Things To Do
in Hazebrouck

Hazebrouck is a small, friendly town in northern France with a Flemish-influenced heritage and a relaxed pace of life. Its brick-and-stone façades, timbered houses, and market-square charm reflect centuries of regional culture. Located in the Lys valley near the Belgian border, Hazebrouck serves as a gateway to pastoral countryside and easy day trips to Lille and Dunkirk.

The town is an excellent base for exploring rural Nord-Pas-de-Calais, regional cuisine, and scenic outdoor activities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Historic Town Centre
morning
:

Start your journey in the heart of Hazebrouck by visiting the beautiful Town Hall, a stunning example of Flemish architecture. Stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the charming houses and local boutiques. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a morning pastry and coffee.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Musée de la Vie Rurale, where you can learn about the rich agricultural history of the region. Spend some time exploring the surrounding gardens that offer a peaceful escape from the town's bustle. Take a leisurely walk towards the nearby Parc du Château, where you can unwind and enjoy nature.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a traditional brasserie for a delicious meal featuring local cuisine. Engage with friendly locals over a glass of wine and perhaps some regional specialty dishes. End your evening with a gentle stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere.

day 2
A Day with Nature at Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d'Opale
morning
:

Kick off your adventure by driving to the Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d'Opale, a stunning natural reserve set just a short distance from Hazebrouck. Spend your morning hiking through the scenic trails, where the breathtaking landscapes will leave you in awe. Look out for the diverse wildlife that inhabits this beautiful park.

afternoon
:

After a morning spent in nature, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the picnic areas scattered throughout the park. Continue exploring by visiting the coastal cliffs, where the views of the Channel are breathtaking. You might even catch a glimpse of a passing ship or two on the horizon.

evening
:

Return to Hazebrouck for dinner at a cozy restaurant that serves fresh seafood. Share stories of your day's adventures with fellow travelers and enjoy the local hospitality. Conclude your evening with a relaxing stroll along the town's scenic paths, reflecting on the beauty of the French countryside.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
Coffee or beverage$3-5
🥖Loaf of bread$2-3
🚆Public transit fare$2-4 per ride
🏨Mid-range hotel night$70-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming Flemish-influenced town with a walkable center
  • Good base for exploring rural Nord-Pas-de-Calais and Mont des Cats
  • Small town with limited nightlife
  • Fewer high-end dining options compared to larger cities
  • "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Où est la gare ?" - Where is the train station?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
  • "Je voudrais ceci" - I would like this

Places to Visit in Hazebrouck

Visit one of these nice places.

Historic Town Center Square

A lively square framed by brick-and-stone façades and the town hall, best captured at dawn when the light is soft.

Église Saint-Martin de Hazebrouck

Gothic-inspired church with a tall spire; excellent for exterior shots and details.

Canal and Lys Valley banks

Waterways with willows and boats; serene reflections and rural silhouettes are ideal for photography.

Market Square at sunrise

Vendors setting up stalls provide color and human-interest shots before the crowd arrives.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hazebrouck

Hazebrouck sits in a region where hearty Flemish-inspired cooking meets local cheeses and regional beers. Expect comforting dishes, robust flavors, and easy-to-find bistro options across town.

Hazebrouck Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carbonade flamande

Beef slow-cooked in beer with onions, often served with crusty bread or potatoes.

Must-Try!

Potjevleesch

Chilled meat terrine set in jelly, a classic Flemish-style specialty.

Endives au jambon

Baked endives wrapped in ham with cheese, a comforting regional dish.

Maroilles cheese

A pungent soft cheese enjoyed on a cheese board or melted into sauces; pair with dark bread and beer.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hazebrouck Market

Weekly market in the town center offering cheeses, charcuterie, breads, pastries, and seasonal produce.

Street food stalls

Casual stalls around market areas offering crepes, waffles, and other quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hazebrouck experiences an oceanic climate with mild summers and cool winters. Expect frequent rain throughout the year and relatively high humidity, with comfortable springs and autumns.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Polite salutations like 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' are customary when entering shops or starting conversations.

Dining Etiquette

Keep hands visible, avoid loud talking in restaurants, and tipping is welcome but not compulsory if service is included.

Public Etiquette

Respect quiet residential areas and observe queues at bakeries and markets.

Safety Guide

Safety

The town is generally safe for visitors. Practice standard precautions in crowded markets and at night, keep valuables secure, and be mindful when walking along rural roads after dark.

Tipping in Hazebrouck

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In France, service is often included (service compris). A small extra tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated but not obligatory.

Payment Methods

Cards are widely accepted (chip-and-PIN, contactless). Cash is handy for markets and small vendors; mobile payments are increasingly common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather with occasional showers; flowers and green fields emerge, creating fresh angles for photos and outdoor walks.

Summer

Long days and pleasant evenings; outdoor markets and patios flourish, but occasional rain is possible.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and harvest markets; comfortable temperatures for long strolls and countryside photography.

Winter

Cool and often damp; festive lights in town and quieter streets offer a different mood for photography and visits.

Nightlife Guide

Hazebrouck at Night

Hazebrouck’s nightlife revolves around cozy bars and pubs in the town center, offering local beers and occasional live music on weekends. It’s more low-key and intimate than the nightlife found in larger cities, making it ideal for relaxed evenings with locals or fellow travelers.

Hiking in Hazebrouck

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mont des Cats Trail

Forested hill region offering a scenic day hike with distant views over the countryside.

Lys River Valley Walk

Gentle riverside paths along the Lys; suitable for easy to moderate strolls.

Airports

How to reach Hazebrouck by plane.

Lille Airport (LIL)

Closest international airport; about an hour by car or train from Hazebrouck.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Major international hub located roughly 90-120 minutes by road/train; alternative for long-haul flights.

Ostend-Bruges International Airport (OST)

Belgian airport about 60-90 minutes away by car; convenient for certain European routes.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hazebrouck has a compact, pedestrian-friendly center where most sights, shops, and cafés are within walking distance. For surrounding countryside and villages, a bike or car is convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families live in Hazebrouck and surrounding villages; the area is family-friendly with schools and parks.

Students

Proximity to larger towns means student presence in nearby cities; some commuter options available.

Retirees

Calmer pace of life with interest in nature, local culture, and community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

A popular pastime across the region, with scenic routes through farmland and along canal paths.

Football (soccer)

Local clubs and matches are common; a staple of regional culture.

Tennis

Public courts are available in town and nearby communities for recreational play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light in Hazebrouck. The town center can have narrow streets; regional trains and buses connect to Lille and Dunkirk. Driving in rural lanes requires attention to cyclists and farm traffic.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hazebrouck.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available in most cafes and bistros. Look for vegetable quiches, salads, cheese plates, grilled mushrooms, and veggie mains; ask to modify meat dishes or request cheese-focused plates.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible through local clinics and a network of nearby hospitals in larger towns. For major services, residents may travel to Lille or Dunkirk; pharmacies are common and can provide basic care and prescriptions.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide