Les Moulins is a neighborhood undergoing a transformation located in Lille, France. Despite common beliefs, it is becoming an increasingly sought-after neighborhood, thanks to its multicultural ambiance, history, and vibrant events. In this article, we invite you to reconsider your expectations and experience the undeniable charm and spirit of this neighborhood that has everything to offer.

Les Moulins: Rethought and Revitalized

Once considered a notorious neighborhood, Les Moulins has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, it reflects the evolution of cities, blending historical charm with contemporary dynamism. Its typical brick houses of the region and charming architecture provide the perfect backdrop to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Where to go? Stroll through the streets of Trévise, make a detour to Boulevard Victor Hugo to enjoy some well-known bars and restaurants in the neighborhood, and end with Parc Jean Baptiste Lebas, which marks the neighborhood’s boundary with the city center.

Culinary Delights: Indulge in Regional Specialties

Les Moulins offers plenty of great places to taste delicious local cuisine. Start your day with a gourmet brunch at this café, where you can savor artisan pastries and freshly brewed coffee.
Where to go? Treat yourself to a good meal at Frigidaire, opposite Parc Jean Baptiste Lebas, a welcoming restaurant with excellent homemade dishes. Café Bellot or Moulinette Café on Boulevard Victor Hugo are also worth a visit!

Art and Culture: An Inspiring Canvas

Immerse yourself in the flourishing artistic and cultural scene of Les Moulins. The neighborhood is home to a dynamic community of artists, galleries, and creative spaces. Where to go? Explore the contemporary art scene at Gare Saint Sauveur, which offers a calendar of exhibitions and events throughout the year.

Saint So’ Lille Urban Campus Coliving: Your Gateway to Les Moulins Neighborhood

Our Coliving is located in the heart of Les Moulins neighborhood. Our coliving space will make you feel at home from day one, allowing you to rest, telecommute, and meet new people. The residence offers numerous services and amenities, comfortable living spaces, and a regularly organized events calendar to make your stay with us memorable!

Conclusion: Les Moulins has shed its outdated reputation and has become a neighborhood brimming with life, creativity, and endless possibilities. And when it comes to fully experiencing the neighborhood’s vibrant life, make Urban Campus Saint So’ Lille Coliving your new home!

Lille, a city known for its rich and diverse food culture, is also home to an ever-growing community of vegans and plant-based food enthusiasts. As the world becomes increasingly aware of the environmental and ethical implications of animal agriculture, more people are turning to veganism as a way to live a more sustainable and compassionate lifestyle. Fortunately, Lille France  offers a wide range of restaurants and cafes that cater to vegans and provide delicious, healthy plant-based options. In this blog, we will introduce you to some of the best vegan restaurants in Lille, so you can discover the amazing variety of vegan food available in this vibrant city with your favourite colivers! 

Pickles

Pickles offers vegan and veggie homemade street food during the day and plates to share during the night. They recommend pairing it with organic wine to provide you with the perfect taste. Although their second restaurant is new to the block, their name is well known in Lille, so you know the quality is there! The new restaurant is located only a 10-minute walk from Urban Campus Saint So’ Lille Coliving.

La Clairière

The place to be every Sunday for brunch is La Clairière. They have 100% vegan and organic food with zero palm oil. The bonus is, their menu choices are mainly gluten-free. Once you enter, you will notice a cozy ambiance and two beautiful dogs welcoming you to stay and enjoy yourself. By bus, La Clairière is only 10 minutes away from the coliving, very close to the city center. 

Itsy Bitsy

If you are looking for one of the most famous restaurant and vegan caterer in Lille, Itsy Bitsy is your spot! The restaurant was created by three young women who realized there were few vegan restaurants in Europe. They were inspired by mediterranean cuisine and indian spices which are surly reflected in their meals. Homemade, colourful delicious plates are presented by Itsy Bitsy daily. Want to try it out? Luckily, it’s not too far, only located 8-minutes away by bus from Urban Campus Lille Saint So’ Coliving. 

