Travel around Lille with Bobby
Day 1Cobblestones and Charm in Vieux Lille
As soon as I arrived in Lille, I couldn’t resist starting my exploration in Vieux Lille, the city’s historic district. The cobblestone streets and colorful Flemish-style houses immediately set the tone for a delightful day. My first stop was the Lille Cathedral, an architectural gem that mixes Gothic and modern styles in a way I’d never seen before. The peaceful atmosphere inside the cathedral was the perfect way to begin my trip. Afterward, I wandered to Grand Place, the lively heart of the city, where I paused at a café to enjoy a coffee and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The combination of historic buildings, bustling crowds, and street performers made it a captivating spot.
For lunch, I couldn’t resist the call of traditional Flemish cuisine and headed to Le Barbue d’Anvers for a hearty plate of carbonnade flamande, a slow-cooked beef stew in beer. It was rich, comforting, and absolutely delicious. In the afternoon, I visited the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of France’s largest art museums. Walking through the vast collection of European masterpieces felt like a journey through art history, with works by Rubens, Goya, and Delacroix. By the end of the day, I was full of both food and culture, with my curiosity about Lille’s history deeply satisfied.
Vieux Lille is a must-see. Take your time, soak in the atmosphere, and try the local cuisine—especially the Flemish stew!
Day 2History and Local Flavors
I started the day by exploring the Citadel of Lille, located in the lush Parc de la Citadelle, a perfect blend of history and nature. Walking along the peaceful paths and learning about the historical significance of this 17th-century fortress was a relaxing and enriching way to kick off the morning. The surrounding park, with its beautiful greenery and calm atmosphere, provided a serene contrast to the city’s usual buzz.
Next, I made my way to the lively Wazemmes Market, a local favorite where stalls brim with fresh produce, spices, and all kinds of local delicacies. The vibrant energy of the market was infectious, and I couldn’t resist indulging in some local fare, picking up a chunk of mimolette cheese and a fresh baguette. Wandering through the market, surrounded by the colorful displays and friendly vendors, I truly felt immersed in the everyday life of Lille.
For lunch, I stopped at La Capsule, a cozy spot known for its excellent selection of local craft beers. I paired my beer with a simple yet delicious sandwich, making for a satisfying and laid-back meal. In the afternoon, I hopped on a tram to visit the La Piscine Museum in nearby Roubaix, a former swimming pool turned into an art gallery. The unique setting, with its stunning art deco design and diverse range of exhibits, was unlike any museum I had seen before, offering a fascinating blend of art, history, and architecture. It was the perfect way to end a day full of local culture and discovery.
I had lunch at La Capsule, a casual spot known for its craft beers and simple, delicious sandwiches. The local beer was refreshing, and the food was fresh and flavorful, especially after exploring the bustling Wazemmes Market. It was the perfect spot for a laid-back meal.
Food
My second night at the same boutique hotel continued to impress with its great location and friendly service. The small but comfortable room offered a peaceful night’s rest after a full day of sightseeing.
Accomodation
Visiting the Citadel of Lille and later discovering the La Piscine Museum in Roubaix made for a culturally rich day. The Citadel’s peaceful surroundings were a great contrast to the lively Wazemmes Market, and the art deco setting of La Piscine added a unique twist to the art experience.
Activity
The Citadel is perfect for a morning walk, and Wazemmes Market is where you’ll find Lille’s soul. Don’t miss La Piscine—it’s a hidden gem!
Day 3Art, Views, and Night Vibes
I began my final day in Lille with a visit to LaM, the city’s renowned modern art museum. As I wandered through its galleries, I was captivated by the impressive collection featuring works from artists like Picasso and Modigliani. The museum’s expansive sculpture park outside provided a peaceful space to reflect on the art I had just experienced, with its serene atmosphere offering a moment of calm amidst the bustle of the city.
By midday, I decided to treat myself to a famous merveilleux dessert from Aux Merveilleux de Fred, one of the top patisseries in Lille. Sitting in the charming Place du Théâtre, I savored the delicate pastry, a light yet indulgent creation that perfectly captured the flavors of the region. It was the perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the ambiance of Lille, surrounded by the city’s elegant architecture and lively streets.
For my final stop, I made my way to the Belfry of Lille. Climbing to the top, I was rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city’s rooftops and iconic landmarks, a true highlight of the day. As the evening set in, I headed to Le Dandy, a stylish cocktail bar known for its refined yet laid-back atmosphere. It was the perfect place to unwind, sip on a creative cocktail, and reflect on my incredible journey through Lille, ending my adventure on a high note.
My sweet tooth was satisfied at Aux Merveilleux de Fred, where I indulged in their famous merveilleux pastry. The meringue and whipped cream layers were light and delightful, making it a perfect midday treat. It was a great way to experience Lille’s renowned patisseries.
Food
The final night at my boutique hotel was pleasant as always. Its central location made it easy to explore Lille by foot, and the quiet atmosphere was a nice retreat from the bustling streets.
Accomodation
The highlight of the day was climbing the Belfry of Lille for panoramic city views. The view from the top was incredible, offering a bird’s-eye perspective of the city’s landmarks. Ending the evening with a cocktail at Le Dandy was a relaxing way to wrap up the trip.
Activity
For art lovers, LaM is a must. The Belfry offers unbeatable views, and Lille’s nightlife is perfect for winding down your day.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Lille is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modern life, making it a fantastic destination for travelers looking for a more relaxed yet enriching experience. From its beautiful architecture and impressive art scene to the warmth of the local people and delicious Flemish cuisine, Lille offers something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring its cobblestone streets or enjoying a hearty meal, this city leaves a lasting impression without the usual tourist rush.
The highlight of the day was lunch at Le Barbue d’Anvers, where I enjoyed a traditional carbonnade flamande. The rich flavors of the slow-cooked beef stew in beer were comforting, and the portion size was generous. The meal was a perfect introduction to the local Flemish cuisine.
Food
I stayed at a boutique hotel near Vieux Lille, offering cozy rooms with a modern touch. The location was perfect for walking to all the main attractions, and the staff was incredibly helpful. The only downside was that the room was a bit small, but it was clean and well-maintained.
Accomodation
Exploring Vieux Lille and visiting the Palais des Beaux-Arts was a perfect way to start my trip. The art museum’s collection was stunning, with works from renowned artists that made the visit truly memorable. Walking through the historic district also felt like stepping back in time, adding charm to the day.
Activity