Discover Lille in One Day

Lille is a highly walkable city, with most attractions located within walking distance in the historic center. An audio tour is a great way to explore at your own pace while ensuring you don't miss a thing. In addition to the well-known landmarks, our Dutch-language audio guide reveals hidden gems and stories of the city as you enjoy a delightful stroll.

Highlights and Attractions in Lille

Lille is the perfect city trip destination for lovers of French charm and architectural splendor. The lively streets, impressive squares, and colorful facades create an atmosphere that feels both historic and modern. From the Old Stock Exchange to the stunning Palais des Beaux-Arts, Lille exudes culture and elegance. The city boasts a unique Flemish influence, visible in its architecture and rich gastronomic traditions. Discover cozy cafés, local markets, and narrow alleys filled with boutiques and antique shops. Lille will surprise you at every turn, so start your self-guided walking tour through the heart of Lille.

Here are some of the highlights of Lille you’ll encounter on our audio tour:

Notre-Dame de la Treille Cathedral: The Notre-Dame de la Treille Cathedral in Lille, with its impressive modern facade made of marble and steel, stands out as a remarkable piece of architecture, deviating from the traditional Gothic style. Construction began in the 19th century, but it wasn’t until 1999 that the unique facade, designed by Pierre-Louis Carlier and Ladislas Kinossian, was completed.

Porte de Paris: The Porte de Paris is a magnificent triumphal arch in Lille, built at the end of the 17th century in honor of Louis XIV and his conquest of the city. This iconic monument, richly adorned with sculptures and ornaments, marks one of Lille's key gateways and exudes grandeur.

Rihour Palace: Rihour Palace in Lille is an impressive historical landmark, renowned for its Gothic architecture and rich history. Originally built in the 15th century by Philip the Good as a residence for the Dukes of Burgundy, the palace now houses Lille’s tourist office.

Euralille: Euralille, an iconic complex in the heart of Lille, is known for its futuristic architecture and modern allure. Opened in the 1990s, Euralille includes shopping centers, offices, and several hotels. The striking buildings, such as the Lille Tower and the Convention Center, were designed by renowned architects and provide a stark contrast to Lille's historic old town.

Hospice Comtesse Museum: Located in the heart of Lille’s old town, this historical gem offers visitors a glimpse into centuries of French and Flemish heritage. Originally founded in the 13th century by Countess Jeanne of Flanders, this former hospital now houses an extensive collection of art, furniture, and artifacts. The building itself, with its vaulted ceilings, Gothic arches, and serene courtyard, is a testament to medieval craftsmanship.

Sébastopol Theater: Just a stone’s throw from the central station, Sébastopol Theater is an iconic building in the heart of Lille. This theater, which has been attracting audiences since the early 20th century, is renowned for its beautiful architecture and intimate atmosphere. From opera to ballet and from concerts to plays, Sébastopol Theater offers a diverse range of performances.

These are just some of the many attractions you’ll experience on our audio tour as you explore the center of Lille.

Frequently asked questions

• How much time should I plan to fully explore Lille?
  We recommend setting aside at least one full day to discover Lille. With an audio tour, you can explore at your own pace and spend extra time at the attractions that interest you most.

• How long does the city walk in Lille take on average?
  If you follow the route in one go without breaks, it takes about 2 to 3 hours. Most travelers, however, take half a day or more, combining the tour with a meal or drink and visits to some of the attractions along the way.

• What is the best time to visit Lille?
  Lille is not known for its warm climate, so summer (July-August) is the best time to enjoy sunny weather. Autumn (September) is also an ideal time to visit, as the city is less crowded than in summer.

• Can I share the tour with others in my group?
  Yes, you can opt for a duo or group tour instead of a solo ticket. The cost per person decreases as the group size increases (up to 6 people).

• How much does an audio tour of Lille cost?
  Depending on the group size, prices range from €3.33 to a maximum of €9.95 per person.

• Do I need internet access?
  Yes, our tours require an internet and GPS connection.

• Is the tour suitable for families with children?
  Absolutely! The tour includes fun stories and interesting facts that will appeal to children, making it a fun and educational activity for the whole family. However, keep in mind that the stories are primarily written for an adult audience.

• Is there a free tour of Lille?
  At the moment, we do not offer free tours. Our paid tours, however, provide extensive information, stories, and tips from local guides for a unique experience.

• How does an audio tour with the CityAppTour app work?
  After logging in, you'll receive an explanation in the app and see a map with a route that includes all the highlights. You can choose to activate the audio manually or let it play automatically based on your GPS location.

• In which languages are the audio tours available?
  Our city walks are available in seven languages: Dutch, English, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian, allowing you to explore Lille in your preferred language.

• Where can I download the CityAppTour app?
  Here: CityAppTour

Practical Tips and Information for a Trip to Lille

Accommodation in Lille
Book your accommodation in Lille in advance, especially during high season. Lille offers a wide range of options, from charming boutique hotels in the historic center to modern hotels. For an authentic experience, consider staying in an Airbnb.

Transportation:

• The city center of Lille is compact and easily explored on foot. You can also use the metro, tram, and bus network. A ticket for public transport costs around €2. Multi-day passes (up to 7 days) are also available.
• Lille is well-connected by train, with two central stations: Gare Lille-Europe and Gare Lille-Flandres. The train is also an excellent choice for day trips to the surrounding region.
• Prefer more independence? You can always rent a car in Lille.

Access to Attractions:

• Consider purchasing a City Pass. This card provides free access to most attractions in Lille and pays for itself after visiting just a few sites.

Tasting Local Specialties
Don’t miss local dishes like carbonnade flamande (beer-braised beef stew) and coeur des Flandres (a regional pie). A great place to try these is in an estaminet, a traditional restaurant featuring local décor and regional cuisine. For those with a sweet tooth, no visit to Lille is complete without tasting its famous waffles.

Shopping in Lille
Lille is a shopping paradise, offering both popular brands and unique boutiques. Euralille and Rue Neuve are the go-to places for luxury brands. For one-of-a-kind finds, explore the charming streets of Vieux-Lille, the city’s historic heart.

Start planning your unforgettable trip to Lille today!