Novotel Lille Centre Gares

The breakfast had lots of options, but the taste and freshness really let it down, which is why I gave four stars. The pain au choco tasted reheated, the hot chocolate seemed like the cheapest brand, the grocery-store own-brand orange juice had pulp, and the egg salad tasted like it was from the day before. There were croissants, baguette, soup, egg salad, make-your-own omelets, sweet and savory toppings, banana bread, carrot cake, apple sauce, potato sausages, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and orange and apple juice. Despite that, I had a 10/10 stay and would recommend it. The location is extremely central, one street from the city center and around the corner from the train station. Check-in staff were friendly, welcoming, and helpful with information about the hotel and area. Of the two elevators, only one worked, so waits were long and it was often full, though the stairs were very clean. The room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, even though the view wasn't great. The bathroom had clean towels, RITUALS shower gel and hand gel, but no shower cabin, so it could feel chilly getting out. The separate toilet was spacious enough and not tucked away in a dark corner. The bed was very soft with plenty of pillows, and warm on cold days. Room temperature was good. There was a fridge, a desk and chair, hangers, and an opening window. You can refill your water bottle downstairs for free.

The room was a nice, clean and comfortable fit for a family with young children. The amenities were good, including rituals soaps and a play area, and the staff were excellent and very friendly. It's not far from town or the train. The room did get a little too warm even with the window open, and there was noise from the window at night.

The service was great, the room was good and very clean, and breakfast was good too. But I got almost no sleep for two nights. Shouting and fighting outside kept me awake from 1am to 5am, and the noise echoed through the hotel. Even on the sixth floor with the windows closed, sleep was impossible. I know the homeless problem in Lille isn't the hotel's fault, but this isn't somewhere I'd choose for a quiet night's rest, and it will put me off staying again.

The staff were kind, smiling, and helpful, and the rooms were clean and cozy. Having separate toilets was a plus. The hotel is next to the train station and just a wall away from Lille city center, with plenty of pubs and restaurants less than five minutes away. A great place to start exploring Lille. Thanks for the kind welcome, and they even have a KISS pinball machine at reception!