General Information
Amiens, the capital of the Somme department in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France, is a city steeped in history and culture. Famous for its magnificent Gothic cathedral, Canal de la Somme, and French art heritage, Amiens offers visitors a charming atmosphere with a blend of historical significance and modern flair. The city is the birthplace of the renowned author Jules Verne, and it offers a range of architectural wonders, vibrant cultural festivals, and lovely green spaces, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking both history and tranquility.
Location
Amiens is located in the northern part of France, approximately 120 km (75 miles) north of Paris and 50 km (31 miles) from the English Channel. The city is set along the Somme River and is surrounded by vast farmlands and lush countryside, providing beautiful natural views. Its proximity to Belgium and England makes it a great destination for those exploring the north of France.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- The nearest major airport to Amiens is Beauvais Tillé Airport (BVA), about 80 km away, which serves low-cost flights mainly from European destinations.
- Alternatively, you can fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) or Paris Orly Airport (ORY) and take a direct train to Amiens.
- By Train:
- Amiens is easily accessible by high-speed TGV trains from Paris, with a travel time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Trains also connect the city to Lille and other northern French cities.
- By Bus:
- Several long-distance buses (like FlixBus and Eurolines) connect Amiens to major cities in France and neighboring countries.
- By Car:
- Amiens is well-connected by road, located just off the A1 highway, which runs from Paris to Lille. Driving offers an easy way to explore the surrounding countryside.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): Enjoy mild temperatures (10°C – 18°C), blooming gardens, and outdoor activities in Amiens’ parks and along the Somme River.
- Summer (June – August): Warm temperatures (15°C – 25°C) bring festivals, outdoor concerts, and plenty of opportunities to explore the city. The Jules Verne Festival and Hortillonnages Floating Gardens Festival are popular events.
- Autumn (September – November): A beautiful time to visit with cooler weather (10°C – 15°C) and colorful fall foliage. The harvest season brings wine and food festivals.
- Winter (December – February): Cold temperatures (0°C – 5°C) dominate, but the Christmas Market and festive lights create a magical atmosphere.
Key Festivals:
- Jules Verne Festival (April/May): Celebrating the famous author with literary talks, exhibitions, and film screenings.
- Hortillonnages Floating Gardens Festival (July): A vibrant event celebrating the city’s floating gardens with boat tours, cultural performances, and exhibitions.
- Christmas Market (December): The historic city center is transformed with holiday decorations, artisanal goods, and local treats.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Les Sept Jours: A boutique hotel offering luxurious rooms, exceptional service, and a prime location in the city center.
- Mercure Amiens Cathedrale: A stylish hotel with comfortable rooms and a fantastic view of the Amiens Cathedral.
- Mid-range:
- Ibis Amiens Centre Cathedrale: Centrally located, offering a mix of comfort and affordability, with modern amenities and proximity to key attractions.
- Hotel Marotte: A charming, well-reviewed boutique hotel featuring elegant rooms, a relaxing atmosphere, and a great breakfast.
- Budget:
- B&B Hôtel Amiens: An affordable option offering clean rooms and basic amenities, located a short drive from the city center.
- Première Classe Amiens: A simple, budget-friendly hotel with essential services for an economical stay.
- Unique:
- La Chambre d’Hôtes du 21: A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of Amiens, offering an intimate, homely stay with personalized service.
- Le Loft du Canal: A stylish loft-style apartment near the Canal de la Somme, perfect for those seeking a more independent, local experience.
Top Attractions
- Amiens Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens): A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe, famous for its stunning stained glass windows and impressive architecture.
- Hortillonnages Floating Gardens: A unique network of floating gardens accessible by boat, where you can explore lush greenery and learn about local horticulture.
- Jules Verne House (Maison de Jules Verne): The birthplace of the famous author, now a museum dedicated to his life and works.
- The St-Leu District: A charming, historic quarter with narrow streets, colorful houses, and canals, perfect for a scenic walk.
- Parc Samara: An archaeological park dedicated to prehistory, offering visitors interactive exhibitions and outdoor experiences.
- Musee de Picardie: A museum showcasing local history, art, and archaeology, with impressive collections of European paintings and Roman artifacts.
- The Belfry of Amiens: A UNESCO-listed medieval bell tower that offers fantastic views of the city and the surrounding region.
- The Amiens Zoo: A small, well-maintained zoo with over 200 species of animals, ideal for families or nature enthusiasts.
- La Maison de la Culture: A modern cultural center that hosts a range of artistic events, from theater performances to concerts.
- La Tour Perret: A 20th-century skyscraper offering great panoramic views of the city.
Getting Around
- Walking: Amiens is a compact city, and many of its key attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially around the historic center.
- Public Transport: The Amiens Métropole Bus network is extensive and affordable, covering the city and surrounding areas. Tram services are also available, making it easy to explore the city.
- Biking: Amiens is bike-friendly, with many cycling paths and bike-sharing options available throughout the city.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available, and services like Uber operate in the city for more convenient transport.
Local Cuisine
- Flamiche: A savory leek tart, similar to a quiche, originating from the Picardy region.
- Amiens Macarons: Sweet, almond-flavored macaroons that are a local delicacy, often sold at bakeries throughout the city.
- Tarte au Fromage de Neufchâtel: A delicious cheese tart, made with local Neufchâtel cheese, a specialty of the Normandy and Picardy regions.
- Pâté de Porc Picard: A regional specialty made from pork, often served as a pâté or pie.
- Local Cider & Beer: The Picardy region is known for its ciders and craft beers, which pair well with the hearty local dishes.
Best Restaurants & Cafés:
- Le Saint-Roch: A gourmet restaurant offering delicious regional French cuisine with a modern twist.
- Le Quai des Artistes: A lively bistro serving regional specialties and fresh seafood in a stylish setting.
- La Table d’Emilie: A cozy restaurant specializing in traditional French fare with a focus on local ingredients.
Shopping
- Galeries Lafayette Amiens: A large department store offering a variety of fashion, beauty products, and gourmet goods.
- Les Halles du Beffroi: A vibrant indoor market where you can find local specialties, fresh produce, and regional goods.
- Place Notre-Dame: A picturesque square lined with boutiques, art galleries, and cafes, perfect for shopping and people-watching.
- Amiens Antiques Market: For those looking for vintage treasures, this market offers a variety of antiques, collectibles, and unique finds.
Nightlife
- Le 10: A stylish cocktail bar in the city center, perfect for enjoying creative drinks in a chic atmosphere.
- La Lune des Pirates: A lively venue for live music, offering a mix of rock, jazz, and electronic beats.
- Le Dôme: A trendy nightclub offering a mix of modern music and vibrant dance floors for those seeking an energetic night out.
- Café de la Paix: A charming bar offering an excellent selection of drinks and a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
