Like many European cities, Paris struggles with overtourism challenges, making tourist hordes difficult for both locals and visitors to avoid. However, France offers a wealth of iconic destinations across the capital, from chic beach resorts in Saint-Tropez and Cannes to famous cities in Nice and Marseille.
However, one experienced traveler shares a tip with Lonely Planet, suggesting the city of Lille, a gem that is often overlooked instead of Paris. In a conversation with Lonely Planet, Tom Stayner praised Lille as a “beautiful but underrated” destination, choosing this quiet French city over the capital. He explained: “The trip from London to Lille is a cinch, as it only takes 1.5 hours to Eurostar (much faster than Paris). And you'll be off right away in the city centre of Gearyl Europe (no need to make a fuss about the subsequent metro journey.”
As the capital of the Nord department and the largest city in the Hautz de France Legion, Lille boasts a lively centre perfect for those looking for a city break.
Some suggest that the best times to visit Lille are in May and September, but to avoid the peak season rush, the city offers a lot of activities throughout the year.
The city is extremely easy to walk to, with many ancient landmarks, architectural wonders and world-class museums.
Dylan, the founder and blogger of filming from the trip, shares insights from a visit to Lille in December and recommends DuThéâtre, a spectacular square in the city centre that houses several stunning buildings, including the Opera House.
He emphasized it as a great option for accommodation, saying, “Under 15 minutes' walk from the International Terminal, Lille Flanders (the main train station) don't have to worry about transporting in the city for short breaks. Most attractions are within walking distance with a maximum of 20 minutes.”
Regarding Lille's top-rated attractions, Vielille, an older part of the city, has taken the crown, according to TripAdvisor, and is undoubtedly the most beautiful city in the area.
The city's Grand Grand Place Square is nearby and serves as a great place to see people, hosting a variety of activities throughout the year, including summer dance classes.
Despite its compact size, the center of the reel is full of stunning architecture. The influence of Flanders is evident in the classic French aesthetic, as the cities approach the Belgian border.
Grand Place, or General Du Degaard, has an incredibly large monument that serves as the epicenter of the city's Christmas festival, and features an impressive 50-meter Ferris wheel built during the winter season.
Every year, Lille hosts a notable Christmas market in Rhihour, a quaint square just off the spectacular location. Offering Christmas presents, food and drinks, the 90 chalets are a must-see for those who love the festive season.
Elsewhere in the city, art lovers can explore the Palais de Boart in Lille, one of France's most respected art galleries, and show off the works of Donatello and Goya.
Head outside Loubair for a more unconventional art experience and visit Musee La Piscine. Here you can admire the stunning artwork in a former Art Deco swimming pool building.
When it comes to local delicacies, the northern French city has some culinary treasures worth sampling. Try Latart Au Maloyles, a flavourful quiche made from cream freyche, butter, salt, pepper and eggs. For sweet treats, choose Garfre a la Verjoise, a sugar waffle filled with sweet fillings that can be found throughout the reel.
Based on Google reviews, the city's top-rated French restaurants include Rouge Barre, Restaurant Pureté, Restaurant Sebastopol and Auto ad de Vorrille.
