Poitiers

Four generations of the François family have run this handcrafted umbrellas factory-store for more than a century. Based at 137 Grand Rue since its foundation in 1882, this lovely, historic workshop still manage to fabric its products at the highest quality: in fact, if you want to order an umbrella, you might have to wait for a rather long time, as some of the materials are very hard to find.

An independent boutique that boasts a creative heart, L'Atelier des Rêves features a fine selection of vintage clothing items, purses, jewels and accessories. Tucked away in the Cathedral street, the store is an innovative shopping destination.

The owners of La Cave Milenys are happy to welcome their guests for the tastings they regularly organise in this wine shop. The store includes a wide range of products, from French wines (along with some Italian and Portuguese labels) to champagnes by small producers, Spanish and English rums, until Irish, Scottish and even Japanese whiskies. To accompany your tasting in the best way, help yourself with some delicious foie gras and other snacks.

A Greek young boy, Leonidas Kestekides, moved to Belgium after getting married and, fascinated by the local "maîtres chocolatiers", opened his own chocolate shop around 1910. Today, Leonidas Poitiers offers more than 100 Belgian chocolates and pralines beautifully displayed and still made respecting the former values: freshness, generosity and tradition.