Walking Itinerary in Lille: Our 5 Favorite Spots
Want to (re)discover Lille by foot? There’s nothing like a well-designed walking itinerary to make the most of a walk through this city rich in heritage. Whether you’re a fan of gentle hikes, cultural discoveries, or urban nature, Lille and its surroundings offer a wide range of accessible routes.
Explore emblematic neighborhoods, green spaces, and places full of history, and enjoy a human-scale tourism experience in the heart of the Hauts-de-France region. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with your family or friends, walking tours are one of the most unmissable activities in the region. Cycling enthusiasts will also be delighted, with plenty of trails and loops to explore on the weekend.
Whether you’re passionate about hiking or just enjoy walking in the open air, the Lille region is full of parks and trails perfect for getting away from it all. From the Deûle canal to the paths of the city center, every route is an invitation to discovery. Don’t forget to download your GPX file before departure!
Here are 5 itineraries full of activities and must-see spots loved by the locals!
Ready for a new adventure in Lille?
1. Parc de la Deûle: immerse yourself in nature
- Starting point: Houplin-Ancoisne (accessible by car or bus)
- Estimated duration: 2 to 3 hours (adaptable loop)
- Level: Easy
Parc de la Deûle, crossed by an old canal, is a peaceful haven just outside the city. This walk combines nature, heritage, and family-friendly activities. Follow a marked trail through marshes, woods, and redeveloped agricultural areas. Cyclists will enjoy scenic bike paths too.
The park is perfect for a family outing, a sporty weekend in the North, or a relaxing hike. You can download a GPX map of the route on the local tourism sites. Playgrounds and themed gardens enhance the walk.
Why we love it: Its wild and preserved setting makes it a great visit for a nature-filled family hike or a relaxing weekend.
2. Lille Citadel: heritage and greenery
- Starting point: Entrance to the Bois de Boulogne
- Estimated duration: 1h30
- Level: Very easy
The Lille Citadel, a true Vauban masterpiece, offers a beautiful walking itinerary around its fortifications. Wander in the shade of century-old trees, meet joggers and families, and – if you’re into art – continue your visit to the natural history museum or the zoo. Nearby, the Vauban garden is ideal for a peaceful nature break. This route is also great for cycling or a Sunday hike. Extend your visit to Place de la République via the historic center.
Tip: Perfect for a gentle weekend walk. An unmissable classic in Lille’s city center. The gardens are stroller and wheelchair accessible. Easy access from Place du Général-de-Gaulle in the heart of Old Lille.
3. Parc Barbieux in Roubaix: elegance and relaxation
- Starting point: Tram stop: Barbieux
- Estimated duration: 1 hour
- Level: Easy
This exceptional location, just steps from La Piscine museum, is ideal for regular strolls. Created in the late 19th century, Parc Barbieux is one of the most beautiful English-style gardens in the Flanders region. You’ll pass ponds, public art, wooded paths, and cozy resting areas. Perfect for calm walks or short urban hikes, solo or with family.
Good to know: There is an audioguided circuit to enhance your walking experience. Family-friendly events are also occasionally held here, in true Hauts-de-France spirit.
4. Héron Lake in Villeneuve-d’Ascq: lakeside walk
- Starting point: Lake parking lot
- Estimated duration: 1h30
- Level: Easy
Héron Lake, on the edge of a nature reserve, is an easy and flat walking route, perfect for kids. Cross marshes, woods, and wild gardens along marked trails for half-day hikes. Educational signs teach you about the local wildlife. A peaceful setting, ideal for nature-loving visitors.
Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching. GPX maps are available online. Also a great weekend spot for family walks, accessible by bike from the center of Villeneuve-d’Ascq. You may meet hiking groups along the Parc du Recueil trail.
5. Malo-les-Bains Beach: seaside escape
- Starting point: Digue de Malo-les-Bains (Dunkirk)
- Estimated duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Level: Very easy
Need a breath of fresh air? Head to the coast! This seaside walk is a real discovery trip just north of Lille. Walk along the seawall, the jetty, or into the coastal marshes. The area played a key role in WWII, adding historical depth to your visit.
We love: Its unique vibe between sea and city, and vacation feel just an hour from Lille. You can pair this walk with a short bike ride through Saint-Pol-sur-Mer or to the Dunkirk Citadel. Perfect for coastal hike lovers. Don’t miss the public garden in Malo either!
Tips for a successful walk in and around Lille:
- Wear good walking shoes: Lille and the Hauts-de-France are best explored on foot.
- Check the weather before heading out.
- Use public transport (metro, tram, V’Lille) to easily reach your starting point.
- Download your GPX map if following a specific circuit.
- Bring water, a snack, and maybe a notebook to jot down discoveries from your itinerary.
- Check opening hours for museums near your walk: the Palais des Beaux-Arts, the Hospice Comtesse Museum, or Charles de Gaulle’s birthplace are all worth a visit.
- Some parks are also accessible by bike – combine walking and cycling, or plan longer loops covering several local highlights.
In conclusion
Heritage lovers won’t want to miss the Citadel, a gem of Old Lille, or stop by a lively square to admire local architecture. On the cultural side, don’t miss top museums like the Palais des Beaux-Arts or La Piscine in Roubaix.
Top spots to explore: Héron Lake along the old canal, the Citadel’s gardens, routes around Saint-André and Saint-Maurice, or a coastal walk in Saint-Pol-sur-Mer. These itineraries cross through the Flanders and offer panoramic views of the northern French countryside.
Follow these walks to discover an authentic Lille, with a vibrant city center, preserved nature, and rich heritage. Easy and enjoyable itineraries mixing tourism, wellness, art, and the joy of walking. From Place du Général-de-Gaulle to Old Roubaix, each neighborhood has its highlights. Even the Lillois themselves love rediscovering these green and cultural gems. Whether it’s for a Sunday hike, a bike ride, a cultural visit, or a loop around a park, there’s always a good reason to (re)discover Lille on foot.
Looking for a place to stay in Lille? Check out our selection of furnished apartments in the city’s best neighborhoods.
Where to live in Lille? Read our guide to locals’ favorite neighborhoods.
