Lille

From the moment you step off the Ouibus in Lille, you will be charmed by this Northern French city. The architecture of Lille reflects its tumultuous history and its many influences. Seek out an estaminet, a traditional local bar, or dine at one of the many restaurants serving cuisine from this region. Try some Maroilles cheese or a slice of flamiche (similar to a quiche), followed by a freshly made waffle, or just step into a boulangerie and breathe the delicious scent of cramiques (brioches). Right next to the Grand Place, the square that’s the beating heart of the city, you will find the Vieille Bourse, or old stock exchange. In this opulent building in the Flemish Renaissance style, you can wander through the courtyard, browsing among the stalls piled high with second hand books. Go for a stroll around the old town and admire the ornate, Flemish style and surprisingly colourful architecture. In contrast to this, you will find the futuristic district of Euralille cultivates a sleek, contemporary aesthetic: this area is heaven for shopaholics. Into modern art? Explore the modern and contemporary masterpieces at the LaM, where you will find the largest collection of Art Brut in France. If your taste is more traditional when it comes to art, head to the Palais des Beaux-Arts which is home to fabulous works by Delacroix, Goya, Rubens and co. Get back to nature with a visit to the Lille Zoo, near the citadel. With 70 species of animals to check out here, this is sure to be a fun and relaxing visit. And after all that, don’t forget to try some of the excellent local beer, before leaving Lille by Ouibus once more.