30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Nord-Pas de Calais | Apr 2025
1 day Canadian WW1 private tour including Vimy Ridge
Following the footsteps of the Canadians at Vimy Ridge and the Somme from Arras with a local experienced guide. We are conducting battlefield tours of the Western Front since over 16 years to provide you a unique experience.
5.00 (19 reviews)
From $346.48
Full Day Private Canadian Battlefields Tour from Arras
The Canadian victory at Vimy Ridge has been known for being the marker of Canadian nationhood and identity; but what events led to this battle and what makes it such a special battle? Who were those soldiers and what was their daily lives like? In this 8 hours tour, we will talk about many aspects of WW1 and, in particular the CEF.
5.00 (5 reviews)
From $469.42
WW1 Canadian focused Tour including Vimy Ridge
From the beautiful towns of Arras or Albert we head out to the war scarred landscape of this region. The morning will be spent exploring the history of the Battle of the Somme.
5.00 (12 reviews)
From $363.24
Unique Tour of Lille by Convertible 2CV - 1h00
Both charming and cultural this 2CV tour, lead by your drivers/guides enable you to live an unforgettable experience in a friendly and pleasant atmosphere.
4.87 (396 reviews)
From $50.29
Australian Battlefields Private Tour in Fromelles and Flanders from Lille
Explore Flanders and Fromelles, and delve into Australia’s World War I history on this 9-hour small-group battlefield tour from Lille.
4.94 (17 reviews)
From $458.24
Lille : Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide
Get to know the city through the eyes of a local guide. With no set itinerary, you can customize the tour or leave it to the locals for an enlightening introduction to the city.
4.57 (14 reviews)
From $61.47
Private Round Trip Transfer to Vimy Ridge from Arras or Lens
We pick you up at the train station or at your hotel and we drive you in a comfortable vehicle for a visit to the Vimy Canadian Memorial.
4.97 (148 reviews)
From $78.24
1 Hour Private Lille Tour by Convertible 2CV with a Local Products Tasting
Discover Lille in a different way ! Enjoy the convertible 2CV car to see all the monuments of this charming city. Your driver guide will tell you all the history and little secrets of the old town.
4.75 (59 reviews)
From $67.06
Lille Old Town Walking Tour With A Guide
Embark on an enchanting private walking tour of Vieux Lille, where the charm of the old town unfolds with each step. Your journey begins at a carefully chosen meeting point, setting the stage for a captivating exploration through Lille's historic heart.
4.60 (10 reviews)
From $39.12
Private Canadian WW1 Vimy & Somme Battlefield Tour from Arras or Lille
Stand in the tunnels where Canadian troops stood before the assault on Vimy Ridge, visit the Canadian and German trenches.
5.00 (12 reviews)
From $469.42
Vimy and Flanders Fields Canadian Battlefield Tour from Lille
Explore Canadian World War I history in Vimy and Belgium on this battlefield tour from Lille or Arras. Follow a guide through Vimy’s WW1 trenches and discover sites of interest including Hill 145, the Canadian Passchendaele Memorial, the St.
5.00 (9 reviews)
From $458.24
30-Minutes Private Guided Tour of Lille by Convertible 2CV
During half an hour, you will discover all the charming little streets of the old town of Lille. You will pass by famous monuments : the Grand Place, the old stock exchange, trendy streets.
4.98 (63 reviews)
From $32.41
Private Lille Tour by Classic Convertible 2CV with Champagne
Discover Lille in a different way ! Enjoy the convertible 2CV car to see all the monuments of this charming city. Your driver guide will tell you all the history and little secrets of the old town.
4.94 (34 reviews)
From $67.06
Lille Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour
Discover Lille from a different perspective on a self-guided walking tour and scavenger hunt of the city. Solve riddles and clues that lead to the next location, showing all the city highlights.
4.52 (33 reviews)
From $10.75
Lille Challenges EVG, EVJF City Challenge team
Originality: Leave aside classic activities and immerse yourself in an interactive and immersive wedding-themed experience.
5.00 (2 reviews)
From $77.12
Rallye "Discoveries and Surprises"
Cultural, surprising and amazing, this activity is perfect to discover the most important monuments of Lille, hear some of the little anecdotes which make up its history, or explore some of its more out of the ordinary and quite unexpected sites.
