonade. A veritable Lille institution, its generous, authentic dishes are served in a friendly atmosphere. Situated a stone’s throw from the Grand-Place, it offers an unbeatable view of the Place Rihour. And the good news is that you don’t need to make a reservation to enjoy this emblematic address.
If you prefer real Italian pizza, Pizza Armand won’t disappoint you. Located 5 minutes’ walk from the Grand-Place, in a quiet street just a stone’s throw from the Place Rihour and the metro station of the same name, Lille’s oldest pizzeria offers delicious wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, salads and meat dishes in a warm and colourful setting. Its speciality? Pasta with Parmesan cheese prepared in front of you, a real gourmet spectacle that will delight fans of authentic Italian cuisine. At Pizza Armand, you can savour the Dolce Vita in the heart of Lille.
Besides these spots, you can’t leave Lille without trying a delicious Méert waffle, a vanilla-filled treat that’s been a favourite with locals since the 18th century. Tucked away in Lille’s Old Town, this historic patisserie will delight you with its delicacies and refined surroundings, with period décor that will take you back in time.
Lille is a city that never ceases to surprise. With its blend of history, culture, cuisine and contemporary lifestyle, it’s the ideal destination for a 48-hour getaway. Don’t hesitate to discover this pearl of northern France and let yourself be seduced by its unique charm!
