1 Night in Lille, France

A flavorful little getaway to Lille.

Sometimes, you don’t need much for a mini escape. A day off, good weather, and… a destination just an hour from Sint-Niklaas. Voilà: Lille it is.

We headed out for a one-night stay and quickly discovered that Lille – or Rijsel, as we say in Dutch – has way more charm than we expected.

Spoiler: even Larissa, who was a little skeptical at first, fell for the city’s stunning streets, beautiful buildings, and spontaneous joie de vivre.

Staying at OKKO Hotel

We spent the night at OKKO Hotel, a stylish 4-star spot just outside the city center. The rooms are pretty minimal in design, but they have everything you need.

Comfy bed? Check. Great shower? Check. Peace and quiet? Double check.

But what really makes this place special is the cozy shared lounge – the “Club.” You can help yourself all day long to fresh juices, coffee, tea, water, and snacks.

Think: little cakes, nuts, candies – just enough to keep you going between walks or to sneak back to your room.

Bonus points for the interior design, which is somehow modern and cozy at the same time.

Definitely recommended!

Wandering through the charm of Lille

We mapped out our own city walk (thank you Google Maps) and strolled through the cobblestone streets of the historic city center.

Naturally, we stopped along the way for some culinary treats:

• A Merveilleux from Aux Merveilleux de Fred – fluffy, creamy, basically little clouds of happiness.

• A coffee to go from Notting Hill Coffee, sipped on the steps of the Opera House.Sun on our faces, coffee in hand – life = good.

• A surprisingly delicious Pastel de Nata from Dona Vita.Who says you need to go all the way to Portugal for one?

Food First – As Always

If you know us, you know: a city trip without good food? Not an option. So of course, Lille delivered on the culinary front. Our favorite spots?

• Costaud – creative dishes in a cozy setting.

• Bistrot Brigand – bold, bistronomic, and oh-so-flavorful.

• Paddo Café – casual vibes with surprisingly tasty food.Think: comfort food with a twist.

Each place had its own personality, but one thing they all had in common? Dishes made with love.

Would we do it again?

Absolutely. Lille is a genuinely great pick for a spontaneous one-night escape.

• Just an hour’s drive from Sint-Niklaas

• Compact, yet full of charm

• Perfect for walking, eating, and soaking it all in

In short: we were sold. Even Larissa. 😉

Got any tips for a future trip to Lille? Or a hidden gem of a city closer to home you think we should check out? Let us know – we’re always up for new flavors and fresh adventures.

À bientôt.

– Savory Roads