Annie’s Kitchen

Annie’s Kitchen is known for making French traditional dishes including, blanquette, tartare, and carbonnade into vegan dishes. The people rave over the results, they truly look like “meat dishes”! If you are in doubt have a “burger” you will not be disappointed!

De Rode Koe

We wanted to give you the history of how the name of a restaurant in Lille is called De Rode Koe, meaning Red Cow. The owners named it like that because in the past, they were farmers and they used to farm red cows (a particular breed). After having spent years in the farming industry, they decided to adapt their eating habits and in turn, take care of the animals. De Rode Koe, offers many delicious vegan meals, so they should definitely be on your radar!

Get Your Spoons Ready for La Louche d’Or 2023: The Ultimate Soup Festival in France is almost here!

If you are a soup lover, you will not want to miss La Louche d’Or 2023! This annual event takes place in Lille and brings together food enthusiasts from all over the world to celebrate the deliciousness of this classic dish.

La Louche d’Or has been running for over a decade now and has become a popular event on the French culinary calendar. It is a celebration of all things soup, from classic French soups like onion soup and bouillabaisse to international favorites like ramen and pho.

The event is organised by Attacafa, an association that promotes multi-cultural and richness of diversity. An extra and nice feature of this event is the fact that its designed to sensibilize the reduction of waste – the concept being, making a delicious soup with leftovers or ripe vegetables. Which we think is a very cool and conscious initiative! 

The Wazemmes District is where this huge event will take place, on May 1st 2023. You will be able to find cooking demonstrations from top chefs, workshops on making your own soup at home, and of course, plenty of opportunities to taste a variety of soups from different regions.

One of the highlights of La Louche d’Or is the soup competition. Chefs from around the world compete to create the best soup, and the winner is awarded the coveted La Louche d’Or trophy. The competition is fierce, and the soups on offer are always very unique!

Don’t want to spend all day eating soup? Don’t worry, there are also plenty of other food and drink options at the festival. You can try local cheeses, cured meats, and bread to accompany your soup, or indulge in a glass of wine or beer from the area. You will be able to enjoy all of this while watching free concerts, local artists and other activities. 

One of the main draws of La Louche d’Or is its friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The festival attracts a diverse crowd of people, from families to you and your very own colivers from Urban Campus Saint So’ Lille Coliving!

If you are planning to attend La Louche d’Or 2023, be sure to come hungry and thirsty! And as crazy as this sounds, we recommend even bringing your own spoon. You will want to sample as many soups as possible, and having your own spoon ensures you can do so without wasting plastic cutlery (#besustainable). 

We hope you have a blast at the event, and maybe even learn a recipe or two for you to be able to share with your fellow colivers! 

Where will you be able to find the best torrijas of Madrid this Holy Week? Look no further, this article will provide you with insights into the history of Semana Santa, as well as when to experience the ceremonies and where you will be able to savor the best pastries in the city this week!

History of Holy Week 

Holy Week, also known as Semana Santa, is a significant religious festivity celebrated in Spain and many other countries around the world. This week-long event begins on Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter Sunday, and ends on Easter Sunday.

In Spain in particular, Holy Week is a very important celebration, and many cities and towns hold processions in which religious figures are physically carried throughout the streets while accompanied by music and chanting.

What happens during Holy Week? 

As the capital city of Spain, Madrid is known for its vibrant celebrations. The processions in Madrid are organized by religious brotherhoods, or cofradías, which are responsible for carrying the religious figures known as Saints through the streets. 

The processions in Madrid typically begin on Palm Sunday, when a procession of the Virgin Mary of Sorrows and the Christ of Medinaceli takes place. On Holy Thursday, there is a procession of the Cristo de los Alabarderos, which is attended by the Spanish royal family.

One of the most impressive processions in Madrid takes place on Good Friday, when the “Procesión del Silencio” (Procession of Silence) takes place. This procession features hooded penitents who carry crosses and statues of religious figures through the streets in silence.

Where to go?

To know where to go see the processions we recommend you click on here. This article, will guide you on every procession or celebration happening throughout the entire week in Madrid, with detailed locations as well as start and finish times. 

