Things To Do
in Croix

Croix is a charming commune located in the northern part of France, just outside of Lille. Known for its beautiful architecture, including Art Deco buildings, Croix offers a blend of historical and modern attractions. The city is also recognized for its vibrant community life and cultural heritage.

With easy access to Lille and the surrounding areas, it serves as a perfect base for exploring the Hauts-de-France region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Croix
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parc de la Deule for a leisurely walk and some fresh air. Enjoy a breakfast at a local café, sampling pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases works from both local and international artists. Afterward, stroll through the historic center to admire the Art Deco architecture.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant that serves traditional Northern French cuisine, followed by a casual evening walk through the illuminated streets.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Lille
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Lille and explore the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest fine arts museums in France.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a popular brasserie, then visit the Grand Place and the Vieille Bourse to experience the local market vibe.

evening
:

Return to Croix and unwind at a cozy bar, trying some local beers or wines.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-30
Coffee$2-4
🏨Hotel room (per night)$70-150
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🍺Local beer$5-7

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Close proximity to Lille and other attractions.
  • Charming architecture and parks.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be less frequent on weekends.
  • Language barrier for non-French speakers.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Je ne comprends pas" - I do not understand

Places to Visit in Croix

Visit one of these nice places.

Place Charles de Gaulle

The central square offers picturesque views of historic buildings and lively street life.

Parc de la Deule

A beautiful park perfect for capturing nature and serene landscapes.

Art Deco Buildings

The unique architecture throughout Croix provides a stunning backdrop for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Croix

Croix boasts a delightful culinary scene, showcasing the rich flavors of Northern France. From hearty dishes to elegant pastries, there's something to please every palate.

Croix Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carbonnade Flamande

A traditional beef stew made with beer, onions, and spices, served with fries.

Must-Try!

Maroilles Cheese

A strong, pungent cheese from the region, often enjoyed with bread.

Tarte au Sucre

A sweet sugar pie typical of the Nord-Pas de Calais region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Croix

A weekly market offering fresh produce, cheese, and local delicacies.

Street Food Stalls

Various vendors selling local specialties such as fries and crepes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Croix experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rain is common throughout the year, so packing an umbrella is advisable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly 'Bonjour' is customary when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table (but not elbows) during meals.

Punctuality

Being slightly late (10-15 minutes) is acceptable, but it's best to be on time.

Safety Guide

Safety

Croix is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any urban area, it's wise to remain vigilant, particularly in crowded places. Keep valuables secure and be cautious when using ATMs.

Tipping in Croix

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists, with numerous festivals and events taking place.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall colors create a picturesque atmosphere.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snow can be expected; enjoy cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Croix at Night

Croix offers a relaxed but vibrant nightlife scene, with a selection of bars and pubs that cater to various tastes. The atmosphere is generally friendly, with many venues hosting live music or special events. The nearby city of Lille provides even more nightlife options, including clubs and late-night eateries.

Hiking in Croix

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mont des Cats

A scenic trail with stunning views, ideal for both hiking and picnicking.

Forêt de Raismes

A beautiful forest area with numerous trails, perfect for a day of hiking and nature exploration.

Airports

How to reach Croix by plane.

Lille Airport (LIL)

Located approximately 10 km from Croix, Lille Airport offers flights to various European destinations and is the main airport serving the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Croix is a highly walkable city, with many amenities and attractions located within a short distance of each other. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian zones are common, making it easy to explore on foot. The compact size of the city encourages walking as a primary mode of transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Croix, attracted by its proximity to Lille and vibrant community.

Families

Families appreciate the safe environment, parks, and educational facilities available in the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is very popular in Croix, with local clubs fostering community spirit and engagement.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored sport due to the scenic routes available in and around the city.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Croix is generally moderate, with peak hours seeing some congestion. Public transportation, including buses and trains, is reliable and connects Croix to Lille and surrounding areas, making it easy to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Croix.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Choices

Availability of gluten-free options may vary, so it's best to inquire with staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Croix are generally accessible, with local clinics and hospitals providing a range of medical services. Emergency care is available at nearby hospitals, and residents are covered by the French healthcare system, which is known for its high standards.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide