Lille acts as the perfect base for quick train excursions to some of Belgium’s most picturesque cities. Whether you are feeling historical, or cultural, or want a day at the coast, there are several train-friendly day trips from Lille to Belgium that guarantee an experience one will remember forever.
You don’t have to look at long journeys or complicated transfers because most of these destinations are just a short ride away from you!
Key Takeaways:
- Lille is the perfect base for exploring Belgium with quick train rides.
- Top day trip destinations include Tournai, Kortrijk, Brussels, Ghent, and Dunkirk.
- Tournai is only 30 minutes away and offers rich history and architecture.
- Kortrijk blends medieval charm with modern shopping.
- Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is just an hour away by train.
- Ghent is a medieval city known for its canals and castles, easily reached in 1.5 hours.
- Dunkirk offers a seaside escape, famous for its World War II history.
- Arras in France is also a nearby gem with Flemish-Baroque architecture.
- Booking train tickets in advance is recommended for convenience.
1. Tournai: A Quick Escape into the Past of Belgium
Tournai happens to be among the closest Belgian cities to Lille; thus, it is equally great for a spontaneous day trip. That’s why it takes only 30 minutes on a train directly from Lille.
Being admitted as a city with rich history and beautiful architecture, one can find there a lot of interesting sights.
Starting from here, Tournai Cathedral is a must-see for everyone; it even has the status of being a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring a Roman-Gothic style that is unique and beautiful.
Up next: Belfry of Tournai, the oldest Belfry in Belgium, located near this town. After having visited great panoramic sightseeing around the city, don’t miss the Museum of Fine Arts, prepared by Victor Horta himself with works of Rubens and other Flemish masters.
For the foodies, Tournai also has quaint cafes and restaurants serving traditional Belgian food. You could simply drop by a local bistro and sample the famed Belgian French fries, mussels, or a bowl of carbonnade flamande-hearty Flemish beef stew.
The frequency and affordability of the train between Lille and Tournai make it one of the best value-for-money trips.
2. Kortrijk: History Meets Modernity
Other nearby cities include the perfect balance of historical feel and modern culture, such as Kortrijk. It is only 40 minutes away from Lille by train, making it an ideal city to understand old-world charm and contemporary design.
Start your journey with a visit to the Broel Towers, iconic medieval towers that once guarded the gates of the city.
To complete this historical knowledge further, come to Kortrijk 1302-a museum that explains the famous Battle of the Golden Spurs. If you want a relaxed day, take a walk along the Beguinage, a quiet and serene UNESCO-listed site.
Kortrijk also has modern architecture and shopping areas like K in Kortrijk, perfect for anyone who enjoys history with a bit of retail therapy mixed in. Day trips from Lille by train to Kortrijk are convenient, and the trip has a mix of scenery and excitement.
3. Brussels: The Heart of Europe
No trip to Belgium is complete without its bustling capital, Brussels. The Lille-Bruges train takes approximately an hour and drops you right into the center of one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.
Starting with one of the most beautiful squares in the world: the Grand Place. It is surrounded by guild halls in decorative style and an impressive Town Hall.
Then, there is the Atomium-a peculiar building that’s representative of an iron atom magnified 165 billion times. You can take a selfie with the famous statue called Manneken Pis, or visit the stunning Royal Palace.
And, of course, don’t leave Brussels without trying some Belgian waffles or pralines from one of its many chocolatiers.
Those interested in museums can always head to the Magritte Museum, hosting surrealist works of the great René Magritte. The city is worth a whole day of exploration after which one can easily take an evening train back to Lille.
4. Ghent: A Mix of Medieval with Modern
Ghent is another gem that is easy to reach by train from Lille. A train from Lille takes about an hour and a half to reach Ghent, but this medieval beauty is worth the ride.
Ghent is known for its canals, and you can take a boat tour to see the city from the water. You should not miss Gravensteen-the medieval castle that once used to be a royal residence.
If you are into art, also visit Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, where you can marvel at the Ghent Altarpiece of the world-renowned masterpieces.
Ghent is great for nightlife and food, so perfect for an extended day trip into the evening. The streets in this city are just a dream at nighttime: light everywhere, and a beautiful place to walk around in the dark.
5. Dunkirk: A Seaside Getaway
For those who prefer beachside getaways, Dunkirk lies a comfortable hour away by train from Lille. Most famous for its historical connection with World War II, there is more to Dunkirk than a beach history buff will be interested in visiting the Dunkirk 1940 Museum, which chronicles the evacuation of the Allied troops during the war.
The beach itself is perfect for a relaxing day in the sun. Dunkirk also features a very nice promenade that you can take a walk or a bike ride on to enjoy the coast.
If you want an even more adventurous time, go sailing or windsurfing. Dunkirk isn’t just for history enthusiasts; it is an excellent weekend outing from Lille for lovers of the sea and outdoors.
6. Arras: A French Delight near Lille
If you are open to visiting a French town, then Arras provides the ideal balance of historical and cultural experience.
Located only 30 minutes from Lille, the Lille to Arras train will bring you to this charming town noted for its Flemish-Baroque architecture and underground tunnels called Les Boves, which served as shelters during World War I.
The main squares in Arras-Grand’Place and Place des Héros-are truly handsome, with 17th-century townhouses lining the edges of both, providing an ideal surrounding area to have a leisurely lunch. Though small, Arras is full of history and thus is a good choice if you would like to remain within France.
How to Plan Your Train Trip from Lille
Depending on which destination you will choose, imagine what you are looking for a medieval flair for history buffs in Tournai or Ghent, the lively atmosphere of a larger city in Brussels, or just some sea air in Dunkirk.
It’s recommended that you book your train tickets in advance for a hassle-free trip, especially over weekends or holidays. Most of these cities have quite frequent services, and hence you can comfortably plan an itinerary.
Make sure to check the best train-friendly day trips from Lille to Belgium price in advance for better deals.
FAQs About Best TRAIN-FRIEND
Where to visit by train from Lille?
By train from Lille, you can visit the following cities: Tournai, Brussels, Ghent, Kortrijk, and Dunkirk. Each city may bring you something new: historic monuments or a beautiful coast.
Is a Bruges day trip from Lille possible?
Yes, it is! Though there isn’t any direct train to Bruges from Lille, it is possible to go there, changing it to Brussels. It will take approximately 2-3 hours of your time.
Is it possible to take a day trip from Belgium?
Of course! The following cities are relatively close to making a nice day trip from Lille: Tournai, Brussels, and Ghent.
How much is the train ticket from Lille to Brussels?
The price of the train ticket from Lille to Brussels starts from approximately € 20 to € 30, according to the time and when you book in advance.
What city in Belgium is close to Lille?
Tournai is the closest Belgian city to Lille and is accessible by train in about 30 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Lille to Bruges?
There isn’t. There, you have to board a connecting train en route from Brussels to Bruges.
How many days in Lille would be sufficient?
Two to three days are enough to cover all the major attractions of Lille and also enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.
How far is Lille from the Belgium border?
Lille is approximately 20 km away from the Belgian border.
Is Bruges worth visiting on a day trip?
Yes! Bruges is a lovely medieval city with canals, cobblestone streets, and charming buildings—perfect for a day-long trip.
Conclusion
Options abound for train-friendly day trips from Lille to Belgium, lying just a short ride away. History, art, or a change of scenery-whatever your desire, these cities are sure to oblige every traveler differently. Get your tickets, set the itinerary, and let the journey begin!