4.87 (52 reviews)
From $65.94
Lille Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour
Use clues at each attraction to find your next destination and challenge yourself to use logic, imagination, observation, and team spirit to complete the game.
4.13 (16 reviews)
From $7.81
Entrance Ticket Nausicaa, the biggest aquarium in Europe
Nausicaá, located in Boulogne-sur-Mer on the seafront, is more than just a mere aquarium: it is the largest exhibit in Europe dedicated to the discovery and protection of the marine world.
3.70 (1018 reviews)
From $33.53
Lille: City Walk with Audio Guide in 7 Languages on your Phone
Explore Lille's beauty en history in just one day with our immersive audio tour. The tour covers over 30 stories, curated by a local guide and spans 8 km.
From $8.38
Urban escape game in Lille - Crazytopia
Want to spend a fun and nice time with family or friends? Going out and discovering a city while playing? Play an Urban Escape Game, walk around and let yourself be guided by the mobile application which will lead you to the different points of interest where you will have to solve puzzles and / or carry out missions! In a team of up to 6 people, you will only need your smartphone to embark on the adventure.
4.00 (3 reviews)
From $22.34
e-Scavenger hunt Lille: Explore the city at your own pace
Price per group of 2-6 people. Get to know the city in a unique and affordable way with the City Trail. Use GPS to find the best squares, streets and monuments.
4.13 (16 reviews)
From $34.65
Discover Lille while playing! Escape game - The Walter case
Want to spend a fun and nice time with family or friends? Going out and discovering a city while playing? Play an Urban Escape Game, walk around and let yourself be guided by the mobile application which will lead you to the different points of interest where you will have to solve puzzles and / or carry out missions! In a team of up to 6 people, you will only need your smartphone to embark on the adventure.
4.00 (1 reviews)
From $22.34
Toulouse Airport private transfer to Toulouse City center
We provide a Transport service from Toulouse Airport to City center. Our price is fixed without surprise all included: car park, luggage.
5.00 (1 reviews)
From $39.12
Dunkirk Operation Dynamo Battlefield tour from Ypres,Arras, Bruges or Lille
Have a look at the beaches from where 336 000 soldiers were evacuated in 1940. See the Fort des Dunes and the Operation Dynamo Museum.
5.00 (6 reviews)
From $570.01
Private Tour of Vimy Ridge & Arras battlefields from ARRAS
A Private Tour is the best way to experience the battlefields with a knowledgeable and certified guide. We have 16 years of experience in organizing battlefield tours in France.
5.00 (7 reviews)
From $312.95
Private Tour of the WW1 Somme Battlefields from ARRAS
This tour covers the major sites of the Battles of the Somme in 1916 and 1918, it's an easy day trip coming from PARIS for the day (1h by train).
4.91 (23 reviews)
From $312.95
Full-Day Canadian WW1 Vimy and Somme Battlefield Tour from Arras
Explore Canada’s role in World War I on this full-day Somme battlefield tour from Arras. Explore tunnels and trenches used by Canadian forces during the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 1917 with a guide.
5.00 (6 reviews)
From $458.24
Australian - Out in the Somme Day Tour - from Arras
The only Australian guide operating in France. This Day Tour is for Australians run by an Australian. Villers-Bretonneux, Sir John Monash Centre, Pozieres, Le Hamel etc.
5.00 (11 reviews)
From $296.18
2day Australian WW1 battlefield tour in Flanders the Somme from Lille and Arras
The first day you will stand in Fromelles, visit the museum and the Pheasant Wood cemetery, go to VC Corner Cemetery and the Australian Memorial Park.
5.00 (4 reviews)
From $950.17
Australian and New Zealand Battlefield Day Tour in the Somme from Lille or Arras
Le Hamel where Sir John Monash used for the 1st time tanks and infantry on a modern way, Albert and Thiepval Memorial and Pozières, the Windmill are the other places you will also visit that day.
5.00 (8 reviews)
From $434.81
What activities can I do in Nord-Pas de Calais?
