Lille

As the capital of the Hauts-de-France region, Lille feels more like Belgium than France. Given that France’s fifth largest metropolitan area is only about a 30-minute drive from the Belgian border, it’s really no surprise. Between the Flemish architecture, beer culture, belfries, and friteries {French fry stands}, Lille is a lovely deviation from stereotypical France.
Explore Vieux Lille {Old Lille} for its perfectly restored 17th century architecture and eat a Welsh at one of the many cafés. Don’t miss the original Meert shop for a vanilla waffle or Notre-Dame de la Treill, Lille’s cathedral.

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