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