A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lille vs. Siena for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Lille or Siena?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lille or Siena, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lille

Lille is a historic, under-rated, and fascinating city. Lille is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Lille travel costs.

Siena

Siena is a charming, medieval, and history city. You'll find world class beauty in Siena as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Siena travel costs.

Lille and Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lille or Siena?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lille than Siena. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lille is very popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping, while Siena attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Siena is more touristy than Lille and is known for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace. Lille is famous for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene. It is also well known for Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle).

Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle)

How is Lille different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Siena 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 Siena can be an interesting and educational experience. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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 Lille or Siena? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lille is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Siena has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

Is Lille or Siena Better for Nightlife?

Lille is notable for nightlife. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Lille has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Siena. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Lille or Siena Better for its Old Town?

Siena is very popular for its old town. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Siena has a world-famous historical area. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

Lille is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Lille or Siena?

Lille is very popular for shopping. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Lille is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Siena. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Lille or Siena More Beautiful?

Siena is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Siena as well. It's considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany. There's a central plaza with neighborhoods spreading out from there. The buildings are made of a distinct medieval brick and the atmosphere is enjoyable.

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.

Is Lille or Siena Better for Families?

Lille is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Lille is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Lille or Siena Better for Couples?

Siena is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Siena has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

Lille is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Lille or Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Lille and Siena are nice destinations for backpackers.

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.

Siena is a good city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Lille or Siena Better for Students?

Lille and Siena are both excellent destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Siena. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

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

Lille is notable for its public transit. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Lille is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

Siena has some public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Lille or Siena a more walkable city?

Lille is very popular for its walkability. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Lille on foot. 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.

Siena is a very walkable city. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Siena or Lille?

How long in Lille or Siena?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lille or Siena to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lille than Siena because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lille, and 1-2 days is enough time in Siena.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lille than Siena 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 Lille or Siena?

In Lille, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Siena, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this history destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Lille or Siena?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lille. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Siena. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Five days in Lille or Siena?

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

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

A week in Lille or Siena?

You'll find food and shopping around the culinary destination of Lille. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the history destination of Siena. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lille and Siena, we can see that Siena is more expensive. And not only is Lille much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lille would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lille and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Siena would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Siena than you might in Lille.

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

Which is Bigger, Lille or Siena?

Lille has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Siena. When comparing the sizes of Lille and Siena, 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 Lille or Siena?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lille or Siena in the Summer?

Both Siena and Lille are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lille for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Siena because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lille is generally cooler than Siena. Daily temperatures in Lille average around 17°C (63°F), and Siena fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Siena. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lille. Lille usually receives less sunshine than Siena during summer. Lille gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lille usually receives more rain than Siena. Lille gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lille or Siena in the Autumn?

Both Siena and Lille during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Lille because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Siena this time of year.

Lille is cooler than Siena in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Siena fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Lille often gets less sunshine than Siena. Lille gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun.

Lille usually gets less rain in October than Siena. Lille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lille or Siena in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lille and Siena. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lille this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Siena for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Lille in the winter. In the winter, Lille is much colder than Siena. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lille in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Siena averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Lille usually receives less sunshine than Siena during winter. Lille gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lille usually receives less rain than Siena. Lille gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lille or Siena in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lille as well as Siena. Many travelers come to Lille for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Siena in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Lille is generally cooler than Siena. Daily temperatures in Lille average around 8°C (47°F), and Siena fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Lille often gets less sunshine than Siena. Lille gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun.

Lille usually gets less rain in April than Siena. Lille gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Siena and Lille