One of the best things about visiting or living in Lille is how easy it is to explore Belgium for a day! Lille is just minutes from the border, making it the perfect base for discovering charming Belgian cities (and MORE)—all without needing a car.
After living in Lille for two years and taking these trips many times myself, I’ve put together this ultimate guide to the best day trips from Lille by train—including travel tips, must-visit spots, and insider recommendations. I focus mainly on Belgian cities here but don’t be fooled, there are many other day trips Lille has to offer. Let’s take a look at a few!
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Best day trips from Lille by train: Overview
DON’T FORGET: Get the right travel medical insurance before your trip – you never know when you might need it. SafetyWing is affordable, user-friendly, and has been my go-to for years!
TL;DR – Quick Tips for First Time Visitors:
🚂 How to book train tickets: Always book your train tickets with Omio to find the best options
🗺️ Top Belgium day trips: Bruges, Brussels, and Ghent
✨ Other popular day trips: Paris, London, and the North of France
🏨 Find affordable, central places to stay in Lille
💸 Save money: use a travel-friendly credit card like Wise to hold multiple currencies on one card
Best day trips from Lille to Belgium
Brussels
⏰ Distance: around 35-minute train ride from Lille
🚂 Train station: The main train station in Brussels is called Bruxelles-Midi
🗺️ Getting to the city centre: 25-minute walk from the train station
✨ Known for: Being the capital city of Belgium
Brussels is the easiest and most accessible on this list of day trips from Lille – I personally visited three separate times while living in Lille. You’ll have no shortage of train options, and you can also opt for the bus if you want a cheaper alternative (if you’re short on time, taking the train is quicker). You can easily spend a half-day here, exploring its iconic landmarks, beautiful squares, and delicious foodie scene.
Things to do in Brussels:
🏛 Grand Place – One of the most beautiful squares in Europe (and one of my favorites), known for its gold-detailed guild houses. It’s especially magical during the Christmas market season!
🚶♂️Manneken Pis – The famous (and surprisingly tiny!) statue of a boy peeing, often dressed in different costumes. A quirky Brussels tradition worth stopping by!
🌍 Atomium – This massive, futuristic steel structure is one of Brussels’ most unique landmarks. It’s a bit outside of the main city centre, but definitely doable if you’re searching for panoramic views!
🍫 Chocolate-making class – One of my favorite experiences in Brussels! I took a chocolate-making class, where I learned how to make traditional Belgian pralines. Perfect for any fellow chocolate-lovers!
📍Chocolate walking tour – A fun way to learn about Brussels’ history while tasting Belgian chocolate samples from some of the best chocolatiers in the city.
All of this to say, you can find some pretty cool activities and experiences in Brussels, be sure to look into some for your visit!
READ MORE: 10 things to do in Brussels you’re going to LOVE
Bruges
⏰ Distance: 1.5-hour train ride from Lille
🚂 Train station: Brugge train station
🗺️ Getting to the city centre: 22-minute walk OR there is a Free Shuttle called the Centrum shuttle that runs every 20 minutes from the train station!
✨ Known for: It’s medieval, fairytale vibes
Bruges is one of my favorite day trips from Lille, and I’ve visited it six times already! Known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is a fairytale-like medieval city with canals, cobbled streets, and picturesque Flemish architecture.
Things to do in Bruges:
🛶 Take a canal boat tour – See Bruges from the water by taking a relaxing boat ride through the canals. It’s the best way to get acquainted and learn more about the medieval charm of the city.
📸 Rozenhoedkaai – One of the most photographed spots in Bruges, with wonderful views of the canals and traditional Flemish buildings.
🏰 Market Square & Belfry Tower – Climb the Belfry of Bruges for a panoramic city view, or enjoy a drink at one of the cozy cafes around Market Square.
🧇 Try a Belgian Waffle – Bruges is home to some of the best waffles in Belgium! Grab one from a local stand and top it with chocolate, whipped cream, or strawberries.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Bruges Day Trip Guide
Ghent
⏰ Distance: 1-1.5 hour train ride from Lille
🚂 Train station: Ghent’s train station is called Ghent-Sint-Pieters
🗺️ Getting to the city centre: 36-minute walk into the main city centre
✨ Known for: Less touristy, hidden gem vibes
Ghent is a port city in Belgium, and people often have a hard time choosing between visiting Ghent or Bruges. Both have beautiful canals, medieval streets, and historic sites. However, Ghent is less touristy and has a more relaxed, student-friendly vibe than Bruges, which has recently grown in popularity.
Things to do in Ghent:
🏰 Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen) – A medieval fortress in the heart of the city with towers, dungeons, and great views.
🌉 St. Michael’s Bridge – One of the most picturesque spots in Ghent, offering stunning views of the canals and historic buildings.
⛪ St. Bavo’s Cathedral – Home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece, one of the most important artworks in European history.
🎄 Christmas Markets – I visited Ghent during the holiday season, and it was magical! If you’re planning a winter visit, definitely check out the festive markets and decorations.
Antwerp
⏰ Distance: 1.5-2 hour train ride from Lille
🚂 Train station: Antwerpen-Centraal Train Station
🗺️ Getting to the city centre: 23-minute walk away from the main square
✨ Known for: The artist Peter Paul Reuben’s birthplace
Antwerp is Belgium’s second-largest city but is often overlooked in favor of Brussels or Bruges. However, it’s one of the most underrated places on this day trips from Lille list, and even though this was a longer journey, I’m really happy we made the trip.
