Attractions and Places To See around Tourcoing - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Tourcoing include a blend of historical architecture, cultural sites, and green spaces. This city in northern France, with its rich textile industrial past, offers a genuine urban experience near the Belgian border. Visitors can explore refurbished factories, elegant 19th-century buildings, and diverse parks. The area provides opportunities for those interested in history, art, and naturalistic walks.
Best attractions and places to see around Tourcoing
- The most popular attractions is Roubaix Velodrome, a man-made monument with a long history in cycling. It serves as the finish line for the Paris-Roubaix race and is a popular destination for cyclists.
- Another must-see spot is Port of Wambrechies, a river area offering a quiet and peaceful setting. It is close to the church, the castle of Robersart, and a distillery, providing a pleasant place to visit.
- Visitors also love Espierres Canal, a river that was originally built to connect the Deûle with the Scheldt. This canal is known for its new cycle path and beautiful surroundings, making it ideal for cycling.
- Tourcoing is known for its industrial heritage sites, botanical gardens, and diverse cultural institutions. The city offers a variety of attractions, from historical landmarks to modern art centers and expansive parks.
- The attractions around Tourcoing are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 760 upvotes and over 40 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Port of Wambrechies
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Roubaix Velodrome
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Belgium–France Border on the Canal de Roubaix
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Old Stock Exchange of Lille
Highlight • Historical Site
The tower features a gold-colored Mercury (the god of trade) and the facade looks rich due to the combination of red brick with white natural stone, lavishly decorated with fruit, horns of plenty, medallions and other ornaments.
It is a successful calling card of (Baroque) Flemish architecture in the 17th century.
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Espierres Canal
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The Roubaix Canal, or the Espierres Canal, as it's called in French or Belgian, forms part of the link between the Deûle River in France and the Scheldt River in Belgium. In 1843, the two canals were connected between Leers, France, and Leers-Nord, Belgium. Despite damage sustained during the two world wars, the canal was the pinnacle of the region's textile industry for over a hundred years, transporting coal from Belgium to numerous French factories. In Leers-Nord, Belgium, the workers who pulled the coal-laden barges were called "satcheux" (sailors). Next to the lock keeper's house, a stone's throw from France, the crossing point between France and Belgium, a customs guardhouse was built. Customs officers were present to inspect the numerous goods transported by barge. After the decline of the textile industry in the 1970s and 1980s, the canal gradually lost its usefulness and was closed to shipping in 1983. In the early 2000s, the canal was the subject of a cross-border rehabilitation project to allow tourist boats to pass through again. As part of the Interreg Blue Links project, a collaboration between France, Flanders, and Wallonia, it was flooded again. The final works were completed in 2011, and navigation reopened. Since the early 20th century, the Roubaix/Espierres Canal has been a place of conviviality, walking, and fishing for cross-border residents and commuters. Consequently, strong public opposition has arisen to the plan to convert the canal into a motorway. Source: www.caue-nord.com
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Super nice, and go inside the courtyard, you have old book sellers there.
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For a cycling tourist, the arrival at the Roubaix velodrome is also a great moment. Even after dozens of times!
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For the legend this race is, and how normal in fact the velodrome is...
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Built between 1652 and 1653, this former stock exchange is a jewel of Flemish architecture. It is made up of 24 identical houses surrounding an interior courtyard where book sellers and tango demonstrations take place today in summer.
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A very famous part of the Paris/Roubaix cycling race
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Last bend before the cyclists enter the track.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique historical sites to visit in Tourcoing?
Tourcoing offers a rich historical tapestry. You can explore the elegant late 19th-century Hôtel de Ville on the Grand'Place, a magnificent example of Flemish Renaissance architecture. The distinctive neo-Gothic Eglise Saint-Christophe, with its 87-meter spire and one of France's largest carillons, is another prominent landmark. For a glimpse into the city's past, consider visiting the Old Stock Exchange of Lille, known for its Baroque Flemish architecture.
Where can I experience Tourcoing's industrial heritage?
Tourcoing's textile industrial past is well-preserved. You can see this heritage in refurbished factories and mills, such as the Louis Lepoutre Weaving Mill, which is classified as a Historical Monument. Other former mills, like those of Tiberghien Frères, have been repurposed into cultural centers. The Plaine Images hub, located in former factory buildings, is now a center for digital and creative industries, showcasing a unique blend of red brick and modern structures.
