Discover Lille

1. Admire the View from the Belfry of Lille
The Belfry of Lille is a must-see landmark offering stunning 360° views over the city. Lille metropolitan area features seven remarkable belfries, key symbols of northern France’s heritage. Four of them—Lille, Armentières, Comines, and Loos, are officially listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making them must-see attractions for visitors.

The most iconic is the Belfry of Lille, an Art Deco tower from 1932 standing 104 metres high and offering some of the best panoramic views in the region. Exploring these historic brick-and-stone monuments is one of the best ways to discover Lille from a unique perspective.

2. Explore Vieux-Lille
Vieux-Lille is famous for its cobblestone streets, Flemish façades, luxury boutiques, and charming cafés. This atmospheric neighbourhood is one of the most photogenic areas of the city and ideal for a relaxed afternoon walk.
Follow the smell of Maroilles cheese drifting from the estaminets on Rue de Gand, admire the Hospice Comtesse on Rue de la Monnaie, or treat yourself to Meert’s famous waffles on Rue Esquermoise. The best way to explore Vieux-Lille is to wander aimlessly at first, then join a guided tour to uncover the origins and stories behind the city.
Fun fact about the city : did you know that the very first automatic metro in the world opened in Lille? In 1983, the city launched Line 1 of the VAL, a fully computer-run, driverless metro. This technological breakthrough later influenced major metro systems around the world, including those in Paris and Singapore. 

3. Discover the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille
Often referred to as the second-largest art museum in France, the Palais des Beaux-Arts boasts major works by Rubens, Goya, Monet, and Rodin. Its collection of 18th-century relief maps is also unique in Europe. If you like wondering around, you can check upon your visit if there are any activities scheduled, the museum offers workshops, conferences and talks you might be interested in. 

4. Indulge in the local cuisine
Lille has its own tasty traditional food... Be sure to try:

• Carbonnade flamande
• Welsh rarebit (Welsh complet)
• Maroilles cheese
• Gauffres de Lille (vanilla-filled waffles)

For an authentic experience, dine in a traditional estaminet, a rustic Flemish tavern with hearty local dishes.

5. Relax in the Citadelle Park
Designed by Vauban in the 17th century, the Citadelle of Lille is surrounded by one of the city’s most beautiful parks. It’s ideal for walking, cycling, or enjoying a peaceful picnic away from the busy city centre. This romantic Second Empire garden exudes charm and tranquillity. Its winding paths lead you past an artificial grotto that feeds the ponds where ducks and moorhens glide peacefully.

One of Lille’s most beloved green spaces, it’s the perfect spot for family strolls, jogging, or wedding photos. 

6.  Discover the Vieille Bourse
The Vieille Bourse - Stock Exchange in English, was built between 1652 and 1653 by Julien Destrée and it is undoubtedly the most beautiful landmark in the city.
Its courtyard hosts second-hand book sellers, and on summer Sunday evenings, tango performances light up the space. 
Little bit of context and history : In 17th-century Lille, has strict building.
The city’s wealthy citizens convinced King Philip IV of Spain to build the Bourse de Commerce on the Grand Place, 24 houses surrounding a public courtyard with a gallery. A perfect mix of order, style, and history.

7. Shop Like a Local in Lille
Lille has a vibrant shopping scene, from independent boutiques to designer stores and lively markets. If you get lost on certain streets you will be sure to discover concept stores with unique designs ! 

Locations to wonder around and find treasures :

• Rue de la Monnaie
• Rue Esquermoise
• Wazemmes Market (especially on Sundays)
• Rue de la Clef

Furet du Nord Bookstore: One of Lille’s most iconic landmarks, Furet du Nord is a must-visit for book lovers. With its vast collection of books, magazines, and gifts spread across multiple floors, it offers a unique shopping experience in the heart of the city.

8. Attend a festival or event
Lille is home to major cultural events, the major two events are La Braderie de Lille, Europe’s largest flea market as well as a stunning Christmas market, considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.

These annual events transform the city into a buzzy yet enchanted city. 

Every year, at the beginning of September, over two million visitors flood Lille to attend the largest flea market in Europe. The streets transform into a massive open-air market where everything is for sale, from vintage bicycles to English china. The origin of this tradition? The 12th century, believe it or not!

And don’t miss the quirky moules-frites tradition: each restaurant piles up mussel shells in front of their doors, and the one with the tallest heap earns eternal respect from food lovers. 

9. Attend a sports event or a concert at the Pierre-Mauroy Stadium
One of Lille’s most impressive modern landmarks, the Pierre-Mauroy Stadium is a state-of-the-art multi-purpose stadium. Home to LOSC Lille football club, it also hosts major sporting events, concerts, and cultural shows. With its striking architecture and versatile design, the stadium is a must-visit for sports fans and anyone exploring the city.

10. Explore Modern Art at LaM

LaM, Lille Métropole Museum of Modern Art is one of the top cultural attractions near Lille. Located in Villeneuve-d’Ascq, the museum features an outstanding collection of modern, contemporary, and outsider art, plus a scenic sculpture park perfect for a leisurely stroll. A visit to LaM is ideal for art lovers, families, and anyone looking to explore cultural things to do in Lille beyond the city center.