Festive Delights 3H Walking Tour of Lille and Christmas Market

Lille , France

Festive Delights 3H Walking Tour of Lille and Christmas Market

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About this experience

This 3-hour walking tour of Lille combines the festive magic of the Christmas Market with the charm of the city’s historical landmarks. Starting at Place Rihour, you’ll immerse yourself in holiday cheer while browsing market stalls filled with local crafts and seasonal treats. The tour then leads you to the stunning Grand Place, with its illuminated architecture, and continues through the elegant streets of Vieux-Lille, showcasing centuries-old buildings. You’ll also admire the magnificent exterior of the Palais des Beaux-Arts and the imposing Lille Citadel, both beautifully lit at night. This tour uniquely blends Lille’s rich history, festive atmosphere, and architectural beauty, all experienced in the cozy glow of Christmas lights.

Available options

Festive Delights 3H Walking Tour of Lille and Christmas Market

What's included

Professional guide

Limited group size

Planned itinerary

Detailed itinerary

Start your tour at the Lille Christmas Market. Explore the market stalls, enjoy festive treats, and soak in the holiday atmosphere. Look for local crafts, seasonal food, and mulled wine.

Stroll over to Grand Place, Lille’s central square. Admire the stunning architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the Vieille Bourse (Old Stock Exchange). The square is beautifully illuminated in the evening.

Stop 3

Head to Palais des Beaux-Arts. Although the museum may be closed, you can appreciate the magnificent exterior and the nearby Place de la République. The building's grand façade and the surrounding area are especially striking at night.

EXTERIOR VISIT

Stop 4

Wander through the charming streets of Vieux-Lille. Discover its historic architecture, quaint boutiques, and cozy cafés. The area is known for its beautiful 17th and 18th-century buildings, which are particularly enchanting when lit up.

Walk to the Lille Citadel, a fortress designed by Vauban. While the interior may not be accessible, the exterior and surrounding park offer a picturesque setting. The fortress is illuminated at night and provides a nice contrast to the festive market atmosphere.

EXTERIOR VISIT

What's not included

Transportation

Meals and Beverages

Entrance tickets to Palais des Beaux-Arts of €9

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note that all sightseeing locations on this tour will be visited from the exterior only

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Place Rihour and begin your tour

About Lille

Lille is a vibrant city in northern France, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively cultural scene. It's a blend of French and Flemish influences, offering a unique charm with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and bustling markets.

Top Attractions

Palais des Beaux-Arts

One of the largest art museums in France, housing an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings.

Museum 2-3 hours €10

Old Lille (Vieux Lille)

The historic heart of Lille, known for its charming streets, red-brick houses, and vibrant atmosphere.

Historical 2-3 hours Free

La Citadelle

A star-shaped fortress built by Vauban, offering a glimpse into Lille's military history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Carbonade Flamande

A traditional Flemish beef stew cooked with beer, onions, and spices.

Main Course Contains beef and beer

Welsh

A dish consisting of cheese on toast, often topped with a beer-based sauce.

Main Course Contains cheese and beer

Flemish Beefsteak

A beefsteak dish with a rich, savory sauce made from mustard, vinegar, and sometimes beer.

Main Course Contains beef and sometimes beer

Popular Activities

Cycling Hiking Spa treatments Leisurely walks in parks Museum visits Historical tours Boat tours Christmas markets

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. The city is lively, but also more crowded.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Dutch
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lille is generally safe, but like any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unsolicited offers or requests.

Getting there

By air

Lille Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Lille Europe, Lille Flandres

By bus

Lille Europe, Lille Flandres

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and easy to use, with two lines and a total of 60 stations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, G7

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Lille (Vieux Lille) Euralille Wazemmes

Day trips

Bruges, Belgium

100 km • Full day

A picturesque medieval city known for its canals, cobblestone streets, and historic architecture.

Ypres, Belgium

80 km • Full day

A historic city with a rich military history, known for its role in World War I.

Arras

50 km • Half day

A charming city with a rich history, known for its stunning architecture and World War I memorials.

Festivals

Braderie de Lille • Early September Christmas Markets • Late November to late December Lille Piano(s) Festival • January

Pro tips

Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Explore the Wazemmes Market for a taste of local culture and fresh produce.
Take a day trip to Bruges or Ypres for a glimpse of Belgian history and charm.
Use the V'Lille bike share program to explore the city like a local.
Try the local specialties like Carbonade Flamande and Welsh for an authentic dining experience.