What is the traditional desert during Holy Week? 

Torrijas are a traditional Spanish dessert made from slices of bread that are soaked in milk or wine, dipped in egg, fried until golden brown, and sweetened with sugar or honey. Typically enjoyed during Holy Week, when meat is avoided, torrijas are a filling and energy-boosting treat that originated as a practical solution to using up stale bread and affordable ingredients. Over time, torrijas have become a beloved part of Spanish cuisine, as a deliciously satisfying dessert and we can confirm this because just the people of Madrid alone, every year eat around seven million torrijas. 

Where can you try the best torrijas in Madrid?

We will be honest, every Spaniard in Madrid will say to you that the best torrijas are their mothers. However, we know not everyone’s mom is around the corner to make them some torrijas so here are some options where you can buy this pastry in Madrid. 

La Casa de las Torrijas 

If you are looking for an authentic torrija experience, look no further than La Casa de las Torrijas. The name says it all – this charming restaurant is dedicated to serving up the very best of this classic Spanish dessert. Conveniently located near Sol, just a 10-minute metro ride from Urban Campus Atocha Coliving, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in a truly Spanish atmosphere while indulging in this sweet treat. So gather your fellow colivers, and get ready to savor the flavors of this beloved delicacy!

Villaroys 

Villaroys is home to the best torrija in Madrid 2023, according to the prestigious prize awarded to its young chef, Martín Martínez. Despite the expected long queues, the heavenly taste of this award-winning dessert is definitely worth the wait. With over 200 Google reviews giving it a perfect 5-star rating, Villaroys is renowned for its unbeatable homemade quality. Conveniently located just a 9-minute walk away from Cuatro Caminos Coliving, you won’t want to miss out on this unforgettable culinary experience.

Umikobake 

Unlike your typical Spanish restaurant, Umikobake is a bit of a twist. They offer an beautiful array of pastries, especially known for their Japanese mochi. However, during this time of year they serve torrijas of course, and have really put themselves on the map for it! So if you are looking to venture out of the norm, give this little pastry shop a try!

Pasteleria Mallorca

For a long time, Pasteleria Mallorca has consistently produced top-quality pastry goods with great attention to detail. Their reputation as a must-visit establishment is not just limited to Madrid, but extends throughout Spain. And it’s no surprise that their torrijas have become a fan favorite, as they are so fluffy and delicious that they’re often sold out quickly. In short, Pasteleria Mallorca is a must-visit spot for those looking for the best pastries in Spain.

Knowing the best after-work spots in Lille, your brand new city that you just moved into can be hard, but that is why guides like this were created. So look no further.

After a long day, you close your computer screen and head downstairs to the coworking space and lounge in your new coliving to see your friends are at and head to the town. But where should you go?

Mother

Looking for a nearby spot to grab a drink and hang out with your fellow colivers? Look no further than Mother, located just a 6-minute walk from Lille Saint So’ Coliving. This bar is the perfect spot for any night of the week, with regular events and activities to keep you entertained. Be sure to check out their calendar of events here.

With two floors of eclectic decor, Mother offers a unique and memorable experience. The bar’s concept of “Home Sweet Home” creates a welcoming atmosphere for you and your friends, and their menu of shareable plates and homemade food is sure to please. You simply can’t go wrong with a visit to this local gem. Find them at 29 Bd Jean-Baptiste Lebas.

Bistrot Saint So

During the week you will always find an afterwork event at Bistrot Saint So, but if going out during the week isn’t enough for you and you want more you are in for a treat. This bar located only a 10-minute walk from Lille Saint So’ Coliving has offers concerts and an array of parties on weekends with free entry.

Getting hungry while at Bistrot is not a problem, they offer homemade food with plenty of veggie options for you to choose from.

Head over to 17 Bd Jean-Baptiste Lebas if you are looking for a good time!

Le Nu’ 

Live DJ set, live singer, live jazz nights, all with an original cocktail menu – what a place. Le Nu’ has a beautiful rooftop terrace with a gorgeous view of the Lille Europe Station. Looking for something specifically for that perfect after work plan on Thursdays to get ready for the weekend? The DJ sets start at 6PM so get out of the office early! 

