Vielle Bourse, built in 1652, is one of the most spectacular buildings in Lille. It is located in Place du General de Gaulle, the main square, and has been restored to its original 17th century Flemish Renaissance beauty.

It is actually made up of 24 individual houses, which surround a cloistered courtyard. Each house is slightly different due to interesting and ornate mouldings on the outer walls.

At certain times of the week the courtyard is open to the public. On a Sunday there is a book market. It was a very peaceful place to be. The building is very colourful. You can walk from the Grand Place through the Vieille Bourse to the Place du Theatre

Old Lille - Vieux Lille

Vieux Lille or Old Lille is perhaps the most picturesque district of Lille. It is immediately north of Place General de Gaulle min town square. There are 17th century cobbled streets, antique shops, some nice restaurants and close by a big park: a great area to walk in. It is situated in and around Rue de la Monnaie.

This is also the area where the Musee Hospice Comtesse is situated. On the corner of Place Louis de Bettignies and Rue des Bonnes Rappes stands a very old bakery. It's a lovely little shop dating from 1793. The Flemish architecture stands out on the townhouses and courtyards. This area is where all the haute-couture fashion boutiques are.

You can find many different shops for varying styles and prices. Many people shop these stores during the day and then hang out in the quarter at night.

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