Things To Do
in Courrières

Courrières is a charming commune located in the Pas-de-Calais department of northern France. Known for its rich mining history, the town offers a glimpse into the industrial heritage of the region. With a close-knit community and picturesque surroundings, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the nearby attractions of Lens and Arras.

The town combines a rustic French ambiance with modern conveniences, making it a delightful destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Courrières
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can sample fresh produce and regional specialties.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical sites, including the Église Saint-Éloi, and take a leisurely stroll through the parc.

evening
:

Dine at a local bistro and enjoy traditional French cuisine while soaking in the town's ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trips and Culture
morning
:

Take a short trip to the nearby city of Lens to visit the Louvre-Lens Museum.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a café in Lens, then visit the Canadian National Vimy Memorial.

evening
:

Return to Courrières and unwind at a local pub with live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-25
Coffee$2-4
🥖Baguette$1
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$70-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural history and heritage.
  • Charming local atmosphere with friendly residents.
  • Proximity to major attractions like Lens and Arras.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport options may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-French speakers.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Courrières

Visit one of these nice places.

Église Saint-Éloi

This historic church features stunning architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens, perfect for photography.

Parc de Courrières

A scenic park with walking paths, ponds, and vibrant flora, ideal for nature photography.

Louvre-Lens Museum

The striking modern architecture of this museum provides a stunning contrast to the traditional landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Courrières

Courrières boasts a delightful array of local cuisine that reflects the region's agricultural heritage and mining history. Must-try dishes include hearty stews and artisanal breads.

Courrières Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Potjevleesch

A traditional dish of meat terrine, often served cold with pickles.

Must-Try!

Welsh

A hearty cheese dish made with beer, mustard, and ham, served over bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Farmers' Market

Held every Saturday, it's the perfect place to find fresh produce, cheeses, and pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Courrières experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F), while winters can be cold, dropping to around 0°C (32°F). Rain is frequent year-round, with spring and autumn being particularly wet. Visitors should prepare for changeable weather, especially in transitional seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants; it's a sign of respect.

Dining Etiquette

Keep hands on the table (not in your lap) and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Dress Code

Dress smartly, especially when dining out; casual attire may be frowned upon in finer establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Courrières is generally a safe destination, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. Local authorities are responsive, and emergency services can be reached easily.

Tipping in Courrières

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Norms

It's customary to round up the bill in restaurants or leave a small tip of about 5-10% for good service.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather attracts more tourists, and outdoor events are common; enjoy the vibrant local festivals.

Autumn

The fall foliage adds beauty to the landscape, and the cooler temperatures are perfect for hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland, especially around the churches and parks.

Nightlife Guide

Courrières at Night

Courrières offers a relaxed nightlife scene with cozy pubs and bistros. While it's not a party hub, visitors can enjoy live music, small gatherings, and local events. The nearby city of Lens provides more vibrant nightlife options, including clubs and bars that stay open late.

Hiking in Courrières

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chemin des Dames

A historic hiking trail offering stunning views and a poignant reminder of World War I battles.

Regional Natural Park of Scarpe-Escaut

A beautiful park with marked trails, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature away from urban settings.

Airports

How to reach Courrières by plane.

Lille Airport (LIL)

Located approximately 40 km from Courrières, Lille Airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Courrières is quite walkable, with most amenities and attractions located within a short distance. The town's layout makes it easy to navigate on foot, and pedestrian-friendly areas encourage leisurely strolls. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the overall pace of life is relaxed.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Primarily composed of families and retirees, the local population is known for its community spirit and involvement in local events.

Students

With educational institutions nearby, there is a small but vibrant student community that contributes to the town's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A favorite pastime in the region, with local clubs and community matches frequently attended by passionate fans.

Cycling

With its scenic routes, cycling is popular among locals and tourists alike, with organized events and races held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Courrières is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns. Cycling is also a popular option, encouraged by the town's flat terrain.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Courrières.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While traditional cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian options upon request.

Gluten-Free

Several bakeries and restaurants provide gluten-free bread and meal alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Courrières is adequate, with local clinics and pharmacies available for minor ailments. For more serious medical issues, residents often travel to nearby Lens or Arras, which offer hospitals and specialized care. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide