Amiens: Main attractions – Cathedral, floating markets, and war history
Just an hour north of Paris by train, Amiens offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and charm. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors like Paris or Lille, this Picardy gem is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. From the impressive Amiens Cathedral—a UNESCO-listed Gothic masterpiece—to the whimsical floating gardens of the Hortillonnages, and the poignant World War I battlefields nearby, Amiens promises an unforgettable experience.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway from Paris, Amiens has something for everyone. With its compact, pedestrian-friendly center, excellent public transport, and the warm hospitality of its residents, it’s an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Amiens, from must-see attractions to hidden gems, along with practical tips to make the most of your visit. Let’s go!
Why visit Amiens?
Amiens is one of those rare French cities still untouched by mass tourism. Here’s why it should be on your list:
Stunning architecture: With the largest cathedral in France by volume, Amiens is a dream for lovers of Gothic architecture.
Unique floating gardens: The Hortillonnages, a maze of waterways and floating market gardens, offer a serene escape.
A rich World War I history: Nearby battlefields like the Somme and Villers-Bretonneux provide deep insight into World War I.
Easy access from Paris: Just 1 hour by train from Gare du Nord, perfect for a day trip.
Affordable and authentic: Less touristy than Paris or Bruges, with excellent local cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere.
Let’s now explore the main attractions of Amiens in detail.
Amiens Cathedral: A Gothic Masterpiece
It’s impossible to visit Amiens without stepping inside its majestic cathedral. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Amiens Cathedral is France’s tallest complete cathedral and one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the world.
Why is Amiens Cathedral so exceptional?
Size and grandeur: With a nave reaching 42 metres in height, it boasts the tallest interior of all French cathedrals.
Sculpted façade: The west façade features over 3,000 statues, including the famous Smiling Angel.
Remarkable stained glass: The cathedral houses some of Europe’s finest 13th-century stained glass windows.
Light show (Polychromie chromatique): In summer, a light show projects colours onto the façade, restoring its original painted appearance.
Must-see features inside the cathedral
Once inside, don’t miss:
The labyrinth: A rare medieval floor labyrinth (a replica of the original, which was destroyed).
The choir stalls: Exquisitely carved 16th-century wooden stalls.
The relic of Saint John the Baptist: A gilded shrine said to contain the saint’s head.
The astronomical clock: A fascinating 15th-century mechanism.
Practical information for visiting Amiens Cathedral
Opening hours: Daily, from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (extended hours in summer).
Prices: Free (donations welcome). Guided tours and tower ascent available for an additional fee (~€8–12).
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. The light show takes place from June to September (to be confirmed).
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, but climbing the tower involves over 400 steps.
Tip: Climb the North Tower for a panoramic view of Amiens — it’s less crowded than the South Tower!
The Hortillonnages: Amiens’ Floating Gardens
Just a few minutes’ walk from the cathedral, the Hortillonnages form a dreamlike network of floating gardens crisscrossed by canals. This 300-hectare (740-acre) wetland site is a remnant of medieval market gardening and a paradise for nature lovers.
Why are the Hortillonnages unique?
A living museum: Farmers still grow vegetables, flowers, and herbs here using traditional methods.
A biodiversity hotspot: Over 300 plant species thrive here, along with numerous birds, fish, and insects.
A peaceful escape: A car-free area, perfect for walking, cycling, or boat rides.
Floating markets: In summer, local producers sell their fresh produce from their boats—a charming tradition dating back to the Middle Ages.
How to explore the Hortillonnages
Several options are available to discover this green oasis:
By boat (best option):
Choose a guided flat-bottomed boat tour (€10–15, 45 min). Departures from Quai Bélu.
For more freedom, opt for a self-service electric boat (€20–25/hour).
On foot:
Take a free stroll along the Chemin de Halage (towpath).
Visit the Maison des Hortillonnages (small museum, €3 entry).
By bike:
Rent a bicycle and explore the picturesque trails (rental ~€10–15/day).
Best time to visit the Hortillonnages
Spring (April–June): Blooming flowers and lush greenery.
Summer (July–August): Floating markets (Saturdays and Sundays) and peak boat rides.
