Hop across the Channel to discover a city with Flemish charm and a quieter pace of life
Paris in spring is a popular city break destination, with mild weather and vibrant blooms filling the city. Perfect for strolls along the Seine visitors flock to ‘city of love’ in spring to enjoy outdoor cafés and iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower.
But savvy travellers known that the blooming buds of Spring could make for uncomfortable and overcrowded conditions in Paris. Opting to explore other French destinations instead, the northern city of Lille offers a lively atmosphere, stunning architecture and a vibrant cultural scene.
Situated on the banks of the Deûle River, 136 miles north-northeast of Paris, Lille is the fourth largest city in France. Easily accessible, its perfect for a day trip, with the Eurostar from London taking just an hour and 20 minutes.
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Lille in the spring is a refreshing alternative to Paris, with its distinct charm and slower pace. In the charming Old Town, cobblestone streets lead to picturesque squares dotted with cafes from which to watch the world go by.
The city boasts a unique mix of architectural styles, including the Renaissance-style La Vieille Bourse, the neoclassical Palais des Beaux-Arts and the neo-Gothic Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral.
Visitors also come to see the unique belfry of the Hôtel de Ville, a former swimming pool that is now the Museum La Piscine. Located just outside the city, this unusual attraction holds regular exhibitions focusing on art and industry.
Visitors who love to shop ’til they drop will be impressed by the selection on offer in Lille. Some of the most popular areas of the city for a little retail therapy include the vibrant Vieux Lille for boutique shopping, Euralille for modern mall experiences, and the Grand Place area, where you’ll find a mix of high-end stores and local artisans.
A haven for food lovers, local eateries offer distinctive northern fare with Belgian influences. This area of France is also known for its “estaminets” – traditional, cosy pubs serving up regional dishes and local beers.
A fantastic destination all on its own, Lille’s location near the Belgian border also makes it a convenient base for day trips to places like Bruges or Antwerp, expanding your travel options along the way. At the time of writing, train tickets from London on the Eurostar start from £39 one way.
