Hotels in Lille

As the capital of the region Nord-Pas de Calais, Lille is a city rich in history, culture and is fun for everyone. Its name translates as "The Island", once famed for its marshy terrain, Lille today boasts fantastic architectural delights. Historically the city emerged as a competitor in several areas of manufacturing with a thriving textile industry materialising in the 16th Century with former residents such as Philip The Good championing the importance of such pursuits in addition to the arts.

With few buildings destroyed during the French Revolution, Lille has managed to retain much of its authentic beauty including gothic buildings and charming cobbled streets. The red brick buildings offer an architectural uniqueness unparallelled by other French cities. One of the must-see buildings includes the former stock exchange The Vieille Bourse in the Grand Place, the heart of the town centre. The Grand Place also offers a variety of markets and shops to explore. Travel is also effortless with two main train stations situated in the centre with a sophisticated metro and tram network.

A two-day break:
With two days to enjoy Lille opt for a trip to the city centre. Discovering the delights of the city centre square known as The Grand Place is easy with accommodation right in the heart of the city with a stay at Kyriad Lille Centre Gares hotel. Whilst exploring the majestic buildings along Lille's pretty streets, enjoy lunch in one of many nearby cafes and take in the bustling atmosphere. Take a chance to visit one of Europe's largest book shops Le Furet du Nord selling a variety of English and French books. Further treats to enjoy in this location include the excellent local markets. Complete the day with a trip to Lille's world class Theatre Du Nord. On day two consider an unforgettable day of fine art at Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille to marvel at work by legendary painters such as Sir Peter Rubens and Manet.

A week-long stay
A week in Lille is best spent sampling a variety of treasures the city has to offer. A stay at Kyriad Villeneuve d'Ascq hotel is just a 15 minute distance to the city centre; perfect for exploring the Grand Place's charming cobbled streets, cafes and art galleries. Must-see activities with a whole week in Lille include a trip to La Piscine - the museum of art and industry to delight in the glorious views of its art deco interior. For a change of pace visit The Vauban Garden to unwind and absorb the monuments of Lille's famous residents. Nightlife in Lille also offers an unmissable chance to see the Place du Théâtre, the city's grand opera house which is exceptionally breath-taking when seen at night.

For a Family Holiday
An excursion for all could include a trip to see the infamous La Citadelle - Lille's star-shaped fortification, almost a town of its own with fun for all the family. Learn Lille's history and enjoy the local zoo. A shuttle bus is available from the centre but booking is essential.

Transports
Both national and international travel links to Lille are excellent. By car Lille can be reached by several motorways (A25, A27 and A1). The city can be reached via Eurostar from London within 1 hour and 30 minutes with fast train TGV links from Lyon and Paris. Train connections from Calais to the city are also good. The nearest airport (Lille Lesquin International Airport) is approximately 10km from the city centre. Within Lille travel is straightforward with a well-developed metro and tram network that is easy to use and a variety of buses also available from the centre to popular attractions. Shuttle buses to sights around Lille are also plentiful such as those to La Citadelle.

Gastronomy
One of the main gastronomic attractions Lille has to offer is its range of world class patisseries. These are in easy reach when staying at a city centre hotel Kyriad Lille Centre Gares. Other popular local dishes include beef stewed in beer known as Carbonnade.

Events
Seasonal events in Lille include the local Christmas markets held from November such as Marche De Noel in the City Centre Square offering festive-themed treats such as mulled wine and handmade gifts to buy from around the world. Other events include regular classical music concerts, urban music festivals and large scale flea markets within and around the city centre such as Braderie de Lille.

Interesting Fact
One of Lille's most famous former residents includes Louis Pasteur renowned for the invention of pasteurisation.

Useful Links
lilletourism.com
lille-guide.co.uk lonelyplanet.com/France/northern-France/Lille