Things to do in Antwerp:
🚉 Antwerpen-Centraal Station – Often ranked as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, with its grand architecture and stunning details.
🛍 Meir Shopping Street – A great place for shopping either popular brands or local finds.
⛪ Cathedral of Our Lady – A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, home to paintings by Peter Paul Rubens.
🏛 Grote Markt & City Hall – The historic square of Antwerp, surrounded by colorful guild houses and charming cafes.
🖼 Rubens House – If you love art, visit the former home of famous Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens.
After visiting the more popular cities in Belgium, Antwerp is a refreshing city to spend a day exploring! If you have more time, you can also visit the zoo, the castles or one of the amazing parks and museums found around the city!
REMINDER: Use Omio to book your train travel – you’ll be able to compare schedules and prices all in one place! It’s been my go-to for train travel since 2019!
Other day trips from Lille
Paris
⏰ Distance: 1-hour train ride from Lille
🚂 Train station: Gare du Nord or Charles de Gaulle
🗺️ Getting to the city centre: From Charles de Gaulle, you’ll need to take the RER B into the city
✨ Known for: Paris needs no introduction
Paris is one of the easiest and most exciting day trips from Lille! I’ve personally done this trip many times, and I can assure you it’s very accessible if you plan your trip right—plus, if you book your train in advance, it can be surprisingly affordable.
Once you arrive, the challenge isn’t getting there—it’s deciding what to do! With countless landmarks, museums, and charming neighborhoods, planning a Paris day trip can feel overwhelming.
Here are two ways to approach planning a day trip to Paris:
🎟 Bucket list approach – Make a list of must-see attractions (e.g., Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, dinner cruise on the Seine) and plan your day around those.
🏙 Neighborhood approach – Pick an area (like Le Marais, Montmartre, or the Latin Quarter) and immerse yourself in its culture, food, and charm.
I’ve helped several clients plan their trips to Paris. If you’d like expert help crafting your itinerary, check out my travel planning services, and I’d be happy to help you plan your trip!
✨ Visiting with family (or just love Disney)? Disneyland Paris is even more accessible to Lille by train. The TGV train takes under an hour, bringing you straight to the happiest place on earth without the hassle of long travel times!
London
⏰ Distance: 1-hour Eurostar train ride from Lille
🚂 Train station: St. Pancras International
🗺️ Getting to the city centre: You arrive right in the heart of London with easy access to the tube
✨ Known for: London also needs no introduction
PRO TIP: London is 1 hour behind Lille; be aware of the time change!
London is an ambitious but totally doable day trip from Lille, thanks to the Eurostar high-speed train. In just an hour, you can go from croissants in Lille to fish & chips in London—a unique perk of being based in northern France!
Like Paris, London has endless things to do, so having a game plan is essential. Here’s how to make the most of your day in one of my favourite cities:
🏛 Focus on top sights – Prioritize must-sees like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, or the British Museum.
🎭 Pick a theme – Love history? Take advantage of the FREE museums. More into markets? Explore the BEST markets in London.
⏳ Maximize your time – Use public transport efficiently (get an Oyster Card or use contactless payments for the Tube) and use a travel credit card like Wise so you can have multiple currencies ready to go.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: My GO-TO day in London Itinerary
Other Northern France Cities
While many travelers head straight to Belgium or the UK, don’t overlook the incredible historic cities in northern France! This region is full of hidden gems, especially for history lovers.
I lived in Lille for two years and these were some of my all time favorite hidden gems:
🌊 Dunkerque – Visit the legendary beaches where the famous WWII evacuation took place.
🏰 Amiens – See the stunning Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece.
🇨🇦 Arras & Vimy Ridge – My personal favorite! Every friend or family I hosted while living in Lille agreed—Arras’ historic square and Vimy Ridge’s Canadian Memorial are absolute must-sees.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Arras Christmas Market: The Underrated Hidden Gem in France
Tips for visiting Lille
📆 How many days in Lille is enough? Lille is the perfect weekend destination! I’ve found that a great way to experience the city is by spending at least one full day exploring Lille and using the second day for a day trip. The city itself isn’t massive, so if you have extra time, you can easily base yourself in Lille and take multiple day trips to Belgium or other parts of Northern France.
🍽️ Try the local food! Every region of France has its own unique delicacies, and Northern France is no exception. This area is heavily influenced by Flemish cuisine, meaning you’ll find plenty of hearty, comforting dishes in traditional estaminets, like carbonnade flamande (a delicious beer-braised beef stew) and the Welsh (a cheesy, beer-soaked dish that’s a local favorite). Check out my top 10 restaurant recommendations in Lille for some inspiration.
☔️ Be prepared for rain. The north of France is known for its cloudy skies and unpredictable rain. While it may not rain constantly, the weather can often be overcast. To stay prepared, make sure to pack an umbrella or raincoat. If you find yourself needing indoor activities, check out my FREE Rainy Day Guide to Lille filled with ideas for every interest—from museums to cozy cafés!
Enjoy your trip to Lille
Lille is not only a fantastic destination on its own but also the perfect base for unforgettable day trips. Whether you’re exploring the medieval streets of Bruges, indulging in Belgian chocolate in Brussels, or even hopping on a train to Paris or London, there are so many incredible day trips from Lille to choose from!
With its rich history, delicious Flemish cuisine, and easy access to Belgium and beyond, Lille is a must-visit for all travelers.
Did you know? I offer custom travel planning services! Whether you are in need of a consultation call to talk over your travel itinerary or are in need of a personalized guide or itinerary, I’d love to help you with your France travel planning! Want to learn more? Check out my services here!
