From Paris: Lille and Cambrai Citadels Heritage Day Trip

Set out on a captivating journey from Paris to uncover the historical wonders of Lille and Cambrai. This 10.5-hour guided day trip offers a chance to learn about the cities’ Vauban-designed citadels and fortified architecture. Explore Lille’s vibrant Grand Place and savor a local lunch, then explore Cambrai’s impressive Chateau de Selles. With scenic views on the return, this excursion promises lasting memories of these fortified gems. Discover the rich heritage waiting to be uncovered.

Key Points

• Explore the historic Vauban-designed Citadel and ornamental Jardin Vauban in Lille during a 2.25-hour guided tour.
• Visit the unique fortified architecture in Cambrai, including the Chateau de Selles citadel, on a 1.5-hour guided tour.
• Enjoy a 45-minute lunch break in Lille to recharge during the 10.5-hour excursion.
• Travel in comfort with round-trip transportation from Paris and a knowledgeable guide providing insights along the way.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for the $885.94 per person day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

The title of this day trip is "Lille and Cambrai Citadels Heritage Day Trip."

Departing from Paris, this 10.5-hour excursion allows visitors to explore the unique history and fortified cities of Lille and Cambrai. Priced from $885.94 per person, the tour includes transportation, a live guide, citadel visits, and walking tours.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. The itinerary covers Lille’s key sites like the Citadel and Grand Place, followed by Cambrai’s fortified landmarks.

This budget-friendly trip highlights the border region between France and Belgium.

Lille Guided Tour

After the pickup from Paris, the tour heads to Lille, the vibrant capital of the North of France.

The 2.25-hour guided tour takes visitors through the city’s key sites. They’ll explore the impressive Citadel, a Vauban-designed fortress, and stroll through the Jardin Vauban’s lush gardens.

Next, they’ll admire the grandeur of the Palais Rihour and the bustling Grand Place. The tour continues at the charming Vieille Bourse, the city’s historic stock exchange, and the Opera.

Finally, they’ll visit the Hospice Comtesse, a former hospital showcasing Lille’s rich heritage. A 45-minute lunch break is included before continuing the journey.

Key Sites in Lille

Visitors begin their guided tour of Lille at the city’s impressive Citadel, a Vauban-designed fortress that stands as a testament to the region’s strategic importance. Nearby, they’ll explore the Jardin Vauban, a lush green space featuring ornamental gardens. The tour continues to the Palais Rihour, a former ducal palace, and the Grand Place, Lille’s vibrant central square. Other highlights include the Vieille Bourse, a 17th-century stock exchange, the impressive Opera house, and the Hospice Comtesse, a historic hospital complex.

| Key Site | Description |

| — | — |

| Citadel | Vauban-designed fortress |

| Jardin Vauban | Ornamental gardens |

| Palais Rihour | Former ducal palace |

| Grand Place | Vibrant central square |

Lunch Break

Following the guided tour of Lille’s key sites, participants enjoy a 45-minute lunch break.

The group stops at a local bistro, where they can sample regional specialties like carbonnade flamande, a slow-cooked beef stew, or moules-frites, mussels with french fries. Vegetarian options are also available.

Participants can order à la carte or choose a set menu, keeping costs reasonable. After the meal, there’s time to explore the lively city center further before heading to Cambrai.

The lunch break provides a chance to refuel and soak up the local culture before the next leg of the journey.

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Cambrai Guided Tour

After the lunch break, the group departs for Cambrai, located just an hour’s drive from Lille.

Upon arrival, the guided tour begins, showcasing the city’s unique fortified architecture. The tour includes stops at the Tour des Arquets, Tour des Sottes, Porte de Paris, Porte Royale, and Porte Notre Dame.

Upon arrival, the guided tour showcases Cambrai’s fortified architecture, including the Tour des Arquets, Tour des Sottes, Porte de Paris, Porte Royale, and Porte Notre Dame.

The highlight is the Chateau de Selles, an impressive citadel designed by renowned architect Vauban. Throughout the 1.5-hour tour, the guide shares the rich history of this border region between France and Belgium.

The tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore Cambrai’s well-preserved fortifications.

Key Sites in Cambrai

The guided tour of Cambrai takes visitors on a journey through the city’s rich architectural heritage.

Highlights include:

1. The imposing Tour des Arquets, a medieval defensive tower that offers panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape.

2. The whimsical Tour des Sottes, a quirky tower with gargoyles and grotesque figures, showcasing the playful spirit of the region’s fortifications.

3. The majestic Porte de Paris, Porte Royale, and Porte Notre Dame, a trio of grand gateways that once guarded the city’s entrances, now standing as a testament to Cambrai’s strategic importance.

Exploring these captivating sites provides an immersive glimpse into Cambrai’s fortified past.

Return to Paris

Once the guided tour in Cambrai concludes, the day trip participants board the vehicle for the 2.5-hour drive back to Paris.

Along the way, the tour guide points out notable landmarks and shares more insights about the region.

Travelers have a chance to rest, reflect on the day’s adventures, and admire the passing countryside.

The return trip is comfortable, and the group arrives back in Paris in the late afternoon.

With memories of the fortified cities, participants can plan their next exploration of France’s northern heritage sites.

Preparation Tips

To make the most of the Lille and Cambrai Citadels Heritage Day Trip, travelers should wear comfortable walking shoes. The tour involves moderate walking, so sturdy footwear is a must.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for the Lille and Cambrai Citadels Heritage Day Trip due to moderate walking involved.

Plus, it’s wise to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. The trip covers both indoor and outdoor sites, so layers and rain gear may come in handy.

Finally, travelers should be prepared to:

1. Explore historic citadels and fortifications.

2. Stroll through the charming streets of Lille and Cambrai.

3. Enjoy fresh drinks during the tour.

With the right preparation, guests can fully enjoy the unique heritage of this border region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Languages Can the Tour Guide Provide the Tour In?

The tour guide can provide the tour in English, French, and Spanish. They offer multilingual services to accommodate different language preferences and ensure a smooth and informative experience for all participants.

How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?

The tour group size typically ranges from 6 to 12 people, allowing for a more personalized experience. The small group size ensures you’ll receive attentive guidance from the multilingual live tour guide during the day trip.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can choose to focus on specific interests, modify the itinerary, or request private transportation. This flexibility allows for a more personalized heritage day trip experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

The tour does not offer any discounts or special offers, but it provides a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives travelers flexibility to adjust their plans.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows travelers to plan with confidence and get their money back if their plans change.

The Wrap Up

This enriching day trip from Paris provides a chance to explore the historical gems of Lille and Cambrai. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the Vauban-designed Citadel and vibrant Grand Place in Lille, as well as the impressive Chateau de Selles in Cambrai. With scenic views on the return journey, this budget-friendly excursion creates lasting memories of these fortified cities.

You can check availability for your dates here: