Béthune - Discovering France

Travelling to Béthune

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Béthune, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Béthune and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Béthune, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Béthune for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Béthune

Béthune is a charming town located in the northern part of France, in the region of Hauts-de-France. It is known for its picturesque architecture, such as the Gothic-style St. Vaast Church and the impressive belfry tower that stands in the town square. Béthune also has a rich cultural heritage, with a museum dedicated to the town's history and a vibrant arts scene with numerous events and festivals throughout the year. The town is easily accessible by train from major cities in France and Belgium, and there are plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and shops to suit every budget.

What to visit in Béthune

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Béthune (France) with brief information: 1. Belfry of Béthune: The belfry of Béthune is a medieval tower that is 38 meters tall. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a stunning view of the surrounding area. Visitors can climb the tower to the observation deck to enjoy the panoramic view of the city's skyline. 2. Saint-Vaast Church: This church is a beautiful example of neo-gothic architecture. Built in the mid-19th century, it boasts intricate stained-glass windows, ornate decoration, and impressive stone carvings. 3. Beffroi Theatre: This theater is housed in a historic building and offers a variety of performances, including plays, music concerts, and dance shows. It also has a cinema and a café where visitors can relax and enjoy a drink or a snack. 4. House of the Beating Drums: This is a unique museum that explores the history of music and instruments from around the world. It includes an extensive collection of drums and percussion instruments. 5. Parc d'Olhain: This large park is located just outside Béthune and offers visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature. It boasts hiking trails, a lake for fishing and swimming, and picnic areas. There's also a nearby adventure park with ziplines and obstacle courses. 6. Notre-Dame de Lorette: This is a beautiful basilica and military cemetery located in the nearby town of Ablain-Saint-Nazaire. It serves as a memorial to the French soldiers who died during the First World War. 7. Chartreuse Notre-Dame-des-Prés: This is a former Carthusian monastery that dates back to the 14th century. It's a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and has been classified a historical monument. The building is currently used as a cultural center and hosts art exhibitions and music concerts.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Béthune.

When to go on holiday to Béthune

The best time to visit Béthune, France is from May to September when the weather is mild and you can enjoy outdoor activities. June is a particularly good month to visit as it is when the famous Béthune Retro vintage car festival takes place. The winter months can be quite cold and rainy, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time if you prefer warmer weather.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Béthune

Béthune is a town located in the north of France. There are several ways to get there: 1. By plane: The nearest airport is Lille-Lesquin Airport, located about 30 km from Béthune. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Béthune.
2. By train: Béthune is easily accessible by train. There are regular connections from Paris, Lille, and other major cities in France. The journey from Paris takes around 2 hours.
3. By car: Béthune is located about 200 km north of Paris and is easily accessible by car. If you're driving from Paris, take the A1 towards Lille and then follow the A26 towards Calais. Take the Béthune exit and follow the signs to the town centre.
I hope this helps!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Béthune, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Béthune

Sure, here are some typical foods of Béthune, France: 1. Coq à la Bière: This is a popular dish made with chicken pieces slow-cooked in beer, onions, and herbs.
2. Maroilles Cheese: Maroilles is a popular cheese that originated from the northern region of France. It has a strong, pungent flavor and a soft, creamy texture.
3. Carbonnade Flamande: This is a hearty beef stew made with beer, onions, and bacon. It's often served with crusty bread and fries.
4. Ficelle Picarde: Ficelle Picarde is a delicious savory crepe dish that's filled with ham, mushrooms, and cheese. It's folded into a rectangular shape and served with a creamy bechamel sauce.
5. Tarte au Sucre: This is a traditional sugar pie that's made with brown sugar, heavy cream, and eggs. It's typically served as a dessert or with coffee.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Béthune, France!
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Béthune an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other cities in France such as Paris or Nice, Béthune is generally considered to be a more affordable destination for travelers. However, the cost of your trip will depend on various factors such as the time of year you visit, your accommodation choices, and your activities and dining preferences. It is recommended that you research and compare prices for flights, accommodations, and activities beforehand to get a better idea of your potential expenses. Overall, with careful planning, it is possible to enjoy Béthune on a reasonable budget.

Where to find accomodation in Béthune

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Béthune in France are the city center, the Saint-Vaast district, and the Beuvry suburb. These areas are close to the city's main attractions and have easy access to public transportation. The city center is particularly convenient for those who want to explore Béthune's historic architecture and cultural landmarks. The Saint-Vaast district is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, while the Beuvry suburb is more residential and offers a quieter atmosphere.
You can check hotel prices at Béthune here:
Booking.com

Is Béthune a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Béthune is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's always best to exercise caution and awareness of your surroundings. It's always recommended to take normal safety precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings, avoiding unlit areas at night and being aware of common scams. In case of any emergency or concern, you can contact the local authorities.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Béthune.

What type of travelers will enjoy Béthune the most?

Béthune is a lovely town situated in northern France that offers a mix of cultural, historical and leisure experiences that can appeal to different types of travelers. Couples and families will particularly enjoy the serene ambiance and the chance to soak in Béthune's cultural architecture that dates back to the 14th century. There are beautiful churches like St. Vaast and St. Eloi that provide an opportunity to explore the town's religious roots.
Moreover, Béthune is known for its weekly market, where visitors can experience the local flavors and interact with friendly locals. Young people who are looking for fun may also find Béthune a fantastic place to venture, as it is home to several bars, cafes, and restaurants that offer different types of food and drinks fit for a jovial atmosphere.
In conclusion, Béthune is a town that caters to different types of travelers. Therefore, regardless of whether you are a couple, a family, or young, you will find something to enjoy in this lovely town.

How to get around Béthune

In Béthune, you can use buses to move around the city. The city also offers a bike rental service called Vel'in, which allows you to explore the city in an eco-friendly way. Taxis and rental cars are also available, but they may be more expensive options. It is also a walkable city, so you can easily explore on foot.

What to see around Béthune

Certainly, here are some nice places that you could visit in a day trip from Béthune: 1. Lille: This bustling city is only 30 minutes away from Béthune by car or train. It is famous for its exquisite architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
2. Arras: A historical city with beautiful architecture, Arras is only a 20-minute drive from Béthune. It is also known for its many museums and galleries.
3. Lens: Home of the famous Louvre-Lens Museum, Lens is only a 25-minute drive from Béthune. You can also stroll around the beautiful parks and gardens of the city.
4. Le Touquet: Located on the coast of the English Channel, Le Touquet is only a 40-minute drive from Béthune. This beautiful seaside resort is home to stunning beaches, chic restaurants and excellent shopping.
5. The Scarpe-Escaut Natural Regional Park: Only a ten-minute drive from Béthune, this nature reserve is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. It is a wonderful place to enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic in the countryside.
I hope these suggestions are helpful to you! Let me know if you need any more information.
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