Comines
,Comines is a small town located in northern France near the Belgian border. It is known for its charming architecture, particularly its historic buildings and churches. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Comines also has a rich history, with landmarks dating back to the Middle Ages.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Comines
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the historic Eglise Saint-Chrisophe. Enjoy a leisurely coffee at a nearby café while taking in the architecture.
afternoon
:Head to the Comines Zoo to experience local wildlife and educational exhibits. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the zoo's lovely green spaces.
evening
:Dine at a cozy restaurant in the city center, tasting regional delicacies. Finish your evening with a stroll along the canal for a peaceful end to the day.
Art and Culture
morning
:Visit the local art gallery to appreciate contemporary artworks from regional artists. Take time to discuss your favorites with the passionate staff.
afternoon
:Participate in a workshop where you can create your own masterpiece. This interactive experience will deepen your appreciation for local culture.
evening
:Savor a relaxed dinner at a local bistro, choosing from an enticing menu. After dinner, explore the neighborhood and enjoy the city's nighttime ambiance.
Highlights
Good
- Rich historical heritage, with architecture reflecting its past.
- Proximity to the Belgian border allows for easy cross-border travel.
- Strong sense of community and local culture.
- Various outdoor activities available due to its natural surroundings.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in France.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Smaller town may lack some amenities found in larger cities.
- Less vibrant nightlife compared to urban areas.
- Can experience harsh weather during winter months.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Cycling along the Deûle River
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Deûle River, taking in the beautiful landscapes and nature of the area.
Hiking in the Parc Naturel RĂ©gional des Hauts de France
Explore the breathtaking trails in this regional park, perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking for diverse flora and fauna.
Kayaking on the Deûle River
Experience kayaking on the Deûle River for a unique perspective of the surroundings and some light adventure.
Fishing at local ponds
Try your hand at fishing in one of the local ponds, which are known for their serene environment and variety of fish.
Picnicking in the countryside
Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day in the picturesque countryside, surrounded by natureâs beauty.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Comines with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Grand Place
A beautiful central square surrounded by historic buildings, offering stunning views and a perfect backdrop for photos.
Eglise Saint-Chrysole
This impressive church is known for its architectural beauty and provides a picturesque setting for photography.
Canal de la Deûle
The canals in Comines are ideal for capturing serene water views and scenic walks, especially during sunset.
Parc de la Mairie
A lovely park with green spaces and well-maintained gardens that make for a great location for outdoor photography.
Pont de l'Europe
A bridge offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and river, perfect for wide-angle shots.
Fort de Seclin
Though slightly outside Comines, this historical fort features great vistas and opportunities to capture the region's landscape.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Carbonnade Flamande
A traditional Belgian beef and onion stew braised in beer, often served with frites. Look for it at local brasseries like Brasserie Le Saint Pierre.
Must-Try!
Moules-frites
Steamed mussels and fries, a beloved classic along the Franco-Belgian border. Enjoy at La Taverne des Monts de Flandre for a delightful version.
Tarte au Maroilles
A savory pie filled with Maroilles cheese, a pungent local favorite. Indulge in this specialty at Fromagerie Trottet.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Comines better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Marché des Lys
Visit this bustling market for a diverse array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal delicacies. Keep an eye out for warm waffles and crĂȘpes from street vendors.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Comines, a firm handshake is a common greeting when meeting someone. In familiar settings, a kiss on both cheeks may be customary, especially among friends and family. Always greet with a polite 'Bonjour' during the day and 'Bonsoir' in the evening.
Dining Etiquette
When dining in Comines, it is customary to wait for the host to start the meal or to be invited to begin eating. Keep your hands on the table but avoid resting your elbows. It is polite to finish your meal and use 'Merci' to express gratitude to the host.
Politeness and Formality
French culture places a high value on politeness and using formal titles. Address people using 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' until invited to use their first name. Additionally, remember to always say 's'il vous plaĂźt' (please) and 'merci' (thank you) to show respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Comines with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Comines, France, as in much of France, tipping is generally not obligatory since service charges are usually included in the bill. However, it is customary to round up the bill or leave small change as a gesture of appreciation for good service in restaurants, cafes, and bars. In other situations, such as taxis or hair salons, rounding up the fare or leaving a tip of a euro or two is also appreciated.
Payment
Payment practices in Comines are similar to those in other parts of France. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, although smaller shops may prefer cash. The euro is the official currency, and ATMs are widely available. It's common to pay by card for both small and large purchases, but carrying some cash for smaller vendors or markets is advisable.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Comines.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is a delightful time to visit Comines. The weather gradually warms up, with blooming flowers and lush greenery. Expect mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the charming streets of the town.
Summer
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Comines. You can expect warm weather, with longer days perfect for enjoying outdoor festivals and events. Itâs a great time to visit local markets and enjoy al fresco dining.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) brings a smaller crowd and beautiful fall foliage. The weather can be quite pleasant early in the season, with harvest-related activities and food festivals highlighting local cuisine. As temperatures drop, it's ideal for cozy indoor experiences.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Comines is quiet and picturesque, with the possibility of snow. Expect cold temperatures but a charming atmosphere, especially during the holiday season with festive decorations, local markets, and cultural events.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mont Saint-Aubert
A beautiful hill located just a short drive from Comines, offering various hiking trails with scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Parc Naturel RĂ©gional Scarpe-Escaut
A regional natural park encompassing various trails through forests and along rivers, ideal for both casual and experienced hikers.
Sentier des Douaniers
A coastal hiking trail that offers stunning views of the coast and diverse landscapes, perfect for a day trip.
Val Vireux
A picturesque valley with marked trails that take hikers through lush greenery and past local flora and fauna.
ForĂȘt de Neuville
A tranquil forest area offering several hiking paths suitable for family outings and nature appreciation.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Comines through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Comines by plane.
Lille Airport (LIL)
An international airport located near Lille, approximately 29 km from Comines, France.
Brussels Airport (BRU)
The main international airport serving Brussels, located about 111 km from Comines, France.
Charleroi Airport (CRL)
A notable international airport located in Charleroi, about 134 km from Comines, France.
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
The main international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 229 km from Comines, France.
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
The largest international airport in France, situated about 250 km from Comines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
French
The majority ethnic group in Comines, impacting cultural and social norms.
Belgian
A significant minority due to the town's proximity to the Belgian border.
North African
Represents a portion of the population, contributing to cultural diversity.
Sub-Saharan African
Includes a small community with various cultural backgrounds.
Asian
Includes immigrants from various Asian countries, adding to the multicultural fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is widely popular in Comines, with local clubs and community participation prevalent among various age groups.
Rugby
Rugby has a strong following in Comines, with teams competing at different levels and an enthusiastic fan base.
Cycling
Cycling is not only a sport but also a common recreational activity in Comines, with many scenic routes for cyclists.
Running
Running events and clubs are popular in Comines, encouraging community engagement and fitness.
Tennis
Tennis is played recreationally and competitively in Comines, with several courts available for public use.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan
While traditional dishes may center around meat and dairy, many restaurants in Comines offer vegetarian alternatives, such as hearty salads and vegetable-based stews. La Taverne des Monts de Flandre is known for its vegetarian Moules-frites.
Gluten-free Options
Visitors with gluten intolerances can find accommodating choices like grilled fish or meat dishes, as well as naturally gluten-free cheese and charcuterie boards at restaurants like Auberge du Pont Rouge.