Lille, in northern France is ideally located just an hour from Paris and is connected to Brussels and the UK by the Eurostar line. With a population of almost 230,000 people and one of the most thriving student communities in the country. Although France’s 10th biggest city, Lille combines the dynamism of Paris, the vibrancy of Lyon and the colorfulness of Nice. Lille boasts a thriving student community, flourishing service sector and 2,000 years of history. The city is notable for its architecture with Flemish and English influences; it’s 2 and 3 story terraced houses are similar in style to those found across the English Channel. For the culture enthusiasts, Lille’s museums and galleries are home to works by Rubens, Goya and Dirk Bouts. Being a university town, most of the population is under the age of thirty. What this has created is an international city that’s young and vibrant. Whether you’re an expat, a student, or a family renter, Lille is a great city to put down your roots. Apartments in Lille, France, are of a high standard. Lille apartments are reasonably priced too. Though this depends on which area you want to live. Whatever your needs, finding a flat in Lille will be simple and easy using Nestpick!
Types of Accommodations in Lille
Moving to Lille
Lille is a city that has a lot to offer for prospective movers. From its beautiful architecture, to its boutique shopping, it provides a city living experience not matched by many. One aspect that is sure to please is the city’s fantastic restaurants. Whether you want traditional Flemish stews, or tasty Thai, Lille has eateries to suit all tastes. There’s also a wide range of quirky bars, serving some of the best beer in the World on tap! What better way to spend an evening than relaxing with some high-class food, and some exceptional beer? Traditionally an agricultural centre, Lille’s economy is now dominated by the service sector, accounting for 91% of the city’s employment, followed by industry and engineering. Lille had 21,000 industry service sites in 2007. Moving to Lille in France should be relatively easy for most movers. Those coming from the UK can gain easy access to the city via Eurostar. The same can be said for those arriving from Holland and Belgium. There are also fast, regular rail services from the rest of France and Europe. Lille Airport is also just 7km from the city centre for those arriving from further afield.
Lille accommodation: where should you live?
Wazemmes: Multicultural and trendy
Wazemmes is called the "the Brooklyn Lille", as it’s now highly desirable for many (good) reasons. Firstly, rents will set you back between €400 and €600 per month for a 20 to 30 m² apartment! It’s perfectly connected by metro and you can reach the very centre of town in under half an hour. Renting Lille accommodation in Wazemmes give us access to real neighbourhood life with its famous market, its alternative cultural scene, Rue Gambetta for student parties and its multiculturalism!
Esquermes: Lille student housing and green spaces
Esquermes is the youngest district in Lille and one of the most popular student areas; it’s home to the Catholic Institute of Lille and many higher education institutions. This is the ideal area to find Lille student housing. Two of Esquermes’ selling points are its proximity to the city centre and its accessibility to open spaces: to meadows (Bois de Boulogne, Vauban garden and zoo). You’ll easily find affordable Lille student housing (and some peace and quiet) in this leafy district.
Vauban
Located just east of Lille city centre, the district of Vauban is home to a range of leisure activities. Perhaps the most impressive is the Vauban garden in Lille. With its soothing lake, and close vicinity to the city zoo, it offers entertainment and relaxation in equal measures. Also in the area are a wide range of quality restaurants. From the highly rated Boudabar Bu, to the cosy eatery Pancook, you’ll be able to enjoy food with the locals. Whilst also savouring some excellent wine and beer. Perfect for blowing the cobwebs away after a hard week of work or study. For the practical stuff, the district of Vauban provides more than enough to make your life in Lille easy. In the area there are a wide range of shops. From local produce, to supermarkets, Vauban has you covered. If you’re looking for a doctor in Vauban, Lille, there are a number on offer. There is a GP, a radiologist, and a plastic surgery all within walking distance. And if you want to add a sense of peace to your life, you can practice yoga in Vauban in Lille at Atelier de Yoga René Kubiak. With all this on hand, and Vauban’s short distance to the city centre, it is a great area to live in for expats, students, and families alike.
Lille Centre
Lille Centre is one of the most youthful and vibrant districts in the city. Home to students and young working professionals, Lille Centre is an area that is happening right now! Not only that, but it is home to residents of many nationalities. So wherever you’re coming from in the World, you’re sure to feel at home in Lille Centre. Attractions in Lille town centre include Lille Centre Grand Palace, and Euralille, one of the best malls in Lille!When it comes to restaurants and bars, the district has many offerings. From low cost Flemish street food, to high-end restaurants, you’ll never be hungry. No matter how big or small your budget is. For students, the catholic university is located in the district. Even if you’re studying at Lille 1 University, which is located on the edge of the city, local transport will get you there in a short space of time. Apartment rental costs can be very attractive for students too. Flats are here cheaper then in other areas. It really is one of the best University towns in France! And Lille Centre is the district to be in.
