Set in a 200-year-old building in the pedestrianized centre of Lille (a ten minute walk from the Gare de Europe), Hotel de la Paix is a “friendly, efficient no-frills” B&B hotel with an art nouveau vibe; despite its location it is quiet, with soundproofed rooms. A visitor commented on the “eclectic decor': red and pink, dark wood and iron balustrades – including a traditional 19th century staircase (although there's also a lift). Rooms and public areas have reproductions of famous French paintings, and the bedrooms, named after artists and writers, are sizeable (as are the bathrooms); some have living areas. The breakfast room has a fresco, and the staff are helpful. There's a bar but no restaurant, but there are plenty close by.