What places should we visit in Lille ?
As the French deconfinement approaches, we will present you in this article the places to visit in Lille !
Lille is the 6th most populated city in France and is a dynamic city known for its charoliness and dynamism, especially for students ! So if you are passing through or if you are coming to settle in the city, here are the places to know to make your stay a success ! If you want to know the best restaurants for students, don’t hesitate to consult our article on this topic !
#1 : Take a walk in the citadel of Lille
The citadel of Lille is the ideal place if you want to go for a walk in a natural environment and close to the city centre. This green space is above all a historical place dating from the 17th century and which has, over the years, developed sports activities for all, a relaxation area and a zoo. It is also a favourite place for young people when the weather is good: you can sit on the grass and have a picnic if you wish. To get there : take Line 1 of the metro, stop at République and walk to Avenue du 43e Régiment d’Infanterie.
#2 : Discover the Palais des Beaux-Arts in Lille
Located in the centre of the Place de la République, the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille is a museum created in 1792. Thanks to its architecture, this place is worth a visit ! The painters that can be found there are also interesting : Eugène Delacroix, Rubens, Goya or Courbet, don’t hesitate to have a look ! Price of a ticket for young people (12-25 years old): 4€. Good plan : with the Lille City Pass 24h (25€), get free entrance to almost 30 tourist attractions in the Lille metropolitan area, with free public transport and discounts in some restaurants.
#3 : Get lost in the Vieux-Lille district
The Vieux-Lille district is undoubtedly the most historically rich district of Lille as it is more than 1000 years old. As you walk around, you will be able to see private mansions, the old stock exchange, the conservatory of Lille, the Hospice Comtesse or the Notre-Dame de la Treille cathedral !
#4 : Visit the Roubaix swimming pool
An emblematic art museum in Lille, the Roubaix swimming pool houses works of art dating back to at least the 19th century in a unique setting. Indeed, the museum is located in the Roubaix swimming pool, built in 1932, and attracts more and more tourists every year. For the price of 5€, you can discover this majestic place and an impressive collection of artworks. To get there: take line 2 of the metro and stop at Gare Jean-Lebas, walk 500 metres and you’re there !
#5 : Take a trip to the Tri postal
The Tri Postal is an ideally located exhibition space (right next to Euralille). Every month, exhibitions of contemporary art by various artists are organised in this place. Don’t forget to check their website of the city of Lille to know the current exhibitions. Count 4€ to access the exhibitions and good news, on Thursdays from 5pm to 7pm the entrance is free for students (on presentation of the student card) !
#6 : Taste the specialities of the North
Lille’s culinary traditions are inspired by Flemish cuisine. Whether you are a foreign or French student, discovering the gastronomy of the North is essential! For example, you can venture to “Aux Merveilleux de Fred”, which offers “marvellous”, a must-try dessert from Lille made with meringue and whipped cream.
To take advantage of the student life in Lille, head for rue Solférino! You can taste the local beers, a real institution in Lille ! If you want more information on the restaurants and tea rooms we recommend, check out our article on the subject !
#7 : Shopping without breaking the bank
If you don’t like Euralille and the shops in Vieux-Lille and rue de Béthune, you can always discover Lille’s second-hand shops! Favouring second-hand items is possible thanks to the many second-hand shops in Lille! Here are a few addresses: Ding Fring, Funny Vintage or SlowMod !