Old Lille: Typical and beautiful
If you want to experience the authentic Lille, then old Lille is your best bet. The district is a haven for foodies with its cobbled streets numerous bars, cafes and restaurants! The Palais Rihour, the main square, the old stock exchange, the Notre Dame cathedral, and the opera house are all just a short walk away from your residence if you choose to live in Old Lille. So whether you’re into history, architecture, or the arts, Old Lille is sure to have something on offer to tickle your fancy.There’s more to just monuments in Old Lille too. Once you’ve arrived in the city you might want to taste some old stinker. Sound odd? Don’t worry. It’s Lille’s most famous cheese - the Old Lille Cheese. And the best place to sample it is at one of Old Lille’s restaurants or bars. It’s quite the experience. Especially when paired with a rich, hoppy flemish beer! Living in Old Lille is a little more expensive than the city’s other districts. Because of this, Old Lille is best suited to working professionals. Or simply those who are willing to spend a little more to experience a true taste of Flemish fancy.Like Wazemmes and Esquermes, Old Lille is also ideally located close to the city centre, however, you’ll have to walk 10 to 30 minutes to find the nearest subway, but the authentic charm of this historic area is worth the walk. There’s plenty of Lille accommodation in the area but prices might be higher than in others.
Accommodation in Lille - some information Too many choices when looking for accommodation in Lille? Not decided yet? No worries, let nestpick help you out.
Budget:
Renting accommodation in Lille requires a budget of approximately €400 to €550 a month for a 20 to 25 m² apartment. Don’t forget to factor in and budget for a deposit often equivalent to a month's rent.
Location:
Accommodation in Lille can be found in a number of neighbourhoods such as Wazemmes, Old Lille and Villeneuve d'Ascq. It’s always a good idea to check out the local public transport website to get an estimate of the commute from your new nest to the office or classroom.
Student Accommodation in Lille
The city of Lille is home to two main universities. The biggest and most populous is the University of Lille. Spread over three campuses, where you choose to rent student housing in Lille might depend on which campus you’re studying at.
The University of Lille 1 campus, home to the Science and Technology departments, is situated in Villeneuve-d'Ascq, 10 km from Lille Centre. Some students choose to live in the small town of Villeneuve-d’Ascq itself, though it also possible to commute from the city centre. The Lille Metro line 1 links directly from all parts of the city to the campus itself.
Alternatively, if you’re studying at Lille 2 University of Health and Law, you won’t want to live anywhere else but the city of Lille. Located just 10 minutes away from any part of Lille Centre, this is the area to search for student apartments in Lille. Not only is it close to the campus, you’ll also have all of the city’s delights right on your doorstep!
The third and final campus of the University of Lille is the Charles de Gaulle University 3. On this campus social and human sciences are taught. As with the Lille 1 campus, it is situated in Villeneuve-d’Ascq.
Near to the city centre, and close to Lille 2, is the Lille Catholic University. With a wide range of fields of study, it offers courses in French and English. Studying at Lille Catholic University, it makes most sense to live in Lille Centre. With reasonable rents for apartments in Lille and plenty of local bars and restaurants, both you and your university will be in the heart of this great city!
Lille student housing:
If you’re coming to study in Lille it’s worth considering Lille student housing and sharing it with other students. It’s a good option is your budget is limited and you want to get to know new people, compared to the option of student residences. If you’re a french citizen, you have the option of receiving housing assistance that can bring significant savings.
Transportation in Lille
Lille is a city with a comprehensive public transport network. It also home to the World’s first autonomous metro system. Covering 45 km, and taking in 60 stops, the two metro lines will get you to wherever you need to be. Without stress, and without excessive cost. There is also a reliable tram network, whilst 60 bus routes connect the city and the surrounding areas.A single ticket on any service costs just €1.40. If you’re planning on using the system for a whole day, you can buy a combined ticket for €4.80. Whilst a 10 journey pass is also on offer for €14. Whatever your needs, it certainly won’t cost the earth. And with exceptional reliability, accessibility, and range of destinations, it’s one of the most comprehensive transport networks in Europe.