Tour de France in Lille. Grand Départ 2025
Your complete visitor guideJoin us in celebrating the Tour de France starting in the heart of Lille
Bienvenue à Lille
Hi Tour de France fans. I’ve lived in Lille – well just outside in Templeuve-en-Pevele on the route of Paris-Roubaix – for a few years now. And, having edited and launched a lot of cycling magazines, hopefully on this website, I can successfully combine my knowledge of Lille and the Tour de France! To your benefit.
Lille is a great city. Very close to Belgium; this is the heart of Flanders. Lille is the fifth-largest city in France, populated by a little over one million residents. It’s a vibrant city, the youngest, in terms of residents’ average age, in France; filled with further education colleges and universities. It’s home to some of France’s most famous companies; notably Decathlon, the world’s largest sporting retailer and Tour de France team sponsor!
Chamber of Commerce on Place Théâtre
Experience the Grand Départ – Lille
Countdown clock appeared with 100 days to go.
Lille: A Modern Metropolis
Famous for its food and drink, this historic city has transformed itself over the last four decades, from a tired, grubby industrial town, into a modern European metropolis. Welcoming and friendly, you are sure of a fantastic time at the Tour de France here in Lille and across the region on stages two and three. Scroll down and click on the various tabs for more detailed information.
Fan Zone and Start/Finish Area
For the Fan Zone follow the link. And the team presentations on July 3. The Start/Finish areas for Stage One.
About the Author: Andy Sutcliffe
For many years I worked in the magazine world and have been editor of Cycling Weekly, Cycle Trader and Bicycle Action. I launched Cycle Sport, Procycling and Mountain Bike Rider magazines.
It is my real hope that you will find the information useful and that it helps contribute to you having a great time at the Tour de France in July.
There’s more of the me, me, me here!
Tour director Christian Prudhomme and Lille’s mayor Arnaud Deslandes switch on the countdown clock. (Photo credit: ASO)
Central Lille is bathed in yellow light to celebrate 100 days to the start.
Stay Connected with Our Facebook Group
I’ve created a complimentary Facebook group, TDF-Lille-2025, for more up-to-date information closer to and during the Tour’s visit. And I tweet as @lilleanglais.
I’m happy to try and answer more specific questions, within reason! You can contact me via the contact tab on the website or via the Facebook group.
This website is currently entirely non-commercial. I have mentioned a couple of friends’ businesses, and I say so when I do, but there are no backhanders involved! If any advertising appears, which it might do, it’s up to you whether you click through or not! Andy Sutcliffe. Lille. May 2025.
Map and Key
Locations in Lille
Obviously, everyone has online maps! However, I thought this map was quite good for getting your bearings. The streets in yellow are the old town (Vieux Lille). The streets in pink are pedestrianised shopping streets. Think of Gare Lille-Flandres as your transport hub (the two metro lines intersect here, the tramlines terminate/start here, and there are lots of bus stops) and the two adjoining central squares (Grand’Place/Place Charles de Gaulle and Place du Théâtre), as the centre of the city. The Fan Zone is going to be located in Place de la République. And the team introductions on July 3 in Grand’Place.
DISCOVER THE STAGES OF THE 2025 TOUR DE FRANCE
STAGE ONE
Start: Lille, Champs-de-Mars esplanade
Finish: Lille, du pont du jardin Vauban
Length: 185km
Profile: Flat
STAGE TWO
Start: Lauwin-Planque
Finish: Boulogne-sur-Mer
Length: 212km
Profile: Hilly
STAGE THREE
Start: Valenciennes
Finish: Dunkirk
Length: 178km
Profile: Flat
Three stages in Lille and the
Hauts-de-France region
The Tour de France 2025 kicks off in Lille, a city rich in history and culture. Join us for an unforgettable start to the world’s most famous cycling race. On July 5, 2025, the Grand Départ will showcase Lille’s beautiful streets and the enthusiasm of its residents.
Join us in Lille
Countdown to the Grand Départ
Get ready! The world’s greatest cycling race begins in:
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DISCOVER LILLE
Lille, the vibrant capital of Flanders, is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere. Explore the charming old town, indulge in delicious French cuisine, and experience a unique mix of French and Flemish cultures.
Culture and History
Bars and Cafes
Dining
Shopping
Vieux Lille
Get Around Lille Like a Local
Thanks to Andy’s tips, you now know where to eat, drink, and how to survive the Lille Metro without getting (too) lost.
It took time (and a few beers) to gather all these secret spots…
Wanna say thanks? Buy Andy a beer!
Get in touch, I'll be happy to help
STAY IN THE LOOP
How to Prepare for the Tour de France Grand Départ
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The Best Local Dishes to Try During Your Visit
Introduction No visit to Lille is complete without savoring its delicious cuisine. Discover the flavors of the region with these must-try dishes. 1. Carbonnade Flamande A hearty beef stew cooked with beer, onions, and spices, served with crispy fries. 2. Maroilles...
10 Must-See Landmarks in Lille
Introduction While visiting Lille for the Grand Départ, take time to explore the city’s unique landmarks. From historic architecture to vibrant markets, Lille has something for everyone. 1. The Grand Place The heart of Lille, this bustling square is surrounded by...