Vieille Bourse (old stock exchange)

Built in 1652, it is considered by many to be Lille's most beautiful monument. Every afternoon except Monday, it welcomes booksellers and chess players to its courtyard, with tango demonstrations in the summer. Composed of 24 identical houses surrounding a cloister, the eye is attracted by the variety of caryatids that adorn the pilasters. The same opulence is reflected in the decoration of windows, with curved or triangular pediments decorated with cartouches, garlands and succulent fruits in the manner of the Flemish Renaissance. Visitors may observe the Lions of Flanders sculpted on the portals that recall the time when Lille was part of the Netherlands.

Address: 30 place du Général-de-Gaulle, F-59000 Lille

Palace of Fine Arts

Boasting some of the finest collections in the country, the Museum of Fine Arts in Lille is considered the second most important French museum after the Louvre. Since the end of the 19th century the museum has been located in the Palais des Beaux-Arts. Built between 1885 and 1892, this stunning edifice is home to prestigious collections of paintings, sculptures and ceramics from throughout Europe, dating from Antiquity to the present day. In 1997 the museum was entirely renovated and now offers an exceptional setting for the works of art on display.

Address: Place de la République - F-59000 Lille

More information: http://www.palaisdesbeauxarts.fr

Meert pastry shop

This 18th century building, located right in the middle of the old town in Lille, is a reference for gourmets in the region. The Meert pastry shop has some of the best recipes in the region, being favoured by locals since it opened in 1849. The interior is mind-blowing, beautifully decorated, and is the perfect place to enjoy one of the heavenly waffles. Of course, try out a waffle, but don't miss out on the chocolates, nougat bars, gingerbread and other treasures…

Address: 27 rue Esquermoise - F-59000 Lille

More information: http://en.meert.fr/

Vauban Citadel and Zoological Park

The Citadel in Lille is a star-shaped wonder designed by Vauban and built between 1667 and 1670. It was surrounded by a moat and defended by five bastions, a "city within the city" made from brick, stone and sandstone, complete with a well and its own shops. It is accessible through the royal gateway which leads to a vast courtyard which is shaped like a pentagon and flanked by military buildings. The citadel is located in a huge park where families like to walk and relax. This park is also the location of a zoo, with animals from the 5 continents. The entrance to the zoo is free.

Address: avenuedu 43e-Ri - F-59000