Things To Do
in Roubaix
Roubaix is a city located in northern France, near the Belgian border. Known for its industrial past, it was historically a center for textile production. Today, Roubaix is undergoing revitalization efforts to transform former factories into cultural and commercial spaces.
The city is also home to the famous Roubaix Velodrome, a historic cycling track that hosts the Paris-Roubaix bike race.
- "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): $30 - $70
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Roubaix Velodrome, exploring its rich cycling history. A guided tour will give insights into the famous cycling events held here.
Head to La Piscine Museum, a former swimming pool turned art museum, showcasing stunning artworks. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the museumâs cafĂ© before diving into the exhibits.
Stroll through the city center, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and historic buildings. Stop for dinner at a local bistro to taste traditional French cuisine.
Visit La Piscine Museum in the morning to avoid crowds and appreciate its unique architecture. The mix of art and history makes for a captivating start to your day.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, sampling local pastries and coffee. Afterward, visit the Manufacture de Roubaix, a heritage site featuring textiles and industry heritage.
Catch a local theater performance or cultural event in the city. Dine at an atmospheric restaurant to round off your artistic adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history in cycling, hosting the Paris-Roubaix race.
- Beautiful historic architecture and buildings.
- Vibrant cultural scene with museums and events.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in France.
- Proximity to Belgium and other French cities for easy travel.
- Weather can be less favorable, with cold winters and damp conditions.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger cities.
- Some areas may experience socioeconomic challenges.
- Public transport options are not as extensive as in bigger metropolitan areas.
- Less nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Roubaix
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A beautiful park for walking, picnicking, and enjoying nature in the heart of Roubaix.
Explore the stunning architecture and extensive gardens of this historic villa.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the picturesque Canal de Roubaix with its tree-lined paths and tranquil atmosphere.
Tours
Uncover the best of Roubaix with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Roubaix
Visit one of these nice places.
This former art deco swimming pool has been converted into a museum and offers beautiful architecture and photo opportunities.
A large public park with a lake, gardens, and picturesque scenery, ideal for capturing scenic shots.
A stunning modernist mansion with remarkable architecture, providing a unique backdrop for photography.
Food in Roubaix
Roubaix Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A terrine of various meats such as rabbit, chicken, and pork, traditionally served cold. Can be found at La Bistrote and La Guinguette.
Must-Try!
A hearty dish of toasted bread topped with ham, a rich cheddar sauce, and often a fried egg. Best enjoyed at Brasserie Les Arcades or La Brasserie.
A beef and onion stew braised in Belgian beer, creating a sweet and tangy flavor. Available at Le Vagabond or L'Estaminet Flamand.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Roubaix better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and a variety of prepared foods. Try the savory crepes and North African specialties.
Known for its diverse offerings, including fresh seafood, olives, spices, and flavorful street foods like merguez sausage sandwiches and couscous.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Roubaix, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly in formal settings. When entering a room or joining a group, it is polite to greet everyone individually.
Respecting time is important in Roubaix. Being punctual for social events, business meetings, and appointments is a sign of respect for others' time and demonstrates good manners.
When dining in Roubaix, it is polite to wait for the host or the eldest person at the table to start eating before you begin. It's also customary to keep your hands visible on the table and to engage in conversation during the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Roubaix with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Roubaix
Ensure a smooth experience
In Roubaix, France, tipping is not mandatory, but it is common to leave a small tip (5-10%) for good service in restaurants, cafes, and bars. Tipping for other services such as taxi rides and hotel staff is also appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is widely accepted in Roubaix, especially in smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are also commonly used, particularly in larger stores and restaurants. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular and widely available in the city.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Roubaix.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for milder weather and blooming flowers. Expect moderate temperatures and occasional rain.
Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. Expect warm weather and longer days.
Great for seeing the fall foliage and enjoying cooler temperatures. Expect colorful landscapes and harvest festivals.
Perfect for experiencing the holiday atmosphere and enjoying winter sports. Expect cold temperatures and the possibility of snow.
Roubaix at Night
Hiking in Roubaix
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park located in Roubaix, offering scenic walking trails and a natural environment for leisurely hikes.
A spacious park in Roubaix with various walking paths, ideal for short hikes and enjoying the local flora.
Located a short distance from Roubaix, this area features several hiking trails with beautiful views of the Flemish hills.
A regional natural park offering extensive hiking trails, rich biodiversity, and beautiful landscapes, located approximately 30 kilometers from Roubaix.
A forest area near Roubaix, known for its tranquil trails and natural beauty, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Roubaix through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Roubaix by plane.
The nearest international airport to Roubaix, located approximately 11 km away, serving flights to various European destinations.
Located about 115 km from Roubaix, it is the largest international airport in Belgium, serving as a major hub for flights worldwide.
Also known as Brussels South Charleroi Airport, located around 90 km away, primarily serving low-cost airlines and European destinations.
Located approximately 220 km from Roubaix, it is one of the busiest airports in Europe, providing extensive international connections.
Situated about 250 km from Roubaix, this is the largest airport in France and a major hub for international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of Roubaix's population comes from North Africa and other regions, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
Historically, Roubaix has been a center for industrial activity, attracting a large working-class population, particularly in manufacturing and textiles.
The city has a large percentage of young people, including students and young families, contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.
An increasing number of older adults live in Roubaix, reflecting broader demographic trends in urban areas across France.
With various educational institutions, Roubaix has a notable student population, contributing to the local economy and culture.
The Soul of Roubaix
Discover the essence of Roubaix through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Roubaix is famous for the Paris-Roubaix race, often called 'Hell of the North', showcasing its rich cycling heritage.
Football is popular in Roubaix, with local clubs that compete in regional leagues and a strong community following.
Rugby has a growing presence in Roubaix, with clubs that promote the sport and engage local youth.
Athletics is widely practiced in Roubaix, with various events and local competitions enhancing community participation.
Basketball is popular among the youth in Roubaix, with local teams and leagues contributing to the vibrant sports culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Roubaix.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Roubaix offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as falafel wraps, ratatouille, and vegetable tagines. La Bistrote and Le Barbier Vert are great options.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free crĂȘpes at MarchĂ© de l'Alma or opt for grilled fish and salad options at Le Vagabond.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Roubaix with these cultural adventures.
