Ferry Port
Calais
110 km, 1 hour
Airport
Lille Airport
From Calais
1 hour
Est. Tolls
£5-£10
About Lille
Northern France's largest city is just 30 minutes from Calais and 80 minutes from London by Eurostar. Lille has a beautiful Flemish-influenced old town, excellent museums, a thriving food scene, and is a major shopping destination. It's the perfect first or last stop on a France road trip, or a weekend city break destination.
Best for
Tips for Getting to Lille
Lille is only 1 hour from Calais — the easiest French city to reach from the UK by road.
Eurostar from London St Pancras to Lille takes 1 hour 20 minutes — faster than flying when you factor in airport time.
Vieux Lille (Old Town) is packed with restaurants, bars, and Flemish architecture — allow time to explore.
Parking in central Lille can be tricky and expensive — use park and ride or public transport.
Lille makes an excellent base for exploring Flanders, Bruges, and northern France's WWI battlefields.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get to Lille from the UK?
By car: 1 hour from Calais, plus Channel crossing time (total 3-4 hours from London). By Eurostar: 1 hour 20 minutes from London St Pancras.
Is Lille worth visiting?
Absolutely. Lille offers a beautiful old town, excellent museums, great food, and vibrant atmosphere. It's perfect for a weekend break and is one of the easiest French cities to reach from the UK.
What can I do in Lille?
Explore Vieux Lille (Old Town), visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts museum, shop at Westfield Euralille, try moules-frites and carbonnade flamande, and wander the Grande Place and Old Stock Exchange.
Calculate Your Trip to Lille
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Compare Options to LilleGetting to Lille from the UK
Compare routes from 1 UK city to Lille.
| From | Distance | Drive Time | Best Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| London | 340 km | 4-5 hrs | Tunnel |