Satisfy your appetite for art, culture and history in Roubaix. The city is dotted with heritage-listed buildings, including a beautiful Gothic church built in the 16th century. Shop at independent boutiques, dine at elegant bistros and visit one of the most unique fine art galleries in France.
Things to do in Roubaix
You’ll be at a loss for words as you step into La Piscine Musée d'Art et d'Industrie. The stunning Art Deco public swimming pool is reimagined as a fine arts museum, where you can admire paintings, sculptures, furniture, fashion and more. Light floods into the gallery through gold-hued stained glass windows and the reflections from the water-filled pool are enchanting. It’s worth treating yourself to lunch at the contemporary French bistro.
Roubaix is a stone’s throw from the Belgian border, which means you’ll see plenty of chocolate, waffles and other Flemish treats sold in town. Dishes like “waterzooi” Belgian stew made with chicken, shellfish and heavy cream are a treat. “Moules et frites” mussels served with French fries is a favourite with Lille locals.
Cafes and restaurants spill onto Grand'Place, the town’s lively main square. It’s framed by handsome historic buildings, including Eglise St-Martin. The church dates to the 1500s and welcomes you with a magnificent stone façade and impressive Gothic towers. Walk through the cavernous central nave and attend music concerts to experience the incredible acoustics.
Discover up-and-coming designers at Maisons de Mode. Within the space are independent studios and boutiques where you can browse clothing, jewellery, shoes and homewares by local designers. The collective moonlights as a café where you can enjoy café au lait and croissants.
Getting around Roubaix
Roubaix is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The town is in the Lille metropolitan area, 20 minutes from the city centre by car or train. Lille Airport is a 30-minute drive away.