Nord-Pas de Calais, located in the northernmost part of France, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some top things to do in this region: 1. Explore Lille: Start your visit in the vibrant city of Lille, known for its stunning architecture, charming old town, and excellent shopping. Don't miss the iconic Grand Place, the impressive Palais des Beaux-Arts, and the beautiful Wazemmes Market. 2. Visit the Louvre-Lens Museum: Located in Lens, this satellite museum of the famous Louvre in Paris offers a unique art experience. Explore its diverse collection of masterpieces and enjoy the modern architecture of the building. 3. Discover the Battlefields of World War I: Nord-Pas de Calais was heavily impacted by World War I, and there are numerous sites to visit that commemorate the war. Explore the Somme battlefields, the Vimy Ridge Memorial, and the Notre-Dame de Lorette National Cemetery. 4. Explore the Opal Coast: Known for its stunning cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming seaside towns, the Opal Coast is a must-visit destination. Enjoy activities like hiking along the Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez cliffs, visiting the picturesque town of Boulogne-sur-Mer, and exploring the charming fishing village of Wissant. 5. Experience the Calais Lace Museum: Calais has a rich history of lace production, and the Calais Lace Museum showcases the intricate craftsmanship of this traditional art form. Learn about the history of lace-making and admire the beautiful lace creations on display. 6. Visit the Dunkirk War Museum: Learn about the historic evacuation of Dunkirk during World War II at the Dunkirk War Museum. Discover the incredible stories of bravery and resilience during this significant event in history. 7. Explore the Mining Basin: The Mining Basin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a fascinating insight into the region's industrial past. Visit the Mining History Center in Lewarde to learn about the coal mining industry and explore the preserved mining facilities. 8. Enjoy local cuisine: Nord-Pas de Calais is known for its delicious cuisine. Indulge in regional specialties like moules-frites (mussels and fries), carbonade flamande (beef stew), and Maroilles cheese. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of local beer or cider. These are just a few of the many things to do in Nord-Pas de Calais. Whether you're interested in history, art, nature, or gastronomy, this region has something to offer for every traveler.
When is the best time to travel to Nord-Pas de Calais?
The best time to travel to Nord-Pas de Calais, France is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This region experiences a mild climate during this time, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F). The summer season is ideal for exploring the beautiful coastal towns and beaches in Nord-Pas de Calais, such as Le Touquet-Paris-Plage and Wissant. You can enjoy activities like swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Additionally, the region hosts various festivals and events during the summer, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and food fairs. If you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, the spring and autumn months of April, May, September, and October are also good times to visit. During these seasons, you can enjoy pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring the region's historical sites and charming towns. However, it's worth noting that Nord-Pas de Calais can experience occasional rainfall throughout the year, so it's a good idea to pack a light rain jacket or umbrella regardless of the season.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Nord-Pas de Calais
Nord-Pas de Calais is a region located in the northernmost part of France, bordering Belgium. It is known for its rich culture, history, and unique blend of French and Flemish influences. Here are some highlights of the travel culture in Nord-Pas de Calais: 1. Historical Sites: The region is home to several historical sites, including the historic city of Lille, which boasts beautiful architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and a vibrant cultural scene. Other notable sites include the medieval town of Arras, the fortified city of Boulogne-sur-Mer, and the impressive Belfries of Flanders, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 2. Gastronomy: Nord-Pas de Calais is renowned for its delicious cuisine. The region is famous for its hearty dishes such as carbonnade flamande (beef stewed in beer), potjevleesch (a terrine of various meats), and maroilles cheese. Don't forget to try the local specialty, moules-frites (mussels and fries), which is a must-try when visiting the coastal towns. 3. Festivals and Events: Nord-Pas de Calais hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most famous is the Braderie de Lille, a massive flea market that takes place every September, attracting millions of visitors. Other notable events include the Dunkirk Carnival, the International Kite Festival in Berck-sur-Mer, and the Lille Christmas Market. 4. World War I History: The region played a significant role in World War I, and there are several sites dedicated to its history. The Vimy Ridge Memorial and the Canadian National Vimy Memorial are important landmarks commemorating the Canadian soldiers who fought in the war. The Historial de la Grande Guerre in Péronne is a museum that offers a comprehensive look into the war's impact on the region. 5. Art and Culture: Nord-Pas de Calais has a thriving art scene, with numerous museums and galleries showcasing both contemporary and traditional works. The Palais des Beaux-Arts in Lille is one of the largest museums in France and houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. The La Piscine Museum in Roubaix, located in a former swimming pool, is another must-visit for art enthusiasts. Overall, Nord-Pas de Calais offers a unique travel experience with its blend of French and Flemish influences, rich history, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you're interested in history, art, or gastronomy, this region has something to offer for every traveler.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Nord-Pas de Calais