Le Nu’ is a 13-minute metro ride away at 93 Av. le Corbusier!

Café Bellot

Looking for a local spot for your after work plans? Café Bellot is the place for you, and its only 10-minutes away from the coliving! With original wines, good food and great parties on Friday until 2AM you cannot go wrong. If you walk in during the late hours, while it’s lively you will see people dancing around the tables, truly enjoying the moment. Café Bellot  – 1 Rue Jeanne d’Arc is waiting for you!

Le Lovibond 

Le Lovibond is likely to provie you with that warm earthy feeling. Known to be such a welcoming bar with a very chic atmosphere and mezzanine to take it all in. Organic food, vegetables from the local market, numerous veggie options and best of all – local beers. 

To add to the local, they have jam sessions on Saturday nights! Le Lovibond is a 17-minute walk from Urban Campus Lille Coliving, on 169 Bd de la Liberté. 

If you are looking for the best bars to celebrate this St. Patrick’s Day in Madrid, look no further than in the neighborhood that has it all – Cuatro Caminos! Get ready to raise a glass and cheers to this festive occasion in the best locations. We have prepared a list of the top bars offering Irish-themed drinks, décor, and party in this lively part of the city for this Friday, March 17th. 

This article covers the traditional Irish pubs near Urban Campus Cuatro Caminos Coliving. So, grab your colivers, put some green on, and get ready to have a nice cold Guinness. 

Irish Rover 

The Irish Rover just on an architectural level is absolutely stunning. When you walk in you will see stone floors, a vintage street light, and all the seating areas surrounded by wood. Honestly, you feel as though you were just transported to Ireland. 

Don’t believe us? Go to Avenida de Brasil, 7, Madrid to find out. 

Proper pints. Yes, we say it and we mean it, the concept of “doble” here does not exist. When you order a beer you can go for the “small” version (honestly we didn’t ask the size so we do not know that answer) or order yourself a proper pint which is equivalent to 568mL (20 fl oz). You will have an array of beers to choose from at the Irish Rover. If you are feeling dangerous and want to give an Irish beer since you are celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day of course, aside from Guinness we recommend Murphy’s Irish Red or if you want something lighter, Magners Irish Cider is also very tasty! 

Are you looking for live music this Friday? This is your place. Get there early, they get pretty busy, but we are positive you will love the atmosphere! People, dancing, drinking, laughing, and appreciating the Irish artists throughout the entire building – you won’t want to miss it! If you cannot go this Friday, this pub is still one of the best places to go out in Cuatro Caminos from Friday to Sunday so definitely keep it on your list. 

The Irish Rover can be found an 18-minute walk away or a 14-minute metro ride from Urban Campus Cuatro Caminos Coliving.

Paddys Irish Pub 

Paddys Irish Pub lives up to its name, as it is a typical Irish bar with Irish whiskeys and Irish beers, both bottled and on tap. An authentic feel, perfect for a Saint Patrick’s Day celebration with friends!

Some of the highlights of Paddys are the Gaelic art pieces across the walls, as well as their outdoor terrace. They usually have music on throughout the night, but being Saint Patrick’s we are told that they will make sure you are up and dancing!

Are you bringing a big group of people? Don’t worry, their tables are easy to move and can accommodate a group of happy customers. 

Paddy’s is a quick 23-minute bus ride from Cuatro Caminos Coliving, so wear some green and head to Avenida de Concha Espina, 69. 

The Beer Temple

A solid selection of craft beers is what The Beer Temple is all about! This bar has an environment like no other when there is a rugby, or football match so can you imagine how it will be this Friday, March 17th? 

Known for its good service, The Beer Temple definitely has to be on your bar-hopping list. In terms of food, there is a lot of sharing options available. Some of their starters include your typical nacho dish, wings, onion rings, and potato wedges – you just cannot go wrong!

Located a mere 9-minute walk from Cuatro Caminos Coliving head over to Calle. de Almansa, 85!

