Things To Do
in Amiens
Amiens is a historic city in northern France, the capital of the Somme department. Dominated by the UNESCO-listed Cathédrale Notre-Dame d'Amiens, it balances grand architecture with intimate canals. The city is known for the Hortillonnages floating gardens and a vibrant Saint-Leu quarter filled with cafés and markets.
It offers a compact, walkable center, excellent regional cuisine, and easy access to nature and WWI heritage nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Amiens, absorbing the charming architecture and historical significance. Visit the stunning Amiens Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire its intricate Gothic design and magnificent stained-glass windows. Enjoy a cup of coffee at a nearby café before heading to your next destination.
Delve deeper into the local culture at the Musée de Picardie, which houses an impressive collection of fine arts and artifacts. Afterward, take a scenic walk along the canals, where you can observe the picturesque houseboats and vibrant flora that line the water. Stop at a local bistro for lunch, sampling regional delicacies like ficelle picarde.
As the sun sets, experience the enchanting light show at the cathedral, enhancing its grandeur against the evening sky. Dine at a traditional restaurant, savoring gourmet French cuisine paired with local wine. End your night with a peaceful walk around the illuminated streets, reveling in the serene atmosphere.
Embark on a short trip to the floating gardens, known as 'les hortillonnages', where you can explore the unique ecosystem that has sustained local agriculture for generations. Take a guided boat tour to learn about the history and significance of the gardens and their surroundings. Enjoy the tranquility of the lush greenery and vibrant flowers that adorn the waterways.
After your garden tour, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can relish fresh local produce. Spend the afternoon visiting the local market, where you can find artisanal goods and regional specialties to take home. Engage with locals to learn more about the area’s rich history and traditions.
Return to Amiens in time for dinner at a cozy eatery, where you can experience more culinary delights of the Picardy region. Settle into the lively dining atmosphere, accompanied by local musicians or entertainment. Conclude your day with a stroll along the river, appreciating the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transit fare (single ride) | $2-3 |
| 🍷Dinner at mid-range restaurant for one | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and UNESCO cathedral
- Beautiful canal-side Saint-Leu district
- Proximity to Hortillonnages and nature
- Good value for a French city with regional cuisine
- Smaller nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some attractions can be crowded in peak season
- Weather can be changeable in spring and autumn
- Limited direct international flight options
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where are the toilets?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Amiens
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO-listed Gothic cathedral with soaring blue vaults and intricate stonework.
A network of floating gardens reachable by boat, offering reflections, waterways, and rural scenery.
Picturesque canals, flower-filled streets, and colorful façades along the water.
Historic riverside house museum linked to the famed author, a scenic photography subject.
Food in Amiens
Amiens Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A leek and cheese tart, the quintessential Picardy comfort dish found in bakeries and bistros.
Must-Try!
A savory crepe wrapped around ham and cheese, baked until melty and golden.
A traditional beef tripe stew slow-cooked with onions and spices, a regional winter classic.
Seasonal seafood platters and cheese boards featuring Picardy cheeses.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant Saturday market near the canal offering fresh produce, cheeses, and regional bites.
Daily market with stalls for meat, seafood, bread, and seasonal produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour when entering shops; a polite handshake is common; use Monsieur/Madame in formal situations.
Keep hands visible and on the table; avoid loud conversations in quiet venues; wait to be seated if required.
Safety
Tipping in Amiens
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild and often rainy; bring a light jacket and an umbrella for city strolls and park visits.
Warm days with long daylight hours; stay hydrated and enjoy canal walks, markets, and outdoor seating.
Cooler temperatures; harvest flavors appear on menus and trees shed leaves along the canals.
Cold but festive; indoor museums, cafés, and Christmas markets offer warmth and cultural events.
Amiens at Night
Hiking in Amiens
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of marshy, water-filled islets with walking trails and boat access.
Forested area with woodland trails suitable for easy hikes.
Coastal paths along the Somme estuary with dunes and birdlife; great for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Amiens by plane.
Major international hub; about 1.5-2 hours by high-speed train or car from Amiens.
Budget-friendly airport about 85 km from Amiens; convenient bus/shuttle connections.
Smaller regional airport about 120 km away; good for short flights.
South of Paris; longer journey but accessible by rail and road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Amiens has universities and higher education institutions contributing to a youthful urban population.
Families form a central part of the community; central areas are family-friendly with parks and museums.
Visitors come to explore the cathedral, Hortillonnages, and WWI heritage in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and matches in community stadiums.
Popular for commuting and recreational rides along the river and in parks.
Active in the region with clubs and community leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amiens.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for veggie tarts, salads, and cheese plates in most bistros.