Discover Lille: Flemish Architecture, Culture & Old Town

Set off at the 17th-century Paris Gate. The masterpiece of military architecture expresses the power of the victorious King Louis XIV through statues and ornate symbolic carvings, some of which were initiated by the renowned architect Simon Vollant himself. Interestingly, the renovation of 1895 resulted in the arch having two façades.

Next, stop by a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Belfry of Lille Town Hall, the tallest in Lille. The building distinguishes itself with its slender and modernistic appearance as it was built entirely in bricks and concrete, quite ahead of its time.

Walk by the Palace of Fine Arts, one of the largest and most famous museums in France. Its magnificent exterior is a fine work of art itself: a majestic façade decorated with sculpted arches and colorful stained-glass windows overlooks the Republic Square housing a splendid fountain.

The next destination of the tour is the Main Square. Ringed by many historic buildings and attractions, the square offers an interesting view of architecture, ranging from historic monuments to modern landmarks. In its center, the cultural hub of the city features the "Column of the Goddess", memorializing the siege of Lille in 1792.

Step into the Old Stock Exchange, located at the square and Lille’s most iconic landmark. This jewel of Flemish architecture boasts a richly decorated façade and a splendid courtyard surrounded by 24 houses which were made for traders. During Spanish times, the gorgeous building was a center of economic activity. Today, the courtyard is still always full of life as a meeting venue for second-hand book markets, florists, chess players, and tourists.

Walk across the square to the Ferrets of the North Bookstore. Established at the start of the 20th century, the grandiose store is one of the most beautiful and well-loved in Northern France. Its eye-catching colorful shelves stacked with a wide range of books and local souvenirs make it worth browsing, especially if you want to buy gifts for friends and family.

Next, stop by the Lille Cathedral. In contrast to its simplistic look, the majestic interior is breathtaking as a result of a collaboration of famous indigenous artists, including Peter Rice (the engineer of the Sydney Opera House). This curious mix of modern and Gothic art takes advantage of various tastes and techniques. What’s more, the church showcases masterpieces of paintings, sculptures, stained glass windows, etc.

At the end of the tour, take a leisurely walk across Lille's Old Town. Following winding cobbled streets lined by stunning boutiques, restaurants, cafés, and historic buildings, you will be enchanted by the charming architecture.