Lille
A city in the north of France
Lille, a city in the north of France, combines history, culture and dynamism. The École de Création Visuelle (ECV) contributes to this by training students at Bachelor’s and Master’s level in visual communication, design, animation and game. Through local partnerships, it offers stimulating professional opportunities, enriching the city’s artistic landscape. The presence of the ECV strengthens Lille’s appeal as a centre of excellence in these fields.
Transport
How to get around Lille?
Ilévia also operates a tramway network serving various parts of the city. The tramway lines include the R and T lines, linking districts such as Roubaix, Tourcoing and Villeneuve-d’Ascq.
- Single tickets €1.7
- Book of 10 tickets €14.90
Unlimited annual transport pass :
- Rate for under-18s to 26-year-olds: €270 per year
Lille’s bus network is well-developed, covering the city and its surrounding area. There are several bus routes offering connections to residential areas, business parks, educational establishments and other key sites.
- Single tickets €1.7
- Book of 10 tickets €14.90
Unlimited annual transport pass :
- Rate for under-18s to 26-year-olds: €270 per year
Lille has a self-service bicycle hire scheme called V’lille, offering residents and visitors a convenient way to get around the city by bike.
- Single tickets €1.7
- Book of 10 tickets €14.90
Unlimited annual transport pass :
- Rate for under-18s to 26-year-olds: €270 per year
Lille-Flandres station is a major railway station with national and international connections. Regional trains (TER) also link Lille to other towns in the region.
- Single tickets €1.7
- Book of 10 tickets €14.90
Unlimited annual transport pass :
- Rate for under-18s to 26-year-olds: €270 per year
The TER network serves the outlying areas of Bordeaux, enabling passengers to travel to neighboring towns and explore the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.
- Single tickets €1.7
- Book of 10 tickets €14.90
Unlimited annual transport pass :
- Rate for under-18s to 26-year-olds: €270 per year
Lille has a light metro network comprising two lines: line 1 (yellow line), which links Lille Flandres and CHU Eurasanté stations, and line 2 (red line), which links Lille Flandres and Saint-Philibert stations.
- Single tickets €1.7
- Book of 10 tickets €14.90
Unlimited annual transport pass :
- Rate for under-18s to 26-year-olds: €270 per year
Lifestyle
Cost of living in Lille
These estimates are given as a guide and may vary according to your lifestyle and needs.
Monthly budget
- Minimum charge: €950
- Medium: €1150 – €1350
- Maximum: €1650+
Key expenditure items
- Accommodation: €400 – €900
- Food: €250 – €350
- Transport: €22.80+.
Finding accommodation
Here are some useful links to help you find accommodation and prepare for your move.
Nexity Studéa
Nexity Studéa: student residences and accommodation. In partnership with Nexity Studea, we offer you a range of student residences in 50 towns and cities in France: 120 furnished, equipped and connected residences. Communal living areas to make it easier for tenants to integrate into the residence. Group activities to encourage conviviality between residents.
Studapart
Studapart offers accommodation for rent in student residences and with landlords in over 40 towns and cities in France. You can book your flat directly on the dedicated platform. International students will be able to find accommodation before they arrive in France and will receive their accommodation certificate to help them obtain their visa.
Ensemble2Générations
This is a network for intergenerational cohabitation.E2G is a general interest association, open to all, whose primary objective is intergenerational housing. By bringing generations together and helping older people to remain at home, E2G is providing an appropriate response to the aging of the population. While supporting family carers, E2G enables students to find alternative solutions. You can download the brochure by clicking here, with the different formulas on offer. Don’t hesitate to contact the person mentioned in the brochure directly to sign up.
Housing Assistance
The Caisse d’allocations familiales (CAF) is a French organisation governed by private law which allows you to claim the Aide Personnalisé au Logement Étudiant (APL)! Like all French students, you can apply online via the CAF website: APL Étudiant 2022: conditions, procedures, simulation | Mes-Allocs.fr
Visting Lille
One of the largest museums in France, the Palais des Beaux-Arts houses an impressive collection of works ranging from Antiquity to contemporary art. With paintings, sculptures and objets d’art, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of art.
Housed in a former art deco swimming pool, this museum offers a unique experience. Its collection includes sculptures, paintings and decorative art objects, creating a unique artistic atmosphere.
A contemporary art space, Le Tripostal offers innovative temporary exhibitions. This former post office becomes the setting for bold artistic installations, contributing to Lille’s contemporary art scene.
An emblematic cultural centre, L’Aéronef is a must-see venue for music and entertainment fans. Concerts, live performances and artistic events bring this space to life, reflecting the city’s cultural vitality.
Located in the Vieux-Lille district, the Théâtre du Nord offers a rich programme of theatrical performances, concerts and other shows. The classical architecture of the venue adds an artistic dimension to the experience.
For lovers of opera and classical music, the Opéra de Lille offers high-quality productions. Its sumptuous auditorium and varied programme make it a prestigious cultural venue.
The estaminets of the Vieille Bourse offer regional cuisine at affordable prices. These typical places allow you to savour local dishes in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Located in Old Lille, Chez la Vieille offers traditional French cuisine at reasonable prices. The rustic atmosphere and authentic dishes make it a popular address for lovers of good food at low prices.
This restaurant offers home cooking at affordable prices. The relaxed atmosphere and varied menu make it a popular spot with locals and visitors alike.
Famous for its filled waffles, Meert is a Lille institution. While the tea room is a little more expensive, the take-away corner allows you to enjoy these delicacies at more affordable prices.
This crêperie in Old Lille offers a varied selection of sweet and savoury crêpes at reasonable prices. A delicious and affordable option.
For tapas lovers, La Part des Anges offers a selection of small plates to share at affordable prices. The relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal place for a convivial evening.
Stroll through the cobbled streets of Vieux-Lille to discover its historic charm, elegant boutiques, restaurants and lively cafés. Admire the Flemish architecture and explore the Grand-Place.
Immerse yourself in art at the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of France’s largest museums. The collection includes masterpieces from Antiquity to modern art, with paintings, sculptures and objets d’art.
Immerse yourself in the bustle of Wazemmes Market, a colourful market where you’ll find fresh produce, clothes and a variety of flavours from all over the world.
Explore this contemporary cathedral in the heart of the city. Its unique architecture and modern stained glass windows make it an interesting place to visit.
