Things To Do
in Oignies

Oignies is a charming commune located in the Pas-de-Calais department in northern France, known for its rich coal-mining history and picturesque landscapes. The town features beautiful parks and green spaces, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and outdoor activities. Oignies is also close to larger cities like Lens and Arras, providing visitors with access to cultural attractions and dining options.

The community is friendly and welcoming, making it a delightful place to explore.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Oignies
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Parc de la Mairie to enjoy a peaceful stroll and take in the natural beauty. Grab a light breakfast at a local boulangerie.

afternoon
:

Explore the local history at the Église Saint-Étienne, a beautiful church with stunning architecture. Afterward, visit a nearby café for lunch and enjoy some local pastries.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk through the town to soak in the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nearby Attractions
morning
:

Take a short trip to the Louvre-Lens Museum, where you can admire impressive artworks and exhibitions. Have brunch at a café nearby.

afternoon
:

Visit the Lens 14-18 Museum to learn about the region's history during World War I. Spend some time in the town center exploring shops and local artisans.

evening
:

Return to Oignies for dinner at a traditional restaurant, and if the weather permits, enjoy an outdoor movie screening or concert if available.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee at a café$3
🍞Loaf of bread$2
🥖Pastry from a bakery$1.50
🚌Public transportation ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces
  • Close proximity to larger cities with more attractions
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent
  • Smaller selection of international cuisine
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Oignies

Visit one of these nice places.

Église Saint-Étienne

This beautiful church with its intricate architecture and surrounding gardens provides a perfect backdrop for photography.

Parc de la Mairie

A serene park filled with flowers and trees, ideal for capturing nature shots and peaceful landscapes.

Louvre-Lens Museum

The modern architecture of the museum combined with its art installations makes for stunning photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Oignies

Oignies offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the region's agricultural heritage and local flavors. You can expect hearty dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding areas.

Oignies Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Potjevleesch

A traditional meat dish, typically served cold, made from various types of meat and seasoned with herbs and spices.

Must-Try!

Welsh

A hearty dish made with melted cheese, beer, and ham, served with bread for dipping.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Market at Oignies

Every Saturday, the local market features fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies, ideal for sampling street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Oignies experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in the summer months to around 5°C (41°F) in winter. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella. Spring and autumn bring comfortable temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly greeting is customary; a simple 'Bonjour' is expected when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

It is polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and keeping your hands on the table (but not elbows) is preferred.

Dress Code

Dress well when dining out, as the French tend to appreciate a neat and stylish appearance.

Safety Guide

Safety

Oignies is generally a safe place for visitors, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be aware of your belongings in crowded markets. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals are well-equipped for medical emergencies.

Tipping in Oignies

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a small tip of around 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Oignies is mild and beautiful, with blooming flowers and numerous outdoor events, making it a great time to visit parks.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather and vibrant festivals, perfect for outdoor dining and exploring the local culture.

Autumn

Autumn features stunning foliage, and the cooler temperatures make it ideal for hiking and exploring historical sites.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the festive season brings charming decorations and holiday markets to enjoy.

Nightlife Guide

Oignies at Night

Oignies has a quaint but vibrant nightlife scene, primarily consisting of cozy bars and bistros where locals gather. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. While there may not be large nightclubs, smaller venues often feature live music or themed events, creating a lively ambiance for socializing.

Hiking in Oignies

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chemin des Dames

A historic trail that offers stunning views and insights into the region's World War I history, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Sentier de la Scarpe

A scenic path along the Scarpe River that provides a tranquil hiking experience amidst nature.

Airports

How to reach Oignies by plane.

Lille Airport (LIL)

Located approximately 40 km from Oignies, Lille Airport offers domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Oignies is a very walkable town, with most attractions, parks, and restaurants within a short distance of each other. The town layout encourages foot traffic, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are pedestrian-friendly streets, making it safe and enjoyable to wander around.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Oignies is home to a diverse population, primarily composed of French residents who are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Tourists

The town attracts tourists mainly from nearby cities looking to explore the rich cultural heritage and enjoy a quieter pace.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Oignies, with local clubs and community support for youth leagues.

Cycling

The region is known for its cycling routes, attracting enthusiasts for both recreational and competitive cycling events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Oignies is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect Oignies to nearby towns and cities, although schedules may vary. Cycling is a popular alternative, with several bike paths available for safe travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Oignies.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it is advisable to check with staff as not all menus may be vegetarian-friendly.

Gluten-Free Options

Some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free diets, but it is best to inquire ahead.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Oignies is accessible, with a local health center offering general medical services. For specialized care, residents may travel to nearby cities like Lens or Arras, where larger hospitals are equipped with comprehensive medical facilities. Emergency services are responsive, and pharmacies are conveniently located throughout the town.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide