Discovering Lille: Top 10 Must-See Sights in the Northern French City

Tatiana Wilson
3 min readJan 30, 2023

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Lille, a city located in the north of France, is rich in history, culture and architecture. Visitors to Lille can enjoy a range of attractions, from world-class museums to stunning historical buildings. Here are ten must-see sights in Lille:

  • La Citadelle: This 17th-century fortification is a prominent landmark in the city and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the ramparts, gardens and underground tunnels.
  • Lille Grand Square: Also known as Place Charles de Gaulle, this large square is the heart of Lille and is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Old Stock Exchange and the Chamber of Commerce.
  • La Piscine Museum: This converted art deco swimming pool houses a museum of decorative arts and design, including ceramics, glass, textiles and more.
  • Lille Cathedral: This grand Gothic cathedral, dedicated to Notre-Dame de la Treille, is a stunning religious monument and a popular tourist attraction.

Maison Natale Charles de Gaulle: This museum is dedicated to the life of Charles de Gaulle, the former President of France, and is housed in the building where he was born.

  • Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille: This fine arts museum is one of the largest in France and houses a collection of European paintings, sculptures, and objets d’art.
  • Old Stock Exchange: This stunning building, located on Lille Grand Square, was once the city’s stock exchange and is now a cultural center.
  • Lille Zoo: This popular zoo is home to a range of animals, from big cats to primates, and is a great destination for families.
  • LaM (Musée d’art moderne): This museum showcases contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries, including works by famous artists such as Pablo Picasso and Marcel Duchamp.
  • Hospice Comtesse Museum: This museum, housed in a former hospice, is dedicated to the history of Lille and the surrounding region. Visitors can explore exhibitions on the city’s art, architecture and cultural heritage.

Lille is a city that offers something for everyone, from history buffs to art lovers. With its charming streets, picturesque squares and beautiful parks, Lille is a city that is well worth visiting.

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