Book excerpt: New from Bradt is the thoroughly updated fifth edition of Lille, the award-winning and critically acclaimed guidebook to this exciting, ever-changing and easily accessible city in Hauts-de-France – the ultimate destination for a city break. Lille’s architecture blends the 16th-century cobbled streets typical of old Flanders and the imposing fortress and parks of Louis XIV’s France with converted former factories now serving as modern cultural venues. Here history refuses to stand still, and the city has not stopped finding new ways to celebrate its traditions, routinely toasting contemporary innovations. One of France’s leading centres for gastronomy, Lille constantly re-invents itself with ever more exciting places to eat – whether you share a sandwich with artists in a former post office building or seek out tomorrow’s Michelin-starred chefs – plus new places to explore, relax and stay. Being elected European Capital of Culture in 2004 led to Lille becoming one of France’s most cultural and artistic cities – and arguably its party capital too. With Bradt’s Lille, dance a Sunday-night tango with strangers in a Renaissance cloister, or order onion soup at dawn. You can admire France’s best art collection outside Paris, attend a biennial international arts festival or head for the amazing museums and sites in nearby towns, linked by an excellent metro and tram network. Alternatively, you might go shopping in Lille’s famous discount designer stores or at its legendary kerbside flea markets. Or venture beyond the city to discover the patchwork of history that characterises northern France, from Henry V’s battle of Agincourt to World War I trenches and the beaches of Dunkirk. New elements of this edition include a special feature on the Lille3000 international arts festival; coverage of self-drive possibilities, food festivals, World War tourist destinations, and both new and expanded museums and art galleries; and updated or wholly new reviews of the best places to eat, drink and stay (the latter now including self-catering options). With easy Eurostar access from the UK (plus high-speed train links from other French cities, and Brussels), Lille is the perfect short-haul getaway – with Bradt’s Lille guidebook the consummate companion.