Hello! Am I right to assume that you are in search of a beautiful city in France with a lot of story, culture and some good food? I want to take you on my journey which took place in Lille, just recently.
Imagine walking on cobbled streets while taking a good look at amazing buildings and tasting yummy cuisine.
Well, you do not have to imagine anymore as this is what I did while traveling to Lille and I have some tips for you regarding the best places to visit in Lille.
To Sum Up The Best Places To Visit In Lille
But first, before I go on with the recommendations based on my experiences, let me first state the top 5 places that you should visit in Lille.
- Grand Place.
- Vieille Bourse.
- Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille.
- Parc zoologique de Lille.
- La Citadelle de Lille.
Apart from that, these places are also instrumental in featuring not only the historical significance of Lille, but also the rich culture and community of the city as well.
5 Most Interesting Places Overview:
01. Grand Place
Everyone visits a new city for a reason, and for most it is the Grand Place that pulls most crowds to Lille. It is hard to imagine that such a large space with stunning architecture is located in the heart of Lille.
The Grand Place is the central square of Lille, and it has its own charm which impacts every person that visits this beautiful city.
One of the prominent Lukas du Commerce is located in this very square and it stands out against the backdrop of gorgeous Flemish architecture that surrounds the square.
It is great for those who wish to observe people while sipping coffee at a nearby café or enjoying the sights of a street artist. The crowds are energetic and filled with life much more during occasions and markets.
2. Vieille Bourse
Our next stop is the built-in exchange Vieille Bourse which is an architectural masterpiece from the 17th century.
This ancient structure once served as a stock exchange building and has now been transformed to serve as a venue for book fairs and market bazaars.
There is an interior courtyard which is very picturesque and usually busy with people looking to buy second-hand books and some antiques.
The intricately designed features of the Vieille Bourse Lille architecture are all the beauty in architecture for all historical and cultural enthusiasts.
3. Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille
Art lovers will not have to look anywhere else for the great collection of arts as the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille has so much to offer.
It is one of the biggest fine art galleries in France with at least some of the works from famous artists such as Ruben and Van Dyke. There is beauty in the museum itself as it can be categorized as a work of art with exquisite galleries that allow you to get lost in the artwork.
If you are one of those who loves embracing the culture then this site is for you as one of the most beautiful Lille top attractions.
4. Parc Zoologique de Lille
An excellent diversion for the families, the Parc Zoologique de Lille is a fantastic place to take day trips. It has more than 400 animals and extends over a delightful area of parkland which is ideal for sit down meals.
It is neither only an amusing place to visit, but also an educational one given the zoo’s principles of conservation and teaching.
And with no entry fees, it is quickly becoming one of the best known things to do in Lille for free!
5. La Citadelle de Lille
Last but not the least, as one of the must-do in Lille, exploring La Citadelle de Lille is a must. This magnificent structure created by the famous Vauban is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
You may stroll around it’s thick walls, or bask in the park around it, or you may even book yourself on a history tour. The sights from the top are magnificent and therefore, one of the best Places in Lille for photography.
My Experiences: Getting Lost in the Beauty of Lille
Exploring Grand Place for a moment brought me great happiness, but it was rather mixed with some bittersweet memories. People were enjoying lunch, and there were numerous artists presenting their works, and I can only thank myself for being able to find a nice little corner cafeteria where I could stare in the surroundings.
It is these moments that remind me of the great things that traveling can bring – the satisfaction of forcing oneself into a much bigger course of events.
On display was also the Vieille Bourse, and boy it did not disappoint either. I was astounded by the intricate details of the buildings as well as the friendly emotions of local vendors.
I met a cute book seller, who kindly offered to tell him about the literary life of Lille and its people. These are the things that more often than not made me feel engrossed in the city’s history and life.
But the one that truly left me speechless is the Palais des Beaux-Arts. Moving from one gallery to the other, I could not help but be grateful for the creativity and skill that embellished the presented canvases.
At one point, when watching a painting by Rubens, I became so engrossed that I tried to imagine how this moment in history was put together to create an everlasting piece of art.
While visiting Parc Zoologique the other day, I couldn’t help but grin as children watched the animals in delight. It is quite heartening to know that the zoo is involved in conservation and I was optimistic that such measures are taken in order to save wildlife. The park is lovely as well where people can spend time with their families in the lap of nature.
After all, it was like going into the history books when visiting La Citadelle. In addition to the fortress being awe inspiring, it provides a refreshing break from the busy city.
As I strolled around the ramparts, I pondered upon the tough soldiers who once guarded the city of Lille. The vistas of the city walls from atop were stunning, ideal for capturing such photographs.
Budget-Friendly Option: Hotel Ibis Lille Centre Gares
To start with, I endorse the Hotel Ibis Lille Centre Gares for travelers with limited resources. It is easy to reach from the train station and is close to many places of interest. The rooms are tidy and spacious and a decent breakfast is served to kick start the day.
