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Lille France

Lille suffered for several years under the erroneous reputation that it was simply an old, industrial city, with nothing to do or see. In fact, Lille is incredible and ought to be a stop on everyone's tour through France. It was even awarded the European Capital of Culture in 2004 and has done much to not only keep up but further that reputation.

The entire region is rich in character, be it the Flemish architecture, the northern champagnes and beers, the crazy cheeses, or the very people. If you know French, try wrapping your head around the Ch'ti accent for fun (the only chance of success will be after a few of those heavy Belgian beers so popular in the north).

Art permeates the city, so much so that it is both inside and outside the many museums. Little known, even among the French, Lille is home to the "Palais des Beaux-Arts", an amazing fine arts museum whose collection is second only to that of the Louvre. It is positioned in a square not far from the Grand Place, or main square. Both of these have fountains and stunning architecture surrounding them on every side. You can find the museum in the Place de la Republique, which presents mostly monumental architecture of the 19th century. A more flavorful experience is in the Grand Place, where the flamboyant Flemish style is displayed to its fullest.

Even lining the streets are incredible pieces of art. As mentioned, Lille strives to exceed its reputation as being cultural and edgy. Every other year a theme is chosen and the city comes alive with artistic expression and exhibition. In 2009 the city is hosting "Lille 3000". Walk along the streets leading toward the Grand Place and you might stumble across giant, slightly demonic looking cherubs, or witness a fantastical parade with musicians flying through the air and choirs chanting in Latin over the crowds, during which enormous wooden puppets three stories high will walk past, lit from the inside and glowing in the night.

Too much to handle? The city is definitely buzzing. But there is enough variety in the nightlife to appease anyone's needs. Restaurants are open late--as is typical of the French. Try the Flemish carbonnade, a beef dish usually accompanied by a side of the popular French Fries! The region is also known for mussels.

The nightlife is particularly good, largely because Lille is home to a big university. Young people are everywhere. Being as such there are Irish and Scotish pubs, classy, ultra-modern bars and several fun, variously-themed night clubs. Rues Gambetta and Solferino compose the student/nightlife quarter, and are the streets to go for nearly any of the above. When the late-night (or early-morning) stomach pangs hit, head for a kebab place...they are a great midnight indulgence to finish off your night.

ATTRACTIONS

The Grand Place

Not only is there Flemish architecture, but great cafes and shopping too! A block from the two side-by-side train stations (Gare Flandres and Gare Lille-Europe), the Grand Place is surrounded by a network of intertwined, cobblestoned streets. Head in the direction of the Place de la Republique and Rue Gambetta and you'll find commercial clothing shops and cozy pubs. Head into the beautiful old quarter of Vieux Lille for book and clothing boutiques, charming, brick-interior cafes, and chocolate shops.

The Palais des Beaux-Arts

Second in France only to the Louvre in terms of collection, this fine arts museum is beautiful both inside and out. There are several prestigious collections, including European artists such as Goya, Rubens, and Van Eyck, and late 19th century French artists. History buffs will get a real kick out of the 18th century relief maps, presenting certain northern French towns, used at one time by the French Kings during wars. Entrance to the museum was once free, but is now so only the first Sunday of each month. Otherwise it is €6 general admission and €4 for a reduced/student ticket.

Wazemmes Market

This bazaar is often jam-packed with bargain hunters and barterers from all walks of life. There are stalls with everything from meat and vegetables to makeup and light bulbs. Be careful not only of pick-pockets, but of losing your way in this immense maze of stalls and people.