What to do in Hauts de France this weekend?

Spend a weekend exploring Hauts de France: Lille, Lens, Saint-Quentin, Arras or Cambrai, inland or on the Opal Coast, you'll never get bored in the Nord.

Let's start the tour with a visit to Lille, the capital and heart of Hauts-de-France. In its own right, you could spend the whole weekend here, so much the town has to offer. Begin with a stroll through its historic centre to discover the architectural riches of its monuments. Some must-see places: City Hall, the Grand-Place, Chamber of Commerce, the Opera House, to mention just a few. And, if you want to be sure not to miss out on anything, pay a visit to the tourist office and ask for a guided tour.

To keep your kids happy, there's a zoo and an educational farm in Lille. Back on the road, head for Roubaix, a town of art and history. For your weekend in Hauts-de-France, visit the open-air flea markets and take the time to wander down the streets to soak up all the charm of this town. Get a bite to eat in one of Roubaix's many bistros before getting back in your car to go south of Lille. Go via Lens to visit the Louvre-Lens Museum, an absolute must!

Now stop off in Saint-Quentin. The town is known for its Art Déco heritage. You'll be able to see this architectural style throughout the town, as well as by visiting the former Nouvelles Galeries department store, also called the Palais de l’Art Déco. If it's nature you're looking for, the Marais d’Isle National Nature Reserve - the town's green lung - is a must.

The nearby town of Arras is another must-see.

The Artois Country is a historical First World War site. You will therefore be able to visit memorials and cemeteries there, and learn more about this important chapter in the history of France. End in the town of Cambrai. Here you must of course savour the famous Bêtise boiled sweets and wander around the streets strewn with monuments as you go down to the harbour to go on a little boat trip, one of the many activities proposed by the town.

If you're still wondering what to do in Hauts-de-France for your weekend, plan your last stop in the mediaeval city of Boulogne-sur-Mer. Ideally situated, it has some wonderful panoramic views to offer. You'll immediately fall under the spell of the narrow streets in its historic centre and enjoy a stroll along its ramparts.

Of course, you can visit the castle which is also a museum with an outstanding range of exhibitions. And after all that, you'll probably want to take a break on a café terrace - weather permitting - or in a restaurant if it's raining. But if you still have the energy, there's no shortage of outdoor activities in Boulogne-sur-Mer. Take a look at the beach to discover the sailing clubs. Rent a sand yacht to make the most of the exceptional beauty of one of the Opal Coast's loveliest beaches. You can also go kitesurfing. If you don't have sea legs, opt for a walk along the coast, you won't be disappointed, the view is hard to beat. The city is also home to the largest aquarium in Europe, Nausicaá, which is a must. There, you'll be able to see all the wonders of the marine flora and fauna. The place, located just next to Boulogne beach, is quite simply magical and will thrill children and grown-ups alike.

You'll finish your weekend on a high note and you'll probably realise that you'll have to count on spending a bit more time when you come back for your next visit to allow you to explore the breathtaking scenery of Hauts-de-France.