5 Of The Best Must-See Sights In Lille

Lille, a city worth a visit.

This may be an unknown fact to most people, but Lille is one of the most student-populated cities in France and for good reasons! With its numerous bars, restaurants, clubs, museums… Lille is the perfect city for any student. One of the main reasons of its attraction, is the international scene. Before Covid, Lille was the ideal destination for the English, and any resident of the Benelux countries (Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.) Here are top five sights you must see when visiting Lille.

1. Braderie, flea market in French.

This French-renowned braderie is a must-do! This colorful flea market is the largest in France and attracts numerous people every year. It takes place during the first weekend of September, in the paved streets of Old Lille. The speciality of this weekend? Almost every restaurant in town serves mussels and fries. Imagine, sitting in the sun, laughing with your friends while enjoying a delicious seafood platter. Can you see it?

In one weekend, you can shop (for low prices,) party until your feet hurt, and have a great time.

2. The Vieille Bourse, old stock exchange in French.

You cannot miss this historic monument. Located in the middle of Place Charles de Gaulle, the old stock exchange is home to all kinds of merchants. You can buy posters, rare books, old newspapers…etc. If you are lucky, you will even be a bystander to a chess game or a tango class. This open-air building dates back to 1910 and is one of the most prestigious monuments in Lille. When you first step into it, you will be amazed at the golden details on the columns and the sculpted stone on the interior facades.

3. The Citadel Park.

Imagine Central Park but in Lille (not as glamourous.) This enormous park is situated right in the middle of the city surrounded by the Deule river. You can jog, pay a visit to the zoo, walk your dog, have a nice stroll, and even picnic. In the center of the park, lies a fort. Originally, the citadel was a military base built in 1667. Nowadays, you still cannot access the fort, however, you can see it. It is a very impressive monument due to its architecture, and natural preservation.

4. Charles de Gaulle’s childhood home.