The only way to enjoy Lille is with the animals. Take a visit to Le Chat Bleu (The Blue Cat) - off the main square - one of the most devine chocolate shops in Europe.

Chat with the friendly owner, buy a huge bag of chocolates and eat them on the way to the Zoo.

The Zoo is one of the most enertaining, relaxed places in Lille with some wonderful animals.

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In the Place du Theatre, find the cafe with mannequins and potties in the front window, but don't be put off from entering.

Inside the atmosphere is so continental, relaxed and friendly. If you like desserts then you've found paradise.

The dessert chef is so proud of his handiwork he'll even come and talk to you about his creations.

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Stay at a two bedroom apartment at Citadines Lille for fantastic location, brilliant spacious accommodation with superb facilities at an absolutely bargain price.

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Any visit to Lille must include some time exploring Furet du Nord, the largest bookstore in France.

This bibliophile's dream is a huge labyrinth consisting of eight floors and is the perfect place to escape from Lille's uncertain climate.

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Don't rule out evening Eurostar trains to Lille or Paris. Tickets are often cheaper and, despite the clocks being an hour ahead, your break can still start that night, as there's plenty of accommodation near the Eurostar terminals and good restaurants that stay open late.

For example, microbrewery Les Trois Brasseurs (22 Place de la Gare, Lille) has cheap-and-cheerful local dishes, while you might also try the art deco Brasserie Terminus Nord (23 Rue de Dunkerque, Paris).

www.lachope.com/troisbr.html

www.terminusnord.com

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Lille railway station no longer has a left-luggage facility, as I found out to my horror when planning to spend a day in the city before taking an evening train home.

In the end, I was able to leave my bags at a museum - which, despite requiring a cross-town journey, was a lot more satisfying than wiling away the hours in the station!

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There's no need to get a taxi to most hotels, as it is an easy five- or ten-minute walk over the bridge to the centre. Lille is also much better than Paris for a connection to other parts of France - you just have to change platforms.

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When you go to Lille and hire a car from the rental company in the station complex, remember to ask the rental office for the ticket which lets you out of the underground car park - and don't forget to take it downstairs with you!

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