France has always held a special place in the hearts of cyclists worldwide, but until recently, I never fully appreciated how deep that passion runs—especially in Lille. Nestled in northern France near the Belgian border, Lille is an unsung hero in the country's cultural and cycling landscape. My visit during the Grand Départ of the 2025 Tour de France was nothing short of unforgettable.

Welcome to Lille: The Beating Heart of Northern France

Often overlooked in favor of Paris or the villages of Provence, Lille is a city that surprises you. Historically a center of Europe's textile and brick-making industries, today it's a vibrant, youthful metropolis brimming with energy and pride.

With its Flemish roots, cobblestone streets, and an architectural blend of French and Belgian influences, Lille demands exploration. Locals are laid-back, cafés are bustling, and the culture runs deep.

What struck me most was the way old-world charm and modern vibrancy coexist. Lille hosts France's largest student population outside Paris, giving the entire city a creative pulse. Whether you're savoring a pastry at Meert, a patisserie operating since 1677, or indulging in the buttery delicacies at Aux Merveilleux de Fred, Lille wraps you in its unique charm.

Cycling Royalty: Home of Paris-Roubaix

For cyclists, Lille is more than a beautiful city—it's sacred ground. Just outside the city lies Roubaix, the dramatic finish of one of cycling's most grueling one-day races: Paris-Roubaix.

I had the rare chance to visit the Carrefour de l'Arbre, one of the race's most brutal cobbled sectors. No photo or video truly captures the chaos and brutality of these stones. They're uneven, jagged, and unforgiving. Riding across them can break bikes and bodies alike—yet every year, pros tackle them like gladiators.

Even more unforgettable was stepping into the legendary Roubaix Velodrome shower room, where each cubicle bears the name of a Paris-Roubaix champion. Standing there, I felt the echo of decades of triumph, suffering, and sheer willpower. This place is cycling history written in stone and sweat.

Estaminets, Beer, and Brisket: Lille's Local Flavor

Lille is famed for three culinary staples: cheese, beer, and beef brisket—and locals take them seriously. One evening, I found myself in a traditional estaminet called Au Vieux de la Vieille, thanks to friends from Van Rysel. This was authentic Lille hospitality.

The aroma of Maroilles cheese, the rich depth of the house beer, the perfectly cooked brisket—it wasn't just dinner; it was a cultural experience. Every dish told a story of tradition and local pride.

Lille's beer culture, heavily influenced by neighboring Belgium, is bold and diverse. And you're never far from a cozy café or pub, each with its own story and specialty brew.

The Grand Départ: Lille's Love Letter to Le Tour

My visit culminated with something extraordinary—the Grand Départ of the 2025 Tour de France, hosted for the first time in Lille. The city was electric. Streets overflowed with crowds, buildings glowed in yellow, and every corner pulsed with anticipation.

It wasn't merely a sporting event; it was a city-wide festival celebrating cycling. Kids donned jerseys, adults waved flags, and locals cheered with fierce pride. Watching team buses roll in, mechanics fine-tune bikes, and pros ride over Lille's cobblestones was simply magical.

Moments like these remind me that this isn't just a job—it's a privilege to witness cycling's heartbeat up close.

Why Lille Matters

Lille taught me an important lesson: cycling in France is not merely a sport—it's a lifestyle, a culture, and a source of local identity. And Lille stands as one of its beating hearts.

If you love cycling, dream of the Tour, or want to feel how a city can wrap itself around a sport and make it feel like home—Lille should be on your list.

It's more than a hidden gem. It's cycling royalty.

Next up: My behind-the-scenes experience with Van Rysel and the soul of the brand that's redefining modern cycling. See that blog post here.