Tour Information
75 minutes
2.5 miles / 4 km
Discover the charm of Lille, a city where history and modernity meet in perfect harmony. This walking tour will guide you through the heart of Lille, from the vibrant Grand Place to the peaceful cobbled streets of Vieux-Lille. Explore Lille’s rich Flemish roots, its stunning architecture, and its lively cultural scene.
Your journey begins at the iconic Grand Place, home to the Column of the Goddess and the beautiful Vieille Bourse. Wander through the charming Old Stock Exchange before visiting the modern yet historic Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille, with its stunning translucent facade. You'll also visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest museums in France, and experience the bustling energy of Place Rihour, with its shops and cafés.
Cross the tranquil Bois de Boulogne park and admire the impressive Citadelle de Lille, designed by Vauban in the 17th century. Finally, finish your tour in Vieux-Lille, where you can wander the narrow streets, enjoy the Flemish-style buildings, and stop by local bakeries for a sweet treat. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, art, and vibrant city life.
Welcome to Voyage Owl’s walking tour of Lille, a vibrant city in northern France with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a dynamic cultural scene. As the capital of the Hauts-de-France region,...
Stop 1
Our tour begins at the Grand Place, the central square of Lille and one of the most beautiful and lively spots in the city. Officially named Place du Général-de-Gaulle after the French general and pre...
Stop 2
Just steps from the Grand Place, we dive deeper into the beauty of the Vieille Bourse, one of Lille’s most treasured landmarks. As mentioned, this building, constructed in the 17th century, is a maste...
Stop 3
From the Vieille Bourse, we make our way to the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille, one of the most unique and modern-looking cathedrals in France. The Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille is dedicate...
Stop 4
Our next stop is the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest and most important museums in France outside of Paris. Founded in 1809 by Napoleon Bonaparte, this grand museum is housed in a stunning B...
Stop 5
From the Palais des Beaux-Arts, we head to Place Rihour, a bustling square in the heart of Lille that combines history and modernity. The square is named after the Palais Rihour, a 15th-century palace...
Stop 6
Our next stop takes us to one of Lille’s most impressive military structures: the Citadelle de Lille, also known as the Queen of Citadels. Designed by the famous military engineer Sébastien Le Prestre...
Stop 7
Our next stop is the Hospice Comtesse Museum, a hidden gem located in the Old Town of Lille. This former hospital was founded in 1237 by Jeanne, Countess of Flanders, and operated as a charitable inst...
Stop 8
No visit to Lille would be complete without exploring Vieux-Lille, the city’s charming Old Town. This district is known for its narrow, cobbled streets, colorful Flemish-style buildings, and lively at...
Our walking tour of Lille has taken you through centuries of history, from its roots as a medieval fortress town to its role as a vibrant and culturally rich city in modern France. Along the way, we’v...