Luas Irish Tavern

The cozy pub and the big terrace at Luas Irish Travern offers the perfect space to enjoy spending time with friends or grabbing a quick bite to eat. They have an array of apertivios for you to properly celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day and their staff tends to recommend pairing a Guinness and pig ears to really get in the mood and prepare yourself for the celebrations to come. 

Located on Calle de Villaamil, 5 Luas Irish Tavern is only an 11-minute bus ride from Urban Campus Cuatro Caminos Coliving so head on over, and enjoy the music, the atmosphere, and the service! 

In conclusion, if you are looking for a memorable Saint Patrick’s Day celebration in Madrid, look no further than the Irish pubs provided above. With their lively atmosphere, authentic Irish decor, and delicious food and drink, these pubs are the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit. And when the festivities are over, you can retreat to your comfortable and convenient accommodation at Urban Campus Cuatro Caminos Coliving with your amazing community members!

Since you are preparing for your big move to Urban Campus Ayora Valencia Coliving, and want to get to know the city better, we want to introduce you to one of the most famous festivals in Valencia. We have prepared the ultimate article with everything you need to know about “Las Fallas de Valencia”!

What is “Las Fallas”?

Las Fallas de Valencia is a unique festival declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO that takes place every year in you guest it – Valencia, Spain. It is a week-long and takes place annually from March 15th to March 19th. However, the celebrations start picking up on March 1st, to help get the city in the mood and ready for what is to come. You will be able to experience spectacular fireworks displays almost daily, incredibly colorful parades, and elaborate sculptures made out of wood and paper mache.

Understanding the History

The history of Las Fallas dates back to the Middle Ages when carpenters in Valencia would burn their wooden workshops and leftover materials on the Feast Day of Saint Joseph (March 19th), the patron saint of carpenters. Over time, this tradition evolved into the creation of large-scale wooden figures that were eventually set on fire. 

The modern-day version of Las Fallas began in the mid-19th century when the city council began to organize the festival with the citizens. Today, Las Fallas is a major cultural event that attracts millions of visitors worldwide. Will you be one of them this year?

Traditions

La Cremá (The Burning)
The main tradition of Las Fallas is the creation and burning of large-scale sculptures (some as tall as 30 feet), known as “fallas”. These sculptures are made out of wood, paper mache, and other materials, and often depict satirical or humorous scenes. La Cremá will take place on March 19th, the day of San José. The beautiful pieces of art are transformed into towering infernos that light up the night sky with intense heat and light. This tradition symbolizes the wood burning as a way of celebrating the end of the dark winter working days and the arrival of spring.

Did you know that each falla takes a year to create? As soon as one is burned, artists and craftsmen come together again to work on the next year’s creation.

La Nit del Foc (The Night of Fire), is the night of the largest and longest firework display in Las Fallas de Valencia. Approximately 7187 fireworks will be launched in 20 minutes with 62 effects and colours within 27 sets. The beautiful display can be seen from the old river and over the city of Arts and Sciences and will begin in the early hours of Saturday, March 18 to March 19 (at 01:00 a.m.).

Other Traditions in Las Fallas de Valencia
There are also a number of other traditions and events that take place throughout the city. One of the most popular is the Mascleta, which from the beginning of March until the 19th will take place in Valencia’s central square (Plaza del Ayuntamiento) at 14H. It is an explosive display of firecrackers designed to simulate the sound of an earthquake. It is meant to be felt as well as heard.

On the 17th and 18th of March, you will also witness another beautiful tradition, La Ofrenda de Flores (Flower Offering). This is a very emotional part of Las Fallas, where thousands of Valencians dress in traditional clothing and offer flowers to an enormous statue of the Virgin Mary in the Plaza de la Virgin. The flowers are used to create a colorful and intricate mosaic that covers the entire statue.

Why do you need to go to Las Fallas?

During the festival, the city of Valencia becomes alive, there is a vibrant energy that runs through every street corner that you need to experience at least once in your life. So get ready to join the street dancing, feel the rhythm of the music, and marvel at the stunning artwork that surrounds you. We recommend you get to know your new coliving city better and immerse yourself in Las Fallas! 

