Family-friendly activities in Lille

In Lille, every street corner is a playground waiting to be explored. Whether you’re young parents, a big family crew or grandparents out for an adventure, the city is brimming with activities designed for all generations. Fun walks, tasty treats, nature outings or quirky experiences – here, it’s all about discovering, laughing, and making memories together. Ready for the adventure? Here’s everything you need to enjoy an unforgettable family break in Lille. Follow the guide!

Fun ways to explore Lille

Got a sweet tooth in the family?
Why not explore the city through its culinary delights? Tuck into delicious local treats like crispy waffles and melt-in-the-mouth merveilleux. The perfect excuse for a tasty break before setting off on your next adventure!

Travelling with tired little legs?
Let them relax and enjoy the ride while still discovering the city! Hop on an open-top sightseeing bus or a cycle rickshaw, and listen to some fun and fascinating stories about Lille along the way.

Food tours

Unusual tours

Get a breath of fresh air at the Citadel

Parc de la Citadelle

A true green haven in the heart of the city, the Parc de la Citadelle is a must for families looking for nature and relaxation. With its tall trees, shaded paths, play areas and picturesque ruins, it’s the perfect setting for a walk, a picnic or simply some time out in the fresh air. You’ll spot joggers, cyclists, families on a stroll… and maybe even a few squirrels! In summer, the lawns become a playground or napping spot, and the banks of the Deûle are perfect for a leisurely wander. The park also offers a wide range of activities for children.

Lille Zoo

Home to over 400 animals from nearly 77 different species, Lille Zoo plays a key role in the conservation of endangered animals, participating in several European breeding and protection programmes. Take part in talks and feeding sessions to learn more about your favourite animals – a fun and educational outing for the whole family!

Cita Parc

Looking for laughter and thrills? Located right next to the Citadel, Cita Parc is a charming amusement park perfect for family fun. From carousels and tree-top adventures to classic fairground rides, it’s all about sharing joyful moments together. And of course, there are crêpes, waffles and candyfloss to complete the festive experience!

Parc de la citadelle

Lille Zoo

Cita Parc

Switch off and reconnect: family nature outings close to Lille

Sometimes reconnecting is as simple as this: taking the time to breathe, to slow down, to listen to birdsong and feel the grass beneath your feet. There’s nothing like a nature escape to recharge your batteries – far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s also a chance to help children appreciate the beauty – and fragility – of the living world around them.

A picnic in the park, a bike ride along the Deûle, or a game of hide and seek beneath the trees: here, little ones can climb, explore and marvel… while parents enjoy a well-earned break. Places like the Ferme pédagogique du Héron in Villeneuve-d’Ascq or Mosaïc – the Garden of Cultures in Houplin-Ancoisne awaken children’s curiosity and connect them to nature – with animals, plants and eco-friendly practices. And for budding young explorers, the Espaces Naturels Métropolitains offer guided walks and workshops to observe – and protect – local wildlife and plant life.

Whether by the water, in a protected natural area or out in the countryside, the Lille metropolitan area is full of green spaces where you can pause, breathe deeply… and make lasting family memories.

©Mosaic Garden|Laurent Javoy - Hello Lille

Lille’s loveliest places to reconnect with nature

Parks and gardens

©Chemin De Halage Deulemontfrelinghien Credit O2 Secotine

Cycling itineraries

Sail away: family-friendly water adventures

Looking for a relaxing activity? How about a cruise on the Deûle? Hop aboard with your little sailors for a memorable outing on an electric boat! It’s a lovely way to discover the city and its surrounding wildlife from a whole new perspective – just sit back, relax, and let the current carry you along.

Feeling more energetic? Head to Les Prés du Hem, where pedal boats, kayaks and paddleboards promise plenty of fun and laughter. Curious minds can even try their hand at sailing or catamaraning with the local sailing school – the perfect chance to experience something new on the water.

And to round off the day in style? Nothing beats a laid-back picnic with your feet in the grass, by the Deûle or in a shady park. A simple moment to reconnect, share, laugh… and let the whole family recharge in peace.

Marin d'eau douce

Scenic boat tour

Sailing School

Explore, create and marvel: a journey through the city's museums

Got a budding artist, a curious explorer or a future scientist at home? In Lille, museums welcome children with hands-on exhibitions, creative workshops and fun family-friendly experiences. A perfect way to spark their curiosity while having a great time!

Musée de Plein Air

The Palace of Fine Arts

Asnapio - Parc Archéologique

Forum Départemental des Sciences - Centre François Mitterrand

All museums and cultural venues

Prepare your family weekend!

Follow the Lille Tourist Office’s top tips: fun walks, interactive museums, outdoor adventures… We’re sharing our best ideas for a joyful and refreshing family weekend!
From discoveries and laughter to shared adventures, get ready to make wonderful memories together!