Roubaix, France Guide
Roubaix, a city in northern France, boasts a rich industrial heritage and a vibrant cultural scene. Once a thriving center for textile production, Roubaix has transformed itself into a hub for art, design, and innovation. Visitors can explore its impressive architectural landmarks, including the iconic La Piscine Museum, a former art deco swimming pool converted into an art museum, and the Hôtel de Ville, a stunning example of Flemish Renaissance architecture. Beyond its historical significance, Roubaix offers a dynamic and modern experience. The city is home to numerous parks and green spaces, providing a welcome respite from the urban environment. With its diverse population and welcoming atmosphere, Roubaix offers a unique glimpse into contemporary French life. Explore its bustling markets, discover its hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the city's unique charm.
Food & Cuisine
Roubaix's culinary scene reflects its diverse cultural influences, offering a mix of traditional French cuisine and international flavors. Being close to the Belgian border, you'll find many establishments serving hearty Flemish dishes like carbonade flamande (beef stewed in beer) and potjevleesch (a terrine of different meats). Local specialties also include Maroilles cheese, a strong-smelling cheese from the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region, often used in savory tarts and sauces. For a taste of local produce, visit the Marché de Roubaix, one of the largest markets in the region, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and other local delicacies. For a more upscale dining experience, consider exploring restaurants in the city center, which offer a range of French and international cuisines.
Nightlife
Roubaix offers a diverse nightlife scene, catering to a variety of tastes. The city center, particularly around the Grand Place and the surrounding streets, is home to a number of bars, pubs, and cafes that stay open late. For a more alternative vibe, explore the area around the Gare Jean Lebas, where you'll find smaller bars and live music venues. The city also hosts regular cultural events and festivals, which often include evening performances and entertainment. While Roubaix's nightlife may not be as extensive as that of nearby Lille, it offers a more intimate and authentic experience.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Roubaix is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions. Summer (June-August) can be warm, but it's also a popular time to visit due to the numerous festivals and events. Winter (November-March) can be cold and damp, but the city is still charming, and you can enjoy indoor attractions like La Piscine Museum.
Transportation
Roubaix benefits from a well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to navigate the city and surrounding areas. The city is served by the Lille Métropole public transport network, which includes a comprehensive bus network, two tram lines (R and T), and two metro lines (M1 and M2). The metro provides quick and efficient access to Lille and other nearby towns. Bus routes cover the entire city, connecting residential areas with commercial centers and tourist attractions. The tram lines offer scenic routes through the city, passing by many of Roubaix's key landmarks. Tickets and passes can be purchased at metro stations, tram stops, and online.
Airport
Lille Airport (LIL), also known as Lesquin Airport, is the closest airport to Roubaix, located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Lille city center, and then connect to Roubaix via the metro or tram. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport and drive to Roubaix, which takes around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Attractions
La Piscine Museum
Housed in a former Art Deco swimming pool, La Piscine Museum showcases a diverse collection of fine arts, decorative arts, and textiles. Visitors can admire works by famous artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and Modigliani. The museum's stunning architecture and beautiful gardens make it a must-visit attraction in Roubaix.
Villa Cavrois
Designed by renowned architect Robert Mallet-Stevens, Villa Cavrois is a masterpiece of modernist architecture. The villa features a unique blend of Art Deco and Bauhaus styles, with spacious interiors and a beautiful garden. Visitors can explore the different rooms and learn about the history of this iconic building.
Le Parc des Sports
Le Parc des Sports is a popular sports complex in Roubaix, offering a range of facilities for sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as tennis, swimming, and athletics in this well-maintained park. The complex also hosts various sporting events and competitions throughout the year.
Le Colisée
Le Colisée is a historic theater in Roubaix, known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. The theater hosts a variety of performances, including plays, concerts, and dance shows. Visitors can enjoy a night of entertainment in this beautiful venue, which has been a cultural hub in Roubaix for decades.
Musée de la Mémoire 1914-1918
Dedicated to the memory of World War I, Musée de la Mémoire 1914-1918 offers a poignant look at the history of the Great War. The museum displays artifacts, photographs, and personal stories from the war, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of this significant period in history.
