Amiens Holidays

Amiens is a pocket of northern France where canals, grand cathedrals and riverside cafés come together for a laid-back, picture-perfect escape.

Highlights

• 🏰 Jaw-dropping Amiens Cathedral — France’s largest Gothic church

• 🚣 Floating gardens (hortillonnages) best explored by boat

• 🏘️ Charming old town with riverside bars and half-timbered houses

• 🎨 Museums, street art and nods to Jules Verne everywhere

Getting around

Amiens is wonderfully walkable — the old town, cathedral and buzzing Saint-Leu quarter are all within easy strolling distance. Hop on a boat tour to glide through the city’s unique floating gardens or grab a bike to pedal along peaceful canals and parks. Trains link Amiens to Paris in about 90 minutes, making it a breeze for a quick city break or a base for exploring the wider Somme region.

Things to do for families in Amiens

Amiens keeps little explorers busy with a great mix of nature, history and open spaces. Start with a boat ride through the hortillonnages — the city’s magical floating gardens — where kids love spotting ducks and secret pathways. The towering Amiens Cathedral is fun to explore inside and out, and a climb up the towers rewards brave legs with stunning city views. Take a picnic to Parc Saint-Pierre, which has plenty of space to run and play, or visit the Zoo d’Amiens for a peek at everything from monkeys to meerkats. Finish with a sweet treat in the old town’s ice cream shops — guaranteed smiles all round.

Things to do for couples in Amiens

Amiens is perfect for couples wanting riverside strolls, cosy cafés and a dash of history. Wander hand-in-hand through the cobbled streets of the Saint-Leu quarter, dipping into bookshops and riverside bars as you go. Drift through the hortillonnages on a romantic boat tour, then linger over lunch at a waterside bistro. Don’t miss climbing the cathedral towers for panoramic views — it’s worth every step. In the evening, catch a light show projected onto the cathedral façade in summer, then toast your getaway with a glass of local Picardy cider or craft beer under fairy lights.

Things to do for groups in Amiens

Grab your mates and discover Amiens’ laid-back charm together. Start with a guided boat tour of the hortillonnages — quirky gardens, hidden waterways and plenty of Insta-worthy moments guaranteed. Snap group selfies in front of the enormous cathedral, then wander the Saint-Leu district’s colourful houses and buzzing terraces. Pop into the Jules Verne House for a bit of literary fun before settling into a lively bar along the canals for craft beers and people-watching. If you fancy a dose of nature, rent bikes and head out to explore the scenic towpaths that lead out of the city — picnic supplies optional but recommended.

Things to do for foodies in Amiens

Foodies will love digging into Amiens’ tasty local treats and classic French comfort food. Start at the lively covered market to pick up fresh cheese, crusty bread and local pâté. Stop by a café for the region’s signature macaron d’Amiens — a sweet almond delight — and don’t leave without trying ficelle picarde, a savoury crêpe stuffed with ham and mushrooms smothered in creamy sauce. For dinner, grab a table at a bistro in Saint-Leu and tuck into hearty Picardy dishes paired with local cider or craft beer. And if you spot gâteau battu on the dessert menu, order it — this fluffy brioche-like cake is an Amiens favourite.