Lens(Switzerland) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Lens, the top choice for cultural immersion is Hôtel d'Art Lens, housed in a restored 19th-century industrial building near the Musee d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Lens. Guests enjoy complimentary museum access and exclusive artist-led tours. The hotel’s design blends raw factory elements with contemporary art, while its on-site restaurant serves regional specialties like Alpine cheese fondue and local chocolate desserts. Stay in a panoramic suite to overlook the Gothic spire of Notre-Dame Basilica, and immerse yourself in the city’s transformation from coal hub to cultural hotspot through curated exhibitions and evening performances at the nearby Lens Opera House.

The city center of Lens is ideal for hotel stays, offering walkable access to key landmarks such as Place du 11 Novembre, the Town Hall, and the historic Old Town pedestrian street. This district is also adjacent to Lens Train Station, providing easy connections to Lille and Paris. Boutique hotels like Hotel Blanc feature rooftop gardens with panoramic views and are steps away from the Lens Opera House, making it perfect for travelers seeking both convenience and charm. With excellent safety and vibrant nightlife, this area is the heart of northern France's cultural scene.

Visitors to Lens should not miss the Mine Heritage Tour, led by former miners through the underground tunnels of the former Carrière de La Baraque coal mine. This immersive experience reveals the region’s industrial past. Afterward, enjoy a traditional miner’s meal—such as slow-cooked beef stew with root vegetables—at the Musee du Charbon de Lens. During summer, the Festival de Lens transforms disused factories into open-air stages hosting classical and jazz concerts, showcasing how Lens has evolved from an industrial city into a thriving cultural destination.

Yes, Le Relais des Collines in Lens is a top family-friendly hotel featuring a children’s playroom, indoor pool, and pet-friendly garden. Family suites include cribs and child-sized cutlery. Nearby attractions include Zoo de Lens and nature trails ideal for outdoor exploration. Daily activities like "Find the City Sculptures" scavenger hunts engage kids in learning local history. Parents can relax with a cup of Swiss chocolate hot drink at the hotel café, enjoying a peaceful moment while children enjoy structured fun in a safe, welcoming environment.

For authentic local flavors, try private home dining experiences arranged via local tourism platforms. At La Cuisine de Maman Mathilde, guests dine in a family kitchen serving traditional Franche-Comté cuisine, including slow-cooked beef stew, homemade rye bread, and locally brewed apple cider. Afterward, participate in a hands-on workshop to craft a Swiss cheese platter, learning how to pair aged cheeses with jams and wines. These intimate experiences provide deep insight into Alsace-Genevois traditions while fostering genuine human connection.

Yes, several hotels in Lens provide comprehensive accessibility features. Leonardo Hotel Lens offers wheelchair-accessible rooms with grab bars, non-slip flooring, and emergency call systems. The lobby includes tactile signage and audio cues, while the parking area features electric ramps to the main entrance. The hotel also provides free shuttle service to major attractions like the Lens Train Station and Museum of Coal. Guests requiring assistance can book a dedicated travel concierge who arranges accessible transport and guided tours, ensuring inclusive and stress-free travel for all.

During winter, Lens transforms into a festive wonderland. The Place du 11 Novembre becomes a glowing Christmas Market (Marché de Noël Lumineux) with artisan stalls selling handmade crafts, mulled wine, and Alpine-style gingerbread. At night, the entire city sparkles with lights, and the Notre-Dame Basilica fountain hosts a dynamic water-and-light show. Additionally, the Lens Ski Club organizes weekend ski trips to nearby mountain areas with equipment rental and coaching. For relaxation, visit Les Thermes de Lens, a thermal spa where you can unwind in sulfur-rich hot springs, enjoying a serene escape during the colder months.

Most hotels in Lens are within a 5-minute walk of major attractions. Hotel Centre-Ville Lens, located directly across from Place du 11 Novembre, is just steps from the Town Hall, Lens Opera House, and Musee d'Art Moderne. The hotel sits at a central bus hub, offering direct access to the Coal Museum and Natural History Park. Some hotels even provide complimentary shuttle services to key sites. For exploring the surrounding Alsace-Genevois countryside, rent bikes or e-bikes through hotel partnerships, allowing effortless cycling through vineyards and stone farmhouses for a seamless, eco-friendly journey.

Absolutely. Le Cœur de Lens is a boutique hotel designed for romance, with themed rooms featuring double whirlpool baths, starlit ceilings, and custom aromatherapy scents. Its rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the Notre-Dame Basilica at night, perfect for sipping champagne under the stars. The hotel also offers private couples’ tours through the old town alleys, discovering hidden murals and century-old cafés. Evening highlights include a private candlelit dinner inside the former ballroom of the Lens Opera House, accompanied by live opera music—creating unforgettable, intimate moments in a city rich with history and passion.

Yes, many hotels in Lens offer multilingual services. Westin Lens employs full-time staff fluent in English, German, and Italian, with real-time translation available at reception. Guest rooms come with multilingual welcome guides in French, English, German, and Spanish. The hotel also features a smart voice assistant that supports multiple languages for queries about local attractions, weather, and transit. International guests can request a language companion service, pairing them with local student volunteers for communication help and cultural insights. The hotel’s website and app also support multiple language interfaces, ensuring a seamless and inclusive guest experience.