From the awe-inspiring cosmopolitan Lille to the unspoiled countryside Dunkerque, from the secluded Wimereux to the bustling Boulogne, the region of Nord-Pas-de-Calais has everything a vacationing tourist can ask for and more.

Lille is France’s fourth largest metropolis. Impressive in its mix of the old world and the new, tourists from around the world flock to Lille to experience its major attractions.

Palais des Beaux Arts is considered to be the second most important fine arts museum after the Louvre in Paris. Works of Rubens, Raphael, and Rodin are on exhibit along with a comprehensive collection of French paintings.

Lille’s old town has chic shops with 17th and 18th century facades that are circled by vibrant narrow streets.

As a first-timer, you would want to see the Grand Place first. Close to the Grand Place is a 17th century Flemish Renaissance-style building called Vielle Bourse. It’s home to a flower market and pre-owned book shops.

Dunkerque, meanwhile, is blessed with sandy beaches. This town is proud to be the one of the busiest ports in France. Rapidly rising up from the ruins of the wars, Dunkerque today is not as tasteful as it used to be, but places like Musee des Beaux Arts and the 19th century seaside resort of Malo les Bains are still worth seeing.

Calais is a favorite getaway destination for Brits. They come, dine, and shop. According to visitors, Calais food is really fantastic. The restaurants along Rue Royale and Rue de la Mer will be a good place for fine dining.

Boulogne’s old walled town is a great place to explore on foot. When the weather gets warm, there are catamarans and windsurfing boards for hire if that floats your boat, so to speak. There are also sand yachts and even chars à voile, windsurfing on wheels, if that hits your fancy.