City

Lille, often called the “star of the north,” is a vibrant and welcoming city that perfectly blends French elegance with Flemish charm. Located just 30 minutes from Brussels and a little over an hour from Paris by high-speed train, Lille is a cultural hotspot and one of France’s most dynamic destinations. Once an industrial hub, the city has reinvented itself as a center for art, gastronomy, and innovation, while preserving its rich historical heritage.

The heart of Lille is its enchanting old town, Vieux-Lille, where cobblestone streets wind past colorful façades, ornate gables, and lively squares. Here, you can explore the Grand Place and the Vieille Bourse, a 17th-century stock exchange that now hosts a charming secondhand book market. The city’s architectural mix tells a fascinating story, from Flemish baroque to bold modernist designs like the iconic Villa Cavrois.

Lille is also a paradise for art lovers. The Palais des Beaux-Arts houses France’s second-largest collection after the Louvre, featuring masterpieces by Rubens, Delacroix, and Rodin. For something more unconventional, visit La Piscine in nearby Roubaix, a former art deco swimming pool transformed into a stunning museum of art and design.

Food is at the heart of Lille’s identity. The city’s estaminets—traditional Flemish taverns—serve hearty regional dishes such as carbonnade flamande (beef stewed in beer) and potjevleesch, alongside local beers. Don’t miss the famous Méert waffles, a sweet treat beloved by generations, or the lively Wazemmes Market, where the aromas of spices and fresh produce fill the air.

With its cultural festivals, bustling markets, and warm hospitality, Lille offers an experience that is both cosmopolitan and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether you come for the art, the food, or simply to wander its picturesque streets, Lille promises to surprise and delight at every turn.