Bed and Breakfast hotels in Lille

Sitting along the north-eastern edge of the French hexagon, just next to the Belgian border, Lille has long been a crossroads. In its centuries-long existence, the city has been under the rule or influence of the Counts of Flanders, the dukes of Burgundy, the Habsburgs, and the Spanish crown. It fell into French hands with Louis XIV’s marriage into the Spanish royal family.

Lille industrialized heavily in the 19th century. The city and its population have since expanded considerably. With nearly 220,000 inhabitants, it is the tenth largest city in France, and its metropolitan population (including 700,000 people in Belgium) is the fourth largest in the country. With over 110,000 students and 36% of the population aged under 25, Lille is one of the youngest cities in France.

A two-day trip
A two-day trip to Lille will be filled with the city’s many historic, cultural and scenic sites. Start with the star-shaped Citadel, completed in 1670 following Louis XIV’s takeover of the city, and move on to the Porte de Paris, which also pays homage to the Sun King. Other must-see sights include the Notre Dame de la Treille Cathedral and the Palais des Beaux-Arts, which is the second largest general interest museum in France, behind the Louvre.

A week-long trip
Spending a week in Lille gives you the chance to soak in its unique history and cultural heritage. The Charles de Gaulle Museum, in his childhood home, offers a look at the early life of one of Europe’s most influential leaders. You can also take tours of WWI battlefields, and Vieux Lille (the old city). For a more modern experience, visit Wazemmes, an ethnically diverse and vibrant working class neighbourhood, which has markets, restaurants and shops. Stay at the Hotel Campanile LILLE EST - Hem to be close to all the action.

A family trip
Lille has much to offer families. The city has three botanical gardens, which provide a serene setting for walks and a great learning opportunity. Choose from the Pharmacy School Garden, the Nicolas Boulay Garden and the Garden of Plants. The family can also visit Lille’s military monuments, including the Fort du Reduit and the Porte de Roubaix. A trip to the Citadel is also an occasion to visit the amusement park, playground and small zoo located on its south-eastern flank.

Transport
Lille is very accessible by train, via the Eurostar line to London, and TGV lines to Brussels and Paris. Motorways also connect the city to Germany, England and the Netherlands. The airport offers international flights to surrounding countries. Local metro, bus and tramway systems ensure easy travel within the city and surrounding areas.

Food
Local restaurants offer a taste of French and Belgian cuisine. Meert serves waffles, pastries, tea and is connected to a chocolate shop bearing the same name. Le Barbue d’Anvers specializes in Belgian chicken (a special breed), while Le Palais offers French and Flemish dishes. For real chocolate-lovers, Chocolaterie Vandyck makes pralines on the spot.

Events
Lille Braderie, a giant flea market, overtakes the city the first weekend of every September. Sellers and buyers mingle and bargain, while enjoying food and music. Other festivals include La Louche d’Or (Festival of Soup), which takes places the first of May in Wazemmes and the Wazemmes Accordeon Festival. 

Interesting Fact
Louis Pasteur, the French scientist who created the first vaccine for rabies and anthrax, as well as the pasteurization process, was named dean of the Faculty of Sciences in Lille in 1854. There is now a research institute named after him in Lille. 

Useful Links
Lille Office of Tourism
Lille official website
Travel and Transport
Transpole (Lille transportation system)