Things To Do
in Lens
Lens is a charming town in northern France, known for its rich mining history and vibrant cultural scene. It is located near the historic coal mining region and has been revitalized in recent years, making it a fascinating place to explore. The town is also home to the Louvre-Lens museum, which houses impressive art collections.
With its friendly atmosphere, Lens offers a unique blend of history, art, and local traditions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Louvre-Lens museum, which opens at 10 AM, and enjoy the stunning architecture and art exhibitions.
Take a stroll through the Parc des Glissoires, where you can relax by the water and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Dine at La Table de l'Atelier, a local restaurant known for its modern take on traditional French cuisine.
Visit the Notre-Dame de Lens Basilica, an architectural gem that offers insights into the town's history.
Explore the Lens 14-18 Museum, which focuses on the impact of World War I on the region.
End your day at Le Pub, a lively bar where you can enjoy local beers and mingle with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Restaurant | $15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
| 🍺Beer | $5 |
| 🏨Hotel Night | $80 |
| 🚇Public Transport Ticket | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural attractions.
- Friendly local community.
- Affordable dining and accommodation options.
- Limited options for nightlife compared to larger cities.
- Weather can be unpredictable.
- Public transport may not be as frequent as in bigger cities.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Lens
Visit one of these nice places.
The striking architecture of the museum offers a perfect backdrop for photography, especially during golden hour.
This beautiful basilica is rich in history and features stunning stained glass windows, ideal for capturing architectural details.
This park provides picturesque views and serene natural settings, perfect for landscape photography.
Food in Lens
Lens Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional dish made from meat, typically served cold, and often accompanied by pickles.
Must-Try!
A hearty dish originally from Wales, consisting of melted cheese and beer served over bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market held every Wednesday and Saturday, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting, such as 'Bonjour,' is expected when entering shops or restaurants.
Keeping your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during meals is considered polite.
Showing respect for local customs and traditions is important, especially in historical sites.
Safety
Tipping in Lens
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in France, as service charges are included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, though it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Lens brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.
Summer is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the outdoors, but can also be crowded with tourists.
Autumn offers beautiful foliage and cooler weather, ideal for sightseeing and enjoying local festivals.
Winter can be quite cold, with occasional snowfall; however, the festive atmosphere during Christmas time is enchanting.
Lens at Night
Hiking in Lens
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hiking trail located about an hour away from Lens, offering stunning views and a chance to explore the natural landscape.
This scenic trail features varied terrain and is perfect for both hiking and nature walks, located just a short drive from Lens.
Airports
How to reach Lens by plane.
Located about 35 km from Lens, Lille Airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport to the town.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Lens's population is made up of local residents, who are friendly and welcoming to visitors.
With nearby educational institutions, there is a significant student population that contributes to the town's youthful energy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a major sport in Lens, with the local team, RC Lens, having a passionate fan base.
Cycling is popular due to the scenic routes available in and around Lens, attracting both casual riders and enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lens.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Lens offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask which options are available.
While options may be limited, some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free diets if informed in advance.