Gare de Lille Flandres

Gare de Lille Flandres (sometimes called Gare Lille Flandres) is Lille’s main railway station, serving as a significant hub for both regional and international travel. This station not only connects travellers to various destinations across France and beyond but also stands as a historical and architectural landmark in the city.

Gare de Lille Flandres opened in 1842 and the station’s architecture reflects the grandeur of the late 19th century, with its design mirroring that of the Gare du Nord in Paris. This connection is not coincidental; a prominent part of the station’s main building was actually transferred from Paris and reconstructed in Lille, giving it a unique heritage that links it to the capital. Over the years, the station has been expanded and modernised, yet it retains much of its original charm.

The station was originally known simply as Gare de Lille but was renamed in 1993 to differentiate it from the soon to be opened, Gare de Lille Europe.

Train services and destinations served by Gare de Lille Flandres

Gare de Lille Flandres is the primary station for regional train services in Lille, handling both suburban and regional TER (Transport Express Régional) services and intercity trains. Key domestic destinations include Amiens, Calais, Dunkirk, Lens, Paris and Valenciennes. The station also serves destinations in Belgium with services to Antwerp, Brussels, Kortrijk and Tournai, making it an important node in the European rail network.

For those travelling within the region, the TER services offer frequent connections to nearby towns and cities, facilitating easy access to the broader Hauts-de-France region. Whether you are heading for a day trip or commuting to work, Gare Lille Flandres provides a range of options that cater to diverse travel needs.

Although nearby Gare de Lille Europe focuses solely on high-speed rail services, some high-speed trains use Gare de Lille Flandres. These include some TGV inOui trains to Paris and the low-cost Ouigo high-speed service to Lyon, Avignon and Marseille.

The Flibco shuttle bus to Lille Airport arrives and departs from outside the station.

Station facilities

The station has ticket counters and automated machines, providing convenient options for purchasing and collecting tickets. Passengers can also find a range of shops and dining options, including cafés and restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets.

For those needing assistance, the station provides services for passengers with reduced mobility, ensuring accessibility for all travellers. Information desks are strategically placed to help with enquiries, and digital boards provide up-to-date train schedules and platform information. Additionally, free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the station, allowing travellers to stay connected while on the go.

Location

Situated in the city centre, Gare de Lille Flandres is ideally located for exploring Lille’s many attractions. The station is within walking distance of several key sites, including the Grand Place, the historic heart of the city, known for its impressive architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

The station’s proximity to the Euralille shopping centre makes it convenient if you need to do some shopping, or if you simply want more dining options than you can find inside the station. Additionally, Lille Europe station, which serves high-speed TGV and Eurostar trains, is just a seven-minute walk away.

The station is served by both lines of the Lille metro as well as Lille’s two tram lines.

We may earn a small commission if you book after clicking the links below.

Place de la Gare, 59000 Lille
Metro Lille Flandres (lines 1 and 2) Tram R, T (stop: Lille Flandres) Bus 9, 14, 50, 86, 88, B1, L5, L90, L91, L91E, N1 (stop: Gare Lille Flandres)