Things To Do
in Courrières
Courrières is a small industrial town in the Pas-de-Calais department of northern France, just east of Lens. It sits in a region shaped by coal mining history and close-knit communities, with green spaces and convenient access to larger towns. The town blends working-class heritage with modern French suburban life, offering a calm base for exploring the broader Hauts-de-France area.
From Courrières you can easily reach Lille, Louvre-Lens, and the Scarpe-Escaut regional area for day trips and cultural experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Courrières, admiring its quaint houses and rich history. Visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and pick up some regional specialties.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting a nearby museum, where you'll learn about the history of coal mining in the area. After your educational excursion, enjoy a picnic in the Parc des Docks, a beautiful green space perfect for relaxation. Stroll through the gardens and take in the picturesque scenery while munching on your delicious baguette and cheese.
Dine at one of Courrières' family-run restaurants, savoring traditional French dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. After your meal, take a quiet evening walk through the illuminated town square, soaking up the enchanting ambiance. Wrap up the night with a glass of local wine at a cozy bar, reflecting on your day's adventures.
Take a short trip to the nearby town of Lens to explore its historical sites and attractions. Begin your exploration at the Louvre-Lens Museum, where you can view remarkable art collections in an architecturally stunning setting. Spend some time wandering around the museum's beautiful gardens before heading to your next destination.
After lunch at a local bistro, delve into the rich history of the mining industry at the Écomusée du Pays de la Petite-Rosselle. Participate in an engaging guided tour that will take you deep into the mining heritage of the region. Enjoy the unique experience of climbing up to a viewpoint for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Return to Courrières and prepare for a cozy evening at a traditional French brasserie. Enjoy a heartwarming meal featuring regional specialties, and don’t forget to try the local beer. As night falls, take a leisurely walk through the countryside, enjoying the tranquility of the evening air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Grocery basket for a week | $45-70 |
| ☕️Coffee in a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🚇One-way public transport | $1.80-2.50 |
| 🎬Cinema ticket (1 seat) | $8-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact and walkable town with easy access to larger cultural hubs
- Rich regional cuisine and approachable French hospitality
- Easy day trips to Louvre-Lens, Douai mining heritage, and canal scenery
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options within Courrières itself
- Public transport connections may be less frequent than in bigger cities
- Some attractions require short drives to nearby towns
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like…
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Courrières
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm water reflections, barges, and tree-lined banks provide mirror-like scenes at dawn or dusk.
Contemporary architecture and curated outdoor art offer striking modern contrast with the surrounding landscape.
Green spaces with mature trees, paths, and light-filled avenues ideal for wide-angle shots.
Industrial relics and memorials capture the region’s coal mining history and dramatic silhouettes.
Food in Courrières
Courrières Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef slowly braised in beer with onions, typically served with potatoes or bread.
Must-Try!
A jellied terrine of mixed meats, a classic Flemish-inspired cold dish enjoyed with bread and pickles.
Savory cheese tart featuring the strong regional maroilles cheese.
Mussels cooked in a light broth or beer sauce, served with fries.
Cheese and beer sauce melted over toasted bread, popular in northern France cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and regional specialties.
Broad stalls in nearby Lens with vegetables, seafood and ready-to-eat bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' when entering shops; use polite phrases like 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci'.
Respect personal space, queue patiently, and avoid loud behavior in public places.
Keep hands on the table, wait for everyone to be served before starting, and modestly handle tips.
Safety
Tipping in Courrières
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included (service compris). A small tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated in cafes and casual dining.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for markets and small vendors; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with budding greenery; great for markets, parks, and riverside walks. Pack a light jacket for cool mornings.
Warm but not scorching; average highs around 22-25°C. Occasional showers; enjoy outdoor terraces and canal outings.
Cooling temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for cycling and scenic drives. Bring layers and a rain jacket.
Cool to cold, with possible frosts and rare snow. Indoor attractions shine; markets and cozy eateries are popular.
Courrières at Night
Hiking in Courrières
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Regional parklands with varied trails through wetlands, woodlands, and open fields suitable for all levels.
Gentle terrain along river and canal routes offering scenic views and easy day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Courrières by plane.
Also known as Lille-Lesquin, a regional airport with domestic and some international flights; convenient for connections to Courrières via road or rail.
A larger European hub within a couple of hours’ drive; offers low-cost carriers and good connections to Northern France.
A major international gateway with frequent trains to northern France; longer transfer time from Courrières but broad connectivity.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families and commuters who value a quiet residential base with access to services and schools.
Proximity to larger towns means there are student communities and affordable housing options nearby.
Historically tied to the mining and manufacturing sectors; today many work in service and logistics across the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular region-wide; local clubs and nearby stadiums provide matches and community events.
Flat countryside and canal routes make cycling a common pastime for locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Courrières.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many bistros and markets; look for seasonal vegetables, salads, and cheese dishes using maroilles. When dining out, ask for meat-free versions of regional stews or pasta dishes.