Parc Barbieux
Parc Barbieux is a picturesque park in Roubaix, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. The park features lush greenery, beautiful flower beds, and a charming lake. Visitors can also enjoy various recreational activities such as cycling, jogging, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Le Parc Barbieux
Le Parc Barbieux is a charming park in Roubaix, perfect for a relaxing day out with family or friends. The park features lush green spaces, colorful flower beds, and a tranquil lake. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful park.
Le Musée de l'Art et de l'Industrie
Le Musée de l'Art et de l'Industrie showcases the industrial heritage of Roubaix, with exhibits on textiles, machinery, and manufacturing processes. Visitors can learn about the city's history as a center of textile production and explore the evolution of industry in the region. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Roubaix's industrial past.
Le Musée La Manufacture
Le Musée La Manufacture is a museum dedicated to the history of textile production in Roubaix. The museum showcases the city's rich heritage as a center of textile manufacturing, with exhibits on weaving, dyeing, and printing techniques. Visitors can learn about the evolution of the textile industry and its impact on the local economy.
Église Saint-Martin
Église Saint-Martin is a beautiful church in Roubaix, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows. Visitors can admire the church's impressive facade and ornate interior, which features religious artworks and sculptures. The church is a peaceful place for reflection and prayer in the heart of Roubaix.
Day Trips
Tournai, one of Belgium's oldest cities, boasts a rich history and impressive Romanesque architecture. Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, explore the Grand Place, and discover the city's museums and art galleries.
Approximately 1 hour by car or train Arras is a historic city with two magnificent squares, the Grand Place and the Place des Héros, both lined with Flemish Baroque architecture. Explore the underground tunnels (Boves), visit the Arras Memorial, and discover the city's rich history.
Approximately 1 hour by car or train Antwerp, a major port city, is known for its diamond district, fashion scene, and impressive architecture. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, explore the Rubens House, and wander through the historic city center.
Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes by car or train Ypres (Ieper in Flemish) is a poignant reminder of World War I. The city was largely destroyed during the war but has been meticulously rebuilt. Visit the In Flanders Fields Museum to learn about the war's impact, witness the moving Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate Memorial, and explore the preserved trenches and battlefields surrounding the city.
Approximately 1 hour by car or train Mons, the capital of Hainaut province, is a city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Visit the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, explore the Belfry, and discover the city's museums and art galleries.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car or train Bruges, often called the "Venice of the North," is a charming medieval city with canals, cobblestone streets, and picturesque architecture. Take a boat tour of the canals, visit the Markt (market square), climb the Belfry for panoramic views, and sample Belgian chocolate and beer.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car or train Ghent is a beautiful city with a rich history and stunning architecture. Explore the Graslei and Korenlei, two picturesque quays along the Leie River, admire the Gravensteen castle, and visit St. Bavo's Cathedral to see the Ghent Altarpiece. The city also offers a vibrant cultural scene and delicious Belgian cuisine.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car or train Lille, a vibrant city just a short distance from Roubaix, offers a rich blend of Flemish and French culture. Explore the Grand Place, admire the architecture of the Palais Rihour, and indulge in local specialties like moules-frites (mussels and fries) and potjevleesch (a traditional meat stew). The city also boasts excellent museums, including the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of France's largest fine arts museums.
Approximately 20 minutes by train or car Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the de facto capital of the European Union, offers a diverse range of attractions. Visit the Grand Place, admire the Manneken Pis statue, explore the Atomium, and indulge in Belgian waffles and chocolate. The city also boasts excellent museums and a vibrant cultural scene.
Approximately 2 hours by car or train Amiens is a city dominated by its magnificent Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the Saint-Leu district, a charming area with canals and floating gardens (Hortillonnages), and visit the Musée de Picardie.
Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes by car or train Tournai
Travel Time
Activities
Arras
Travel Time
Activities
Antwerp
Travel Time
Activities
Ypres
Travel Time
Activities
Mons
Travel Time
Activities
Bruges
Travel Time
Activities
Ghent
Travel Time
Activities
Lille
Travel Time
Activities
Brussels
Travel Time
Activities
Amiens
Travel Time
Activities