Things To Do
in Longuenesse

Longuenesse is a charming commune located in the Pas-de-Calais department of northern France. Nestled near the historic city of Saint-Omer, it offers a blend of rich history and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can explore the surrounding countryside, characterized by lush greenery and serene waterways.

The town's proximity to various cultural attractions makes it an ideal base for travelers seeking to discover the beauty of the Hauts-de-France region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Longuenesse
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through the Parc de la Mairie, where you can enjoy quiet gardens and scenic views.

evening
:

Dine at a local bistro where you can savor traditional French cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the nearby Saint-Omer Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the Maison de la Culture, which features exhibits on local history and culture.

evening
:

Enjoy a wine tasting session at a local vineyard followed by dinner at a cozy restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$15
Cup of coffee$3
🍷Glass of local wine$5
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Budget hotel per night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and peaceful environment.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites nearby.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh ingredients.
  • Limited nightlife options for those seeking vibrant entertainment.
  • Public transport may be infrequent outside peak hours.
  • English may not be widely spoken in some areas.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Longuenesse

Visit one of these nice places.

Saint-Omer Cathedral

A stunning Gothic structure with intricate details, perfect for architectural photography.

Canal de Saint-Omer

Scenic waterways that provide picturesque views, especially during sunset.

Parc de la Mairie

Beautiful gardens with vibrant flowers and tranquil ponds, ideal for nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Longuenesse

Longuenesse offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes and beverages that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Longuenesse Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Potjevleesch

A traditional dish made of three types of meat, served cold with pickles.

Must-Try!

Maroilles Cheese

A strong-smelling cheese typical of the region, often enjoyed with bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods from local vendors.

Street Crepes

Crepe stalls can be found around town, offering sweet and savory options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Longuenesse experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting with a Kiss

When meeting locals, it's customary to greet with a light kiss on both cheeks.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table (but not elbows) during meals, and say 'Bon appétit' before eating.

Politeness is Key

Always greet shopkeepers and waitstaff with 'Bonjour' before making a request.

Safety Guide

Safety

Longuenesse is generally a safe town, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Always keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Longuenesse

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not obligatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures start to warm up, with blooming flowers making it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Mild temperatures allow for pleasant exploration, but occasional rain showers are common.

Autumn

The foliage turns beautiful shades, providing a picturesque backdrop for photography.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snow, ideal for cozy indoor activities and enjoying hot beverages.

Nightlife Guide

Longuenesse at Night

Longuenesse offers a relaxed nightlife with a few cozy bars and bistros where locals gather for drinks and conversation. While it may not have a bustling club scene, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it perfect for a quiet evening out with friends. Some establishments may host live music or themed nights for added entertainment.

Hiking in Longuenesse

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier de la Vallée de l'Aa

A scenic trail that follows the Aa River, offering beautiful views and diverse wildlife.

Mont des Cats

A nearby hill that provides hiking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Airports

How to reach Longuenesse by plane.

Lille Airport (LIL)

Approximately 85 km from Longuenesse, Lille Airport offers both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Longuenesse is fairly walkable, with most amenities located within a short distance of each other. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. However, some attractions may require a short drive or bike ride.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The community is primarily composed of French families who have lived in the area for generations.

Tourists

Visitors from various countries come to explore the history and natural beauty of the region, especially in summer.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local clubs competing in various leagues.

Cycling

The surrounding countryside provides excellent routes for cycling enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Longuenesse is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses connecting to nearby towns and cities. However, during peak hours, main roads may experience some congestion.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Longuenesse.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some bistros provide gluten-free options; inquire ahead if you have strict dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Longuenesse are accessible, with a local clinic offering basic medical services. For more specialized care, the nearby city of Saint-Omer has hospitals and medical centers. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide