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

Should you visit Windsor or Lille?

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

Should I visit Windsor 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a beautiful, royal, and traditional town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Lille

Lille is a culinary, friendly, and historic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Windsor and Lille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Windsor or Lille?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lille than Windsor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lille is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Windsor is more popular for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Windsor is more touristy than Lille and is known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Lille is well known for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene. Also, Lille is famous for Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle).

Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle)

How is Windsor different from Lille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Windsor 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 Windsor can be an interesting and educational experience. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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 Windsor or Lille? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lille is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Lille is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Windsor or Lille Better for Nightlife?

Lille is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Lille is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Windsor or Lille Better for its Old Town?

Lille is well known for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Lille?

Lille is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Lille Better for Families?

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

Windsor is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

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 Windsor or Lille Better for Couples?

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

Windsor is a very popular place to visit for couples. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Lille is a good town 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 Windsor or Lille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lille is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Lille Better for Students?

Lille is well known for students. However, Windsor is not popular with students.

Lille is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Lille is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Lille can get you around easily. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Windsor or Lille a more walkable city?

Lille is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Lille on foot is easy. 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.

Windsor is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Lille or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Lille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Windsor and Lille. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lille than in Windsor. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Windsor, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lille.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lille than Windsor 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 Windsor or Lille?

Even though Windsor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This town 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 Windsor or Lille?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Windsor. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Windsor or Lille?

Windsor is a fun place to experience. Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Windsor or Lille?

Windsor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, 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 Windsor and Lille, we can see that Windsor 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 Windsor would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Windsor 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 Windsor Expensive? and Is Lille Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Windsor or Lille?

Lille has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor or Lille?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Windsor or Lille in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Lille. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lille in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Windsor is around the same temperature as Lille in the summer. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Lille fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lille this time of the year. Windsor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lille during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Lille. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lille receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Windsor or Lille in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Lille. Many visitors come to Windsor in the autumn for the small town atmosphere 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 the autumn, Windsor is around the same temperature as Lille. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Windsor in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Lille averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lille. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 105 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Lille. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Lille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Windsor or Lille in the Winter?

Both Lille and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Windsor for the museums 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. Windsor can be very cold during winter. In January, Windsor is generally a little warmer than Lille. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 4°C (40°F), and Lille fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Lille during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Lille. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lille receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Windsor or Lille in the Spring?

Both Lille and Windsor during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Lille this time of year.

Windsor is around the same temperature as Lille in the spring. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Lille fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lille. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 158 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Lille. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lille receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lille and Windsor