Autumn (September–October): Golden foliage and fewer crowds.
Tip: Combine your visit with a picnic — buy fresh produce from the floating markets or at the Marché sur l’Eau nearby.
The History of World War I: The Battlefields of the Somme
Amiens played a key role during World War I, notably during the Battle of Amiens (1918), which marked the beginning of the end for German forces. The Battlefields of the Somme, located nearby, are among Europe’s most moving and best-preserved sites of the Great War.
Key World War I sites near Amiens
Australian National Memorial, Villers-Bretonneux (20 min from Amiens):
Honours the more than 10,700 Australian soldiers who died in France during World War I.
Features an imposing memorial tower and a museum (Sir John Monash Centre).
Don’t miss: The Adélaïde Cemetery, where many ANZAC soldiers are buried.
Thiepval Memorial to the Missing (40 min from Amiens):
The world’s largest British war memorial, listing 72,000 missing soldiers.
Visit the Thiepval Museum to learn more about the Battle of the Somme (1916).
Lochnagar Crater (30 min from Amiens):
A massive crater (91 m wide, 21 m deep) created by the explosion of a British mine in 1916.
One of the most striking remnants of trench warfare.
Péronne and the Historial of the Great War (45 min from Amiens):
A world-class museum dedicated to World War I, featuring immersive exhibitions.
Focuses on the daily lives of soldiers and civilians.
How to Visit the Somme Battlefields
By car: The easiest way to explore at your own pace (rentals available in Amiens).
Guided tours:
Book a full-day WWI tour from Amiens (~€80–120, transport included).
Some tours focus on Australian/Canadian history (highly popular with ANZAC visitors).
By public transport:
Take the TER to Albert (30 min from Amiens), then a taxi to reach key sites.
Tips for a memorable visit
Wear comfortable shoes – many sites involve walking on uneven ground.
Visit in spring or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Check opening hours – some memorials close in winter.
Consider hiring a private guide for a more personalized experience.
Tip: If you're short on time, prioritize Villers-Bretonneux and Thiepval – these are the most striking sites.
Saint-Leu: Amiens’ charming old quarter
After exploring history and nature, stroll through Saint-Leu, Amiens’ picturesque old quarter. This lively district is packed with half-timbered houses, canals, and cozy cafés – perfect for a relaxed wander.
Don’t miss in Saint-Leu
Take a walk along the Somme:
The Quais de la Somme are lined with colorful houses and barges.
Stop by the Port d’Aval to watch boats pass through the locks.
Visit the Musée de Picardie:
A fine arts museum housing works by Delacroix, Corot and Puvis de Chavannes.
Housed in a magnificent 19th-century building.
Explore Rue des Vergeaux:
A street straight out of a postcard, with its leaning half-timbered houses.
Perfect for photography!
Taste the local specialties:
La Ficelle Picarde: a crepe filled with ham, mushrooms, and cream.
Les Macarons d’Amiens: almond-based macarons (different from Parisian macarons!).
Local beer: try a Gambrinus or a Saint-Leu Ambrée in a waterside bar.
Best cafés and restaurants in Saint-Leu
Le Quai 22: riverside restaurant with a lovely view. Try the duck confit.
La Maison de l’Amiens: a cozy spot to enjoy La Ficelle Picarde and Picardy wines.
Le Café des Arts: artistic vibe with live music on weekends.
Macarons de Julie: the best place to buy Macarons d’Amiens.
Tip: Visit on a Saturday morning to enjoy the Saint-Leu market (fresh produce, cheeses, and local crafts).
Day trip to Amiens from Paris: practical guide
Amiens is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Paris. Here’s how to make the most of it:
How to get from Amiens to Paris
By train (best option):
Depart from Gare du Nord in Paris (1h–1h15 journey, ~€15–25 one-way).
Trains run hourly; book in advance on SNCF Connect for better fares.
By car:
~1h30 via the A1 motorway (tolls apply).
Park at the Parking du Cirque (city centre, ~€10/day).
By bus:
FlixBus offers budget-friendly trips (~€10, 2h), but trains are faster.
Sample one-day itinerary in Amiens
Here’s how to experience the best of Amiens in a day:
8:30 AM: Arrive in Amiens, drop off your luggage at the left-luggage office (Amiens Station).
