A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Leiden vs. Lille for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Leiden or Lille?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Leiden and Lille can help you decide which place is right for you.

Leiden

Leiden is a cultural, scholarly, and historic city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Leiden travel costs.

Lille

Lille is a friendly, historic, and under-rated city. With stunning beauty, Lille attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Lille travel costs.

Leiden and Lille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Leiden or Lille?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lille than Leiden, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Lille is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Leiden is known for its museums and attractions. Leiden is popular for its many museums and renowned university. Lille is popular for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene. It is also home to Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle).

Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle)

How is Leiden different from Lille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lille and Leiden. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Leiden or Lille?

Leiden is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Leiden can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a huge number of museums around town. Some are affiliated with the museum, while others are not. Some of the favorites include the National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden), Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Boerhaave Museum, the Corpus Museum, and the National Ethnological Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lille. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

Is the Food Better in Leiden or Lille? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lille is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Lille has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Leiden makes for a great culinary experience. There's a diverse food scene with many international flavors such as Japanese, Chinese, and French. The cafe culture influences the culinary scene and you'll find many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat.

Is Leiden or Lille Better for Nightlife?

Lille is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Lille has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

Leiden has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The large student population means that there is a good nightlife scene. There are a variety of bars, pubs, and cafes where you can enjoy a drink, with options ranging from cozy, intimate spots to larger, more vibrant venues. The Oude Markt area, with its charming historic setting, is a hotspot for nightlife, offering a mix of traditional Dutch bars and international-themed pubs.

Is Leiden or Lille Better for its Old Town?

Lille is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Leiden does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Lille. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

Leiden does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Leiden or Lille?

Lille is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Lille specifically to go shopping. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

Leiden is a great destination for shopping. There are a mix of unique boutiques, international brands, and charming local stores. The Breestraat and Nieuwe Rijn are popular shopping streets, and they're lined with a variety of shops selling everything from fashion and accessories to books, art, and antiques. The city also has several markets, including a weekly Saturday market near the Pieterskerk, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and vintage items.

Is Leiden or Lille More Beautiful?

Lille is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Lille attracts visitors from all around. The city is all about the historic architecture, which give it a lot of beauty. The buildings in the old town have very ornate details.

Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Leiden or Lille Better for Families?

Leiden is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Leiden is a very kid-friendly city. The town has a mix of educational, cultural, and fun activities for all ages. There are many family-friendly museums like Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where kids can explore dinosaurs and wildlife, and the National Museum of Antiquities, which brings history to life. There's also the Corpus Museum, which takes visitors on a unique, interactive journey through the human body.

Lille is a family-friendly city. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Leiden or Lille Better for Couples?

Both Leiden and Lille are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Leiden is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy charming towns and world class museums will enjoy their time here. The town also has picturesque canals, historic bridges, and cozy street cafes. Couples can explore places like the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands, or enjoy a quiet moment in the scenic Leidse Hout Park.

Lille is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

Is Leiden or Lille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Leiden and Lille are both good destinations for backpackers.

Leiden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city offers affordable accommodations, including hostels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as reasonably priced eateries serving Dutch classics and international cuisine. Many of Leiden’s attractions, like its historic canals, charming streets, and open-air markets, can be enjoyed for free.

It's common for backpackers to visit Lille. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Is Leiden or Lille Better for Students?

Both Leiden and Lille are excellent destinations for students.

Leiden is very popular with students. It feels like a university town and it's home to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands. The university is known for its academic excellence and vibrant student community. The town also has a young atmosphere with plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and cultural events that influence the student life. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike, and the abundance of libraries, study spaces, and museums provides ample resources for learning and inspiration. Housing can be difficult to find though.

Lille is a great city to visit as a student. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

Is Leiden or Lille Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lille is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Lille. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

You'll find some public transit in Leiden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Leiden Central Station is the main hub for trains, which connect the city to other towns throughout the country. Around town there are buses that are reliable and convenient.

Is Leiden or Lille a more walkable city?

Lille is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Lille. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored on foot.

Leiden is very walkable. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with many of its attractions, cafes, shops, and historical sites located within walking distance of each other.

For even more information, also check out Is Leiden Worth Visiting? and Is Lille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lille or Leiden?

How long in Leiden or Lille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Leiden and Lille. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lille than in Leiden. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Leiden, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lille.

Families should spend more time in Leiden than Lille. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Leiden, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lille than Leiden. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lille that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lille than Leiden if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Lille.

One day in Leiden or Lille?

In Leiden, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lille. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Leiden or Lille?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Leiden. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Lille is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Leiden or Lille?

Leiden is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Leiden. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lille. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Leiden or Lille?

You'll find food and shopping around the scholarly destination of Leiden. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the culinary destination of Lille. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When comparing the travel costs between Leiden and Lille, we can see that Leiden is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Leiden Expensive? and Is Lille Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Leiden or Lille?

Lille has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Leiden. When comparing the sizes of Leiden and Lille, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Leiden or Lille?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Leiden or Lille in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Leiden as well as Lille. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Leiden this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Lille for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Leiden is generally around the same temperature as Lille. Daily temperatures in Leiden average around 17°C (62°F), and Lille fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lille. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Leiden this time of the year. In the summer, Leiden often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lille. Leiden gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 202 hours of full sun.

Leiden usually gets more rain in July than Lille. Leiden gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Lille receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Leiden or Lille in the Autumn?

Both Lille and Leiden are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Leiden for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Lille in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Leiden is cooler than Lille in the autumn. The daily temperature in Leiden averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Lille fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Leiden usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lille during autumn. Leiden gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Leiden usually receives less rain than Lille. Leiden gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Leiden or Lille in the Winter?

Both Lille and Leiden during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Leiden in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lille for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lille can be very cold during winter. Leiden can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Leiden is much colder than Lille. Typically, the winter temperatures in Leiden in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Lille averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Leiden often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lille. Leiden gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 47 hours of full sun.

Leiden usually gets more rain in January than Lille. Leiden gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Lille receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Leiden or Lille in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Leiden and Lille. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lille because of the natural beauty.

In April, Leiden is generally cooler than Lille. Daily temperatures in Leiden average around 8°C (46°F), and Lille fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Leiden usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lille during spring. Leiden gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Leiden usually receives more rain than Lille. Leiden gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lille receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lille and Leiden