La vieille bourse et la Grand place , LILLE

The typically Flemish Grand’Place is the favourite meeting place for the people of Lille, the fountain in the middle is the Déesse and the outdoor cafés are always crowded, winter and summer alike. Find the Vieille Bourse, the old stock exchange, known here as the jewel in Lille’s crown, built in the 17th century in typical Flemish Baroque style. Inside you’ll find a flower market and second-hand books. Be sure you don’t disturb the chess-players deep in concentration. From the Grand’Place (the official name is Place du Général de Gaulle), make sure you visit the old city (Vieux Lille) with its cobbled streets, its 17th century buildings and its bright colours.