Situated in the heart of France's northeastern rail network, Lille is well-connected by rail to London, Brussels, and Amsterdam. It only takes one hour for a TGV to travel from Lille to Paris!
Lille's transportation network, operated by Ilévia, the public transport company of Métropole Européenne de Lille (MEL), provides a variety of options for travelers, including buses, metros, trams, taxis, and bicycles. Carpooling and car-sharing are also popular. Additionally, several companies, such as Segways, offer leisurely and enjoyable transportation options for sightseeing.
The metro in Lille
Lille's automatic metro system is divided into two lines:
- Line 1 (yellow) linking Villeneuve-d'Ascq (station 4 cantons - Stade Pierre Mauroy) to Lille's CHU-Eurasanté;
- Line 2 (red) links Lomme (Saint-Philibert station) to Tourcoing (CH Dron station).
The metro route passes through the districts of Bois-Blancs, Faubourg de Béthune, Fives, Centre-Ville, Lille-Sud, Quartier de Moulins, Saint Maurice-Pellevoisin, Vauban-Esquermes and Wazemmes, except for Vieux-Lille.
The Lille tramway
The tramway links Lille, Roubaix and Tourcoing. It passes through the Lille-France and Lille-Europe stations, Lille's two main train stations. The network also serves Croix, Marcq-en-Baroeul, La Madeleine, Wasquehal, Villeneuve-d'Ascq, Roubaix and Tourcoing. There are two lines:
- Tramway R, linking Roubaix Eurotéléport to Gare Lille-Flandres;
- T tramway, linking the center of Tourcoing to Gare Lille-Flandres.
The bus in Lille
Lille's comprehensive bus network spans 140 routes, serving nearly all districts of the city. The Citadine shuttle offers a convenient way to reach the city center after parking your car. Additionally, there's the Vieux-Lille shuttle, which stops upon passengers' request.
Cabs, bikes, and car-sharing in Lille
The local cab network is mainly based around the Lille Flandres and Lille Europe train stations. Taxis are also available at Lille-Lesquin airport.
As in other major French cities, cycling is very popular in Lille. The towns of Lille, La Madeleine, Mons-en-Baroeul, Villeneuve-d'Ascq, Roubaix, Tourcoing, Croix, Lambersart, Lomme, and Wattrelos have taken up self-service bike rental.
Car-sharing is popular in Lille, exemplified by the Citiz system, allowing you to rent a car for a few hours or days. You can reserve a vehicle in advance or rent one on the spot, depending on availability. This system operates similarly to the one in Paris.
Unconventional means of transport in Lille
Created by the company Mobilboard, the Segway is an innovative and enjoyable mode of transportation. This large, two-wheeled electric scooter allows you to explore the city uniquely and excitingly.
Would you like to try out another eco-friendly and fun means of transport? Happy Moov City Cruisers offers a vast network of bicycle cabs, a practical and environmentally friendly solution. City Cruisers are a fun way to get around town. Cruisers can be rented on the streets or at one of the city's hubs.
Are you looking to try out another eco-friendly and enjoyable transportation option? Happy Moov City Cruisers operates an extensive network of bicycle cabs, providing a practical and environmentally-conscious solution. City Cruisers offer a fun way to explore the city, with rentals available conveniently on the streets or at designated hubs across the city.
Overview of public transit fares in Lille
Fares in Lille are as follows:
- Single trip: 1.80 euro (metro, bus, streetcar, regional train);
- ZAP trip (limited to 3 metro or streetcar stations): 1.15 euro;
- V'Lille (self-service bicycle): The rental costs 1.80 euros for 24 hours, with the first 30 minutes being free. Each additional half-hour costs 1.15 euros. A refundable deposit of 200 euros and a phone number are mandatory. Weekly and annual subscription options are also offered.
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