Only have 24 hours in Lille France? To make the most of your trip, I’ve put together a 24-hour travel itinerary at the end of this post, covering the best things to see, do, and eat in Lille Old Town. From exploring La Vieille Bourse and strolling through Pl. du Général de Gaulle to enjoying a meal at a traditional estraminet, this guide has everything you need for a perfect day in Lille.
BUT before you scroll to the end for the itinerary, take some time to explore the other options in this post. Whether you’re looking for the best museums, local food spots, or hidden gems in Lille, you might find something that interests you and makes your trip even better. Plus, checking out all the details will help you decide how to personalise your 24-hour Lille experience!
About Lille France
About Lille France: Lille is a vibrant city located in northern France, known for its rich history and unique blend of French and Flemish culture. If you’re planning a Lille culture trip, you’ll find plenty of museums, galleries, and charming old neighborhoods like Vieux-Lille. The city is also famous for its beautiful architecture, including the Grand Place and the Vieille Bourse. Whether you’re into history, food, or just exploring the streets, Lille has something to offer.
What to See in 24 Hours in Lille France
Lille City Centre
Lille city centre is the heart of the city, where you’ll find a mix of historic buildings, shops, and local cafes. It’s easy to explore on foot, with attractions like the Pl. du Général de Gaulle (Lille´s grand place) and the Vieille Bourse nearby. The area is also home to plenty of restaurants and bars, perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed drink. If you’re short on time, you can experience Lille’s charm in this central area while soaking in its lively atmosphere.
Citadelle Lille France
The Citadelle in Lille France is a 17th-century fortress designed by Vauban, located just outside the city centre. Surrounded by a large park, it’s a peaceful spot for a walk or a picnic. While the citadel itself is not open to the public, you can enjoy the beautiful green space around it. It’s a perfect place to visit if you’re looking for some fresh air and a bit of history during your 24 hours in Lille France.
Lille Old Town
Lille Old Town is the historic heart of the city, known for its Flemish-style architecture and rich history. It dates back to medieval times and is home to some of Lille’s oldest buildings, including the stunning Palais Rihour, once a royal residence, and the Place du Général de Gaulle, a large square that marks the city’s center. While wandering through its narrow streets, you can also visit La Vieille Bourse, a 17th-century stock exchange building, and Rue de la Monnaie, a lively street lined with shops and cafes. The area offers a blend of history and culture, making it an essential stop during your 24 hours in Lille France.
Museums Lille
Museums to visit in Lille include:
- Palais des Beaux-Arts – One of France’s largest fine arts museums, showcasing an impressive collection of European art.
- La Piscine Museum – Housed in a former Art Deco swimming pool, this museum features decorative arts and textiles.
- Musée d’Histoire Naturelle – A natural history museum with exhibits on the environment, animals, and scientific discoveries.
Vieille Bourse Lille
Vieille Bourse Lille is a beautiful historical building located in the city centre. Built in the 17th century, it was once the stock exchange and is now a popular spot for visitors. The courtyard often hosts book vendors and local performers, giving it a lively feel. It’s a great place to take in the architecture and enjoy the surrounding area, especially if you’re spending 24 hours in Lille France.
🔊 SOUND ON
Where to eat in Lille
Lunch & Dinner suggestions:
Estaminets Lille
Estaminets are traditional Flemish-style pubs that originated in the northern regions of France and Belgium. They started as simple, cozy spots where locals could gather for hearty meals and drinks. In Lille, you’ll find dishes like moules-frites, carbonnade flamande, and potjevleesch—all great examples of the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Here are some highly-rated estaminets in Lille, France, where you can enjoy traditional local cuisine:
- Estaminet Chez La Vieille
- Estaminet La CH’TITE BRIGITTE
- L’Estaminet du Welsh
- Chez Raoul Estaminet
- Estraminet Au Vieux de la Vieille
La Belleza Lille
Another option is La Bellezza, an Italian restaurant that’s part of the BigMamma group, which has locations all over Europe. We love dining at their restaurants because they offer great value for money, with delicious food, excellent service, and amazing cocktails.
Best Places for Breakfast Lille France
Here are five highly-rated breakfast and brunch spots in Lille, France, all with 4-star ratings and above:
Bakeries & Patisseries Lille
Where to stay
All these hotels are located in Lille centre ville (city centre) for your convenience:
- Hotel Lille Europe
- Safari chic
- Hotel De La Paix
- Brueghel
- Moxy Lille City
- Hotel Chagnot
- Citadines City Centre Lille
24 Hours in Lille France Travel Itinerary
Day trips from Lille by Train
Lille is perfectly located for exploring northern France and beyond, with excellent train connections that make it easy to enjoy some great day trips. We recommend booking your train tickets with Omio, a simple platform where you can compare prices, schedules, and book your tickets. You can easily do this through their website or app. Whether you’re looking to explore historic cities, charming villages, or coastal towns, here are some top options for day trips from Lille by train:
- Brussels, Belgium – Just under an hour away by train, Brussels offers a mix of history, culture, and delicious food. You can explore the Grand Place, visit the Atomium, or indulge in some Belgian waffles.
- Paris, France – In just 1 hour, you can be in the heart of Paris, ready to explore iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, or Montmartre. A day in Paris is always worth it!
- Ypres, Belgium – A short 30-minute train ride from Lille, Ypres is a city rich in World War I history. Visit the famous Menin Gate and explore the battlefields and museums dedicated to the Great War.
- Dunkirk, France – Only about 40 minutes away by train, Dunkirk is home to a beautiful beach and offers a fascinating look into World War II history with the Dunkirk evacuation memorials.
- Arras, France – About 35 minutes from Lille, Arras is known for its beautiful square, stunning architecture, and rich history. Don’t miss the Belfry of Arras, which offers panoramic views of the city.
These are just a few great cities near Lille that are easy to reach by train, all offering a mix of history, culture, and adventure. You can book your Omio train tickets here.