When visiting Nord-Pas de Calais in France, there are several shopping lists or souvenirs you can consider bringing back home. Here are some suggestions: 1. Local Food and Drinks: Nord-Pas de Calais is known for its culinary delights. Consider buying regional specialties such as Maroilles cheese, beer from local breweries like Brasserie de Saint-Sylvestre, or traditional dishes like Carbonnade Flamande (beef stew) or Potjevleesch (meat terrine). 2. Lace Products: Calais is famous for its lace production. Look for delicate lace accessories, tablecloths, or clothing items made with Calais lace. These make for elegant and unique souvenirs. 3. Beer and Wine: Nord-Pas de Calais has a rich brewing tradition. Explore local breweries and vineyards to find craft beers and wines. Look for regional favorites like Ch'ti beer or wines from the AOC Côtes de Flandre or AOC Coteaux de l'Avesnois. 4. Artisanal Products: The region is home to many talented artisans. Look for handcrafted items such as pottery, ceramics, or glassware. Boulogne-sur-Mer is particularly known for its artisanal products. 5. Regional Textiles: Nord-Pas de Calais has a history of textile manufacturing. Consider purchasing textiles like blankets, scarves, or linen products made in the region. 6. Traditional Crafts: Explore local markets and shops for traditional crafts like woodwork, leather goods, or handmade jewelry. These items often showcase the region's cultural heritage and make for unique souvenirs. 7. Local Delicacies: Nord-Pas de Calais offers a variety of local delicacies like gingerbread from Douai, Berlingots candies from Cambrai, or Bêtises de Cambrai (mint candies). These sweet treats are perfect for bringing back a taste of the region. Remember to check customs regulations and restrictions when bringing food or alcohol back home. Additionally, support local businesses and artisans by purchasing directly from them or visiting local markets during your stay in Nord-Pas de Calais.
Nord-Pas de Calais travel review
Title: Discovering the Charms of Nord-Pas de Calais, France Introduction: Nord-Pas de Calais, located in the northernmost region of France, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This captivating region offers a unique blend of history, culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty. From the picturesque coastlines to the charming countryside, Nord-Pas de Calais is a destination that will leave you enchanted. Join me on a journey to discover the many delights this region has to offer. Historical Treasures: Nord-Pas de Calais boasts a rich historical heritage, evident in its numerous architectural marvels and World War I landmarks. The city of Lille, the regional capital, is a perfect starting point. Explore the magnificent Lille Cathedral and the enchanting Old Town, with its charming Flemish-style buildings and bustling squares. History buffs should not miss the opportunity to visit the historic battlefields of Vimy Ridge and the Somme, where you can pay tribute to the fallen soldiers and gain a deeper understanding of the region's past. Cultural Delights: The region's cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, with a range of museums, galleries, and festivals to indulge in. The Louvre-Lens Museum, located in the city of Lens, is a must-visit, housing an impressive collection of art and showcasing temporary exhibitions. For music enthusiasts, the Lille Piano Festival and the International Baroque Music Festival in Amiens are events not to be missed. Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending traditional festivals like the Dunkirk Carnival, where the streets come alive with colorful parades and festivities. Gastronomic Paradise: Nord-Pas de Calais is a haven for food lovers, offering a delectable array of culinary delights. Indulge in the region's famous dish, moules-frites (mussels and fries), freshly caught from the nearby coast. The region is also renowned for its cheese, particularly the creamy Maroilles, which pairs perfectly with a glass of local beer. Don't forget to sample the traditional carbonnade flamande, a hearty beef and beer stew, and end your meal with a sweet treat like the famous waffles or the delicate Gaufres de Meert. Natural Beauty: Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the picturesque landscapes that Nord-Pas de Calais has to offer. The Opal Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages, is a paradise for beach lovers and hikers alike. Explore the stunning Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the English Channel. For a tranquil escape, head to the Avesnois Natural Park, where you can wander through lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque lakes. Conclusion: Nord-Pas de Calais, France's hidden gem, offers a diverse range of experiences that will captivate any traveler. Immerse yourself in the region's rich history, indulge in its mouthwatering cuisine, and soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, a food lover, or a nature seeker, Nord-Pas de Calais has something for everyone. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the enchanting charms of this remarkable region.