Climb the steps up to the town hall's bell tower, the 104m tall UNESCO World Heritage site, to be rewarded by the 360° view over Lille and beyond (you can see 40km away on a clear day).

Head to Palais des Beaux Arts, Lille's municipal museum dedicated to fine art, sculpture and historic artefacts, with a series of expertly curated routes and gallery tours available.

A gallery like no other, La Piscine-Musée d'Art invites viewers to explore the series of rotating exhibitions amid the beautiful art-deco structure of a former municipal swimming pool.

Take a stroll around the Jardins de la Fontaine, grand 18th-century gardens located around the water source where ancient Nîmes was first founded. Discover the Roman monuments and statues here at one of Europe's first public parks.

Uncover Nîmes' rich history at the interractive Musée de la Romanité. In stark contrast to the Roman Amphitheatre standing just opposite, the Musée de la Romanité is housed in a striking futuristic glass and steel structure designed by Elizabeth de Portzamparc, showcasing artefacts and exhibitions exploring the life of local people over the course of 25 centuries. 

Visit Les Arènes, a twin-tiered amphitheatre which is the best preserved of its kind in France. Over 2,000 years old, the arena once seated 24,000 spectators. Grab an audio guide to provide you with context as you explore the arena before viewing replicas of gladiator's armour in the museum.

Cross the Rhône on the free ferry to Barthelasse island. The 1,700-acre rural area is perfect for walking, cycling and bird-watching. There’s also a large open-air pool if you fancy a dip.

Pick up local produce at the covered market Les Halles – there are over 40 stalls selling everything from fruit and veg and herbs to wine and freshly baked bread.