North of France is a direction that is increasingly appreciated by tourists. One of the most picturesque and interesting cities, Lille is also gaining more traction, as it lies close to the Belgian border and the capital, Brussels. It combines classic French and Flemish vibes with an urban feel.
Interested in traveling to Lille? Check out a list of the most “Instagrammable” places, selected by a pro photographer, located in this city.
Key Highlights
As a local Lille photographer, I’m sharing my go-to spots in our beautiful city. Here’s what you can’t miss:
- Capture the stunning Flemish architecture of the Vieille Bourse in the heart of Lille.
- Explore the Grand Place, Lille’s main square, for incredible shots of historic buildings.
- Wander through Vieux-Lille’s charming streets for a truly picturesque setting.
- Shoot during the golden hour to see the city’s architecture glow.
- Discover urban backdrops at La Gare Saint Sauveur for a modern twist.
This vibrant city is full of incredible photo opportunities, from grand squares to hidden industrial corners. Knowing the best time and place to shoot can give your photos a unique perspective. For stunning cityscape shots, I often head to spots that offer a wide view of the historic architecture against the sky.
1. Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille – Artistic Grandeur and Classic Facades
If you’re an art lover, the Palais des Beaux-Arts is a must-visit. As one of the largest fine art museums in France, its collection is incredible, but as a photographer, I’m drawn to the building itself. The grand Belle Époque facade is a work of art, offering a majestic and elegant backdrop for any photo.
The exterior features stunning columns and sculptures that look fantastic at any time of day. It’s one of the most prominent historic buildings in the city of Lille. While exploring museums, you might also consider a trip to the La Piscine museum in nearby Roubaix for a different yet equally impressive aesthetic.
This museum is a prime example of Lille’s cultural heritage. You can focus on wide shots to capture its scale or zoom in on the intricate architectural details. It provides a perfect setting for classic, sophisticated portraits or architectural photography.
2. La Gare Saint Sauveur – Urban Vibes and Industrial Backdrops
For a completely different feel, I always recommend La Gare Saint Sauveur. This former train station has been transformed into a cultural hub, but its industrial roots provide a raw, urban backdrop that’s perfect for more modern and edgy photos. It’s definitely one of the most Instagrammable spots in this vibrant city.
If you’re looking for a unique perspective, venture behind the main courtyard. There, you’ll find rusted doors, graffiti-covered brick walls, and industrial textures that are amazing for streetwear or fashion editorials. The raw and unfinished feel offers a cinematic quality you won’t find anywhere else.
The lighting here is very versatile. Overcast days bring out the moody textures of the brick and metal, while the golden hour can cast long, dramatic shadows. It’s a fantastic spot to experiment with different styles and capture a side of Lille that many tourists miss.
3. Citadelle de Lille – Historic Fortress with Green Spaces
The Citadelle of Lille is a massive, star-shaped fortress with a rich history. Designed by the famous military engineer Vauban for Louis XIV, its imposing sandstone walls and gates are incredibly photogenic. Known as the “Queen of the Citadels,” it’s a powerful historic site that tells a story of the city’s past.
While the fortress itself remains a military base, the surrounding parklands provide vast green spaces that are ideal for photography. The contrast between the massive, fortified walls and the peaceful moat and trees is visually stunning. It’s a great spot for wide-angle shots that show the scale of the structure.
This location is ideal for capturing a blend of nature and history. Unlike the bustling city center or the nearby town hall, the area around the citadel provides a more serene atmosphere. I love coming here for shoots that require a more natural, storytelling feel.
4. Porte de Valenciennes – Unique Landmark Architecture
While the more famous Porte de Paris gets a lot of attention, I find the area around Porte de Valenciennes offers a truly unique perspective on the city’s evolution. This spot provides a different kind of landmark architecture that feels more grounded in the city’s modern, everyday life.
Here, you can capture a blend of old and new Lille. The area is less crowded, allowing you to experiment with angles and compositions without interruption. It’s a great place to find clean lines and interesting shapes that add a contemporary feel to your photos.
While it may not offer sweeping panoramic views like the Belfry, this location lets you tell a different story of Lille. It’s about finding beauty in the less obvious places and capturing the city as it is today. You can frame your shots to show the contrast between historic remnants and modern infrastructure.
