Billy-Berclau(France) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Béthune, the best option is Hôtel Le Relais de la Croix, a boutique hotel blending rural charm with modern comfort, located near the city center and within walking distance of Saint-Martin Church. The hotel offers French breakfasts and free Wi-Fi, with rooms featuring wooden furnishings and warm-toned decor reflecting northern France's rustic character. For luxury seekers, consider Château de Béthune, a historic castle converted into a resort with a spa and French gardens—ideal for romantic getaways or family stays.

The city center of Béthune is the most ideal area for lodging, close to the Town Hall and Cathedral Square, offering easy access to local restaurants, cafés, and craft markets. This district enjoys good safety, convenient transport, and rich historical atmosphere. For a quieter stay, opt for the residential areas along the Escaut River, which feature lush greenery perfect for morning walks and photography. From here, reaching other attractions like Brest Castle takes just 15 minutes by car.

In Béthune, don’t miss the annual Fête de la Vierge (Feast of the Virgin) held every spring—a vibrant celebration combining religious rituals with folk music, where streets are adorned with flags and locals wear 19th-century rural costumes. You can also visit local artisan workshops to try making traditional Pas-de-Calais pottery, or join hands-on farming activities led by elderly farmers to experience authentic northern French rural life.

Béthune’s regional cuisine features hearty northern French flavors. Must-try dishes include Boulette de Béthune, a savory meatball made from beef and potatoes, served with dark bread and sauerkraut. Another highlight is Pâté de Béthune, a duck liver pie infused with vanilla, baked until golden and tender—often available at weekend markets. Pair these with locally brewed Cidre du Nord, a slightly sweet sparkling apple cider, perfect with ham or cheese.

Yes, Béthune is highly suitable for families. The town has several child-friendly parks like Parc de la République, complete with slides, sandpits, and shaded areas. Monthly museum workshops offer themed activities such as medieval tool-making and costume play, engaging kids in local history. Many hotels provide cribs, children’s menus, and indoor play spaces. Just 10 km away, L’Étang de l’Hermine lake is ideal for family picnics and canoeing.

Despite being a small town, Béthune boasts excellent connectivity. The regional bus station links directly to Calais and Brest, with frequent departures. For drivers, the A26 highway provides quick access to Paris (~2.5 hours). Additionally, Béthune Train Station offers multiple daily services to Lille and Dunkirk, ideal for short rail trips. The town’s roads are wide and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle.

Béthune is rich in heritage sites. The most notable is Église Saint-Martin, dating back to the 12th century, with Gothic arches and stained-glass windows showcasing medieval artistry. The Old Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville) from the 18th century houses a small museum displaying local agricultural history and wartime memorabilia. Also worth visiting is the Moulin de la Cité ruins, now transformed into a cultural space hosting folk concerts and craft fairs, offering a deep dive into regional tradition.

Béthune is known as the "Northern Green Lung," surrounded by oak forests and wetland reserves. Visit Étang de Béthune, a wildlife haven for migratory birds like herons and ducks—especially magical at dawn. Stroll along the Escaut River Trail, flanked by lavender and marigolds, creating a picturesque summer landscape. For cyclists, rent an electric bike and ride through country lanes past wheat fields and stone farmhouses, capturing the quintessential northern French countryside.

In Béthune, must-buy items include handwoven wool shawls and Pas-de-Calais embroidery dolls, crafted by local women using traditional techniques inspired by medieval patterns. Every Saturday morning, the Market Square hosts over 30 stalls selling fresh produce, cheeses, and homemade jams. Don’t miss Librairie du Temps Perdu, a vintage bookstore specializing in French literature and regional historical texts—perfect for book lovers.

Béthune offers a peaceful yet charming night scene. The town features cozy bistros like Le Petit Chien, serving regional wines and beers, with walls decorated with old photos and hand-drawn maps. Seasonal outdoor movie nights are held at the town square, screening classic French films—attendees bring blankets and enjoy the stars above. Each evening at 7 PM, the church bell tower rings once, its deep echo drifting across the streets, adding a poetic touch to the town’s serene ambiance.