Lille: Treasure hunt and beer tasting in Old Lille

If you’re considering mixing sightseeing with a bit of fun and flavor in Lille, this treasure hunt combined with beer tasting might just be your perfect pick. Based on many traveller reviews, it’s a lively, interactive way to explore the city’s streets, learn about its beer culture, and enjoy a few local brews along the way.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances active exploration with cultural insight—you’re not just wandering aimlessly, but following clues and completing challenges that make Lille’s old town come alive. Plus, the inclusion of beer tastings makes it more than just a walk; it’s a taste of local tradition that’s fun no matter your beer knowledge.

However, if you’re looking for a more traditional, sit-down tasting experience or a deep dive into brewing techniques, this might not satisfy those needs. It’s very much a lighthearted, game-based approach suited to those wanting to combine sightseeing with social fun.

This activity works best for groups of friends, couples, or even team-building outings, especially if you enjoy a friendly challenge and discovering new places with a bit of a playful twist.

Key Points

• Interactive city exploration with a treasure hunt format
• Beer tastings at four local bars with educational quizzes
• Photo challenges to capture Lille’s street art and sights
• Suitable for all ages over 18; not ideal for children
• Guided by knowledgeable hosts, ensuring fun and safety
• Accessible in English and French, flexible and easy to join

This experience is a 2.5-hour adventure that combines a game of orienteering through Lille’s historic old town with beer tasting stops. Created by L’Echappée Bière, it’s designed to blend discovery, fun, and a bit of friendly competition.

Imagine walking through cobbled streets, trying to uncover Lille’s hidden corners, all while sampling four different beers in 12.5 cl bottles—with soft drinks available if you prefer. Along the way, you’ll take part in quizzes to identify flavors and styles, which adds an educational touch that makes each tasting more engaging.

The setup is that your group is given a roadbook and a set of challenges—from finding specific bars to snapping photos of street art and monuments. The activity is suitable for teams of 2 to 6 people, and larger groups will be split into multiple teams. The host kicks things off, explaining the rules and sharing a bit of beer knowledge before setting you loose in the streets of Lille.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Brewpub Le Hôpi

The adventure begins here, where you’ll meet your host. It’s conveniently located in the heart of Lille, giving you easy access to the historic district. This initial briefing sets the tone, with some background on Lille’s beer scene and instructions for the game.

The Treasure Hunt Route

Once underway, your goal is to find your way to four designated bars. These are chosen spots that showcase Lille’s local brewing culture and unique ambiance. While the exact route may vary, reviews note that the route can sometimes be a little confusing, reflecting the charm of exploring on foot and navigating Lille’s streets.

The Beer Tastings

At each bar, you’ll taste a 12.5 cl bottle of beer. The main idea is to identify the flavors, styles, and alcohol percentages through fun quizzes. Expect a decent mix of beers, although some reviewers mentioned that the tastings leaned heavily toward IPAs, which might not be everyone’s favorite.

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The Challenges

Beyond drinking, your team will tackle a few puzzles:
– Taste quizzes: test your knowledge and palate
– Recipe challenge: try to figure out a beer recipe to recreate at home
– Photo challenge: snap pictures of murals, landmarks, or curiosities

The End of the Tour

Once all stops are complete, the host will gather the teams. The winning team is awarded a small gift, and everyone can share their experiences and compare photos and answers—often a highlight, as people enjoy swapping stories and laughs.

What Makes It Stand Out?

The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides who are friendly and engaging, making the experience both fun and informative. As one reviewer put it, “the activity was very well-organized,” and the staff played an important role in making sure everyone felt included and understood the rules.

Participants also appreciate the value for money. With four tastings plus the game, most feel it’s an affordable way to explore Lille’s city center differently from more traditional walking tours. Considering the interactive nature and the included drinks, it’s a solid choice for those who want a casual, social experience rather than a formal historical lecture.

The Pros and Cons

The Positives:

• The interactive format keeps everyone engaged, whether you’re a local or a visitor.
• The learning component about beer styles and flavors is accessible, even for novices.
• The location covers Lille’s charming old town, ideal for exploring on foot.
• Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience.
• The photo challenges add a creative twist and give you souvenirs of your adventure.
• It’s accessible in English and French, making it flexible for international visitors.

The Downsides:

• Some found the route a bit confusing, though this is part of the adventure.
• The beer selection was somewhat limited, with a heavier focus on IPAs, which might not cater to all tastes.
• The activity is only suitable for those over 18, so no kids or teenagers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy light-hearted challenges, exploring city streets, and sampling craft beers, this tour is a great pick. It’s especially suited for groups wanting an engaging, social activity—perfect for friends, couples, or small teams.

However, if you’re more interested in a deep dive into brewing techniques or prefer a more relaxed, sit-down tasting experience, you might want to look elsewhere. It’s also not suitable for families with children under 18, but for those who love a bit of city adventure paired with beer, this ticks many boxes.

Practical Tips

• Bring a pen for the quizzes and notes.
• Wear comfortable shoes—Lille’s old town is best explored on foot.
• Expect some outdoor walking and possibly variable weather; good weather will make it even better.
• The tour runs for about 2.5 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Booking is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund if plans change.

This Lille treasure hunt with beer tasting offers an enjoyable way to combine city sightseeing with a dash of fun and beer education. It’s ideal for groups who like a bit of friendly competition, scenic streets, and sampling local brews without the fuss of formal tastings.

While it’s not a comprehensive brewery tour or a deep dive into beer styles, it’s more about discovery, socializing, and casually learning. The mixture of challenges, tastings, and cultural sights makes it a well-rounded experience that leaves most people feeling satisfied, especially those new to Lille or craft beer.

If you’re after a relaxed, interactive activity that’s suitable for a variety of ages (over 18), and you don’t mind a bit of wandering with some tasting, this is a solid choice. Plus, with helpful guides and a lively atmosphere, you’ll leave with more than just souvenirs—you’ll have stories to tell.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s only designed for those over 18 due to alcohol consumption.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2.5 hours, including the walk, tastings, and challenges.

What language is the tour offered in?
The experience is available in both French and English, making it accessible for international travelers.

Where does the activity start?
It begins at Brewpub Le Hôpi, located in Lille’s city center.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just a pen to participate in the quizzes and puzzles.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is the route well-marked?
The route can sometimes be a bit confusing, but that’s part of the fun and part of the adventure.

Are the beer tastings included?
Yes, you get four tastings of 12.5 cl bottles, with soft drinks available if needed.

Will I learn about beer?
Yes, your guides will share information about beer styles and flavors, and quizzes make it interactive.

Is this activity good value for money?
Most reviews say yes. With four tastings, fun challenges, and city exploration, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy Lille’s atmosphere.

Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to explore Lille, this activity offers a memorable, enjoyable experience—perfect for making your trip a little more special.

You can check availability for your dates here: