Top 6 things to do in Lille during your French language stay
Learning French is not just about grammar and vocabulary—it’s about living the language. And in Lille, a city rich with history, culture, and culinary delights, every outing becomes a chance to practice, discover, and grow
Whether you’re strolling through cobblestone streets or sharing a dessert in a local café, these activities offer the perfect blend of immersion, enjoyment, and progress. Here are 6 unforgettable things to do in Lille during your French homestay
Wander through the Vieux-Lille
The Old Town of Lille (Vieux-Lille) is a jewel of Flemish architecture, with cobbled streets, colorful facades, hidden courtyards, and a rich blend of history and modern life. It’s the perfect place to stroll, take photos, and experience authentic city life. Stop by a café, boutique, or bookshop—and listen to the rhythm of everyday French
Language tip: Practice asking for directions, commenting on architecture, or chatting with locals: “C’est magnifique, n’est-ce pas ?”, “Où est la rue de la Monnaie ?”, or “J’adore ces vieilles façades.”
Explore the palais des beaux-arts
One of France’s most prestigious fine arts museums, the Palais des Beaux-Arts houses masterpieces from Rubens to Delacroix. It’s not just a visual feast—it’s also a place to practice descriptive vocabulary, ask questions, and engage in thoughtful conversation
Language tip: Practice using expressions like “Qu’est-ce que tu penses de ce tableau ?”, “Je trouve cette peinture touchante.” or “Ce style me rappelle…”
Bonus: After your visit, sit in the museum café and chat about your favorite piece en français
Try traditional dishes at a local estaminet
You haven’t truly experienced Lille without dining in an estaminet. These cozy, rustic taverns serve hearty Flemish specialties like carbonnade flamande, potjevleesch, or Welsh
Language tip: Read the menu in French and ask your host or server questions like “Quels sont les plats typiques ?” or “Quelle est la spécialité de la maison ?”
It’s the perfect opportunity to connect over a delicious meal and use food-related vocabulary in context
Visit the rue Saint-André Sunday market
Tucked into a charming neighborhood, this petit marché is full of color, smells, and sounds. From cheese vendors to flower stalls, it’s a slice of everyday life in Lille—and a great place to speak with locals
Language tip: Practice phrases like “Combien ça coûte ?”, “Je voudrais 200 grammes de…”, or “C’est fait maison ?”
Even if you’re shy, just smiling and saying “Bonjour !” can open the door to spontaneous conversation
Taste gaufres Méert and local pâtisseries
A stop at the historic Méert boutique is a must. Their vanilla-filled waffles have been delighting locals since the 18th century. But Lille also offers hidden gems like the refined Ogre de Carrouselberg or the famous Merveilleux de Fred
Language tip: While indulging in pastries, practice expressions like “C’est délicieux !”, “Je n’ai jamais goûter quelque chose comme ça.”, or simply “Je vais prendre…”
These sweet moments are ideal for conversational practice in a relaxed setting
Join the braderie de Lille (if you’re lucky!)
If your immersion happens in early September, you’ll witness Europe’s largest flea market. The Braderie is iconic: antiques, mussels and fries, music, and thousands of people wandering the streets
Language tip: Learn vocabulary like “un stand,” “négocier,” “un objet ancien,” and phrases like “Est-ce que vous pouvez baisser le prix ?”
It’s French in action—fun, chaotic, and completely unforgettable
Every activity in Lille is a chance to speak, to listen, and to live like a local. In a French homestay immersion, you won’t just learn words—you’ll create memories, build confidence, and experience the language where it matters most: in real life
Ready to experience Lille through language and culture? Pack your curiosity, your appetite, and your favorite notebook—and get ready to live French