Lille, France: Offers Old World Charm Mixed With Small Town Atmosphere

by Lin Biddle
(Kolkata, India)

Lille is a gorgeous small town with lots of old world built into it. This small town is normally only a pit stop for those on their way to London or Paris. For those wanting to spend a quiet weekend roaming through many charming places, Lille has more to offer than only a stop over.

To experience a day filled with excellent shopping experiences, you have to visit the Wasemmes Market. There is anything and everything to be found in this charming market. When you are done finding all the bargains you can handle, stop off at one of the great restaurants they have for an ethnic meal at an inexpensive price. Don’t forget to wonder near the locals to hear some of the enchanting stories before leaving the market.

If you love old books and wonderful old buildings the next place to visit is the Old Stock Exchange. There are some wonderful and unique shops scattered about as well as an excellent courtyard where you can sit with a cup of coffee and read.

Lille has two wonderful restaurants to try. For the romantic dinner for two, the La Cave as Fiole would be an excellent choice. The restaurant does not open until 7:30 so be prepared for a late but excellent dinner. They also have soothing jazz music to listen to while sipping a glass of wine.

For a cozy family restaurant you must try the Le Lion Bossu. They have an excellent cod dish or if you prefer meat instead the pork and fruit couscous is amazing. The husband and wife team that own the restaurant are also the ones that cook and serve the meals. After dinner do not forget to try one of the great desserts they offer.

For a full day of exploring there are two excellent museums in Lille. The Musee De Beaux and the La Piscine Museum. There is a fantastic Flemish/Dutch collection and a soothing collection of statues at the Musee de Beaux and many pieces as old as 1835 can be found at the La Piscine Museum.

Lille is known well for their Braderie event which is held every September. The entire town is converted into a large flea market. If you are looking for the ordinary or the hard to find item, it can be found during Braderie. Be prepared to spend most if not all of the day as there are many stalls available to search for hidden treasures.

Lille is an excellent choice for the weekend getaway or if you cannot manage an entire weekend, make it a day trip. Spending only a day will leave you relaxed but wanting more of this wonderful little town.

Lin writes for briefcases, a website that offers luxury briefcases direct from the manufacturer. Lin has traveled all over Europe and parts of Southeast Asia. She has also lived in the US, France, China, and India. She currently resides in Kolkata, India where she is studying the Bengali language.

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Make the most of your trip. Plan to visit the best Lille, France attractions.