Wondering what to do in Lille?
Lille has a cultural agenda full and it is easy to lose your head! To facilitate your cultural discoveries here is a list of the must-see museums in Lille and its metropolis:
Art museums in Lille
the Palace of Fine Arts
Adress : Place de la République, 5900 Lille
- Metro Ligne 1 station République Beaux-Arts
- Bus lignes 12 and 18
- Gare Lille Flandres at 10-15 minutes by foot
Accessibility for disabled people:
- Access to the ground floor by an outside lift, boulevard de la Liberté.
- Full access to the entire museum.
- Visits in sign language and sensory visits organized every quarter and on request for groups.
- Touch tablets available free of charge in LSF.
- Wheelchairs are available at the museum reception.
Prices :
- Free on: 1st Sunday of each month – Heritage Days – Museums Night
- Reduced rates 12-29 years: 4 €
Opening hours:
- Monday : 14 h – 18 h
- Wednesday to Sunday: 10 h – 18 h
- Closed on Tuesday and certain public holidays (1 January, 1 May, 14 July, 1 November, 25 December).
Why visit the Palace of Fine Arts in Lille?
It is the second largest museum in France after the Louvre, but also the second largest museum of fine arts in France in terms of number of works on display. The Palace houses 8 permanent collections that take us on a journey through eras and artistic movements.
Paintings, sculpture, photography, drawings, plans in reliefs, ceramics, prehistoric and ancient remains… The museum’s collection is full of pieces to discover and analyze. But the works on display are not the only thing that makes the museum exceptional: its architecture itself is a work of art in its own right. To name only the best known, you can admire works by Rubens, Delacroix, Van Dyck, Goya, Rembrandt, Manet, Monet and Picasso.
Le Louvre Lens
Jean-Pierre Dalbéra, CC BY 2.0, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/, via Flickr
Adress: 99 Rue Paul Bert, 62300 Lens
Access:
- Train to Lens at Gare Lille Flandres then bus stop P Louvre-Lens Q1
Accessibility for disabled people:
The Louvre Lens is one of the most accessible museums for people with disabilities, it offers:
- A full-foot building for easy access to all.
- Respect for the extension charter created by the Louvre that certifies the readability and immediate understanding of the subject for all.
- The “Hands, Voice and Creation Workshops” for people with visual impairment or total blindness.
- Visits and workshops in French sign language.
Labellisé Tourism Handicap for five years at the end of 2021, the Louvre-Lens becomes both an actor and ambassador for the reception of disabled people.
Prices :
Free: Permanent collection “La Galerie du Temps”
Young people 18-25: €5 for the temporary exhibition gallery
Opening hours:
- Wednesday to Monday: 10am – 6pm
- Checkouts close at 5:15pm.
- Closed on Tuesdays and certain public holidays (January 1, May 1 and December 25).
Why visit the Louvre Lens?
The museum offers an exceptional selection of works of art from the renowned Musée du Louvre in Paris, allowing visitors to discover world-renowned masterpieces such as Eugène Delacroix’s Liberty Guiding the People and Giuseppe Arcimboldo’s Spring and Summer.
What’s more, the remarkable architecture of the building, designed by the Japanese agency SANAA, is an attraction in itself, with its clean lines and use of natural light.
Finally, it regularly offers captivating temporary exhibitions and a variety of cultural events, providing an enriching experience for art lovers.
Louvre Lens also fulfills an important mission: the decentralization of culture.
Le LaM – Lille Métropole Musée d’art moderne, d’art contemporain et d’art brut
Address: 1 All.
du Musée, 59650 Villeneuve-d’Ascq
Access:
- Metro line 1 station Pont de Bois then bus line 6 stop L.a.m.
- Metro line 2 station Fort de Mons then bus line 6 stop L.a.m
Disabled access :
- Access for people with motor disabilities
- Visit in French sign language
- Sensory tour
Price list:
- Reduced student rate: €5
- Free on the first Sunday of the month
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Exceptionally closed on certain public holidays
Why visit LaM?
LaM is one of the most important museums in Northern Europe, offering the public an exceptional collection of modern, contemporary and outsider art, including major works by artists such as Picasso, Modigliani, Braque and Warhol.
It is also one of the few museums to devote a large section to Art Brut, an often marginalized movement.
The cultural program is highly varied, with a variety of temporary exhibitions, lectures, workshops and concerts to suit all tastes.
In addition to its collection and programming, LaM is also exceptional for its architecture and admirable landscaping.
What’s more, the presence of works of art in the museum’s grounds offers a pleasant experience between art and nature.
In short, a visit to LaM is a rich, immersive and unique cultural experience!