9:00 AM: Visit the Amiens Cathedral (arrive early to avoid crowds).
11:00 AM: Explore the Saint-Leu district (stroll along the Somme, visit the Picardy Museum).
12:30 : Lunch at Quai 22 (riverside restaurant).
14:00 : Cruise on the Hortillonnages (or bike rental).
16:00 : Coffee break and Amiens macarons at Macarons de Julie.
17:00 : Optional: brief visit to the Jules Verne House (if time permits).
18:00 : Return train to Paris.
Where to stay in Amiens (if you spend the night)
If you decide to stay overnight, here are the best choices:
Luxury: Hôtel Le Prieuré (5-star, historic building near the cathedral).
Mid-range: Hôtel Marotte (charming, excellent location in Saint-Leu).
Budget: Ibis Amiens Centre Cathédrale (affordable, central).
Unique: La Maison dans les Hortillonnages (B&B in floating gardens!).
Best time to visit Amiens
Spring (April–June) : Mild weather, Hortillonnages in bloom, fewer crowds.
Summer (July–August) : Warmest weather, floating markets, but busier.
Autumn (September–October): Golden leaves, harvest season in the Hortillonnages.
Winter (November–March): Quiet but cold; some attractions (like boat tours) may be closed.
Tip: Visit during the Fête de la Saint-Leu (June) for a lively festival with music, gastronomy, and fireworks!
Hidden gems and unusual places in Amiens
Beyond the must-see sites, Amiens is full of lesser-known places to explore:
Jules Verne House:
The science-fiction writer lived here from 1882 to 1900.
Now a museum featuring original manuscripts and quirky inventions.
Did you know? Verne wrote Around the World in 80 Days here!
Tour Perret:
A 1950s Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of Amiens.
Climb to 110 meters for a unique perspective (entry €5).
Parc de la Hotoie:
A peaceful park with a small zoo (free entry).
Perfect for a picnic or a relaxing break.
Musée de l’Hôtellerie:
A quirky museum on the history of hospitality (housed in an old inn).
Features antique menus, luggage, and hospitality objects.
Cimetière de La Madeleine:
A landscaped cemetery with notable graves, including that of Jules Verne.
Peaceful and photogenic.
Amiens with kids: family-friendly activities
Amiens is an ideal destination for families. Here’s how to keep the kids entertained:
Amiens Zoo:
A well-maintained small zoo with over 100 animal species.
Kids love the lemurs, meerkats, and red pandas.
Puppet show at the cathedral:
Free puppet shows in summer recount the story of the cathedral’s construction.
Fun and educational for children.
Boat tour in the Hortillonnages:
Kids love renting electric boats—let them “drive” (with supervision!).
Parc Saint-Pierre:
A large park with playgrounds, a miniature train, and ducks to feed.
Chocolate workshop at Chocolats de Beussent:
Children can make their own chocolates during a fun workshop (~€15).
Tip: Pick up a treasure hunt map at the tourist office — kids will love exploring Amiens like real detectives!
Gastronomy in Amiens: What to taste?
Amiens has a rich culinary tradition. Don’t leave the city without trying these local specialties:
Must-try specialties
Ficelle Picarde:
A savory crêpe filled with ham, mushrooms, and cream, then gratinated.
To be enjoyed at Le Café des Arts or La Maison de l’Amiens.
Amiens Macarons:
Almond-based macarons (softer than those in Paris) with flavors like honey and fruit.
To buy at Macarons de Julie or Trogneux.
Welsh Rarebit (Le Welsh):
A Picardy twist on Welsh rarebit — toasted bread topped with ham and melted cheese.
To try at Le Quai 22.
Amiens Andouillette:
A smoked sausage made from pork intestines (for enthusiasts!).
To be enjoyed at Le Bistrot des Hortillonnages.
Gâteau Battu:
A soft, buttery cake often served with tea.
Available at local bakeries like Boulangerie Paul.
Where to eat and drink in Amiens?
Le Quai 22 (€€) – Riverside dining with classic Picardy dishes.
La Maison de l’Amiens (€€) – Cozy spot to try the Ficelle Picarde.
