How to transfer train stations in Lille

Lille transfers and station changes are common. Many travellers from the UK to France opt to change trains at Lille instead of Paris since it is easier. 

Often there are fewer connecting trains from Lille, so the overall journey time may be longer. (However, changing trains in Paris needn't been stressful, and most station transfers are straightforward. For help and advice, read our guide to changing stations in Paris.)

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Interchange versus transfer

An interchange is a change between trains that arrive and depart from the same station. You will be required to disembark from the first train and walk to the main concourse and view the digital displays to find out which platform your connecting train departs from. 

A transfer means that you will need to travel between stations, either on foot, by taxi or on public transport. Any additional costs will not usually be included in the price of your ticket. 

For more information, including how to increase the amount of time between trains, read Understanding Interchanges and Transfers. 

Interchange: Changing trains at Lille Europe station

Changing trains at Lille Europe is very straightforward. It is a large modern station, serving international and domestic trains. The station is well-signposted in multiple languages so you should have no trouble getting around.
If you are collecting French train tickets at Lille Europe, look out for SNCF collection machines. There's lots of them and they're bright yellow.  
Remember if you're catching a Eurostar train to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to complete customs and check-in. We recommend allowing an hour to be on the safe side.  

Transfer: Lille Europe to Lille Flanders

Lille-Flandres is less than 10 minutes' walk away from Lille-Europe station. 
To get from one station to the other, just follow signs from the platform. Walk off the main concourse through the main pedestrian exit, down the escalators to an area underneath a road bridge. Walk straight ahead along the main road into town, until you come to Lille-Flandres.
Once you're in Lille-Flandres, check the departure boards for your train time and number to find the platform for your onward train. 

Transfer: From Lille Flandres to Lille Europe

Exit Lille-Flandres station and follow the signs to Lille-Europe. The transfer takes less than 10 minutes on foot. 
On arrival, check the departure board to find the platform for your connecting train.