Things To Do
in Lens
Lens is a charming city located in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France. It is known for its rich mining history and the historic UNESCO-listed mining pit, now transformed into a popular tourist attraction. The city is also home to the impressive Louvre-Lens museum, which showcases a variety of art and exhibitions.
Lens offers a mix of cultural experiences, from exploring its industrial heritage to enjoying its vibrant local food scene.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at a local café. Visit the impressive Lens 14-18 Museum to learn about the region's history during World War I.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in regional cuisine. Spend the afternoon wandering through the beautiful Parc des Anciennes Moulins, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Dine at a bistro offering traditional French dishes. Conclude your day by exploring the local nightlife or relaxing at a wine bar.
Visit the Louvre-Lens, an impressive satellite of the famous museum in Paris. Marvel at the stunning collections and exhibitions showcasing art from various periods.
Enjoy lunch at the museumâs cafĂ© while overlooking the gardens. Afterward, take a guided tour of the historic Church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Gloriette.
Savor a leisurely dinner at a local brasserie. After your meal, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a theater performance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including historical sites and museums.
- Vibrant local cuisine with unique dishes and regional specialties.
- Strong sense of community and local events.
- Proximity to other major cities and destinations in northern France.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger French cities like Paris.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger urban areas.
- Public transportation may not be as extensive as in bigger cities.
- Weather can be relatively cold and gray, especially in winter months.
- Some areas may suffer from industrial decline and urban decay.
- Less international presence, which may affect multicultural aspects.
Best Activities in Lens
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the impressive art collection and iconic glass structure of this museum located in Lens, France.
Pay a visit to this historical site to learn about the region's wartime history and pay tribute to the fallen soldiers.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride in this picturesque park, which offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lens with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lens
Visit one of these nice places.
A museum with striking architecture and beautiful outdoor spaces that provide excellent views for photography.
The twin slag heaps are popular for capturing unique landscape photography and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The castle grounds offer picturesque scenery and a historical backdrop for photo opportunities.
Food in Lens
Lens Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional terrine dish made with a mix of meats such as chicken, rabbit, and pork, seasoned with herbs and spices. It is typically served cold and is a popular delicacy in the region. One can try this dish at Le Bistrot de St. So, a charming establishment known for its authentic regional cuisine.
Must-Try!
Originating from Picardy, this leek tart is a savory delight. A crispy pastry filled with a creamy mixture of leeks, cream, and sometimes cheese. Visit La Table de la Maison des Cultures du Monde to savor this local specialty.
This is a delectable pie made with Maroilles cheese, a pungent local cheese. The unique flavor and creamy texture make it a must-try for cheese enthusiasts. Chez Martine is a recommended spot to enjoy this dish with a glass of wine.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lens better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling market of Lens offers a diverse selection of fresh produce, cheeses, and local specialties. Visitors can indulge in street food such as crepes, galettes, and Belgian fries as they wander through the vibrant stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Lens, France, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, particularly when conversing or queuing up.
When interacting with people in Lens, France, it is customary to be polite and greet others with a handshake, especially in formal settings.
During meals, it is considered respectful to keep your hands on the table and to wait until everyone is served before starting to eat in Lens, France.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lens with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lens
Ensure a smooth experience
In Lens, France, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is appreciated to leave a small amount of extra change or round up the bill as a gesture of satisfaction with the service.
Payment in Lens, France is commonly made using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. Major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, and contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions and in case certain establishments do not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lens.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Lens, France is in spring (March to May) when the weather starts to warm up, flowers bloom, and outdoor attractions come to life. Expect mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and the possibility of occasional rain showers.
Summer (June to August) is also a great time to visit Lens. Expect warm and sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so attractions may be more crowded.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and fall foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit Lens. Expect crisp air, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to experience seasonal events and local harvest festivals.
Winter (December to February) in Lens can be cold and rainy, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holiday season. Expect fewer tourists, holiday markets, and indoor attractions to explore.
Lens at Night
Hiking in Lens
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large regional park with diverse landscapes, offering various hiking trails suitable for all levels.
Twin hills created from mining waste, providing unique views and several hiking paths around the area.
A beautiful forest area with extensive trails, perfect for walking and enjoying nature.
A scenic walking route that takes hikers past historical windmills and through picturesque countryside.
A trail offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for more experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lens through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lens by plane.
Located approximately 35 kilometers from Lens, Lille Airport serves as the main international gateway to the region of Hauts-de-France.
About 120 kilometers from Lens, Brussels Airport is one of the largest international airports in Belgium and serves as a major hub for flights across Europe and beyond.
Approximately 200 kilometers from Lens, Charles de Gaulle Airport is the largest airport in France and one of the busiest in Europe, offering a wide range of international flights.
Located around 250 kilometers from Lens, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is a major international airport in the Netherlands, serving as a key European transit hub.
Around 200 kilometers from Lens, this airport primarily serves domestic flights but also has a number of international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Lens, primarily composed of individuals with French nationality.
A significant number of residents originate from North Africa, particularly Algeria and Morocco, as well as from other European countries.
A demographic category that constitutes a large portion of Lens's population, including students and young working professionals.
This group includes elderly residents, representing a growing demographic in Lens as in many European cities.
Women make up just over half of the population in Lens, involved in various sectors and community activities.
Men also represent a significant portion of the population, engaged in the workforce and local culture.
The Soul of Lens
Discover the essence of Lens through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Lens, home to the famous RC Lens football club.
The region has a strong cycling culture with numerous cycling events and routes popular among enthusiasts.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Lens, with local clubs and youth programs fostering talent.
Rugby has a dedicated following in the area, with clubs competing at various levels.
Handball is played widely in local clubs, contributing to the sports community in Lens.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lens.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Lens has a growing number of restaurants and cafes that cater to vegetarians and vegans. Popular options include La Part des Anges, which offers a creative vegetarian menu, and Grain de Foli, known for its vegan-friendly dishes.
Travelers with gluten restrictions will find accommodating choices at Le Jardin des Saveurs, a restaurant with a dedicated gluten-free menu, and Maison Meunier, known for its gluten-free baked goods and pastries.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Lens with these cultural adventures.