Here is your official guide for getting out of the city of Lille to the Dunkirk Carnival! But you cannot go alone, so grab your fellow colivers from Urban Campus Lille Saint So’ Coliving and get ready for this unforgettable event.

Every year, the small town of Dunkirk in Northern France comes to life with a vibrant and colorful carnival. The Dunkirk Carnival, also known as the Carnaval de Dunkerque, one of France’s craziest and oldest festivals. This year, the carnival will take place from February 18th until February 26th, 2023.

History of the Dunkirk Carnival 

The Dunkirk Carnival has rich cultural tradition, dating back to the 16th century. It was originally a celebration that marked the end of the winter season and the arrival of spring. Over the years, the carnival has evolved into a vibrant event that showcases the cultural heritage and traditions of the town. Today, the carnival is an integral part of Dunkirk’s identity and is celebrated with great pride and passion.

What will there be?

There are plenty of things for you to enjoy throughout your day-trip or weekend getaway to Dunkirk. From the colorful parade of floats and costumes to the live music performances featuring international artists, people dancing on the streets – you will see it all. And, of course, no carnival is complete without delicious food, with a variety of street vendors serving up traditional carnival meals. 

The Highlights

One of the main highlights of the Dunkirk Carnival is the parade of floats and costumes. It is a truly incredible experience to see, let alone to be a part of! You will find yourself in a sea of colours while staring at an array of intricate and elaborate costumes. Speaking of sea…if you do not like fish we recommend you step far away from the Belfry’s balcony around 17h. The mayor will be there throwing almost 500 kg of herring into the crowd and then the real battle begins…

Throughout the day, far into the night, you will be immersed in the chaos of the city. With music and drinks flowing and a wave of umbrellas in the air – be ready to live it!

How to get to the Carnival 

Now that you know everything there is about the Dunkirk Carnival, it is time to grab your fellow colivers in Lille and head to the festival! When taking the TER, it is a relatively short train ride, approximately 1 hour and 8 minutes only, or if you have a car only a 58-minute drive. 

It is your time to get dressed up, take it all in and most of all ENJOY IT!

Spain’s new digital nomad visa is finally here making it one of the most attractive destinations for remote workers. The goal is to promote Spain as one of the leading countries in attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and qualified workers in the greatest living conditions.

Spain has long been a popular destination for travelers, with its rich history, stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and world-famous cuisine. Data also proves that Spain is considered one of the top 20 healthiest places to live in the world by analyzing factors such as life expectancy, cost of healthcare, air pollution, obesity rates, safety, sunlight hours, and more! However, the country has faced challenges in recent years due to a high unemployment rate, making it difficult for nationals and expats alike to find work. Expats often face the additional challenge of limited job opportunities under government programs, which primarily require English teachers. This results in highly skilled individuals, such as engineers, being unable to work in their field and being urged to teach instead. This leads to the heartbreaking decision to leave the country despite falling in love with its culture and way of life.

About the Digital Nomad Visa

The digital nomad visa is available to self-employed individuals or those working for a company based outside of Spain. Applicants must demonstrate that they have a steady income and provide proof of adequate health insurance coverage. The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed annually, providing remote workers with the flexibility to live and work in the country for as long as they wish.

We will provide you with the insights to better understand if you can apply for this visa and what it is you will need to provide to receive it. 

Who can apply for the Digital Nomad Visa

All citizens who are non-EU nationals that work remotely for non-Spanish companies are able to apply for the new visa.

How to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa 

The latest steps that we have researched are the following: 

• Ensure you have a contract with the current company you are working with for at least one year
• You must submit your criminal records certificate with a minimum validity of 90 days, they must be legalized and apostilled. You will also need to provide a sworn statement that you do not have a criminal record within the last five years
• Fill out the application form which can be found here 
• Pay the administrative fee for the visa
• Contract private health insurance with full coverage throughout Spain
• Provide a bank certificate proving the possession of at least €28,000 for the main applicant, which is 200% of the minimum wage in Spain
• A letter of authorization from your company allowing you to work in Spain

We want to also mention this article from Planet Nomad because they are constantly updating their blogs with the latest protocols. Planet Nomad also provides insights into other visas from neighbouring countries in case you are interested. 

