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Diverse Lille!

Overview

Lille is a great destination for a day trip across the channel and there’s plenty there to experience French culture.  The Old Town is a lovely area to wander around and soak up the distinctive architecture.

Historically a market town, Lille has a wonderful market full of local produce and it’s a great place to practice speaking French.  Lille is a fantastic city for the budding artist; a visit to the Palais des Beaux-Arts Museum offers the largest collection of art in France after the Louvre.

Finish off your trip with a visit to Lille Cathedral, an example of Gothic Revival architecture.  This is great way to experience authentic French culture, at such an easy distance from the UK!

Our Suggested Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Morning
    Coach transfer and channel crossing to France. 

    Arrive in Lille and have a stroll around the Old Town, enjoying splendid architecture

    Afternoon
    Visit the Wazemmes Market in the city centre, explore the endless stalls and have a chance to practice your French!

    Afterwards, discover excellent works of art at the Palais des Beaux-Arts Museum, home to France’s second largest art collection after the Louvre.  The gallery displays works from Goya, Rembrandt and Rubens.

    OR

    Wander through Lille Zoo, home to an exciting range of animals and committed to animal conservation and welfare.

    Then visit Lille Cathedral, a modern cathedral with a stunning marble façade.  Well worth a visit, the cathedral is consider a national monument.

    Evening
    Depart Lille and begin your journey back to the UK.

    Optional add on: Make a stop off at Cité Europe Shopping Centre to discover some of the big name stores before your channel crossing. 

Accommodation

Lille Christmas Market can be visited in a day, without the need to stay overnight.  Extend your stay by a night and add in a lunchtime demonstration with a professional chef at a cookery school or a demonstration at a local waffle-maker, artisan Chocolatier or Fromagerie!