Things To Do
in Haubourdin
Haubourdin is a small suburban town just northwest of Lille, blending quiet residential streets with a touch of rural charm. Its compact center makes it easy to explore on foot, and its proximity to Lille puts world-class museums and architecture within easy reach. The surrounding landscape is flat and green, ideal for leisurely bike rides along the Deûle canal.
Whether you’re after a relaxed escape or a convenient base for Nord-Pas-de-Calais adventures, Haubourdin offers a warm welcome.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through Haubourdin’s charming town center, admiring the traditional red-brick houses and the peaceful town hall square. Stop at a local boulangerie to sample fresh croissants and café au lait as locals greet each other in the morning light. Breathe in the crisp air and plan the rest of your adventure while watching daily life unfold.
Visit the Church of Saint-Hilaire, exploring its Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows that catch the sun. Wander along the Rue du Général de Gaulle for boutique shopping and lively conversation with friendly shopkeepers. Pause for a late-afternoon espresso at a café overlooking the Deûle canal, soaking up waterfront views.
Dine at a nearby brasserie serving hearty northern specialties like carbonnade flamande and endives gratinées. Take a leisurely walk along the canal banks as lights reflect off the water and bicycles glide past. Cap the night with a local craft beer or cider at a cozy pub, enjoying the warm ambiance.
Rent a bicycle and set off along the tree-lined towpaths of the Deûle canal, enjoying gentle rolling countryside. Pause at historic lock houses to learn about the canal’s role in regional trade and industry. Feel the breeze and watch barges drift slowly as swans glide across the shimmering water.
Stop in the village of Seclin for a picnic by the canal, sampling local cheese, charcuterie, and fresh baguettes. Continue pedaling toward the verdant outskirts of Lille, passing fields dotted with windmills and grazing sheep. Take time to photograph wildflowers and the tranquil scenery before heading back toward Haubourdin.
Return your bike and treat yourself to a farm-to-table dinner at a country auberge, featuring seasonal vegetables and local meats. Relax on the terrace as the sun sets over rolling fields. Savor a final glass of regional wine while listening to crickets in the nearby meadows.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🥖Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🚆One-way public transportation ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center, monthly) | $900-1400 |
| 🛒Weekly grocery basket | $50-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Lille’s culture and museums
- Good value as a suburban base with easy city access
- Quiet, safe base with green spaces and bike-friendly routes
- Smaller nightlife scene in Haubourdin itself
- Limited dining options within the village center
- Weather can be changeable; plan for rain and wind
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Haubourdin
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking 17th-century stock exchange building with arches and a lively interior courtyard; perfect for architectural shots and reflections in the adjacent square.
Green, scenic space with tree-lined avenues, a lake, and paths that glow during golden hour—great for landscape and portrait photography.
Calm water, light reflections, and riverside walkers provide tranquil, contemplative compositions.
Food in Haubourdin
Haubourdin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beef stew slowly braised in beer with onions, usually served with potatoes or fries.
Must-Try!
Mussels steamed in white wine and herbs, paired with a generous portion of fries.
A jellied meat terrine, often served cold with crusty bread.
A savory crepe folded with mushrooms, ham, and cheese sauce, a regional favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market with fresh produce, cheese, seafood, ready-to-eat street bites, and friendly ambiance.
Small-town markets offering seasonal produce, pastries, and regional specialties on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say ‘Bonjour’ when entering a shop and ‘Merci, au revoir’ when leaving; polite formality is appreciated.
Keep hands visible on the table, use courteous table manners, and avoid rushing meals; mealtimes are often social.
Safety
Tipping in Haubourdin
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is included in many restaurants; if not, rounding up or leaving around 5-10% for good service is common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; cash is still handy for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; plan outdoor activities early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and enjoy terrace dining.
Mild to cool days with colorful foliage; pack a light jacket and be prepared for occasional showers.
Cool to cold with shorter days; indoor museums and cozy cafes make great refuges; daylight is limited, so schedule outdoor time earlier.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming parks; good for walking and cycling, with some rain showers possible.
Haubourdin at Night
Hiking in Haubourdin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, accessible trails ideal for easy hikes and birdwatching along the canal.
Low-rolling woodland walks within a short drive, offering shaded paths and fresh air.
Airports
How to reach Haubourdin by plane.
Nearby international airport with convenient connections to the region; quick road/tram access to Haubourdin.
Large international hub within a few hours by train or car; alternative gateway for long-haul travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families are drawn to Haubourdin’s schools, parks, and calm neighborhoods.
Lille’s universities attract students who sometimes commute from Haubourdin.
Quiet, residential areas with access to green spaces suit retirees.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Lille OSC and local clubs anchor the region’s sports culture; casual play and local leagues are common.
A staple activity for locals and visitors alike, with easy routes along canals and through parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haubourdin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes featuring seasonal vegetables, cheese, and legumes; many bistros offer vegetarian plates or adaptable options—ask for la version végétarienne and request cheese or mushroom fillings in crepes.