5. La Vieille Bourse & Vieux-Lille Streets – Flemish Charm and Colorful Alleyways
The Old Town, or Vieux-Lille, is the heart of the city’s charm, and at its center is La Vieille Bourse. This 17th-century stock exchange is a masterpiece of Flemish Renaissance architecture. Its ornate facade and beautiful inner courtyard, where you can often find booksellers, make it one of my favorite spots to shoot.
Wandering away from the main square, you’ll discover the real magic of Vieux-Lille. The cobblestone streets, colorful building fronts, and classic French doors are everywhere. You can spend hours here and find a new perfect shot around every corner. For the prettiest streets, I suggest you explore:
- Rue de la Monnaie: Lined with beautiful buildings and boutique shops.
- Place aux Oignons: A small, intimate square with incredible charm.
- Passage des Trois Anguilles: One of the narrowest and most atmospheric alleys.
Don’t be afraid to wander into the hidden courtyards you might spot through open doorways. These quiet, intimate spaces offer a peaceful escape from the bustling streets and provide a unique and moody backdrop for portraits.
6. Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle) – Iconic Square and Cityscapes
You can’t talk about photography in Lille without mentioning the Grand Place. This is the city’s main square and one of the most popular attractions for a reason. Surrounded by grand facades from different eras, from the Middle Ages to the time of Louis XIV, it’s a living museum of architecture.
The square is always buzzing with energy, making it great for capturing the life of the city. The central Column of the Goddess provides a fantastic focal point for your compositions. For architecture lovers, the details on each building are a dream. The nearby Belfry of the Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also visible from certain angles.
To get the most out of this spot, timing is key. Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, while evenings provide a magical glow as the buildings light up. Here are some key features to focus on:
| Feature of Grand Place | Why It’s Great for Photos |
| Vieille Bourse Facade | Ornate Flemish architecture that adds texture and color. |
| The Goddess Column | A strong central subject to anchor your cityscape shots. |
| Théâtre du Nord | A grand, historic building that provides an elegant backdrop. |
7. Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral & Place Gilleson – Modern Gothic and Green Corners
Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral is a fascinating mix of old and new. The original construction has a rich history, but the modern facade added in the 1990s is what makes it so unique for photography. The translucent marble front creates a soft, diffused glow inside and has a striking, abstract quality from the outside that beautifully frames portraits.
Just behind the cathedral is Place Gilleson, a small, charming square that many people miss. It’s a quiet corner with colorful facades and green spaces, offering a more intimate and picturesque setting. This is where you can find the best light, especially in the late afternoon, for soft and gentle lifestyle shots.
While Lille isn’t known for dramatic hilltop sunsets, the area around the cathedral can be beautiful as the day ends. The warm light catches the tops of the historic buildings and creates a lovely atmosphere. The Pont Napoléon near the Citadelle is another great spot to watch and photograph the sunset over the water.
Conclusion
Lille is a vibrant canvas for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts alike, offering a delightful mix of historic charm and modern flair. From the artistic grandeur of Palais des Beaux-Arts to the urban vibes at La Gare Saint Sauveur, each location provides unique backdrops that tell a story. Exploring the colorful streets of Vieux-Lille or capturing the serene beauty of Jardin Vauban allows you to create compelling content that resonates. As you plan your visit, remember to embrace the golden hour and consider the seasons to enhance your photography. If you’re ready to elevate your Instagram game, don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation, where I can help tailor your shoot to capture Lille in all its picturesque glory!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the prettiest streets in Lille for photography and Instagram shots?
The prettiest streets are definitely in the Old Town (Vieux-Lille). I recommend wandering down the cobblestone streets like Rue de la Monnaie and Place aux Oignons. The best time to shoot in this part of the vibrant city is during the day to capture the colorful facades of the city of Lille.
Are there hidden gems in Lille for unique photo opportunities?
Absolutely! For a unique perspective with a bit of rich history, look for the hidden courtyards in Vieux-Lille. The industrial backdrops at Gare Saint-Sauveur are also fantastic. Visiting these spots during the golden hour or on weekdays means you’ll often find fewer crowds and more space to be creative.
Which museums or cultural sites in Lille offer great spots for photos?
For any art lover, the Palais des Beaux-Arts offers a grand facade for a stunning, picturesque setting. I also highly recommend visiting the La Piscine museum in Roubaix for its unique Art Deco interior. For amazing views, climb the Belfry of the Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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