Le Bistrot des Hortillonnages (€) – Casual restaurant near the gardens.
Le Café des Arts (€) – Great for lunch with live music.
Le Comptoir (€€) – Modern French cuisine in the Saint-Leu district.
Brasserie Le Cirque (€€) – Historic brewery with local beers.
Local drinks to try
Bière Gambrinus: A local blonde beer, best enjoyed at Brasserie Le Cirque.
Ambrée de Saint-Leu: A malty amber beer brewed in Amiens.
Cidre de Picardie: Less sweet than Normandy’s, often served in a bowl.
Ratafia de Picardie: A sweet fruit liqueur, perfect as a digestif.
Tip: Stop by the Marché sur l’Eau (Saturday mornings) to pick up local cheese, charcuterie, and fresh pastries.
Shopping in Amiens: What to Bring Back
Amiens is an ideal city for finding unique souvenirs. Here’s what to look for:
Amiens Macarons: The city’s most famous gourmet treat (available at Trogneux or Macarons de Julie).
Picardy Lace: Delicate handmade lace from the Atelier-Musée du Tulle.
Jules Verne Books: Original or illustrated editions at Librairie Hisler-Even.
Local Beers: Bottles of Gambrinus or Ambrée de Saint-Leu.
Picardy String Kit: Ready-to-cook kits for home (available at La Maison de l’Amiens).
Hortillonnages Produce: Fresh herbs, flowers, or vegetables from the floating markets.
Best Shopping Streets & Markets
Rue des Trois-Cailloux: Main shopping street with boutiques and cafés.
Rue de Noyon: Antique shops and bookstores.
Marché sur l’Eau (Saturday mornings): Floating market with local produce.
Les Halles du Beffroi: Covered market offering cheeses, meats, and pastries.
Getting around Amiens
Amiens is a compact city that’s easy to explore on foot, but here are your transport options:
On foot
The city centre, cathedral, Saint-Leu and the Hortillonnages are all within a 30-minute walk of each other. Comfortable shoes are a must!
By bike
Rent a bike from Vélam (€10–15/day) or the Hortillonnages bike rentals.
Ideal for exploring the Hortillonnages or cycling along the Somme.
Public transport
Tram & Bus:
Amiens has a modern tramway (3 lines) and a bus network.
Single ticket: €1.60; day pass: €4.50.
Tourist train:
A charming little train (€6) that tours the city centre (April to October).
Taxis & Ride-hailing
Taxis are available at the train station or via Allo Taxi Amiens.
Uber operates in Amiens but with limited availability.
Practical tips for traveling to Amiens: what you need to know
Before you go, here are a few tips to make your stay easier:
Language: French is the main language, but many tourism professionals speak basic English.
Currency: The euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but bring some cash for markets.
Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up the bill (or leaving 5–10%) is appreciated.
Safety: Amiens is very safe, but watch out for pickpockets in busy areas.
Clothing: Casual, but bring modest attire for the cathedral.
Weather:
Summer (June–August): Warm (20–25 °C), occasional rain.
Winter (December–February): Cold (0–5 °C), possible frost.
Tourist office: Amiens Tourist Office (near the cathedral) for maps and advice.
In summary: Is Amiens worth the detour?
Don’t hesitate! Amiens is a hidden gem that offers the perfect blend of history, nature, and culture—without the crowds of Paris or Bruges. Whether you admire the majestic cathedral, glide along in a boat through the floating gardens, or pay your respects at the First World War memorials, Amiens will leave a lasting impression.
Its compact size makes it an ideal destination for a day trip from Paris, but if you have the time, spend a night to soak up the peaceful atmosphere of Saint-Leu and enjoy a meal by the water.
So if you’re looking for an authentically French experience off the beaten path, add Amiens to your itinerary. You won’t regret it!
Ready to visit Amiens?
Start planning your trip now:
Book your train tickets on SNCF Connect.
Check the boat tour schedules for the Hortillonnages here.
Reserve a First World War battlefield tour if you’re heading there.
Wear good shoes—you’ll be doing a lot of walking (and even climbing the cathedral towers)!
Have you already been to Amiens? Share your favorite spots in the comments!
