Lille is divided in two by the boulevard de la Liberté: to the north of the boulevard is charming Vieux Lille (the old town), nestled within the city's former fortifications. It is a picturesque mixture of narrow streets and cobbled squares lined with chic boutiques, and cosy cafes and restaurants. To the south is the new town with its wide streets.

The old city's attractions include the 1652 Flemish styled Vieille Bourse (the textile exchange), near the place du Général de Gaulle (aka Grand'Place), the heart of the city; the old hospital Hospice Comtesse on the rue de la Monnaie; the Opera House; the Cathedral, and for shopping, rue Basse, rue de la Grande Monnaie, and rue de la Clef.

The Musée des Beaux-Arts is another must see: one of the best museums in France, it houses a collection of 15th- through 20th-century paintings. Nearby, and worth a look too, is the Maison Coilliot, 24 rue de Fleurus, an art nouveau gem.

To the west, the Citadel, now a military school, was reconstructed between 1667 and 1670 by the highly talented military architect Sébastien Le Prestre, Marquis de Vauban; and to the east, just by Lille Europe station, is the Euralille shopping complex.

Office du Tourisme de Lille
Palais Rihour, Place Rihour
Tel: (03) 5957 9400.
Website: www.lilletourism.com

Pass Libre Accès (Free Access Pass) gives free access to over 30 sites in Lille and the region, as well as free transport in the city (www.lilletourism.com) The pass is available for one, two or three days and can be purchased online, at the tourist office or in some hotels (see online for details).