Lille or Bruges?

Question

My bf and I are planning a weekend away in October, either in Lille or Bruges. I've been to Bruges before and quite liked it. Can anyone who's been to both recommend which they thought nicer? We like a bit of history, local culture etc, good local food, rustic bars etc.

Answer 1

I've been to both, and I'd definitely say Bruges. Much more romantic and with a more distinctively 'historic' feel. Lille was OK more of an everyday city and much less touristy than Bruges. But I thought Bruges was much prettier and, because it's small and quite compact, you can get round it easily in a weekend.

Bruges has been described as a bit of a 'historical theme park' and it's true that it can be very busy, but I just love all that medieval architecture. There are too many abrs and restaurants to mention, but one not to be missed is T'Bruges Beertje - a bar stocking hundreds of different Belgian beers. I can't remember the exact address, but it's in a lane close to Silver Straat.

Hope you enjoy your trip. My hubbie and I have been to Bruges three times and would love to go back. We went to Lille once, and don't really feel any desire to go back there.

Answer 2

Been to both a few times, Bruges is a bit more historical, but also a good bit smaller, so since you've been to Bruge, why not visit Lille this time. If you're in a car you easily do both in a weekend, and see the best of both cities??

Answer 3

Brussels may be the capital of Belgium and may be the key seat of the Belgian Royal Family and, also the capital of the European Union and if you intend to know after that it this is the place hotelbye . Brussels is an amazingly small, easy-going, and human-sized town for many their importance. Unlike anthers town using their hordes of tourists, Brussels is Belgium's main financial and educational hub, gives the town a far more workaday sense than other towns. Here, in Brussels, if you would choose to see, you will receive a appropriate experience for Belgian living, especially its amazing restaurant and café culture. Even though Brussels might not have the celebrity attractions of different Belgian towns, the capital has more than enough to keep readers occupied for a couple of days with a clutch of world-class museums and art galleries, along with quirkier sights including the Atomium, and some great remnants of previous architecture in the old city quarter.

Answer 4

I say Bruges, surely if you want it romantic. Very good restaurants (in all kinds, from the "frituur" - French Fries stall - on the market square to the 3 Michelin stars restaurant De Karmeliet), a lot of pubs with all Belgian Beers but also good wine, and a lot of historical sights and musea...

Answer 5

Lille, scenic old city, obviously has a lot of new parts as well just like any other major city. Good food, good wine and great restaurants. Helped that I wasn't paying though. Fantastic train service from the Garre du Nor in Paris. Try Eurostar!

Answer 6

Bruges is BEAUTIFUL but haven't been to Lille.But I know of a great website that I use all the time when I am travelling, its, www.whatsonwhen.com You just put in where you are going and tells you of any festivals etc that could be on so maybe if there are things going on, you might be able to make your decision on where to go...............I'm off to Belgium on Friday, going to stay near Antwerp with friends!

Answer 7

I think you can do both on a weekend if you want to. You may start getting bored in Brugge after one day and decide to drive to Lille.

While you are in the neighbourhood, you can also try visiting Gent, Knokke-Heist and Oostende.

Answer 8

Just came back from Belgium dont miss gent,lots of history lots of cafes and very freindly easy going ppl,medevil castle and three beutiful cathedrals close together.
Fantastic food try the waffles,Well worth a visit.Enjoy your trip.