7 Hours in Lille
When it comes to quick European getaways, Lille isn’t often the first city that comes to mind. But after my short trip with my colleague Sade, it’s one I’d recommend to anyone looking for something a little different. With just seven hours to explore, we discovered how rewarding it is to visit a city that’s often overlooked - filled with charm, culture, and plenty of surprises. Here's how our day unfolded.
Breakfast
Arriving by Eurostar (in under two hours!), the journey to Lille couldn’t have been smoother. The station is incredibly convenient, just a five-minute walk from the centre, making it easy to dive straight into the city's offerings. Our first stop was Mamatte Boulangerie, where buttery pastries and iced coffee made for the perfect morning pick-me-up. We particularly enjoyed their brioche feuilletée pistache to eat-in, but I also stocked up on some baguettes for my pantry at home.
Fueled up, we wandered through the Grand Place, Lille's central square. It had a great blend of Flemish and French architecture. The Vieille Bourse, a 17th-century former stock exchange, and modern landmark of the area, stood out with its distinct red and gold colours.
Midday
Next, we headed to the Parc de la Citadelle, an ideal escape from the busy streets of the town square. The manicured gardens, forested walkways, and view of the Vauban-designed citadel gave us a chance to slow down and take in Lille’s greener side, in the crisp October weather. We would definitely recommend wrapping up and wearing a pair of shoes suitable for both the city cobblestones and muddy trails of the local parks and fields.
Late Afternoon
After stretching our legs, we made our way downtown to explore Lille’s artisanal boutiques. From handcrafted goods to local produce, the selection of regional souvenirs was wonderful. Each piece felt thoughtfully made, offering a glimpse into the city’s unique culture and craftsmanship. Our stroll through the cobbled backstreets eventually led us to the city cathedral, an architectural marvel known for its blend of Gothic and contemporary design. Inside, the most captivating feature is its massive rose window, made from translucent marble, a rare alternative to the traditional stained glass found in other notable French cathedrals.
As the afternoon wore on, the skies opened up, and we decided to take shelter at the local shopping mall :the perfect excuse for some retail therapy. We browsed through the array of stores, finding everything from French fashion labels to unique souvenir shops.
Before heading back to the station, we stopped at a local French bistro for a quick lemonade, and toasted to a day well spent. Boarding the Eurostar back to London, we settled into Premier Class and were treated to a delightful roast, a fitting end to a great London getaway.
Why Lille?
Would I recommend Lille for a quick European getaway? Absolutely. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply craving a unique and less obvious destination, it’s the perfect spot for a day of discovery or the starting point for a wider adventure. Unlike the more common Paris layover, Lille offers a refreshing cultural alternative as the capital of the Hauts-de-France region. With two major railway stations within the city centre, it’s also a gateway to incredible destinations like Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne - all just a few hours away.