Things To Do
in Douai
Douai is a historic town in northern France set along the Scarpe river and just southeast of Lille. Its compact center showcases Flemish-inspired architecture and a distinctive beffroi that rises above the skyline. The city is walkable with canals, pleasant squares, and green spaces that invite relaxed exploration.
Visitors can savor Maroilles cheese and Flemish-influenced dishes, while using Douai as a convenient base for day trips to Lille and Valenciennes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Douai and check into your charming hotel located in the heart of the city. Spend your morning strolling through the historic streets, taking in the beautiful architecture and local shops. Enjoy a fresh pastry at a nearby café while mingling with the locals.
After lunch, head to the Douai Museum to explore the rich history of the region, featuring art from the Renaissance to the 19th century. Take a leisurely walk along the Scarpe River, enjoying the picturesque views and maybe even stopping for a small craft beer at a local brewery. As you meander back to the center, stop by some artisanal boutiques for unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, visit a traditional French restaurant for a delightful dinner, where you can savor local specialties such as carbonnade flamande or endive au jambon. After dinner, take a stroll to the Beffroi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire its illuminated grandeur. Conclude your evening with a glass of wine at a cozy bar, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere of Douai.
Spend this morning visiting the Église Saint-Pierre, known for its stunning stained glass windows and impressive Gothic architecture. Participate in a guided tour to better understand the historical significance of this beautiful church. Afterwards, grab a leisurely brunch at a nearby boulangerie.
Visit the historic Place Charles de Gaulle, which boasts an array of cafés and shops. Engage with the local artists displaying their work — this vibrant square is perfect for picking up unique pieces. Take your time exploring the nearby covered market, where you can taste local cheeses and delicacies.
Dine at a cozy bistro for a taste of authentic French cuisine, opting for seasonal dishes made with local ingredients. As the evening progresses, venture to a local theater or performance space to catch a live show or concert. End the night with a relaxing walk through the illuminated streets of Douai.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚇1-way public transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable historic center with Flemish influences
- Excellent local cuisine featuring Maroilles cheese
- Good base for day trips to Lille and Valenciennes
- Pleasant canal-side scenery and nature access nearby
- Nightlife is modest compared to bigger cities
- Some attractions require travel to other towns for deeper options
- Weather can be changeable; bring adaptable clothing
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like...
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The check, please.
- "Pouvez-vous répéter?" - Can you repeat?
- "Je suis perdu." - I am lost.
Places to Visit in Douai
Visit one of these nice places.
A towering brick bell tower offering dramatic skyline views over the town and rooftops, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
A grand square with Flemish-influenced architecture and symmetry perfect for wide-angle cityscapes.
Gothic church with intricate stonework; try interior details and stained glass against dramatic light.
Scenic waterway with barges and locks; great for reflections and long-exposure photography, especially in the late afternoon.
Historic monastic complex offering classic brick-and-stone exterior shots and quiet courtyards.
Food in Douai
Douai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory cheese tart featuring Maroilles, widely available in local bakeries and brasseries.
Must-Try!
A leek tart enriched with Maroilles cheese, a regional specialty you’ll find in many bistros.
A traditional cold Flemish dish of jellied meats served with crusty bread.
Beef slower-cooked in beer, usually served with potatoes or bread.
Mussels cooked in beer or stock, typically served with crisp fries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market near the city center offering regional cheese, charcuterie, produce, and baked goods.
Seasonal food stalls along the Canal de la Scarpe with fries, mussels, waffles, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Bonjour' (or 'Bonsoir' in the evening) and say 'S’il vous plaît' and 'Merci' in interactions.
Handshakes are common in formal situations; the 'la bise' kiss greeting is common among friends. Keep voice levels moderate in public; avoid loud conversations in quiet spaces.
Wait to be seated in many places; keep hands visible; avoid placing elbows on the table while eating.
Safety
Tipping in Douai
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included in the bill (service compris). A small extra (5-10%) is appreciated at restaurants if you’re happy with the service, but not required. In casual cafes or bakeries, rounding up the total is common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including contactless payments. Cash is still useful in markets and smaller shops. Many establishments will provide receipts in euros, with some accepting euros and cards from abroad.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days and mild to warm temperatures. Expect occasional showers; bring water and sunscreen. Outdoor festivals are common, and canal-side strolls are particularly pleasant in the evenings.
Mild to cool days with autumn foliage along the canals. Great light for photography and fewer crowds; layer clothing for variable temps.
Cold and potentially wet, with a chance of light snow. Museums provide welcome indoor options; Christmas markets and festive lights brighten the evenings.
Warming temperatures and blooming trees. Pleasant for outdoor walks and cycling; carry a light rain jacket as showers are possible.
Douai at Night
Hiking in Douai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of nature trails along the Scarpe and Escaut rivers featuring wetlands, woodlands, and open fields suitable for day hikes.
Gentle, scenic routes ideal for easy half-day hikes or long, flat bike rides with canal views.
Short woodland loops and easy forest paths suitable for families and casual hikers.
Airports
How to reach Douai by plane.
The closest airport, about 30-40 minutes by road from Douai; convenient for short-haul flights and domestic connections.
A larger nearby option about 1.5-2 hours by road/train, with a range of European connections.
Major international hub about 2-3 hours away by train or car; good for long-haul connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly French residents with deep-rooted local traditions and a strong sense of community.
Young adults from Douai and nearby towns connected to regional schools and universities.
Visitors from France and neighboring countries attracted to food, history, and easy access to Lille.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region is passionate about football, with local clubs and easy access to Lille’s top teams for matches.
Flat terrain and canal towpaths make cycling a popular recreational activity year-round.
Regional clubs support a variety of team sports common in northern France.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Douai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most bistros offer vegetarian options such as salads, seasonal vegetables, and cheese plates (including Maroilles). Ask for leek tart (flamiche) without meat broth or stock and enjoy regional cheeses with bread.