A city of history, gourmet food, and modern art! 8 recommended sightseeing spots in Lille

Lille, a tourist city in the Flanders region of northern France near the Belgian border, may not be familiar to many people. However, it is a thriving city not only for tourism but also for commerce and academia. Its convenient location, with easy train access from major European capitals like Paris, Brussels, London, and Amsterdam, is a major draw.

Surrounded by powerful nations and with a complex history, Lille still boasts a diverse range of architectural styles. The city is also a popular destination for art lovers, with the Palace of Fine Arts and a modern art museum, as well as a new branch of the Louvre Museum in the suburbs. This article introduces the top 8 recommended tourist spots in Lille.

1. Clock Tower of Lille City Hall

Let’s start with a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lille. In 1999, 32 belfries scattered across northern France and Belgium were recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These belfries, constructed between the 11th and 17th centuries, showcase various architectural styles like Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque, reflecting the unique character of each town.

The clock tower of Lille City Hall, standing 104 meters tall, is a relatively modern structure, built between 1924 and 1932. However, its design and decorations encapsulate the history of Flanders' prosperity. The Lille Belfry was added to the UNESCO listing in 2005, alongside 23 other belfries. Visitors can enter both the city hall and the clock tower. From the top of the tower, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lille, including the Porte de Paris and the surrounding cityscape.

2. Grand Place

The Grand Place is the heart of Lille. In regions like Flanders, northern France, and the Netherlands, the central square is often called "Grand Place," with the one in Brussels being especially famous.

In Lille, the Grand Place is also known as Place du Général de Gaulle. During the French Revolution, when the armies of the German Empire and Austria tried to pass through Lille, they offered the residents peace if they let them through. However, the citizens of Lille reportedly declared, “We are French! You shall not enter this land!” and took up arms.

In 1845, a statue of a goddess was erected in the square to symbolize this defiant spirit. The statue holds a torch in her right hand, symbolizing the act of igniting a cannon, while her left-hand points downward, expressing the unyielding resolve of the citizens to remain steadfast.

3. Palace of Fine Arts of Lille

Founded in 1782, this museum boasts an elegant neoclassical exterior and holds France’s second-largest art collection, second only to the Louvre. Spanning 22,000 square meters, the museum showcases a vast collection of ceramics, drawings, sculptures, and paintings, spanning from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Though it is relatively unknown among foreign tourists, it is highly regarded in France, ranking 20th in attendance in 2014. A highlight of the museum is the second-floor painting gallery, featuring over 500 works by renowned artists such as Renoir, Monet, and Picasso. Due to Lille’s location, the museum also houses an impressive collection of Flemish art, including masterpieces by Rubens and Van Dyck. One must-see piece is Rubens’ The Descent from the Cross.

With its vast collection, visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring the museum to fully appreciate the breadth of European art on display.

4. Notre-Dame de la Treille Cathedral

Lille’s Notre-Dame de la Treille Cathedral stands out with its remarkably modern appearance, quite different from traditional churches. After being damaged by Austrian forces during the French Revolution and subsequently collapsing, reconstruction began in 1854, with the latest renovation completed in 1999, resulting in its current form.

The contrast between the church's side walls and its modern facade highlights the passage of time. Inside, the cathedral features eight chapels, including one dedicated to Joan of Arc, with stained glass windows depicting scenes related to her life.

The facade, made of thin 28mm marble, is supported by numerous metal braces to manage its weight. From a distance, it appears as though the church is still undergoing repairs, but this is part of its intentional design. When sunlight hits the front, the light filters beautifully through the marble into the interior, creating a stunning effect. Visitors can enjoy peaceful moments sitting in the pews, admiring the large pipe organ and the intricate stained glass windows.

5. Old Stock Exchange

Located to the right of the Grand Place in the heart of Lille, the Vieille Bourse is an architectural masterpiece of Flemish design, built in 1653. It is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Lille, with its ornate entrance and layout consisting of 24 identical houses arranged in a gallery. At the top of the bell tower stands a statue of Mercury (Hermes), the god of commerce, symbolizing the city's trading heritage.

The courtyard hosts flower markets, second-hand book sales, record markets, and flea markets, making it a popular attraction for tourists. Each year, on the first weekend of September, Lille holds a massive flea market, attracting professional buyers and featuring over 10,000 stalls spread throughout the city. This event draws nearly 2 million visitors, and the Vieille Bourse flea market is known for offering amazing finds.

6. Lille Métropole Museum of Modern, Contemporary and Outsider Art (LaM)

Located in the eastern suburbs of Lille, the LaM (an abbreviation of its French name) is a beloved museum featuring works by modern masters such as Picasso, Miró, Modigliani, Braque, and Utrillo. What sets this museum apart, however, is its focus on Art Brut, or “outsider art” – art created by individuals outside the traditional art world, often without formal education, and including works by people with disabilities.

In 2010, a new wing dedicated to Art Brut opened, showcasing more than 3,500 pieces donated by the Aracine Foundation. This collection includes works from Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Japan, making it a unique destination for anyone interested in outsider art.

7. Lille Citadel

West of Lille’s Old Town lies the Citadel of Lille, built in the late 17th century by military architect Vauban under the direction of King Louis XIV. Vauban, who designed over 150 fortresses in his lifetime, gave the Lille Citadel its distinctive pentagonal shape.

Though the Citadel still houses military facilities and cannot be accessed by the public, the surrounding area has been transformed into a park that serves as a popular recreational space. With a two-kilometer-long moat, the area is ideal for jogging or walking. Families also enjoy the children’s playground and the nearby free-entry zoo, which offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

8. Charles de Gaulle Birthplace Museum

Charles de Gaulle, the 18th President of France, was born in Lille’s Old Town at the home of his maternal grandparents. Throughout France, de Gaulle’s legacy is honored with numerous places, institutions, and monuments bearing his name, such as Charles de Gaulle Airport, the aircraft carrier, the square in front of the Arc de Triomphe, and even a rose variety.

The Charles de Gaulle Birthplace Museum is housed in a modest two-story building adorned with the French flag. Inside, visitors can watch a video summarizing de Gaulle’s achievements, from liberating France during World War II to leading the country's post-war reconstruction. The museum also recreates rooms from his childhood, including the bedroom and living spaces, along with displays of family photographs from his early life and military career. At the gift shop, visitors can purchase souvenirs, such as items featuring de Gaulle's portrait.

◎Summary

Though Lille is often overlooked on standard tour itineraries, it is just an hour away from Paris by TGV (France's high-speed train), making it a great day-trip destination. Lille is also easily accessible from London, with the Eurostar passing through the Channel Tunnel in under two hours.

Upon arrival, it is recommended to visit the Tourism Office and purchase a City Pass, which provides discounts on museum admissions and access to free tours. While exploring Lille, don’t miss the chance to visit Méert, a historic patisserie. Known for its beautifully designed storefront, Méert serves freshly made gaufres (waffles), prepared using traditional cast-iron molds. These delicacies, loved by Charles de Gaulle himself, are a must-try during your visit to Lille. Enjoy your exploration of Lille while savoring its unique mix of history, art, and culinary delights!