For those who would like to know of the alternatives to the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa, please take a look at this website here.

Where to live in Spain?

With your visa in hand, it’s time to decide where to call home in Spain. Madrid, the capital city, is a thriving metropolis that offers a vibrant lifestyle. For seamless integration into your new surroundings, consider residing in a coliving space. Urban Campus has five prime-located coliving buildings in Madrid, all fully equipped with everything you need to make your move as stress-free as possible. Our unique coliving spaces offer ample opportunities for socializing with neighbors through a variety of common areas.

Valencia is another highly recommended destination for nomads, with several articles singling it out as the top place to live and work abroad. Luckily Urban Campus Ayora Valencia Coliving is set to open in July 2023, offering 41 fully equipped studios and 200m2 of common spaces, including a gym, coworking area, cinema room, shared kitchen and dining area, laundry room, and rooftop barbeque, showers, and chill-out zone. This is the perfect opportunity for you to join our international community and experience Valencia’s vibrant culture.

Stay connected with us on our Instagram page to keep up-to-date on our latest openings, current properties, and events. We don’t want you to miss out on finding your future home in Spain!

Are you ready to discover the best things to do in Lille, France? Look no further! Our Coliving Residence Manager, Louise, who is an expert on the city, has created a list of must-see places, from the best restaurants, bars, and cafes to unique experiences that will give you a taste of the vibrant Lille lifestyle. Whether you’re a new resident in our coliving or just visiting, Lille has something special to offer you. 

Lille is known for its charming architecture, delicious cuisine, and lively atmosphere. Take a stroll through the historic Old Town and marvel at the beautiful Flemish-style buildings. Indulge in some of the local specialties such as traditional “carbonnade” or “potjevleesch” and enjoy a glass of local beer in one of the many cozy bars and cafes.

For culture enthusiasts, Lille offers a wide range of museums, art galleries, and theatres, such as the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of the most important museums in France outside of Paris, or the Opera House, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.

Experience the local nightlife and catch a live music performance at one of the many bars and clubs in the city center. 

For a unique experience, why not take a day trip to the nearby Belgian towns of Ypres, Bruges, and Ghent, which are just a short train ride away? Wondering how to do that from Lille? Take a look at this blog for more details on how to make this trip a reality. 

Make the most of your time in Lille by inviting your fellow colivers to join you on your journey of discovery. Whether it’s trying new restaurants, visiting local landmarks, or exploring the city’s nightlife, there’s always more fun to be had when shared with friends.

It is time to get ready to experience the best of Lille with our curated list of must-visit restaurants, bars, cafes, and unique experiences. 

Restaurants
Octopus

The dining atmosphere in Octopus will drive you in, but their cuisine will keep you coming back. They offer original dishes and recommend you begin with some starters and later one main octopus dish. If you take a look at their unique wine list, you will find local/small producers that may end up being your new favorite.

Location:  2 Pl. Sébastopol, Lille, France 

Bloempot

In Bloempot offers dishes that stay close to their origin. Made local with organic and wild farming, you know you are in for a treat. When you arrive you have the opportunity to choose from the ‘experience menu’ which allows you to have your “eyes closed” and have the chefs take over and choose what it is you will be enjoying that evening or or you may ‘stay in control’ and decide on your own. This is an added element that can excite people as soon as they are seated, which we are a huge fan of.

Location:  22 Rue des Bouchers, Lille, France

Estaminet Au Vieux de la Vieille

Estaminet Au Vieux de la Vieille is known for their welcoming staff, setting, and selection. Their prices are very reasonable, and it is here where you will be savouring the typical dishes of Hauts de France. If you are interested in visiting them, be sure to book in advance, they are usually full which of course is always extremely promising! 

