Lille is a multifaceted city buzzing with culture. For a long time, it was an industrial heavyweight, which contributed to the development of a rich cultural and historical heritage that is still in evidence today. Whether you love museums, music, opera, or sports, Lille has something to offer.
This holds true whether you decide to move to Lille alone or with a family, as there is an array of parks and activities for children both in the city and in its immediate surroundings. Lille is very close to Belgium, so weekend or even day trips to a new country are also feasible.
Culture in Lille
Lille is a rich cultural city, as demonstrated by magnificent architecture and sumptuous museums, not to mention cinemas and numerous theatrical shows held all year round. When in Lille, be sure to visit the Natural History Museum, the Palais des Beaux-Arts, and the Musée des Canonniers, all of which are exquisite. The city hosts one of France's most illustrious orchestras, the Orchestre National de Lille, based in the Auditorium du Nouveau Siècle in the heart of the city. Lille also offers ballet, opera, and comedy shows. The theatre scene in Lille comes to life at the Theatre Sebastopol and Theatre du Nord. Lille, of course, is a city of traditions. Do not miss the popular yearly events such as the Lille Carnival, the Christmas Market, Lille Neige, Lille Plage, and the Braderie de Lille. Finally, the city is also famous for its fantastic Wazemmes market, and the city is also home to several other markets and fairs.
Check out the official website of the city of Lille and websites such as Mother in Lille for updates on what the city has to offer.
Nature in Lille
Nature lovers will be pleased to know that Lille is home to many parks, namely the Parc de la Deûle, the Jardin Mosaïc, the Marque and Lys refurbished river banks, the Barbieux Park in Roubaix, and the Citadelle Park. If you are with your children in Lille, the pedagogic farm of Marcel Dhenin and Lille's zoo constitute fun days for children. For those willing to enjoy nature while exercising, the Promenade des Remparts is a 16km circuit that is great for keen walkers and cyclists. Another green and leafy spot is the banks of Bois-Blancs.
Shopping in Lille
Lille is also deemed to be a shopping haven, even for window shoppers. You will be seduced by the chic boutiques in Vieux Lille, not to mention the dynamic ambiance created by huge shopping malls such as Euralille. However, for those looking to indulge at luxury stores, a walk through Vieux Lille is essential. For those with a sweet tooth, make sure to stop at the Chocolaterie Trogneux. In recent decades, Lille has evolved into a multicultural hub, so for ethnic shopping, head out to the Wazemmes area.
Gastronomy in Lille
Lille's local cuisine is typical of Northern European countries. In fact, many of its specialties originate from Belgium. Still, the city also has its own specialties such as the flamiche, hochepot, stew, mussels, patties, maroilles, as well as fries and beer. In the winter, nothing is better than a good serving of hot stew in one of Lille's many traditional joints. For ideas on where to dine while in Lille, you can visit the website of LaFourchette, which, on top of listing restaurants, also offers interesting discounts.
Sports in Lille
If you like sports, you will be glad to know that Lille hosts a wide range of sports clubs and associations that are involved in various activities. You can choose from collective and individual sports, combat sports, and water sports, to name a few. Find more information in the 'Useful links' listed below.
Useful links:
Lille Municipal Library
MotherinLille
Culture in Lille
Sports in Lille
Euralille
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