Discover Nord-Pas-de-Calais: A Guide to the Top Attractions

Nord-Pas-de-Calais, the northernmost region of France, is a land of diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches and marshlands to rolling hills and forests. This area, which includes the historic provinces of Artois and French Flanders, is not only an industrial hub but also a place of pastoral beauty, historic towns, and cultural richness, particularly in cities like Lille, Arras, and Boulogne-sur-Mer.

Embark on a journey to explore the best places to visit in Nord-Pas-de-Calais.

See also: Where to Stay in Nord-Pas-de-Calais

1. Lille

Lille, the principal city of French Flanders, exudes a Flemish charm with its beautiful architecture and hearty cuisine, including dishes like moules-frites and gaufres. The city's heart, Place du Général de Gaulle, is surrounded by Flemish Baroque buildings, while the Rang du Beauregard showcases the Lilloise Neoclassical style.

Lille's art museums are a major draw, with the Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, LaM, and Roubaix's art collections being particularly noteworthy. The annual Braderie de Lille Flea Market is a highlight for vintage and antique enthusiasts.

2. Arras

Arras, the historic Artois capital, boasts arcaded squares, gabled houses, and old churches. The Cathédrale d'Arras and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, with its diverse art collection, are must-visits. The area is also known for WWI history, including the Vimy Memorial dedicated to Canadian soldiers.

3. Calais

Calais is a key port to England, offering Eurostar train and ferry connections. The Côte d'Opale's sandy beaches are perfect for outdoor activities. Notable attractions include the UNESCO-listed Hôtel de Ville and Auguste Rodin's Les Bourgeois de Calais sculptures. The Musée des Beaux Arts and Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode are also worth exploring.

4. Boulogne-sur-Mer

Home to the Nausicaá aquarium, Boulogne-sur-Mer is a haven for sea life enthusiasts. The town's beach, yacht club, and promenade are summer hotspots. The historic Haute Ville, with its UNESCO-listed belfry and Notre-Dame Basilica, offers a glimpse into the town's medieval past.

5. Gerberoy

Gerberoy, one of France's most beautiful villages, is known for its rose-adorned buildings and the annual Fête des Roses. The Jardins Le Sidaner and the Collégiale Saint-Pierre are highlights of this charming medieval village.

6. Bergues

Bergues, encircled by medieval walls and canals, is famous for its UNESCO-listed Beffroi de Bergues belfry and the Musée du Mont de Piété, which houses Flemish and French masterpieces.

7. Musée Louvre-Lens

The Musée Louvre-Lens, set in a peaceful park, showcases rotating exhibits from the Louvre Museum in Paris. Its Galerie du Temps presents over 200 masterpieces in a unique, naturally lit space.

Address: 99 Rue Paul Bert, 62300 Lens

Official site: http://www.louvrelens.fr/en/home

8. Cambrai

Cambrai, a serene historic town, is known for its medieval fortifications, the Eglise Saint-Géry, and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame. The Musée des Beaux-Arts boasts an impressive collection of Dutch and French paintings.

9. Saint-Omer and the Marais Audomarois

Saint-Omer's cobblestone streets and historic townhouses lead to the Hôtel Sandelin museum and the Cathédrale Notre Dame. The nearby Marais Audomarois offers fishing and boat rides through picturesque marshlands.

10. Dunkerque

Dunkerque, near the Belgian border, is known for its port and the dramatic WWII evacuation. The annual Dunkirk Carnival is a vibrant celebration with costumes, processions, and balls.

11. Douai

Douai features the UNESCO-listed Belfry and the Musée de la Chartreuse, which houses a renowned fine-arts collection.

12. Abbaye de Vaucelles

The 12th-century Abbaye de Vaucelles is a historical gem with beautiful grounds, open for visits and cultural events.

Where to Stay in Nord-Pas-de-Calais for Sightseeing

For a comfortable stay, consider these hotels in Lille, Arras, and Calais:

• Clarance Hotel
• Hotel L'Arbre Voyageur, BW Premier Collection
• Holiday Inn - Calais
• ibis Arras Centre Les Places: budget-friendly hotel with a central location.

Nearby Attractions in the Picardy Region

Explore the historic capital of Picardy, Amiens, with its UNESCO-listed cathedral, and Beauvais, known for its Flamboyant Gothic Cathédrale Saint-Pierre. The Château de Chantilly, Compiègne's royal heritage, and the Somme Battlefields are also within reach for enriching day trips.