7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Lille

Lille, is a vibrant city that offers digital nomads a unique blend of French and Flemish culture, excellent cuisine, and a dynamic work-life balance. While the city itself is full of attractions, its location in the Hauts-de-France region also makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas. Whether you're looking for a quick weekend getaway to recharge your batteries or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, there are plenty of options within a short distance from Lille. Here are seven destinations that promise to make your weekends as exciting as your weekdays.

Bruges, Belgium

Just a stone's throw away from Lille, Bruges is a fairy-tale medieval town in Belgium known for its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved architecture. Often referred to as the "Venice of the North," Bruges is a perfect place for digital nomads to unwind and find inspiration. You can spend your time exploring the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, taking a boat tour along the canals, or climbing the Belfry for a panoramic view of the city.

How to Get There: The easiest way to reach Bruges from Lille is by train. The journey takes about an hour and a half, with direct services available from Lille Flandres station.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to try some of the finest Belgian chocolates at the local chocolatiers, or enjoy a traditional Belgian beer at one of the many breweries.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hotel Dukes' Palace, a former 15th-century ducal residence, or the charming B&B Huis 't Schaep for a more intimate experience.

Where to Eat: For a memorable meal, dine at the De Stove, a small and cozy restaurant known for its local Flemish dishes and warm atmosphere.

Amiens

Amiens, the capital of the Somme department, is a hidden gem with its remarkable Gothic cathedral, the largest in France, and the picturesque "floating gardens" known as the Hortillonnages. Digital nomads can enjoy a peaceful retreat while exploring the city's rich history and natural beauty. The St Leu district, with its canals and vibrant houses, offers a delightful setting for a leisurely stroll or a coffee break.

How to Get There: Amiens is easily accessible by train from Lille, with the journey taking approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Amiens Cathedral at night during the summer months to witness the Chroma light show, which illuminates the façade in vibrant colors.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Marotte offers a luxurious stay in the city center, while La Chambre d'Amiens provides a more modern and minimalist approach.

Where to Eat: Le Quai is a popular restaurant serving fresh, local cuisine with a view of the Somme river.

Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is an eclectic mix of history and contemporary culture, making it an exciting destination for those looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. The city's Gravensteen Castle, numerous museums, and the vibrant Patershol district provide plenty of entertainment. Ghent's lively arts scene and frequent festivals also offer a chance to mingle with locals and experience the city's modern vibe.

How to Get There: Ghent is a short train ride away from Lille, typically taking around 1.5 hours with one transfer.

Travel Tip: Visit the local markets, such as the Vrijdagmarkt on Fridays or the Flea Market at Sint-Jacobs, to find unique treasures and experience the local culture.

Where to Stay: The 1898 The Post offers a boutique hotel experience in a former post office building, while the Ghent Marriott Hotel provides modern comforts along the river.

Where to Eat: For a taste of traditional Belgian cuisine with a modern twist, head to the highly acclaimed restaurant Volta.

Arras

Arras is a charming town known for its stunning Flemish-Baroque architecture, particularly the Grand Place and the Place des Héros. Digital nomads can enjoy a quieter pace of life while exploring the town's historical sites, including the Wellington Quarry and the Abbey District. The town's weekly markets are also a great place to sample local produce and mingle with residents.

How to Get There: Arras is a quick train ride from Lille, with the journey taking about 50 minutes.

Travel Tip: Climb the belfry of the Town Hall for a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside and the town's unique architecture.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Les Trois Luppars is set in a historic building on the Grand Place, offering a central location and traditional charm.

Where to Eat: Le Petit Rat Porteur is a cozy bistro that serves delicious French dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Montreuil-sur-Mer

Montreuil-sur-Mer, despite its name, is no longer by the sea due to coastline changes over the centuries. This fortified town is steeped in history and offers a tranquil escape with its cobbled streets, ramparts, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It's an ideal spot for digital nomads seeking inspiration from the past, with Victor Hugo having used Montreuil as a setting for parts of "Les Misérables."

How to Get There: The best way to reach Montreuil-sur-Mer is by car, as it's about a 1.5-hour drive from Lille.

Travel Tip: Take a guided tour of the ramparts and the citadel to fully appreciate the town's strategic importance throughout history.

Where to Stay: The historic Château de Montreuil offers a luxurious stay with its beautiful gardens and gourmet restaurant.

Where to Eat: La Grenouillère, a Michelin-starred restaurant, is renowned for its innovative cuisine and is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Le Touquet-Paris-Plage

Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, often simply referred to as Le Touquet, is a stylish seaside resort on the Opal Coast. With its sandy beaches, elegant villas, and a variety of sports and cultural activities, it's a perfect getaway for digital nomads looking to relax and rejuvenate. The town also hosts numerous events throughout the year, including music festivals and horse-riding competitions.

How to Get There: The journey to Le Touquet can be made by car or bus from Lille, taking around 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Rent a bike and explore the town's extensive cycle paths, which offer a great way to see the area's natural beauty and architectural charm.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Barrière Le Westminster provides a touch of luxury with its Art Deco style and spa facilities.

Where to Eat: Perard is famous for its seafood, particularly its fish soup, which has been a local favorite for decades.

Chantilly

Chantilly is a sophisticated town known for its magnificent Château de Chantilly, extensive art collections, and the Living Museum of the Horse. Surrounded by lush forests and the Chantilly Racecourse, it's an ideal destination for digital nomads with a passion for history, art, and equestrian sports. The town's famous whipped cream, crème Chantilly, is also a culinary delight not to be missed.

How to Get There: You can reach Chantilly by train from Lille, with the journey taking around 2 hours with one transfer.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit to coincide with a horse race or an equestrian show at the Grandes Écuries to experience the town's equestrian heritage at its finest.

Where to Stay: The Auberge du Jeu de Paume is an elegant hotel located near the château, offering refined rooms and a spa.

Where to Eat: La Capitainerie, situated in the heart of the Château's park, offers a scenic dining experience with a menu that pays homage to the region's gastronomy.