Aux Merveilleux: The “Merveilleux”, a meringue wrapped in chocolate whipped cream and covered with chocolate shavings is a traditional delicacy of northern France. Pastry chef Fred Vaucamps is considered to be the best Merveilleux confectioner in the region, which may explain why his shops are always crowded (67 rue de la Monnaie, tel: 03 2051 9959).

Located in the heart of Lille's historic centre close to the Place General du Gaulle (the Grand Place), L'Estaminette is a typical grocer's shop and a treasure trove of the best regional produce, locally sourced from workshops, farms and producers' cooperatives in northern France (10 Rue de la Barre; tel: 03 62 10 13 54, estaminette.com).

La Droguerie is a dressmakers' paradise and the perfect place to find that piece of silk or the odd bright button which will turn your old frock into something really special. Friendly assistants will be only too pleased to help you sort through the incredible range of materials on sale (50 Rue Basse 03 20 55 36 80)

Get that ideal and very local present to take home with the extensive range of chocolates and regional produce on sale in this smart deli in the centre of Old Lille (Chocolaterie Jean Trogneux, 19 Place du Théâtre).