Hugging Your Melon: La Maison du Bonheur
I hope you are ready for something a bit more different and fun, the La Maison du Bonheur hotel for example.
This delightful boutique style hotel lies not far away from the Grand Place and has rooms that are very well decorated and have a warm feel to them. It’s good for those who also like a personal touch when it comes to traveling.
The Reasonable Cost: Hotel Barriere Lille
In case you need a touch of class, then the Hotel Barriere Lille is just right for you. It has sophisticated rooms, a spa, and a restaurant inside the hotel, making it a lavish stay in the city itself.
The site is perfect for anyone interested in visiting the rich sightseeing spots of Lille.
Food And Culture
Food is yet another reason to love Lille, with numerous restaurants and eateries that are infused with its food culture.
La Chicoree
Talk about one of my best dining experiences – enjoying a traditional northern French cuisine at La Chicorée, a crowded brasserie where guests go to enjoy some local north-centered meals.
I had their carbonnade flamande, which is a meat stew made from locally-brewed beer and tastes good, and it was superb! The mood is fun and it is a nice spot to experience the local vibe.
Cozy Café: Le Pain Quotidien
Le Pain Quotidien is a great cafe when having breakfast or a light lunch. It is easy to grab some sweet pastries and organic bread for a quick lunch. People feel comfortable to talk to each other or meet new travelers at the communal tables as well.
Fine Dining: La Table de Clarence
If you would like to feel special, you should not miss La Table de Clarence. This restaurant has a Michelin star and is very creative and uses local products. ‘ Fusion menu’ was something I have never experienced before and I will probably not forget for long!
My Recommendations
Hotels in Lille
| Hotel Name | Location | Price Range | Quality | Unique Features |
| Hotel Ibis Lille Centre Gares | Near Lille Flandres Train Station | €70 – €120 | 3 Stars | Modern design, great breakfast, and convenient location for public transport. |
| La Maison du Bonheur | Near Grand Place | €90 – €150 | 4 Stars | Charming boutique hotel with uniquely decorated rooms and a cozy atmosphere. |
| Hotel Barriere Lille | Central Lille | €150 – €250 | 5 Stars | Luxurious amenities, spa facilities, and an upscale restaurant on-site. |
| Hotel Lille Europe | Near Lille Europe Train Station | €80 – €130 | 3 Stars | Contemporary style, family-friendly, and easy access to attractions. |
| Hôtel des Arts | Near Palais des Beaux-Arts | €80 – €140 | 3 Stars | Art-themed decor, close to cultural sites, and a friendly staff. |
Restaurants in Lille
| Restaurant Name | Location | Price Range | Quality | Unique Features |
| La Chicorée | Near Grand Place | €15 – €30 | Casual Brasserie | Traditional northern French cuisine with a lively atmosphere. |
| Le Pain Quotidien | Near Vieille Bourse | €10 – €20 | Café | Organic offerings, communal dining, and a cozy ambiance. |
| La Table de Clarance | Near Place de la République | €60 – €100 | Fine Dining | Michelin-starred restaurant with a creative tasting menu. |
| Les Compagnons de la Grappe | Near Lille Cathedral | €20 – €35 | Casual Dining | Warm and inviting, featuring local wines and regional dishes. |
| L’Assiette du Marché | Near Marché de Wazemmes | €15 – €25 | Bistro | Farm-to-table concept with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. |
Looking back at the journey, Lille is definitely a city worth visiting. The hot past, beautiful buildings, excellent cuisine and lively atmosphere is everything a traveler wants.
Whether you are wandering off the Grand Place, gallivanting around the Palais des Beaux-Arts or off for a relaxing day out at Parc Zoologique de Lille, there is plenty for everyone.
It’s time to book Lille if you are looking for your next destination, and I fully endorse it. It will be worth your investment because all the memories you make will be worth cherishing. So grab your bags, grab your camera, and start glee.
FAQs:
What are the best places to visit in Lille?
When you make your itinerary for Lille, do not forget to include the following: Grand Place, Vieille Bourse, Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, Parc Zoologique de Lille, and La Citadelle de Lille.
Is Lille a place that is suitable for a family with kids?
For sure! Lille has a variety of child-friendly activities, such as park zoological lebes herbeam, parks, and museums.
When is the best time to visit Lille?
In my view, as the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are also fewer, the best time to visit Lille would be in spring (April to June) and in autumn (September to October).
How do you get around Lille?
Lille is well connected with trams and buses. Even when walking, it is easy to navigate as a number of the attractions are within close proximity.
Are there low-cost things to do in Lille?
Sure! A lot of attractive sites in Lille such as La Citadelle, Parc Zoologique, and Grand Place have no entry fees or can be explored on a tight budget.
