Lille may be France’s fourth-largest city but it’s often overlooked compared to Paris or Lyon. Yet, this lively city offers a surprising variety of tours that bring its rich architecture, wartime history, and charming streets to life. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of boutique city walking, or eager to see Lille from the comfort of a convertible, there’s something here for you. We’re particularly fond of the private 2CV tours for their style and personalized touch, and the WWI battlefield trips for their moving, in-depth stories. Plus, Lille’s compact size makes it easy to explore via Segway or on foot.
If you’re visiting Lille, these guided experiences can deepen your understanding of the city’s story and make your stay memorable. For instance, walking through Vieux Lille with a knowledgeable guide (see Vieux Lille 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour) reveals the details behind its cobbled streets. Meanwhile, history buffs will appreciate the Canadian WWI battlefield tours that trace the trenches and memorials of the First World War. Below, you’ll find a tailored list of the nine best tours, each with its own character and appeal.
1. Vieux Lille 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour
Rated 4.5/5 from over 1,118 reviews, this walking tour is a great way to get a grounded introduction to Lille’s historic center. In just two hours, a knowledgeable guide takes you along the cobblestone streets of Vieux Lille, where you’ll see main sights like the Grand Place, the Old Stock Exchange, and the Belfry. The tour is full of lively anecdotes about the city’s past, from medieval origins to its role in the industrial revolution.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance—it’s enough time to soak in Lille’s atmosphere without feeling rushed. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, and at only $18 per person, it’s excellent value. Visitors praise the guide’s ability to blend history with fun facts, making complex stories approachable. The walk suits first-time visitors wanting a rundown without missing out on the charm of Lille’s narrow streets and lively squares.
Bottom Line: An ideal starting point for any Lille visit, this tour offers a friendly, well-rounded introduction to the city’s roots. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to get a feel for Lille’s heart.
2. Lille City Tour
Rated 4.4/5 from over 1,039 reviews, this 75-minute convertible coach tour is a breezy way to see Lille’s main sights. The open-top bus allows you to enjoy the city’s architecture and lively streets while your commentary in 9 languages keeps you engaged. It covers key landmarks like the opera house, town hall, Chamber of Commerce, and the belfry, giving you a broad sense of Lille’s urban elegance.
The audio and video commentary enrich the experience, making it easy to learn about the city’s history and architecture. This tour is especially good for travelers with limited time who want a quick but rundown. It’s a great way to identify spots you might want to explore further on foot later.
Bottom Line: For a swift, informative intro, this tour hits all the highlights. It’s especially suited for those who prefer sightseeing from the comfort of a convertible bus and appreciate multilingual commentary.
3. 30-Minutes Private Guided Tour of Lille by Convertible 2CV
Rated 5.0/5 from 64 reviews, this private tour is a fun, intimate way to explore Lille’s top sights in just half an hour. Starting near the Place Rihour, your vintage 2CV convertible whisks you through the Old Town, past the Maison Natale Charles de Gaulle, and over the famous Belfry. The guide shares local secrets and historical tidbits, making it a personalized experience.
What makes this tour special is the vintage car itself—driving through Lille in a classic 2CV adds nostalgia and charm. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick orientation or a unique photo opportunity. The private setting ensures your guide can tailor the experience, answer questions, and focus on your interests.
Guests rave about the guide’s knowledge and the fun of zipping through Lille’s streets in style, with reviews like “Great fun. Saw and learned so much of Lille.”
Bottom Line: This short, private tour offers a stylish, personalized overview—ideal if you want a quick, memorable introduction or a special activity during your stay.
4. 1 Hour Private Lille Tour by Convertible 2CV with a Local Products Tasting
Rated 4.5/5 from 59 reviews, this one-hour private tour combines sightseeing in a vintage Citroën 2CV with the chance to sample Lille’s local flavors. Starting at Place Rihour, your driver-guide takes you through Lille’s famous streets, including the Porte de Paris and the Grand Place. Along the way, you’ll stop for tastings of waffles, beer, pâté, and sweets, making it a true sensory experience.
What sets this experience apart is the combination of scenic drives and delicious local treats. It’s perfect for visitors wanting to taste Lille’s culinary heritage while getting a quick city orientation. The tour is flexible, with options for morning, afternoon, or evening departures.
Reviewers highlight the guide’s friendliness and the enjoyable mix of sightseeing and tasting. One comment noted, “Nico was brilliant and so knowledgeable,” and many appreciated the included snacks.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food lovers who want a relaxed, private tour that combines sightseeing with Lille’s flavors—great for a memorable, intimate experience.
5. Private Canadian WW1 Vimy & Somme Battlefield Tour from Arras or Lille
Rated 5.0/5 from 12 reviews, this full-day, 9-hour tour immerses you in Canada’s wartime history on the battlefields of the Somme and Vimy Ridge. Travel in a comfortable vehicle with a guide who personalizes the experience, including visits to the Vimy Memorial, trenches, and tunnels. Walk through the Canadian and German trenches and stand at poignant sites like the Courcelette Memorial and Thiepval Memorial.
