Things to do in Lille

The Lille Belfry is the highest civil belfry in Europe standing at 104 meters tall. The UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the 1920s to replace the original town hall destroyed in World War I. The striking art design features a distinctive red-brick exterior over a concrete skeleton. The main attraction here is the unparalleled 360 degree panoramic view from the top. Views stretch from the Flanders plains all the way across to Belgium on a clear day.

Where to find Lille Belfry?

The belfry is attached to the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) in the Saint-Sauveur district. It is located just a short walk south of the city center, near the historic Porte de Paris.

The Vieille Bourse or Old Stock Exchange is considered the most beautiful attraction in Lille and is a masterpiece of 17th century Flemish Renaissance architecture. The vibrant atmosphere inside the inner courtyard along with the ornate, deeply colored facade make the attraction truly special. Made up of 24 identical merchant houses built around a central quadrangle, the courtyard now serves as a daily hub for second hand booksellers, vintage poster venders and local chess players who gather for matches throughout the afternoon.

Where to find Vieille Bourse?

You can find the Vieille Bourse perfectly situated right between the Grand Place and Place du Théâtre in the absolute center of the city.

Palais Rihour is a rare and striking remnant of Flamboyant Gothic architecture in a city otherwise dominated by Flemish and 19th-century styles. Commissioned in the 15th century by the powerful Dukes of Burgundy, the palace has survived centuries of fires and rebuilds, leaving only the original chapel, the staircase, and the guard room intact today. The building is special for its intricate stone carvings, vaulted ceilings, and stunning stained-glass windows, offering a quick but fascinating glimpse into the region's medieval, pre-French history.

Where to find Rihour Palace?

The palace is located on Place Rihour, which sits directly adjacent to the main Grand Place in the city center. It is easy to find, as the ground floor currently houses the city's main Tourist Information Office.

Lille Zoo offers fun for all the family, so why not head here during your trip and find out all about their conservation efforts and breeding programs, plus meet the animals too!

Lille Zoo is home to a whole range of mammals, birds, and reptiles, including alpacas, boa constrictors, sloths, red pandas, peacocks, tapirs, and rhinos to name just a few. You will also find plenty of entertainment options, activities, and workshops to keep you occupied during your visit.

How to Get to Lille Zoo?

The zoo is nestled near the base of the historic 17th-century military fortress, directly inside the massive, green Parc de la Citadelle. The exact address of the Zoo is All. Arlette Gruss, 59000 Lille, France. 

Though its name points to the United Kingdom, the "Welsh" (or Welsh Rarebit) has been fully adopted and transformed into the ultimate comfort food of northern France. What makes Lille’s version so indulgent is its preparation: a thick slice of bread and ham are drowned in a rich, bubbling sauce made from melted cheddar cheese, local beer, and mustard, all baked until perfectly golden. Usually topped with a fried egg and served alongside a mountain of crispy French fries, it is a heavy, savory, and deeply satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with a cold local brew

Carbonnade Flamande is a slow-cooked beef stew that perfectly encapsulates the warmth of Flemish cuisine. Instead of using wine like a traditional French boeuf bourguignon, carbonnade uses dark northern beer to tenderize the meat during its long simmer. What makes this dish truly special is the addition of gingerbread, brown sugar, or mustard, which creates a complex, melt-in-the-mouth, sweet-and-sour flavor profile. Served with a generous helping of golden fries to mop up the velvety sauce, it is the quintessential meal for a chilly evening in Lille. 

Established in 1761, Méert is a legendary confectioner and tea room that is an absolute must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. The shop is most famous for its signature Gaufres de Lille which are thin, oblong, chewy waffles famously filled with a rich, gritty Madagascar vanilla bean buttercream. The recipe has been a highly guarded secret since 1849, and these handmade treats have been enjoyed by historical figures like King Leopold I and General Charles de Gaulle. 

Wandering through Vieux-Lille is like stepping into a Flemish fairytale. This remarkably preserved historic district is arguably the most beautiful part of Lille. The winding cobblestone streets lined with elegantly restored 17th century brick and stone townhouses painted in soft pastel hues and adorned with intricate carvings make the place special. Visitors can spend hours admiring the ornate facades, browsing high-end independent boutiques, and relaxing in the upscale cafés and artisan bakeries scattered throughout. It offers the perfect blend of rich architectural history and vibrant, modern city life.

Where to find Old Lille?

Old Lille is in the northernmost district of the city center, easily recognizable as soon as the broad modern boulevards give way to narrow, curving cobblestone streets just past the Grand Place.

Street food lovers shouldn’t miss Grand Scène, just a 5-minute walk from the Office de Tourisme. This vibrant spot is one of the top things to do in Lille for foodies, featuring ten restaurants and food stalls, two bars, and a coffee shop all under one roof. It’s the perfect place to enjoy delicious street food, from organic and vegan options to eco-sourced produce. With a lively atmosphere, friendly service, and local beers, it’s a great place to relax and indulge. Plus, cultural events throughout the year ensure there’s always something exciting to enjoy!

Where to find Grand Scene?

You can find it at 31 Rue de Béthune, one of the main pedestrian shopping streets right in the heart of the city center, just a short walk south of the main squares.