A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lucerne vs. Lille for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Lucerne or Lille?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lucerne and Lille. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a cultural, historic, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lille

Lille is a friendly, historic, and under-rated city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne and Lille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Lille?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Lille. While Lille is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is more popular for its museums and big city activities, while Lille is known for its food and shopping. Lucerne is more touristy than Lille and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also home to The Chapel Bridge. Lille is popular for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Lille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lille and Lucerne. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lucerne or Lille?

Lucerne is notable for its sights and museums. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Lucerne can be an interesting and educational experience. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

While most people don't head to Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

Is the Food Better in Lucerne or Lille? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lille is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Lille, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Lucerne or Lille Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is great in both Lucerne and Lille.

Many people head to Lucerne for the nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Lille has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

Is Lucerne or Lille Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the great old town areas in both Lucerne and Lille.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lille. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Lille?

Lille is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Lille specifically to go shopping. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Is Lucerne or Lille Better for Families?

Lucerne is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Lucerne or Lille Better for Couples?

Lucerne is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Lille is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

Is Lucerne or Lille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lille is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Lille. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Lille Better for Students?

Lille is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

Many students visit Lille. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

Is Lucerne or Lille Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lille is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Lille. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Lucerne or Lille a more walkable city?

Lille is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Lille is a very easy city to get around on foot. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored on foot.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

For even more information, also check out Is Lucerne Worth Visiting? and Is Lille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lille or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Lille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lucerne and Lille. In our opinion, Lille has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lille than Lucerne. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Lucerne than Lille. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lucerne, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lucerne than Lille. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lucerne that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lille than Lucerne if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lille.

One day in Lucerne or Lille?

In Lucerne, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Lille, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Lucerne or Lille?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Lille, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lille has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Lille?

Lucerne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lucerne. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Lille is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Lucerne or Lille?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Lucerne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lille. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Lille. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lucerne and Lille, we can see that Lucerne is more expensive. And not only is Lille much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lille would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lille and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne than you might in Lille.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lucerne Expensive? and Is Lille Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Lille?

Lille has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne and Lille, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Lucerne or Lille?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lucerne or Lille in the Summer?

Both Lille and Lucerne during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Lille for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Lucerne is generally a little warmer than Lille. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 21°C (70°F), and Lille fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Lille, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lucerne. In the summer, Lucerne often gets more sunshine than Lille. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 202 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in July than Lille. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Lille receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Lille in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Lille. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Lille because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Lucerne is around the same temperature as Lille in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Lille fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Lucerne usually receives more sunshine than Lille during autumn. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lucerne usually receives less rain than Lille. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lucerne or Lille in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Lille. The winter months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lille this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lille in the winter. The weather in Lucerne can be very cold. In the winter, Lucerne is around the same temperature as Lille. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lucerne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Lille averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Lucerne often gets more sunshine than Lille. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 47 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in January than Lille. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Lille receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Lille in the Spring?

Both Lille and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lille for the natural beauty.

In April, Lucerne is generally a little warmer than Lille. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 12°C (53°F), and Lille fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lille during spring. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Lille. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lille receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lille and Lucerne