Roubaix Unhinged: The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure on a Budget

Discover the charm of Roubaix, France on a shoestring budget and make every cent count!

29 August 2023

Roubaix, located in the Nord department of France, offers a delightful budget-friendly trip with its rich history and cultural attractions. Explore the striking architecture and unique museums like La Piscine, which is housed in a former Art Deco swimming pool. With affordable accommodation options and delicious, budget-friendly cuisine at local restaurants, you can enjoy a memorable trip to Roubaix without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Roubaix, the Quirkiest City in France!

  • Check in at the charming Hotel Le Parisien, a budget-friendly gem with kitschy décor and cozy rooms.
  • Start your day with a visit to the La Piscine Museum, an art gallery housed in a former swimming pool. You'll be amazed by the unique setting and impressive collection.
  • Time for lunch at L'Atelier Gourmand, a local favorite known for its scrumptious homemade quiches and delectable pastries.
  • Explore the Roubaix city center by foot, taking in the vibrant street art and quirky sculptures that adorn the streets.
  • Go bargain hunting at the famous La Condition Publique flea market and bring home some truly one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
  • End the day with a delicious dinner at Le Sésame, a charming bistro specializing in traditional French cuisine.
Day 2

A Bicycle Adventure in Roubaix

  • Rent a bike from Roubaix Vélo, a shop dedicated to all things cycling, and embark on a thrilling bike tour of the city.
  • Pedal your way to the stunning Parc Barbieux, a hidden gem with lush greenery, a picturesque lake, and winding paths perfect for a leisurely ride.
  • Take a detour to the Musée de la Vélo, a small museum celebrating the rich cycling history of Roubaix and its famous Paris-Roubaix race.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch at the park, complete with local cheeses, crusty baguettes, and a refreshing bottle of wine.
  • Continue your bike adventure to the Grand-Place, a bustling square lined with cafés and shops, perfect for people-watching and savoring the local atmosphere.
  • Reward yourself with a well-deserved dinner at La Ferme aux Colins, a cozy farm-to-table restaurant serving up hearty dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Day 3

Lille: A Day Trip to the Colorful Neighbor

  • Take a short train ride to the nearby city of Lille, known for its charming Flemish architecture and lively atmosphere.
  • Begin your day in Lille's Old Town, wandering through narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the stunning facades of the 17th-century buildings.
  • Explore the vibrant local markets, like Marché de Wazemmes, where you'll find an array of colorful produce, enchanting spices, and bustling crowds.
  • Treat yourself to mussels and fries, a Belgian specialty, at Aux Moules, a cozy restaurant tucked away in a quiet corner.
  • Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of France's largest art museums, and marvel at its impressive collection spanning centuries and continents.
  • End your day with a pint of locally brewed beer at La Capsule, a trendy bar offering an extensive selection of craft brews.
Day 4

Uncover Roubaix's Industrial Heritage

  • Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Jean, a local favorite spot known for its delicious pastries and strong coffee.
  • Discover the iconic La Manufacture Française des Flandres, a former textile factory turned cultural space with art exhibitions, shops, and cafes.
  • Dive into the fascinating history of Roubaix's industrial past at the Musée de l'Industrie, showcasing the city's textile heritage and machinery.
  • Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Canal de Roubaix, lined with picturesque old factory buildings that have been repurposed into trendy lofts and artist studios.
  • Stop for lunch at La Table des Filles, a charming café serving homemade dishes with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
  • Spend the afternoon wandering through the enchanting Jardin du Plume, a beautiful park filled with exotic plants and whimsical sculptures.
Day 5

Adventure Awaits: Nature and Cuisine

  • Head to the Parc Naturel Régional Scarpe-Escaut, a tranquil nature reserve just outside Roubaix, perfect for a morning hike or bike ride.
  • Discover the hidden gem of Château de Robersart, a charming medieval castle surrounded by lush greenery and offering breathtaking panoramic views.
  • Enjoy a leisurely, countryside-style picnic with regional delicacies like Maroilles cheese, fresh baguettes, and local fruit from a nearby market.
  • Have a relaxing afternoon exploring the quaint village of Croix, browsing its charming boutiques and stopping for a coffee and pastry at a local café.
  • Treat yourself to a final dinner at Le Vagabond, a cozy restaurant that combines French classics with international flavors, ending your stay in Roubaix on a delicious note.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Roubaix by plane is to fly into Lille Airport (LIL) and then take a taxi or bus to Roubaix.

Car

Driving to Roubaix is convenient, and you can take the A22 motorway from Lille or Brussels, following the signs to Roubaix. The estimated travel time by car is around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Train

To reach Roubaix by train, you can take a high-speed train (TGV) to Lille Europe Station and then transfer to a regional train to Roubaix Station.

Boat

As Roubaix is an inland city, there are no direct boat routes. However, you can consider traveling by boat to nearby ports such as the Port of Dunkirk or the Port of Calais and then continue the journey to Roubaix by train or car.

Bus

Taking a bus to Roubaix is possible by using Eurolines or Flixbus services, which offer routes to Lille. From Lille, you can then take a local bus or train to Roubaix.

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Embark on a budget-friendly adventure in Roubaix, France, a city bursting with cultural treasures. Explore the stunning art of the La Piscine museum, housed in an old Art Deco swimming pool, for an immersive experience without breaking the bank. Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of the city's local markets and delight in affordable, mouthwatering French cuisine, making your trip to Roubaix an unforgettable and economical escapade.

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Roubaix, France is a captivating destination for tourists seeking a blend of history, art, and culture. Known as the "City of Art and History," visitors can explore iconic treasures like the stunning Roubaix Museum of Art and Industry housed in an old textile mill, offering insights into the city's industrial heritage. The charming streets adorned with vibrant Flemish-style buildings, delightful local cuisine, and proximity to nearby attractions like Lille make Roubaix a must-visit destination for travelers.

Textile Trails and Gastronomic Delights in Roubaix

Roubaix, France offers a wonderful travel experience even on a limited budget. Explore the city's rich textile heritage by visiting the renowned La Piscine Museum that exhibits art alongside a collection of textile machinery. Afterwards, take a stroll through the picturesque Parc Barbieux, a free public park adorned with beautiful gardens and a lake. Finally, make sure to visit the Roubaix Market, where you can find affordable local produce and indulge in delicious French gastronomy without breaking the bank.