A Travel Price Comparison for France Paris vs. Lille for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Paris or Lille?

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

Should I visit Paris or Lille? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Paris

Paris is a bustling, energetic, and beautiful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Lille

Lille is a cultural, culinary, and friendly city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris and Lille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paris or Lille?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris than Lille. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Paris is very popular for its museums & sights, theatre productions, nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Lille attracts visitors for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Lille and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Lille is famous for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Lille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paris is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Paris are among the most recognizable in the world. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lille. 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 Paris or Lille Better for Theater?

Paris is very popular for its theatre productions. However, Lille is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Paris. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Lille is not a theatre destination.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paris and Lille.

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Lille has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Is Paris or Lille Better for Nightlife?

Paris is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Paris is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Lille has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Paris or Lille Better for Music?

Paris is very popular for its live music scene. However, Lille is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Paris Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Lille is not a live music destination.

Is Paris or Lille Better for its Old Town?

Lille is great for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Lille?

If you're looking to go shopping, Paris and Lille both offer plenty of fantastic spots.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Paris. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

The abundance of shops in Lille make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Is Paris or Lille Better for Christmas?

Paris is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Lille does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a fantastic destination at Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Lille does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or Lille Better for Families?

Paris is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Paris is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Lille is a family-friendly city. 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 Paris or Lille Better for Couples?

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

Paris has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris or Lille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is very popular for backpackers. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Lille is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Is Paris or Lille Better for Students?

Paris is very popular for students. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Paris is a great destination for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

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

Paris is very popular for its public transit. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Paris has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Lille offers a very effecient public transportation network. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

Is Paris or Lille a more walkable city?

Lille is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of 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.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Lille or Paris?

How long in Paris or Lille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paris and Lille. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Lille. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Paris, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lille.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Lille 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 Paris.

One day in Paris or Lille?

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Lille, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this friendly 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.

A weekend in Paris or Lille?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lille. 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.

Five days in Paris or Lille?

Paris is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Paris or Lille?

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating destination of Lille. 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.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paris and Lille, we can see that Paris 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive? and Is Lille Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paris or Lille?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Lille. When comparing the sizes of Paris 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 Paris 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 Paris or Lille in the Summer?

Both Lille and Paris during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lille in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paris is a little warmer than Lille. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paris in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Lille averages at about 17°C (63°F).

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

Paris usually gets less rain in July than Lille. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Lille receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Lille in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Lille. Many visitors come to Paris in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Lille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Paris is generally around the same temperature as Lille. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 13°C (56°F), and Lille fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Paris usually receives more sunshine than Lille during autumn. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paris usually receives less rain than Lille. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paris or Lille in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Paris as well as Lille. Most visitors come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Lille because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lille can be very cold. Paris can be very cold during winter. Paris is a little warmer than Lille in the winter. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Lille fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Paris often gets more sunshine than Lille. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 47 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Lille. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lille receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Lille in the Spring?

Both Lille and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Lille this time of year.

In the spring, Paris is a little warmer than Lille. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paris in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Lille averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Paris usually receives more sunshine than Lille during spring. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paris usually receives more rain than Lille. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lille receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lille and Paris