Things To Do
in Amiens
Amiens is a charming city located in northern France, famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral, one of the largest in the country. The city is known for its picturesque canals, lovely parks, and vibrant market squares. Amiens is also a cultural hub, with several museums showcasing art and history.
Visitors can enjoy traditional French cuisine in the many cafes and restaurants that line the streets of this historic city.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the breathtaking Amiens Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate sculptures.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque St. Leu district, filled with colorful houses and canals. Stop for lunch at a local café to savor traditional French cuisine.
In the evening, consider attending a performance at the Zenith de Amiens. Alternatively, relax in a riverside park while enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Begin by visiting the Musée de Picardie, home to impressive collections of fine arts and historical artifacts. The museum's architecture is as captivating as the artworks it houses.
After lunch, head to the Maison de Jules Verne, dedicated to the famous author who spent much of his life in Amiens. Explore the exhibits that celebrate his literary contributions.
Dine at a local bistro, sampling regional delicacies. Post-dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife around the Place Gambetta.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage, including the Gothic Amiens Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Vibrant cultural scene with numerous festivals, museums, and art galleries.
- Beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Parc Saint-Pierre, providing green spaces for relaxation.
- Gastronomic delights, including the famous 'ficelle picarde' dish and local markets.
- Strategic location with easy access to Paris and other major cities in northern France.
- Weather can be quite variable, with cold winters and potential for rainy days.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Economic challenges, including unemployment rates that can be higher than the national average.
- Public transport options may be less comprehensive than in larger urban centers.
- Occasional flooding risks due to the location near the Somme River.
Best Activities in Amiens
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a relaxing picnic amidst the beautiful landscapes and serene atmosphere of Parc Saint-Pierre.
Take a leisurely boat tour along the canals of Amiens to soak in the picturesque views of the city and its surroundings.
Explore the unique floating gardens of Amiens by taking a guided boat tour through the network of canals that wind through the picturesque marshland.
Embark on a scenic bike ride along the banks of the Somme River, offering stunning views of the city and countryside.
Tours
Uncover the best of Amiens with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Amiens
Visit one of these nice places.
This Gothic masterpiece offers stunning views of the city and beautiful photo opportunities, especially from the top of the tower.
The floating gardens and canals of Les Hortillonnages provide unique and picturesque photo opportunities, especially during the spring and summer months.
This picturesque riverside area provides lovely views of the old buildings and canal, perfect for capturing the charm of Amiens.
Food in Amiens
Amiens Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty, Ficelle Picarde is a savory crepe filled with ham and mushrooms, topped with cheese and baked to perfection. Not to be missed, it's available at most traditional French restaurants in the city.
Must-Try!
A delicious savory pie filled with leeks, cream, and sometimes ham. It is a popular dish in Amiens and can be found at local bakeries and traditional eateries.
This regional delicacy is a donkey sausage with a unique flavor. It's typically served as a cold cut or appetizer and can be found in specialty meat shops and markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Amiens better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant indoor market offering a wide range of fresh local produce, cheeses, meats, and prepared foods. Visitors can also find delicious street food options such as crĂȘpes, galettes, and regional pastries.
This bustling square hosts a weekly market where visitors can sample local street foods like pommes frites (French fries), savory and sweet crepes, and artisanal breads.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Amiens, France, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, depending on the level of familiarity and the region. It's important to address people using formal titles such as 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' unless invited to use first names.
Respect for mealtime is crucial in Amiens. It's common to adhere to proper table manners and avoid discussing controversial topics during meals. Additionally, it's polite to wait for the host to initiate the start of the meal or for them to offer a toast before drinking.
Punctuality is valued in Amiens, so it's important to arrive on time for appointments, social gatherings, and meetings. Being late without a valid reason may be seen as disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Amiens with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Amiens
Ensure a smooth experience
In Amiens, France, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is common to leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for good service, typically around 5-10% of the total bill.
In Amiens, France, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payment. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, especially in larger establishments and businesses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for mild weather, blooming flowers, and cultural events such as the JournĂ©es EuropĂ©ennes des MĂ©tiers dâArt.
Ideal for outdoor activities, festivals like the FĂȘte dans la Ville, and enjoying the pleasant weather.
Great for fall foliage, experiencing the Foire de la Saint-Denis, and enjoying cooler temperatures.
Perfect for experiencing the Christmas markets, enjoying the festive atmosphere, and exploring indoor attractions like the museums.
Amiens at Night
Hiking in Amiens
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large park featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and natural scenery, perfect for easy hikes within the city limits of Amiens.
Beautiful gardens with a variety of paths that offer a peaceful hiking experience, ideal for families and casual walkers.
A regional natural park offering diverse hiking trails through forests, wetlands, and scenic landscapes, suitable for more adventurous hikes.
A stunning valley with numerous trails along the river Somme, providing picturesque views and opportunities for longer hikes.
A marked hiking trail near Amiens offering hilly terrain and beautiful countryside views, perfect for those looking for a moderate challenge.
Aiports
How to reach Amiens by plane.
Main international airport serving Paris and the surrounding regions, approximately 160 km from Amiens.
International airport located in Lille, around 120 km from Amiens, serving as a gateway to northern France and nearby Belgium.
Located approximately 70 km from Amiens, this airport primarily serves low-cost airlines and charter flight operations.
A small international airport located about 90 km from Amiens, mainly used for general aviation and seasonal flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Amiens, comprising individuals who identify as French citizens, focusing on heritage and culture.
A significant community originating from North African countries such as Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia.
Individuals from various countries in sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Amiens.
Immigrants from Eastern European countries, including Poland and Romania, who have settled in Amiens.
A smaller yet notable group representing various Asian nationalities, including but not limited to Vietnamese and Chinese communities.
Residents from various other European countries, contributing to the cityâs diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Amiens, with the local club Amiens SC competing in the higher tiers of French football.
Rugby is also a popular sport in Amiens, with clubs offering opportunities for both youth and adult players to engage in the sport.
Basketball has a significant following in Amiens, with local teams participating in regional leagues and promoting the sport among the youth.
Cycling is popular in the region, with many residents participating in recreational cycling as well as competitive events.
Handball is played at various levels in Amiens, with local clubs providing training and competition for enthusiasts of all ages.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in Amiens, supported by community clubs and school programs that foster interest in the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amiens.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional French cuisine leans heavily on meat and dairy, many restaurants in Amiens offer vegetarian and vegan options. Places like Le Quai and La Table des Marais are known for accommodating these dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options in some restaurants and cafes, especially those with a focus on modern and health-conscious dining. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs with staff for a tailored dining experience.