Lille's a good place to go for a short break - it's compact, and easily covered on foot. The people are friendly and helpful, and put me at ease despite my appalling French, and there was plenty to do to fill a couple of days. Don't miss exploring Vieux Lille, the parks, and the galleries, and the Wazemmes market.

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Lille Zoo, in the Bois de Boulogne, is free to visit and great fun for kids (of all ages). The park itself is great for a leisurely walk (mind the joggers), and you can hire a segway or bike while you're there.

Avenue Mathias Delobel, Bois de Boulogne;
tel: 03 28 52 07 00;
Metro: République Beaux-Arts;
www.zoolille.com

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Restaurant on Grand Place offering good-value bistro food. The mussels, maroilles tart, and the carbonnade were all very good, as was the service. Dinner for two with drinks costs around 50 euro.

44 Place General de Gaulle

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This bakery/cafe just off Grand Place has friendly staff and great continental breakfasts and salads. Good value, and tasty!

35, place Rihour;
tel: 03 20 42 88 70
www.painquotidien.com

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Microbrewery opposite Lille Flanders station. The food here's OK (pub grub - go for the Flammekuche pizza) but the real draw is the beer, brewed on site. Try the tasting menu: four house beers in little sampling glasses. Also sells beer to take home - a three-pack of 75cl bottles is about 10 euro.

22 place de la gare, 59000 Lille;
tel: 03 20 06 4625;
www.les3brasseurs.com

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