A jewel of Picardy to explore with balladins

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or seeking a nature escape, Amiens and its surroundings offer a multitude of activities to satisfy all your desires.

Amiens Notre-Dame Cathedral: A Gothic Masterpiece

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Amiens Notre-Dame Cathedral is a must-see for any visitor to the city. As France's largest Gothic cathedral, it impresses with its colossal dimensions and the intricacy of its sculptures.

• Architectural Details: Admire the façade adorned with finely sculpted statues depicting biblical scenes and figures of saints. Inside, marvel at the height of the nave, the beauty of the stained glass windows, and the light that bathes this sacred space.
• The Chroma Show: In summer and December, don't miss the Chroma show, which illuminates the cathedral’s façade with a striking display of light and color. This free night-time spectacle is a true enchantment for visitors of all ages.

The Hortillonnages: A floating eden in the heart of the city

Amiens' Hortillonnages are a true natural treasure. These floating gardens, spread over 300 hectares, represent a unique place in France where nature and human presence coexist in harmony.

• Boat Ride: The best way to explore the Hortillonnages is by traditional boat. As you glide along the waterways, you'll navigate between garden plots, orchards, and vegetable gardens, all while enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the area.
• Art, Cities & Landscape Festival: From May to October, the Hortillonnages host a contemporary art festival where artists create site-specific works. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience these gardens from a new perspective, blending nature and art.

Saint-Leu district: A bohemian atmosphere by the water

The Saint-Leu district is often compared to a small "Venice of the North" with its canals, colorful houses, and cobbled streets. It’s the most picturesque area of Amiens, ideal for strolling and soaking up the city's bohemian vibe.

• Cafés and Restaurants: Saint-Leu is the perfect spot to linger on a terrace and savor local cuisine. Numerous restaurants offer Picard specialties like ficelle picarde or gâteau battu.
• Water Market: Every Saturday morning, the water market livens up the district. Farmers come to sell their fresh produce directly from their boats, a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages.

Amiens museums: A journey through time

Amiens is also a city of culture, housing several museums that will delight history, art, and science enthusiasts.

• Picardie Museum: This museum, considered one of the most beautiful provincial museums, offers a rich and varied collection, from archaeology to contemporary art. The building itself, a magnificent 19th-century palace, is worth a visit.
• Jules Verne House: Immerse yourself in the world of the famous writer by visiting his Amiens home, where he lived from 1882 to 1900. The house-museum displays personal items, manuscripts, and memorabilia related to his famous novels.
• Hortillonnages Museum: This small museum, located near the floating gardens, tells the story of the Hortillonnages and the hortillons, the market gardeners who shaped this unique landscape.

Around Amiens: Nature and History Just a Stone's Throw Away

Amiens is also the perfect starting point for excursions in the surrounding area, where you can discover exceptional natural and historical sites.

• Bay of Somme: About an hour from Amiens, the Bay of Somme is one of France’s most beautiful estuaries. Designated a Grand Site of France, it’s a paradise for nature lovers, offering breathtaking landscapes and exceptional wildlife, including seals and migratory birds.
• Rambures Castle: This medieval castle, located 50 minutes from Amiens, is a rare example of 15th-century military architecture. Surrounded by an English-style park, the castle is open to visitors and offers a journey through time, blending history and legends.
• The Remembrance Trail: For history enthusiasts, the Remembrance Trail is a must-visit. This route takes you through the key sites of the Battle of the Somme, such as the Thiepval Memorial and the Beaumont-Hamel military cemetery. It’s an emotional experience to better understand the events of World War I.

Stay in Amiens with balladins: Comfort and Proximity

To make the most of your stay in Amiens, choose our initial by balladins Amiens / Longueau hotel. Our establishment offers you all the comfort needed for a pleasant stay, whether you're on a romantic getaway, a family weekend, or a business trip. Thanks to its ideal location, you'll be just steps away from the city's main attractions, all while enjoying a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

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Amiens is a destination that will charm all types of travelers. With its historical heritage, culture, and nature, the Picardy capital offers a multitude of activities and discoveries. Start planning your stay in Amiens now and explore this fascinating city with Balladins, your partner for successful getaways in France.