Adventures in Lille: Family Fun on a Budget
Discover the charm of Lille, where your family adventure begins!
19 July 2023
Raymonde Gagnon
France Travel Writer
Lille, France offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its rich history, vibrant culture, and numerous attractions suitable for all ages. Visit the famous Palais des Beaux-Arts museum, treat the kids to a fun-filled day at the zoo, and explore the charming streets of Vieux Lille where you can indulge in delicious local cuisine. With its welcoming atmosphere and various activities, Lille is the perfect destination for an unforgettable family adventure.
Travel plan
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- Check into Hotel Carlton, a charming family-friendly hotel in the heart of the city
- Stroll around the Vieille Bourse, a stunning 17th-century stock exchange building with a lovely courtyard full of book market stalls
- Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts, an art museum boasting masterpieces from Delacroix, Rubens, and Rembrandt
- Savor a delectable lunch at La Chicorée, a cozy brasserie serving traditional Flemish cuisine, including mouthwatering carbonade flamande
- Wander through the charming streets of Vieux Lille and admire the striking architecture and quirky boutiques
- Indulge in a heavenly scoop of ice cream from Gelato Gusto before heading back to the hotel
- Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at Hotel Novotel Lille Centre and get ready for a day of greenery
- Visit Parc de la Citadelle, a picturesque park perfect for picnics, boat rides, and even a zoo for the little ones
- Discover Jardin des Géants, a whimsical garden with oversized sculptures that will make you feel like you've entered a magical world
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Meert, a legendary pastry shop known for its delectable waffles and exquisite chocolates
- Explore the Natural History Museum, home to fascinating exhibits and an impressive collection of fossils from the region
- Relax in Jardin Vauban, a peaceful oasis with stunning views of Lille's skyline, before retiring for the night
- Embark on a voyage through history at the Lille City Museum, housed in a former hospice with artifacts dating back to ancient times
- Get lost in the vibrant streets of Wazemmes, home to the city's largest market where you can find everything from fresh produce to vintage treasures
- Sample the irresistible gaufres from Aux Merveilleux de Fred, delicate waffles with a cloud-like texture and a sprinkle of sweetness
- Explore the striking Saint-Maurice church and admire its beautiful stained glass windows
- Take a break at La Cave aux Fioles, a charming café with a quirky decor that will transport you back in time
- End the day with a delicious dinner at Le Barbier qui Fume, a family-friendly restaurant serving mouthwatering Flemish specialties
- Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at Boulangerie Méert, famous for its buttery croissants and freshly baked bread
- Visit La Piscine Museum, a former art deco swimming pool turned into an enchanting museum showcasing art and fashion
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the citadel's ramparts, offering panoramic views of the city
- Indulge in a savory gaufre salée at Chez La Vieille, a cozy eatery famous for their savory waffles topped with scrumptious toppings like smoked salmon and goat cheese
- Explore LAM (Lille Métropole Museum of Modern, Contemporary and Outsider Art), an offbeat museum with an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artworks
- Bid au revoir to Lille with a final treat, a warm gaufre Liégeoise from Maison Méert, gooey and irresistible! Bon voyage!
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How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Lille, France by plane is to fly into Lille Airport (LIL) from major international airports such as London Heathrow, Amsterdam Schiphol or Paris Charles de Gaulle.
Car
If driving, the best way to get to Lille from Paris is to take the A1 motorway towards Lille. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and there are tolls along the way.
Train
If travelling by train, take the Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Lille Europe Station. This journey takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Boat
There are no direct boat routes to Lille as it is an inland city. The closest port is Calais, which is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.
Bus
There are several bus companies that operate routes from major cities in Europe to Lille. FlixBus and Eurolines are popular options.