A bucolic, gourmet and magical stroll through the Old Lille district

The tour of Vieux Lille starts from the Grand'Place, along the charming rue Esquermoise and its many shop windows. After passing the Meert boutique, a number of cafés, big-name shops and a plethora of specialist shops, a small passageway appears on the right.

Dark and somewhat frightening, you have to dare to use this access to enjoy a bucolic, colourful little street a few metres further on. The rue de Weppes opens up to you from a small wooden pontoon, between a few facades brimming with gaiety. At the end of this semi-pedestrianised lane, the forecourt of Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille cathedral comes into view.

The fruit of Viollet le Duc's imagination and years of work on medieval architecture, Notre Dame de Treille cathedral was to be an ideal Gothic cathedral. A theorist of Gothic architecture, he conceived his project as a reflection on multiple subjects: the history of man and his culture, matter and the spiritual, resources and technology at the end of the Middle Ages and today.

However, this overall vision underwent numerous changes over time and remained a largely unfinished project. It was not until 1990, almost 130 years after construction began, that the west facade was completed. Today we can admire an architectural composition that combines a fundamental material, stone, with new technologies. The sober, grey stone façade is separated at its centre by a portal, similar to a veil that rises towards the sky. It is supported by a metal structure, the lines of which support a modern rose window that blends beautifully with the rest of the building. Step inside to discover the jewels inside!

Alongside the Cathedral, the Rue des Vieux Murs is a paradise for art lovers. The cobblestones, old stonework and unique architectural details make this a favourite source of inspiration for artists. Located on the ground floor of small, adjoining three or four storey buildings, several galleries showcase the work of master craftsmen and women.

At the start of the street, a building with a yellow and blue shop front houses one of Lille's trendiest wine bars. At Les Frères Pinard, you'll find a friendly atmosphere, a love of aperitifs and a taste for good food. A range of wines selected by the producers and 100% personalised aperitif platters with multiple flavours can be enjoyed in a charming space, between the terrace, the dining room and the inner courtyard with its trendy decor.

Address: 28bis, 26, Rue des Vieux Murs, 59800 Lille

Opening times: 5:00pm - 11:00pm Monday to Thursday / 11:00am - midnight Friday to Saturday

Place aux Oignons, which opens out at the end of Rue des Vieux Murs, is one of the main attractions of the old town, not least because of its unique architecture. Surrounded by small buildings that reflect the whole district, brick and stone are in abundance. A flower-filled, pedestrianised area, tourists are instantly seduced by this little square, which is home to the terrace of one of the most famous estaminets: Au Vieux de la Vieille. This picturesque corner used to have a bad reputation, but is now much sought-after for its peace and quiet and its undeniable architectural assets.

As you continue your stroll through the narrow streets, the legendary Aux Merveilleux de Fred boutique comes round the corner on rue de la Monnaie. This traditional, revisited pastry shop has made a name for itself all over the world, and it's still just as... marvellous! In the shop windows, you can see the skill and passion with which the pastry chefs make hundreds of sweet treats every day, from traditional chocolate flavours to the most creative. We also love the airy chocolate chip brioche, a firm favourite with regulars!

Address: 67 Rue de la Monnaie, 59800 Lille Opening hours: 7.30am - 7.45pm Monday to Saturday / 7.30am - 7.30pm Sunday

Once you arrive on rue de la Monnaie, with a few pastries in hand, head back down towards Place du Lion d'Or, taking in the pretty shops and the charm of Old Lille. On the left, an orange façade catches your eye: it's the Hospice Comtesse museum.

Founded in 1237, this building is one of the last remaining reminders of the era of the Counts of Flanders. Originally a hospital, it was converted into a hospice and then an orphanage during the French Revolution. Today, the museum houses a large collection of exhibits depicting the life of the Augustinians who looked after the hospital in the 17th and 18th centuries.

The rue de la Monnaie ends at the bright Place Louise de Bettignies, which is a very pleasant place to sit inthe middle of summer. On this crossroads, the bar L'Imaginaire has an "unsuspected" terrace, where you can gaze out over the back of the cathedral with a beer in hand.

The stroll ends on rue Basse, where luxury brands are taking over the most beautiful buildings, such as Louis Vuitton, which has taken over the Huîtrière premises, respecting the pretty stained glass windows and mosaics. Further on, Paul's bakery, on the corner with rue Lepelletier, stands out with its authentic facade of black and coloured mosaics.

If you want to recharge your batteries after wandering through the streets of Old Lille, make a last stop at the L'Arrière Pays brasserie, where you can enjoy tasty sandwiches at very affordable prices, in a cosy, brightly-lit setting where a majestic glass roof adorns the ceiling.

Address: 47 Rue Basse, 59000 Lille

Opening times: 12pm - 3pm / 6.30pm - 10pm on Mondays, 12pm - 3pm / 6.30pm - 10.30pm on Tuesdays, 12pm - 3pm / 6.30pm - 11pm from Wednesday to Saturday, 11.30am - 3pm / 6.30pm - 9.30pm on Sundays.