La Piscine – Museum of art and industry
Velvet, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Address: 23 Rue de l’Espérance, 59100 Roubaix
Access:
- Metro line 2 station Gare Jean Lebas
- TER from Lille Flandres station to Roubaix station
Disabled access :
- Motor disabilities: good (parking, adapted path, ramp, elevator, loan of wheelchairs)
- Total visual blindness: medium (audio terminals, pedometer strips, guided tours)
- Partially sighted: good (proximity to artworks, audioguide)
- Hearing impaired: good (little background noise)
- Mental disability: moderate (adapted map and signage)l’s mission is to promote and raise public awareness of contemporary architecture and urban planning.
Price list:
Student price: during the exhibition period: €9 / outside the exhibition period: €6
Free of charge:
Every Friday from 6 pm to 8 pm for exhibitions and permanent collections.
The first Sunday of the month for the museum’s permanent collections.
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Friday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: 1 to 6 p.m.
- Closed on Mondays, January 1, May 1, Ascension Day, July 14, August 15, November 1 and December 25.
Why visit La Piscine?
The Musée de la Piscine’s unique atmosphere, combining industrial heritage and artistic culture, sets it apart from the rest.
The remarkable architecture of Roubaix’s former art deco municipal swimming pool provides an exceptional setting for a visit.
The pools, cabins and mosaics, which reflect history of the place mingle with works of art.
The museum’s eclectic collection combines works by Rodin, Picasso, Matisse and Delacroix, with applied art such as fabrics and ceramics.
Temporary exhibitions bring a constant renewal to the museum, so you can visit without ever tiring of it!
The House of Photography
Olivier Duquesne ,CC BY-SA 2.0,https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/, via Flickr
Address: 28 Rue Pierre Legrand, 59000 Lille
Access:
- Metro line 1 station Fives
Disabled access :
No information available
Price list:
- Free
Opening hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday, 2 to 6 p.m.
Why visit the Maison de la Photographie?
The Maison de la Photographie regularly presents temporary exhibitions featuring emerging photographers or iconic works.
Its mission is to highlight the work of contemporary photographers and support emerging artists, so a visit is a unique opportunity to discover little-known and unique works.
The museum also makes a point of being accessible to amateurs and connoisseurs alike, so there’s something for everyone.
Historical museums in Lille
Hospice Comtesse Museum
Address:32 Rue de la Monnaie, 59800 Lille
Access:
- Metro line 1 Rihour station
- Metro line 2 station Gare Lille Flandres
- Bus line 9 – Palais de justice stop
Disabled access :
- Visit in French sign language
Price list:
- Price 12-29 years: Outside temporary exhibition period: €3 / Temporary exhibition period: €4
- Free on the 1st Sunday of each month
Opening hours:
- Monday: 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
- Wednesday to Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Closed on certain public holidays.
Why visit the Hospice Comtesse?
A former hospital built in the 13th century and nestled in the heart of Old Lille, the Hospice Comtesse museum is a true testament to the city’s medieval history.
Within its Gothic walls, visitors will discover not only works of art, but also historical relics that tell the story of the area’s past.
The perfectly preserved first floor offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the nurses who cared for the sick.
Upstairs, the art gallery displays works tracing Lille’s history from the 16th century to the French Revolution, offering a captivating plunge into the region’s past.
Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions
Photo FRANÇOIS FLOURENS
Address: 96 rue François-Mériaux, Wattrelos
Access:
- Metro line 2 Eurotéléport station then bus stop Wattrelos Place
Disabled access :
No information available
Rates :
Free
Opening hours :
- November 1 to March 31: Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and 3rd Sunday (except in exceptional circumstances), 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- April 1 to October 31: Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on the 3rd Sunday of the month (except in exceptional circumstances), 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Why visit the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions?
Visit the Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires and immerse yourself in the life of our ancestors.
Discover the customs and traditions of yesteryear through scenes of everyday life, leisure and work in the 19th century.
From the kitchen, to the weaver’s workshop, to the classroom, you’ll learn all about the life of the French northerner some 150 years ago.
It’s the perfect museum for learning more about regional culture, a culturally enriching experience!
Birthplace of Charles de Gaulle
Velvet, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Address: 9 Rue Princesse, 59000 Lille
Access:
- Bus line 10 Lille Flandres to stop Voltaire
Disabled access :
- Good to average accessibility, depending on disability
Price list:
- Free for children under 26
Opening hours:
- Every day except Tuesday: 10 am to 6 pm.
- Closed on January 1, May 1, December 25 and the Braderie de Lille weekend.
Why visit Charles de Gaulle’s birthplace?
Would you like to find out more about France’s political history?
You’ve come to the right place!
The Maison de Charles de Gaulle in Lille is much more than just a museum, it’s a window on the political history of France.
Exploring this iconic site will allow you to delve into the life and legacy of a key figure in the French nation.
By discovering De Gaulle’s life story, from his childhood in this house to his role as a political leader, you’ll better understand the impact of his commitment on France and the world.
It’s a unique opportunity to enrich your understanding of contemporary French culture and history.
