Experience in Lille, France by Juliette

What is it like to live in Lille? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Lille is a beautiful, historical city that has welcomed a very vivid cultural vibe since the 90'. Lots of subcultural things are going on. People are welcoming, and you will always find things to do and places to visit or to party here in Lille.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Lille?

There are lots of parties, lots of exhibitions, a brilliant university education; it's a socially inclined city. And we do have this pub culture; sharing a beer after a long day around is very Lille like.

How much does it cost to live in Lille?

It's quite cheap for such an important french city. On your own, it's around 400/450€ the 1 bedroom apartment for a month, but a flatshare is a lot less.

In terms of food and outs, it is a cheap city. There are cheap food stores that perfectly suit the student life (little, euralille, etc) as much as fancy healthy expensive organic food stores. Going out isn't that expensive, we are in the north so we have this pub culture that goes along with good and cheap beer. There are a lot of different night clubs and pubs which are often free or cost around 5€.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Lille? Is there any advice you can give?

Not at all. I would advise to live in Wazemmes, Gambetta or near Lille Flandres. I would not advise to live at the end of the tube lines (for example: ch dron etc).

Lille intramuros is very small.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

It is French food and northern food such as the heavy "Welsh". I like the deliciously fat northern food.

What places would you recommend visiting in Lille?

Museums are great but there is a lot of small hidden vivid cultural places that you need to discover while walking around!

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Is it good to eat out in Lille? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes, definitely. You can go around Lille Flandres or Rue de Gant.

Is the nightlife good in Lille? Where is good to go?

Oh yeah, you'll discover it soon enough.

What advice would you give future students heading to Lille?

Learn how to drink a lot and to enjoy walking around the city! Bring all your curiosity and open mindness along with your camera and your stereo!