Trains from Brussels to Lille

Traveling from Brussels to Lille by train is a journey that offers plenty of captivating sights. The shortest duration time is just an hour, and the distance is less than 105 miles. Along the way, you’ll pass through many important cities and towns, including Mons, Tournai, and Courtrai. After arriving in Lille, you’ll also be able to see landmarks such as the Old Stock Exchange, the Lille Cathedral, and the City Hall.

Your journey will begin at the Thalys or Intercity trains station at Brussels South, where you will either find trains heading for Lille-Flandres, or to Lille Europe. From either station, you can find frequent trains departing to Lille. Your journey will take you along the flat lands of northern France, allowing you to admire its picturesque landscapes. During your journey, you will also pass through iconic places like Wavre and Tournai.

As your train pulls into the station, you will be able to absorb the sights of one of the oldest cities of northern France. The iconic Euralille shopping mall is a must-visit spot, while the Place du Theatre in the heart of the city is a great place to enjoy the French culture. The Departure and Arrival Hall in Lille Flandres is an impressive modernistic space, filled with vibrant and inspiring artwork, and is the perfect way to make your journey to Lille truly unforgettable.

Traveling from Brussels to Lille by train is an experience that you will never forget. So if you're looking for a scenic journey where you can discover the hidden beauty of northern France, this is the way to go.

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a city full of architectural wonders and gastronomical delights. From cobblestoned streets and ancient monuments to world-renowned chocolate and beer, this city has something for everyone. Let’s take a deeper look into some of the top sites to make sure your trip to Brussels is complete. 

Grand Place: Located in the centre of the city, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see. Admire the ornate buildings, from the city hall, to the guild houses, and the striking gothic churches, all surrounded by terracotta-hued buildings. Open to the public all year round, entry to Grand Place is free.

Manneken Pis: This famous statue of a little boy urinating is perhaps the most iconic symbol of Brussels. Check out the many costumes the figure wears, which change regularly. Find it just a few minutes’ walk from Grand Place.

Atomium: This iconic landmark made up of steel spheres is the symbol of Brussels. First constructed in 1958, it was renovated in 2006 and is now a museum that delves into the history of Brussels and its people. Open daily from 10am to 6pm, tickets cost €12.

Cinquantenaire: This sprawling urban park, located to the east of the city, features a mixture of art galleries, museums, and monuments, including the Royal Military Museum and Autoworld. Open all year round, admission to most of the attractions here is free.

Royal Palace of Brussels: Catch a glimpse of grandeur from this 19th century building, which serves as the official residence of the Belgian Royal Family. Open to the public from July to September, tours of the palace cost €8.

Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula: This gothic-style cathedral dates back to the 13th century and features beautiful stained glass windows and tombs. Open to the public from April to October, admission is free.

Delirium Café: One of Brussels’ most famous bars, this lively spot offers a huge selection of beers. With a whopping 3,000 varieties to choose from, there’s something here for everyone. Open daily until 4am, it’s the perfect place to end your night out in style.

So there you have it! From iconic monuments to fantastic food and drink, Brussels has something for everyone. Be sure to make the most of your trip and don’t forget to take plenty of pictures!

Lille is the capital of northern France's Hauts-de-France region and the country's fourth-largest metropolis. It has an eclectic mix of modern and ancient attractions, from stylish restaurants and bars to lovely canals and historic architecture. Whether you love to explore churches, museums, and shopping districts, or simply take in the sights and ambiance of the city, Lille is the perfect destination. Here is our guide to the top seven must-visit historical and architectural sites in Lille. 

Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille: Built in 1809, this iconic museum is home to an extensive collection of European art and objects from Latin America, ranging from Ancient Egyptian artifacts to 20th-century Dutch masterpieces. It is located in the heart of the city and a visit here will not disappoint. Practical information: Located at Place de la République, Lille, France. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 6pm. Entrance fee: €5. Insider tip: Look out for the sculpture of Apollo on the building's façade.

La Citadelle de Lille: This impressive fortress overlooks the Old Town of Lille and is one of the most impressive fortifications in Europe. Built in 1667, its dramatic walls, towers, and moats still remain in excellent condition and provide an interesting glimpse into the city's history. Practical information: Located at 54 Rue de la Citadelle, Lille. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 6pm. Entrance is free. Insider tip: There are guided tours available, which you should book in advance.

Lille Cathedral: Founded in 1288, this is one of the oldest cathedrals in France and a must-visit site. Its Gothic façade, beautiful stained-glass windows, and impressive interior are truly a sight to behold. Practical information: Located at Place Félix Baret, Lille. Entrance is free. Insider tip: Take some time to explore the underground crypt, which dates back to the 12th century.

Grand’Place: Located in the heart of the city, this vibrant square is a great place to relax and watch the world go by. It is filled with cafés, restaurants, and shops, and has a lovely fountain and several historic buildings. Practical information: Located at Place du Général de Gaulle, Lille. Entrance is free. Insider tip: Grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants surrounding the square.

Place Rihour Square: This elegant square is a popular spot for people-watching, and has a beautiful fountain and several notable buildings, such as the Stock Exchange of Lille. Practical information: Located at Place Rihour, Lille. Entrance is free. Insider tip: Look out for the striking bronze statue of Louis XIV, which stands in the center of the square.

Opera House: This magnificent opera house is the largest in France and one of the oldest in Europe. It was built in 1745 and boasts a stunning baroque façade and ornate interior. Practical information: Located at 1 Boulevard de la Liberté, Lille. Opening hours: Vary depending on showtimes. Entrance fee: Varies depending on show. Insider tip: Book a show in advance to secure the best seats.

Vieux-Lille: This charming Old Town neighborhood is home to cobblestone streets, historic churches, and grand mansions. There are also several excellent shops and restaurants where you can sample some of the city's famous cuisine. Practical information: Located at the center of the city. Entrance is free. Insider tip: Take a walk along Rue de la Monnaie for some charming shops and cafés.

Lille is a vibrant city waiting to be explored. From the stunning Palais des Beaux Arts to the charming Vieux-Lille district, there is something for everyone. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the city's history and culture or simply relax in one of its many parks and squares, you're sure to find something to enjoy in Lille. So plan your trip today and experience all that this beautiful city has to offer.