Museum of the Resistance
Velvet, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Address: 2 Chem.
Saint-Georges, 59910 Bondues
Access:
- Bus from Lille Europe to Fort de Bondues
Disabled access :
- All areas are accessible to people with reduced mobility, with the exception of one room.
- French sign language tour available soon
Rates :
Audioguide included: €6
Opening hours:
September to June :
- Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 2pm to 4:30pm (open house)
- First and third Sundays of the month from 2:30 to 6pm (guided tour at 3:30pm)
- Closed on Tuesdays and public holidays
July and August :
- Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 2 to 6 p.m. (open house) Ticket office closes at 5.30 p.m.
- Closed on Tuesdays, weekends and public holidays
Why visit the Musée de la Résistance?
The visit will plunge you into the heart of the history of the Second World War in France.
Through its interactive exhibits and poignant testimonials, you’ll discover the courage and determination of resistance fighters in the face of Nazi occupation.
This museum offers a valuable opportunity to understand what the Resistance is, how it was organized and its importance in the fight against enemy occupation from 1940 to 1944.
La Manufacture – Museum of Textile Memory and Creation
Pierre André Leclercq, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Address: 29 Av.
Julien Lagache, 59100 Roubaix
How to find us :
- Line 2 station Eurotéléport then bus line 3 stop Roubaix Man Fraternite
Disabled access :
- Tourism and disability approved
Price list:
- Student rate: €4
- Free every first Sunday of the month
Opening hours :
- Tuesday to Sunday: 2 – 6 pm
- Closed on Mondays, January 1, May 1, Ascension Day, July 14, August 15, November 1 and December 25.
Why visit the Manufacture?
The region’s industrial and textile history is a must-see.
At the Manufacture, you’ll discover not only fascinating collections of works of art and historic pieces, but also the living history of the artisans and workers who have shaped the region’s heritage.
Explore its vast halls and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of a place steeped in history and creativity, where tradition and innovation meet to form a rich and inspiring cultural heritage.
Science museums in Lille
The Museum of Natural History
Olivier Duquesne, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/, via Flickr
Address: 23 Rue Gosselet, 59000 Lille
How to find us :
- Metro line 1 République Beaux-Arts station
- Bus stop Jb Lebas
Disabled access :
- Partial or accompanied accessibility
Rates :
- Reduced rate 12-25 years: €3.50
- Free every first Sunday of the month
Opening hours:
- Currently closed
Why visit the Museum of Natural History?
Immerse yourself in a fascinating world where nature is revealed in all its facets, from local biodiversity to exotic treasures from all over the world.
By exploring its varied collections, you can enrich your knowledge of fauna, flora and ecosystems, while discovering the importance of preserving biodiversity for the future of our planet.
What’s more, the Natural History Museum often offers interactive exhibits and educational activities that will give you an immersive and instructive experience, conducive to intercultural exchange and personal enrichment.
Institut Pasteur Museum
Pierre André, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Address:
- 18 Bd Louis XIV, 59800 Lille
Access:
- Metro line 2 Grand Palais station
Disabled access :
- PMR accessibility
Price list:
- Reduced rate for 12-25 year olds or students: €3
Opening hours :
- Saturday and Sunday: 10am – 12pm / 2pm – 5pm
- Closed on December 25, January 1 and May 1
Why visit the Institut Pasteur Museum?
The Institut Pasteur Museum in Lille invites you to plunge into the fascinating world of scientific research and the fight against infectious diseases.
By exploring its interactive exhibits and unique collections, you’ll discover major advances in microbiology and immunology, while understanding the vital impact of these discoveries on global public health.
A visit to this museum will give you a better understanding of the importance of scientific research in contemporary society, and allow you to explore Institut Pasteur’s remarkable contributions to the fight against infectious diseases worldwide.
The Departmental Science Forum
Address:
1 Place De L’Hôtel De Ville, 59650 Villeneuve-d’Ascq
Access:
- Metro line 1 Hotel de Ville station
Disabled access :
- Good or average, depending on the type of disability
- PRM access by elevator
Price list:
Rate for under-26s :
- Exhibition : Free
- Planetarium: €3
- Free on the 1st Sunday of the month
Opening hours:
- School holidays: Wednesday to Sunday, 2 – 6 p.m.
- Outside school hours: Tuesday to Friday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Why visit the Forum départemental des Sciences?
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to plunge into the heart of science and technology in a captivating and immersive atmosphere.
Whether you’re passionate about physics, biology, computing or just plain curious, this place offers you a unique interactive experience.
By taking part in experiments, demonstrations and interactive exhibits, you can not only enrich your knowledge, but also stimulate your creativity and innovative spirit.
The Planetarium will also encourage you to look up to the sky and discover the secrets of the Universe!
Now that you’ve had your fill of culture, perhaps you’d like something else?
Find out about the best things to do in Lille or events not to be missed !
