Trains from Lille to Lyon

Imagine a train journey through the heart of France, where stunning landscapes unfold and charming cities come to life. Join us on an extraordinary adventure as we embark on a train trip from Lille to Lyon, traversing picturesque regions and experiencing the very best of French culture along the way.

Title: A Sojourn through France: Lille to Lyon by Train

Our journey begins in Lille, a vibrant city in northern France known for its Flemish architecture and rich cultural heritage. As you make your way to the Lille Flandres station, breathe in the anticipation of the adventures to come. Board the TGV train, known for its high-speed prowess, and get ready to experience the shortest duration journey of approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Leaving Lille behind, the train gracefully speeds through the French countryside, revealing breathtaking landscapes and offering glimpses of some enchanting towns and cities. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery as you pass through the charming city of Arras, with its historic squares and impressive belfry.

Continuing our journey, the train stops at the iconic city of Amiens, renowned for its magnificent cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at this architectural masterpiece and immerse yourself in the city's rich history before reboarding the train.

As Lyon draws near, the train meanders through the lush green fields of Beaujolais, a renowned wine region. Admire the vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see, tempting you to sip on a glass of the locally produced Beaujolais wine later.

Finally, we arrive at the grand Part-Dieu station in Lyon, the culinary capital of France. Brace yourself for a gastronomic adventure and indulge in Lyonnaise delicacies, such as coq au vin and quenelles. Lyon is also famed for its impressive Roman ruins and Renaissance architecture, which you can explore at your leisure.

As our journey comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the delightful experiences encountered during this train trip through France. From the beautiful city of Lille, passing through enchanting Arras and Amiens, and venturing into the picturesque Beaujolais region, we have witnessed the best of what France has to offer. Let the memories linger and inspire you to embark on more train journeys to uncover the hidden gems of Europe.

So, hop on board and experience the magic of traveling by train from Lille to Lyon, where history, culture, and delectable cuisine await your arrival. Bon voyage!

Lille is the capital of northern France's Hauts-de-France region and the country's fourth-largest metropolis. It has an eclectic mix of modern and ancient attractions, from stylish restaurants and bars to lovely canals and historic architecture. Whether you love to explore churches, museums, and shopping districts, or simply take in the sights and ambiance of the city, Lille is the perfect destination. Here is our guide to the top seven must-visit historical and architectural sites in Lille. 

Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille: Built in 1809, this iconic museum is home to an extensive collection of European art and objects from Latin America, ranging from Ancient Egyptian artifacts to 20th-century Dutch masterpieces. It is located in the heart of the city and a visit here will not disappoint. Practical information: Located at Place de la République, Lille, France. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 6pm. Entrance fee: €5. Insider tip: Look out for the sculpture of Apollo on the building's façade.

La Citadelle de Lille: This impressive fortress overlooks the Old Town of Lille and is one of the most impressive fortifications in Europe. Built in 1667, its dramatic walls, towers, and moats still remain in excellent condition and provide an interesting glimpse into the city's history. Practical information: Located at 54 Rue de la Citadelle, Lille. Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 6pm. Entrance is free. Insider tip: There are guided tours available, which you should book in advance.

Lille Cathedral: Founded in 1288, this is one of the oldest cathedrals in France and a must-visit site. Its Gothic façade, beautiful stained-glass windows, and impressive interior are truly a sight to behold. Practical information: Located at Place Félix Baret, Lille. Entrance is free. Insider tip: Take some time to explore the underground crypt, which dates back to the 12th century.

Grand’Place: Located in the heart of the city, this vibrant square is a great place to relax and watch the world go by. It is filled with cafés, restaurants, and shops, and has a lovely fountain and several historic buildings. Practical information: Located at Place du Général de Gaulle, Lille. Entrance is free. Insider tip: Grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants surrounding the square.

Place Rihour Square: This elegant square is a popular spot for people-watching, and has a beautiful fountain and several notable buildings, such as the Stock Exchange of Lille. Practical information: Located at Place Rihour, Lille. Entrance is free. Insider tip: Look out for the striking bronze statue of Louis XIV, which stands in the center of the square.

Opera House: This magnificent opera house is the largest in France and one of the oldest in Europe. It was built in 1745 and boasts a stunning baroque façade and ornate interior. Practical information: Located at 1 Boulevard de la Liberté, Lille. Opening hours: Vary depending on showtimes. Entrance fee: Varies depending on show. Insider tip: Book a show in advance to secure the best seats.

Vieux-Lille: This charming Old Town neighborhood is home to cobblestone streets, historic churches, and grand mansions. There are also several excellent shops and restaurants where you can sample some of the city's famous cuisine. Practical information: Located at the center of the city. Entrance is free. Insider tip: Take a walk along Rue de la Monnaie for some charming shops and cafés.

Lille is a vibrant city waiting to be explored. From the stunning Palais des Beaux Arts to the charming Vieux-Lille district, there is something for everyone. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the city's history and culture or simply relax in one of its many parks and squares, you're sure to find something to enjoy in Lille. So plan your trip today and experience all that this beautiful city has to offer.

Welcome to Lyon, the beautiful city nestled on the banks of the Rhone River in France! A top European destination, Lyon is a paradise for anyone seeking to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage and history. With its abundance of historical and architectural sites, it’s no wonder that the city has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Below, we’ve compiled a list of some must-visit attractions in Lyon. 

Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste: This imposing Gothic cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Founded in the 5th century, the cathedral is renowned for its stained-glass windows and ancient architectural features. It is located at Place Saint-Jean, and entrance times are from 9:00am to 7:30pm. Visitors can take an audio tour to learn more about the history of the building. 

Musée des Beaux-Arts: Housed in an elegant 19th century building, the Beaux-Arts Museum is one of the largest art galleries in France, and a must-visit for any art enthusiast. It contains an impressive collection of fine artworks from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Visitors can find the museum at 20 Place des Terreaux, open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Entrance is free. 

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: Set atop one of the hills, the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière is an extraordinary Romanesque-Byzantine church. It is known as the “Sacred Mountain”, and is famous for its ornate interiors and breathtaking views of the city. Visitors can explore the church between 8:00am and 8:00pm. 

Place des Terreaux: As the main city square, Place des Terreaux is a popular tourist attraction. It features the vibrant fountain of the fountains, built in the 17th century and boasting spectacular views of the city. The square is open to the public anytime. 

Taste the local cuisine: Lyon is also home to some of the best culinary experiences in the world. From traditional Lyonnaise cuisine such as quenelles and grattons to more modern dishes such as risotto and tartiflette. Be sure to check out the city’s bustling markets and chic restaurants to try these specialties. 

Passage Thiaffait: This historic 19th-century shopping arcade features stunning architecture and picturesque boutiques. It is also home to the city's oldest bar, Les Trois Marches, with an impressive selection of beer and cocktails. The arcade is open from 11:00am to 10:00pm. 

A walk along the Rhone River: Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the banks of the Rhone River and admire its spectacular views. In the evening, you can watch the sunset turn the city’s riverside into a romantic spectacle. 

Overall, Lyon is an amazing city to visit. From ancient cathedrals and museums to local cuisine and riverside views, it has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff or an art enthusiast, you’re sure to find something to enjoy during your trip to Lyon!