Car Hire lille - Mini guide to lille

Lille, the second largest city in France, is much more than a mass of suburbs and heavy industrial plants. The city’s appeal lies in its classical Flemish architectural heritage, superb restaurants, and lively atmosphere, which make it a worthwhile tourist destination.

The highlight of the city is the charming old city centre of Vieux Lille. Stroll around the 17th century buildings spiraling out from the Grande-Place and soak up the traditional atmosphere. On the east side of the Grande-Place is the magnificent mansion of Ancienne Bourse, a classic example of 17th century affluence. In the adjacent square of Place du Théâtre is the Opéra, an interesting blend of French and Flemish architectural influences, while the Nouvelle Bourse boasts an ornate belfry. Heading north along the Rues Esquermoise and Lepelletier will bring you to the heart of old Lille, a picturesque maze of cobbled lanes and passages. Other streets worth exploring are the Rue d'Angleterre, Rue du Pont-Neuf and the Porte de Gand, Rue de la Monnaie (with its Hospice Comtesse and Salle des Malades) and Place Lion-d'Or.

Lille was Charles de Gaulle’s birthplace, and his former home is now an acclaimed museum housing, among other exhibits, the bullet-riddled Citroën in which he was driving when the OAS attempted to assassinate him in 1962. Other noteworthy attractions in the city include the 17th century Citadelle, Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral, the Church of St-Maurice, and the Musée d'Art Moderne at Villeneuve-d'Ascq, which contains works by Picasso, Braque, Leger, Modigliani, Miró and Rouault.

Around the city, particularly in the Vieux Lille area, are many places to relax and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere. Lounging around the fountain at the centre of the Grande-Place Square is very popular, or picnicking on the grassy areas outside the Museum of Modern Art. The city has an abundance of first-class accommodation, superb restaurants, charming cafes and exciting bars.

Nearby there are many interesting places to head to for short excursions and day trips. Picardy, Artois and Flanders are littered with the monuments, battlefields and cemeteries of the two world wars, as is the region northeast of Amiens, between Albert and Arras, where the remains of the trenches of Vimy Ridge are located. Alternatively, explore the beautiful countryside around Albert and along the Circuit de Souvenir.

Charles de Gaulle International Airport is the main international gateway to the north of France, and frequent connections are available to Lille. Regular and reliable shuttle services operate from Lille Airport into the city.