I’ve got great news! My husband and I are FINALLY reunited after 4 months apart. I arrived in Lille, France a little over a week ago, and I’ve been busy enjoying some much needed quality time with my husband and exploring all that the city has to offer. The last city we lived in in Europe was Cantu, Italy. Cantu was small and there wasn’t much to do, so we spent the majority of my husband’s off days strolling around Milan, which was only about 45 minutes away. Before I arrived in Lille, I assumed that the city would be similar and that we would spend the majority of our free time in Brussels. To my surprise, there is quite a bit to do in Lille and it’s easy to waste days strolling around the city center.
Lille, which is close to the border of Belgium and only about an hour and some change outside of Brussels, is the capital of France’s Nord-Pas-de-Calais region. The culturally diverse city is home to a number of universities and has a bustling center, Vieux Lille, that contains restaurants and shops galore. I’ve quickly fallen in love with Lille and can see why many people who live in the neighboring countries consider it a great holiday destination this time of year. Here are my first impressions of Lille, France:
Lille, France – First Impressions
The Architecture is Beyond Gorgeous
The architecture in Europe is always something to see, but Lille definitely has some of the most beautiful historic buildings and monuments that I’ve ever seen. In Vieux Lille, almost every building seems to be the perfect backdrop for an impromptu photoshoot. Even the “unimportant” buildings are beautifully designed and I’ve enjoyed taking it all in.
The Street Food is Delectable
I’m usually reluctant to eat street food. In some places, it just doesn’t feel clean to me, but I’ve been trying to branch out and try different things during my travels. I am SO glad my husband convinced me to sample the street food in Lille. If you have a sweet tooth, the waffles and crepes with nutella are both amazing. My personal favorite are the beignets, which are basically just deep fried dough tossed in sugar. If you’ve been following my travels on my Instastory, you’ve probably seen quite a few of those.
It’s VERY Festive During the Holidays
Here in Lille, they go all out for the holidays. In Vieux Lille’s square, there are decorations, holiday activities, and even rides available this time of year. There is also an amazing Christmas market where shoppers are invited to eat, drink, and be merry as they shop various handmade goods, decor, and other unique items. Although the weather is definitely on the chilly side, flocks of people get out and walk around just to take in the holiday cheer. Lille is magical this time of year and I’m so thankful that I’m getting to experience what is clearly one of Europe’s best kept secrets.
The entrance to Lille’s Christmas market
Ready for some Christmas market fun
What travel destination do you think is most festive this time of year?
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