Lille Itinerary (4 days)

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

• 9:00 am: Arrive in Lille by train from Paris or any other destination.
• 10:00 am: Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, one of Europe’s largest art museums. It houses over 7,000 works of art and sculptures.

Afternoon

• 1:00 pm: Have lunch at La Fine Échelle, a cozy restaurant serving local cuisine.
• 2:30 pm: Explore the Old Town (Vieux Lille), a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its charming streets, canals, and historic architecture. Stop by the Belfry of Lille and the Chapel of the Order of the Carthusians.

Evening

• 6:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at Le Grand Vefour, offering traditional French cuisine in an elegant setting.
• 8:00 pm: Stroll around the Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle) to see its beautiful illuminated fountains and enjoy street performances, especially during summer.

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

• 9:30 am: Visit the Hôtel d’Assy, a museum showcasing an impressive collection of art and furniture in a beautifully preserved 18th-century townhouse.
• 11:00 am: Head to the Rihour Market or visit one of the local markets if it’s Sunday for some shopping and snacking.

Afternoon

• 1:30 pm: Have lunch at Le Comptoir du Relais, offering a mix of modern and traditional cuisine.
• 3:00 pm: Visit the Palais des Congrès de Lille, which hosts various events, including concerts, conferences, and trade shows.

Evening

• 7:30 pm: Enjoy dinner at La Table d’Anna, serving contemporary French dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
• 9:00 pm: Take a leisurely boat ride on the Canal de la Deûle for a different perspective of Lille’s illuminated beauty.

Day 3: Nature and Recreation

Morning

• 10:30 am: Visit the Lille Zoo, home to over 2,000 animals from around the world. The zoo also offers a petting zoo for children.
• 1:00 pm: Have lunch at the zoo’s restaurant or bring your own picnic.

Afternoon

• 3:00 pm: Relax in the beautiful green spaces of the Jardin Botanique de Lille, which include gardens and a botanical garden.
• 5:00 pm: Visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de la Treille, a Gothic-style cathedral built between 1854 and 1856.

Evening

• 7:30 pm: Enjoy dinner at Le Potin des Halles, offering traditional cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
• 9:00 pm: Explore the nightlife of Lille, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues to discover.

Day 4: Shopping and Departure

Morning

• 10:30 am: Spend your last day shopping at the Rihour Market or visit any stores you may have missed.
• 12:30 pm: Have lunch at a local café or restaurant for one last meal in Lille.

Afternoon

• 2:00 pm: Visit any attraction you skipped earlier, like the Musée de l’Histoire de France (Museum of French History).
• 4:00 pm: Head back to the train station for your departure.

Things to Know:

• Language: While many locals speak English, it’s helpful to learn basic French phrases.
• Currency: The Euro is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted.
• Weather: Lille has a temperate climate. Pack accordingly with layers for spring and autumn visits.
• Safety: Like any city, be aware of your belongings in crowded areas.

Transportation:

• Train Station: The main train station (Lille Europe) is well-connected to major European cities.
• Public Transport: Lille has an efficient tram network. Tickets can be purchased at newsagents or machines at tram stops.
• Walking and Cycling: Walking or cycling are excellent ways to explore the city.

Tips:

• Reservations: Book restaurants in advance, especially on weekends.
• Local Products: Don’t miss trying local specialties like cheese (Comté), chocolates, and beer (Bière de Lille).
• Festivals: Check for any festivals or events happening during your visit. They often offer a unique experience.

This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, nature, and leisure activities to make the most out of your 4-day trip to Lille. Enjoy your travel!