Shopping in Lille

The French city of Lille is a well known tourist destination and thus has some great Lille Shopping for everyone. From quaint markets to upscale shopping centers right up to roadside shopping, Lille has got it all. Let’s have a look at some not-to-be missed shopping locations in this charming city.

Euralille

The Euralille Shopping Center is located in the train station district between the Eurostar and Lille-Flandres train stations. This gigantic modern shopping complex was designed by the renowned Jean Nouvel. It houses over a hundred stores, a good number of restaurants and even a hypermarket! What’s more, this shopping complex also contains a hotel called Hotel Lille Europe and a large open space-cum-garden which is frequented by roller-bladers. Along the exterior of the Eurolille, you’ll get to check out a sculpture of several multi-hued tulips created by the Japanese artists Yayoi Kusama.

Street-side Markets

Lille hosts several markets. However, a must visit is the one on Place du Concert which houses a lively food market. This market takes place every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and has a number of regional farmers selling their fresh produce. Another market that should not be missed is the Art Market on Place des Archives. It takes place every Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Here, art buyers will be spoiled for choice with art displays by professional as well as amateur artists as well as jewelery and pottery.

Luxury Shopping

If branded labels are what you seek, then head straight for the Old Town in Lille. The narrow and winding cobblestoned streets are dotted with boutiques that sell trendy up market clothing. And, if you are search of the big names in the fashion industry such as Hermes and Louis Vuitton, the rue de la Grande Chaussee in the center of the Old Town is where you should be. Besides shopping, one can also find gourmet food at Philippe Olivier, one of the most well known cheese shops in France. End your shopping spree with a well made pastry from Meert on Rue Esquermoise.

Souvenir Shopping

Head to the Tourist Office shop where you can pick up French gourmet specialties, books, post cards, collectible stamped coins and handicrafts to take back home. The shop is open throughout the week from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and on Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Wazemmes Market

Shop for food, fabrics, flowers and other exotic products in the lively Wazemmes Market, open on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. It takes place in the place de la Nouvelle Aventure.