What cultural institutions can I explore in Tourcoing?
Tourcoing boasts a dynamic cultural scene. Visit the MUba Eugène Leroy (Musée des Beaux-Arts), housed in an elegant mansion, featuring a collection spanning centuries. The Le Fresnoy - National Studio of Contemporary Arts is a renowned center for cutting-edge digital art and cinema. You can also discover the Maison Folie Hospice d'Havré, a former convent hosting exhibitions and performances, or the IMA-Tourcoing (Arab World Institute), which bridges cultures through diverse events.
Are there any notable green spaces or botanical gardens in Tourcoing?
Yes, Tourcoing is recognized for its commitment to green spaces. The Jardin Botanique de Tourcoing offers a peaceful retreat with diverse plant collections and historic greenhouses. Parc Clemenceau, the city's largest park, provides wide lawns and century-old trees, perfect for leisurely walks. The Canal de Roubaix (Tourcoing branch) also offers a natural setting for walks within the urban environment.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Tourcoing?
Many attractions in and around Tourcoing are suitable for families. The Jardin Botanique de Tourcoing and Parc Clemenceau are great for outdoor family outings. The Port of Wambrechies offers a quiet setting near a castle and distillery. The Museum of Natural History provides interactive exhibits on dinosaurs and animals that are fascinating for all ages. Additionally, the Belgium–France Border on the Canal de Roubaix is a unique spot for a family bike ride.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Tourcoing's attractions?
The area around Tourcoing is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, running, and cycling along the Espierres Canal, known for its new cycle path and beautiful surroundings. The Canal de Roubaix also offers naturalistic walks. For more structured activities, explore the many routes available, such as those found in the Cycling around Tourcoing guide or the Running Trails around Tourcoing guide.
Are there good cycling routes around Tourcoing?
Yes, Tourcoing and its surroundings offer several cycling opportunities. The Espierres Canal and the Canal de Roubaix are popular for their scenic cycle paths, including the Euro Velo Route 5. The Roubaix Velodrome, a historic finish line for the Paris-Roubaix race, is also a popular destination for cyclists. You can find detailed routes in the Cycling around Tourcoing guide, including easy loops like 'Canal de Roubaix – La Marque Canal Towpath'.
What is the best time of year to visit Tourcoing?
Tourcoing can be enjoyed throughout the year, but spring and summer (April to September) are particularly pleasant for exploring the green spaces like the Jardin Botanique and Parc Clemenceau, and for enjoying walks along the canals. Market days on the Grand'Place are lively on Tuesdays and Fridays. The city's cultural institutions and industrial heritage sites are accessible year-round.
How can I experience the local atmosphere in Tourcoing?
To experience the local atmosphere, visit the Grand'Place, especially on market days (Tuesdays and Fridays), when it buzzes with activity. The Grand Marché - Marché du Centre is also a bustling market perfect for experiencing daily life. Strolling along the Canal & Parc Barbieux offers a pleasant insight into local leisure, and exploring the cafes and shops around the Grand'Place will give you a taste of the city's vibrant urban experience.
Are there any architectural highlights to discover in Tourcoing?
Tourcoing is an 'open-air museum' for architecture enthusiasts. Beyond the Flemish Renaissance style of the Hôtel de Ville and the neo-Gothic Eglise Saint-Christophe, the city is known for its Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture. Walking tours are available to explore these unique architectural gems. The repurposed industrial buildings, like those at Plaine Images, also offer a fascinating blend of historical and modern design.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Tourcoing?
Visitors appreciate the blend of history, culture, and green spaces. Many enjoy the peaceful setting of the Port of Wambrechies and the scenic cycling along the Espierres Canal. The historical significance of the Roubaix Velodrome is a highlight for cycling enthusiasts. The city's commitment to preserving its industrial legacy and its vibrant cultural institutions also receive positive feedback.
Are there any unique or lesser-known cultural spots in Tourcoing?
Beyond the main museums, Tourcoing offers several unique cultural experiences. The Maison Folie Hospice d'Havré, a former Augustinian convent, blends historical tranquility with contemporary art and performances. The Musée des Augustins, also in a former convent, showcases Flemish and French art in a peaceful setting. The Museum June 5, 1944 is a niche but fascinating museum dedicated to WWII and radio waves, located in a historic bunker.
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