The tour stands out for its depth—lovers of history will find detailed narratives about the soldiers’ struggles and tactics. Lunch is included, making it a hassle-free day. Reviewers comment on the guide’s knowledge, describing the experience as “moving and informative.”
This trip is perfect for those interested in military history, WWII veterans, or Canadian heritage. The cost reflects the full-day depth of the experience but offers excellent value considering the depth of stories and sites covered.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive, personal look at WWI battles in France, this tour offers a meaningful, well-organized day out.
6. Vimy and Flanders Fields Canadian Battlefield Tour from Lille
Rated 5.0/5 from 10 reviews, this full-day private tour combines Vimy Ridge with Belgian WWI sites like Tyne Cot Cemetery and Ypres. Departing from Lille, you’ll see tunnels, trenches, and memorials that tell the Canadian story across two countries. Highlights include walking in Vimy’s trenches, visiting Hill 145, and the Ypres Last Post Ceremony.
The tour’s strength is its flexibility—your guide can customize depending on your interests. The included lunch, air-conditioned transport, and in-depth narration make it a valuable experience for those wanting to explore WWI landscapes deeply. The reviews applaud the tour for its personalized attention and emotional impact.
This experience is suited for history buffs seeking a comprehensive battlefield tour. It’s longer and more involved but offers a richer, more detailed perspective.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a flexible, private day out covering key Canadian WWI sites in France and Belgium.
7. Historical Tour of Lille by a Passionate Local Resident
Rated 4.8/5 from 10 reviews, this 1.5-hour walk offers a straightforward look at Lille’s local history. Led by someone born in Lille, the tour covers Louis XIV’s annexation, the French Revolution, and local anecdotes, making it a friendly and accessible introduction.
This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer short, focused walks in a friendly setting. The guide’s personal connection to Lille offers insights you won’t find in guidebooks. It’s a budget-friendly option at just $16 per person.
While brief, it’s a good choice for those wanting to understand Lille’s story quickly without deep dives into specific sites. Reviewers praise the simple, engaging storytelling.
Bottom Line: Great for those new to Lille or with limited time, seeking a friendly overview from a local.
8. Lille: Immersive Guided Tour of Old Lille in 1913
Rated 4.4/5 from 9 reviews, this 1.5-hour immersive tour transports you to Lille’s Belle Époque era. Led by a guide in period costume, you’ll act as a young bourgeois from 1913, learning about Lille’s transformations during its second golden age. The experience is in French, adding authenticity.
What makes this special is its theatrical element—it’s more than just a walk; it’s a chance to step into Lille’s past through storytelling and role-play. It suits travelers interested in culture and period history. It’s a niche experience but highly praised for its originality.
This tour offers a different perspective, blending history and performance, ideal for those eager for an interactive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers wanting an immersive, theatrical look at Lille’s early 20th-century transformation.
9. Segway Private Tour – 2h – From Isla to Euralille
Rated 4.5/5 from 13 reviews, this 2-hour Segway tour offers a fun, active way to cover Lille’s sights. MOBILBOARD Lille provides a guided ride from Isla to Euralille, passing through key neighborhoods and attractions. It’s a lively, quick way to see the city’s highlights without strenuous walking.
Ideal for adventurous travelers or those wanting to explore more ground quickly, the Segway experience is praised for its easy learning curve and entertaining commentary. Reviewers note, “A great way to see some of the beauty sights of Lille,” and appreciate the thorough coverage in a short time.
Note that some experience with riding a Segway is recommended, and it’s best suited for those comfortable on two wheels.
Bottom Line: An energetic, engaging way to see Lille’s main sights in a lively, modern format—perfect if you’re looking for a bit of fun.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your Lille experience, think about your budget, available time, and interests. For a quick, rundown, the Lille City Tour or the Vieux Lille guided walk are excellent choices. If you’re passionate about WWI history, the Vimy & Flanders Fields or Canadian WWI battlefield tours offer profound insights. For something more fun and personal, consider the private 2CV tours or the self-guided Segway adventure.
For those wanting to combine sightseeing with local tastings, the 1-hour private 2CV tour with local products offers a delightful mix. If you prefer a theatrical experience, the immersive Lille 1913 tour provides a unique, role-playing journey back in time.
Booking early is advisable during peak season, especially for the private or full-day battlefield tours, which tend to fill up fast.
Final thoughts
Lille’s range of tours makes it a city that can be explored from many angles. For a quick introduction, the Vieux Lille walking tour or the convertible city tour are ideal. History buffs should not miss the Canadian WWI battlefield tours, which are both moving and educational. For something truly memorable and fun, the private vintage 2CV tours offer a stylish, intimate way to see Lille.
No matter your travel style, these experiences promise to deepen your appreciation for Lille’s architecture, history, and local life—so don’t hesitate to book early and secure your spot. Lille is a city that rewards curiosity, and these tours are your best ticket to understanding its story.