Lille Christmas Markets by Eurostar
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Christmas Market in Lille ©Fèdèration Lilloise du Commerce, de l'Artisanat et des Services
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Grand Place in Lille ©Lille Tourisme, Laurent Ghesquiere
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Grand Place in Lille ©Lille Tourisme, Laurent Ghesquiere
Get into the festive spirit with a trip to the Christmas Markets in Lille. A beautiful city at any time of year, but during advent, the Christmas atmosphere makes this winsome town irresistibly enchanting. Lille hosts Northern France’s largest markets. When travelling by EUROSTAR, all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy your short journey across the channel. The hotel is within walking distance of Lille Europe station, giving you plenty of time to explore.
From late November to mid-December, take a stroll through the maze of cobbled lanes in Lille’s old town and step into a continental winter wonderland. There, local crafts, handmade artisan objects and perfect Christmas gifts are aplenty. Mulled wines and hot chocolates steam warming your fingers and tickling your nostrils with their tempting aromas. Indulge in traditional Christmas Market foods such as Bratwurst, waffles and pancakes. What’s more, the renowned Christmas markets in the beautiful cities of Paris and Brussels are also in easy reach should before or after visiting Lille.
Dates
Late November - Mid December 2025 (dates to be confirmed)
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Lille
Make your way to London St Pancras to travel direct to Lille. Upon arrival at Lille Europe, walk to your hotel, a short distance away from the station and settle in.
Perhaps begin exploring the local area. Northern France’s largest city, Lille is known for its outstanding Flemish architecture. Feast your eyes on the ornate 17th century Vieille Bourse, the city’s finest building, then perhaps stop in a café in the Grand Place and watch life unfold in the city’s favourite meeting place.
Day 2
Lille’s Christmas Markets and Winter Wonderland
Today, explore Lille’s famous Christmas Markets. The old quarter is a charming patchwork of pretty squares, and the tangle of cobbled streets known as Vieux Lille is filled with boutiques, jewellers and antique shops. Lille is home to Northern France’s largest Christmas Markets, which are held on the centrally located Place Rihour. 80 different stalls offer all manner of festive surprises and culinary delights. Enjoy a spectacular view over the city by taking a ride on the Big Wheel. Below the Winter Wonderland will sparkle – the Christmas village is covered in artificial snow and an 18 metre tall Christmas tree evokes festive cheer. Be sure to sample some local delights and purchase some traditional Christmas presents to take home.
The markets are usually open daily Mon-Thurs & Sun (11.00-20.30 hrs) and Fri/Sat (11.00-22.00 hrs) – subject to confirmation for 2025
Day 3
Return to the UK
If time permits, enjoy some final sightseeing or perhaps a last stroll around the Christmas markets. Pack up your presents and parcels, and begin your homeward journey by Eurostar to London.
Suggested Hotels
Ibis Lille Centre Gares ***
The Ibis Lille Centre Gares is located in the heart of Lille, just 100 yards from Lille Flandres Train Station and less than a 10-minute walk from Lille Europe Train Station, so ideal for tours by train. The modern rooms feature free Wi-Fi, a telephones, desks and TVs. There is a business centre, TV lounge, bar and a contemporary restaurant with a dining terrace.
Ibis Styles Lille Marcq en Baroeul ***
This 3-star hotel features stylish, spacious and fully-renovated rooms. Located less than 15 minutes from the city centre, it is a great base for exploring Lille and popping across into Belgium. Facilities include a 24-hour reception, a restaurant, bar with terrace and conference rooms. The hotel is also located a short walk from a tramway providing direct access into Lille and Roubaix in approx 20mins. Free onsite coach car parking is also available.
Ibis Styles Lille Centre Gare Beffroi ***
This 3-star hotel is located close to the Lille Flandre train station and just 10 minutes’ walk from the Lille Europe train station, Old Lille and the Grand Palais. The hotel has a colourful, contemporary and stylish feel and boasts a communal area. The rooms feature free Wi-Fi, satellite TVs and hairdryers. No onsite restaurant, but bar snacks are available and there are many restaurants in walking distance.
| Departure date | 3 days/2 nights | Single Supplement |
| November – December 2025 | Price on request | Price on request |
