Lille has two main stations- Gare Lille Flanders for trains throughout the city, and Gare Lille-Europe which also operates TGV, Eurostar and other high speed services. Trains between Ebbsfleet and Lille run around 8 times a day Monday-Friday, and 12 times a day Saturdays and Sundays.
Eurostar
trains between Ebbsfleet International and Lille have average journey times of 1 hour, 20 minutes, making it even faster and more convenient to reach via high speed rail. The best time to visit is late spring or early summer, as the warm weather makes it so popular.
Lille is the fourth largest city in France, is situated in the north and is close to the border with Belgium with around 220,000 inhabitants. Summer time in Lille between June and August is the warmer time to visit with average temperatures around 68°F, 20°C. In winter time temperatures can reach 32° F (0°C).
In 2004, it was designated a European Culture Capital, and since has been an important tourist destination with a well preserved history. Shopping and markets are an important part of life in Lille, here a mixture of traditional shops and more international shops can be found.
Points of interest
La Vieille Bourse
The finest building in the city, built around 1652 during which period Lille was part of the Netherlands. Above the entrance gate are two lions, a symbol of this, and in the centre is the "fleur de lys", the city's emblem. Inside the cloister there are usually bookstalls with interesting engraved designs on the stone.
Palais des Beaux-Arts
A 19th century building which holds Lille's renowned museum of fine arts. The gallery features examples of work by Goya, Donatello, Raphael and Rubens.
Hospice Comtesse
Originally built as a hospital in 1237, it remained in working operation until 1939 when it became a museum containing tapestries, paintings, wood sculptures all from this region of France.
The Open Air Museum
Lille's living museum, which is a recreation of a local village including thatched cottages, rural craft workshops, seed barns and traditional farmhouses.
Attractions
L'Opéra, opened in 1923 replacing another theatre built in 1785 which burnt down.
One of the few surviving Flanders buildings founded by the Countess of Flanders, Jeanne de Constantinople, now an art museum.
The goddess (holding a cannon fuse in her right hand), which can be seen throughout the city such as the Grand Place or “Place du General de Gaulle”, represents one of the proudest moments of the city's history. In September 1792 Lille was part of France, but the city was surrounded by 35,000 Austrian soldiers, though it refused to surrender. Lille managed to hold out and the siege was eventually lifted.
Top Attractions
Aime la Plagne Main Attractions - Aime la Plagne Main Attractions
Arapaho Scooters
These scooters are fun to rent for a day. The best idea is to rent one for every member of the family and spend the day cruising around taking in sights on these fat-tired mountain bike-like scooters. They are especially fun for coasting down hills, but are practical for any type of trail. When you rent a scooter, the rental includes helmet and gloves.... Aime La Plagne, France
Arbre Adventure
The arbre adventure is for adventurous people who want to fly above the trees on a circuit of zip lines, ladders, ropes, and monkey bridges. This adventure allows you to travel through the forest without placing a foot on the ground.... Aime La Plagne, France
Horseback Riding
There are two main centers in La Plagne that offer horseback activities. The centers offer lessons for inexperienced riders, or family rides and half-day treks for more experienced riders. All attending children require adult supervision and it is suggested that you make an appointment before arriving.... Aime La Plagne, France
Hot Air Ballooning
There are several local companies in La Plagne that offer hot air ballooning. This is an activity that is serene and exciting all at once. The pilot will control the balloon, and all you have to do is enjoy the views of the forest and scenery below. This is usually a good opportunity to see wildlife below, along with other sights you didnâ??t see on the ground. Depending on the company and package you choose, these tours can last around two ... Aime La Plagne, France
Ice Caves
The Grotte de Glace is located atop the Bellecote Glacier, and is an extraordinary place to visit. Each year the exhibits change because they are all carved by hand. At the beginning of each season, passageways are carved and the interior is a gallery of ice sculptures.... Aime La Plagne, France