Location: 2 Rue des Vieux Murs, Lille, France

Restaurant Sébastopol

If you are interested in perfectly pairing wine with your meals, Restaurant Sébastopol is the place to visit. The staff is extremely friendly and have exquisite taste in wine, we suggest you ask for recommendations to match each course to highlight your tastebuds.

Location: 1 Pl. Sébastopol, Lille, France

Bars
Artchives 

What a location! If you are looking for an experience that has it all, in Artchives you will find yourself in a bar, restaurant, and art gallery! We suggest you grab one of the drinks at the bar (known for being very generous) and explore. We must also mention that their signature cocktails are very original. Overall the experience is chic, and unique. We are sure you will enjoy yourself.

Location: 74 Rue Jacquemars Giélée, Lille, France

La Biche & Le Renard

La Biche & Le Renard is a well-known cool little bar in Lille. Known for their incredible craft beer selection, their staff is extremely knowledgeable and are there to help guide you through the variety of savours they offer. 

Location: 14 Rue de Gand, Lille, France

Quai Des Bananes

Quai Des Bananes is overall a small spot in the heart of Lille, but their menus are huge! Their cocktails list is so extensive, you will have difficulty choosing, meaning you will simply have to come back to try more next time! 

Location: 84 Rue Royale, Lille, France

Delirium Café

One of the most essential bars in Lille, is Delirium Café. Here you will have a choice of 500+ beers from all over the world, it’s quite the experience. The decor within the bar is captivating. You may choose from seating in their heated terrace or within the deep decor!

Location: 50 Rue Masséna, Lille, France

Cafés

Elizabeth’s Tea Rooms

We have written but the cafes of Lille in another article, but because we live in Europe and coffee is essential, we wanted to bring some key partners back and recommend them to you at least one more time. Elizabeth’s Tea Room is a cute little cafe located right behind the corner of what most believe to be the most beautiful streets of the city. They offer some delicious pastries, made fresh every day, and gluten-free options as well.

Location: 69-71 Rue Basse, Lille, France

Pâtisserie Méert

Méert is the oldest coffee shop in the city, making it extremely well-known! It is here where you will find Ladurée of waffles which are a must-try. “Whether for the taste buds and also for the pupils, everything is beautiful and delicious”. 

Location: 25-27 Rue Esquermoise, Lille, France

La Clairière

If you are looking for a vegan brunch in the city, La Clairière is your spot. The staff is friendly, the food portions are outstanding and the value for your money will turn you into a regular. 

Location: 75 Bd de la Liberté, Lille, France

Briocherie Sylvana

Discover the flavor of the moment of the brioche every week at Briocherie Sylvana. They offer superb coffee and delicious sweets in a beautifully decorated space. One of the must-go spots in the city of Lille. 

Location: 24 Bd Victor Hugo, Lille, France

Experiences

Le Zénith

The indoor arena, Le Zénith in Lille will be holding 69 concerts in 2023 that you should definitely look out for. Do not be worried about where your seat is, all who attend have explicitly mentioned that there is not one bad seat in the house. The arena is also very easy to get to from any part of Lille. 

Location: 1 Bd des Cités Unies, Lille, France

Gare Saint Sauveur

For alternative music and cultural events, you must visit Gare Saint Sauveur. The company organizes plenty of exhibitions throughout the year for the citizens of Lille to enjoy, and some events are even free, so keep an eye out!

Location: 17 Bd Jean-Baptiste Lebas, Lille, France

Wazemmes Market (Marche de Wazemmes)

Experience a sea of colors and smells on your next Sunday morning in Lille in the Marche de Wazemmes. You will be able to purchase fresh local produce as well as clothing and accessories like other markets often have such as El Rastro in Madrid. Marche de Wazemmes is where you will find the real Lilloise.

Location: Pl. Nouvelle Aventure, Lille, France

Palais des Beaux Arts 

Within Palais des Beaux Arts, one of the largest art museums in France you will find fine art, modern pieces, and antiques. The exhibitions are temporary which is great, allowing you the opportunity to immerse yourself in many collections.

Location: Place de la République, Lille, France