Lille-6-day-itinerary

Lille, France: A 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Lille’s Historic Center

Places to Go:

  • Rihour Square (Place Rihour): The heart of Lille, surrounded by beautiful buildings and bustling with activity.
  • Lille Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille): A stunning Gothic church with a mix of medieval and Baroque styles.
  • Old Town (Vieux Lille): Narrow streets and charming squares to discover.

Activities:

  • Visit the Rihour Square and take in the atmosphere.
  • Explore the Old Town, getting lost in its narrow streets.
  • Attend a service or concert at the Lille Cathedral.

Where to Eat:

  • La Petite Venise: Enjoy traditional French cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Le Relais de la Bourse: Taste local specialties like carbonade flamande (beef stew) and waffles.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel La Carpe Blanche: A charming hotel in the heart of Lille’s historic center.
  • Appartement Hôtel La Résidence: Cozy apartments with a modern touch.

Day 2: Science, Art, and Culture

Places to Go:

  • Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille (PBL): A stunning art museum with an impressive collection of French and European art.
  • Science Center La Grande Halle: Engage in interactive science exhibits and experiments.
  • Lilletime: Explore the city’s history through time-traveling installations.

Activities:

  • Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille to admire the artworks on display.
  • Spend a morning at Science Center La Grande Halle, exploring scientific wonders.
  • Wander around the scenic Jardin Vauban, with its beautiful fountains and statues.

Where to Eat:

  • Le Petit Châtelet: Enjoy seasonal French cuisine in a cozy setting.
  • Café de la Paix: Treat yourself to delicious pastries or snacks.

Things to Know:

  • The Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille is closed on Mondays.
  • Science Center La Grande Halle offers guided tours and workshops for children.

Day 3: Nature, Parks, and Gardens

Places to Go:

  • Lilletime: Explore the city’s history through time-traveling installations.
  • Jardin Vauban: Stroll through beautiful gardens with fountains and statues.
  • Parc de la Citadelle: Relax in a peaceful park with walking trails.

Activities:

  • Visit the Jardin Vauban, where you can admire the stunning fountains.
  • Take a leisurely walk in Parc de la Citadelle.
  • Explore the scenic routes along the Deûle River.

Where to Eat:

  • La Grande Épicerie: Savor fresh produce and artisanal goods at this food hall.
  • Le Jardin des Saveurs: Enjoy seasonal French cuisine in a charming garden setting.

Day 4: Market, Shopping, and Local Flavors

Places to Go:

  • Grand Bazaar (Marché d’Intérêt National): Explore the bustling market stalls selling local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
  • Wazemourt Quarter: Discover a charming neighborhood with beautiful architecture and shopping options.

Activities:

  • Visit the Grand Bazaar and sample local delicacies.
  • Browse through the boutique shops in Wazemourt Quarter.
  • Attend a traditional French cooking class to learn about local cuisine.

Where to Eat:

  • Marché aux Puces: Visit this bustling flea market for street food, snacks, or drinks.
  • Le Comptoir du Marché: Enjoy delicious waffles and sandwiches at this popular café.

Day 5: History, Architecture, and Wine

Places to Go:

  • Palais de la Bourse (Hôtel de Ville): Admire the stunning architecture of Lille’s city hall.
  • Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille: Visit this beautiful Gothic church with a mix of medieval and Baroque styles.
  • Wine Tasting at La Cave à Vin: Sample local wines and learn about wine-making in Northern France.

Activities:

  • Explore the historic buildings around Palais de la Bourse (Hôtel de Ville).
  • Attend a guided tour of Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille to discover its history.
  • Visit Wine Tasting at La Cave à Vin to taste local wines and learn about wine-making in Northern France.

Where to Eat:

  • La Grande Épicerie: Enjoy fresh produce and artisanal goods at this food hall.
  • Le Jardin des Saveurs: Savor seasonal French cuisine in a charming garden setting.

Day 6: Departure

Activities:

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute attractions.
  • Have lunch at one of your favorite restaurants from throughout the trip.
  • Depart for home, bringing back memories and mementos from Lille!

Getting Around

Lille has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and trams. Buy a Tous les Trains ticket (T) for unlimited travel on buses and trams.

Tips and Other Things to Know:

  • Lille is a bike-friendly city; consider renting a bike to explore.
  • Be sure to try the local specialties like waffles, carbonade flamande (beef stew), and moules-frites (mussels in white wine).
  • Don’t miss the famous Christmas market, held annually from mid-November to early January.

Have a wonderful time exploring Lille!