UNESCO listed Amiens Cathedral, the Hortillonnages floating gardens, Jules Verne and much more make Amiens and great choice for a French short break.
Things to do in Amiens:
UNESCO listed Amiens Cathedral and Chroma
Rich in history and culture but also in green oases and gourmet experiences, Amiens (between Calais and Paris) is the perfect destination for a weekend city break in France.
Strolling its quaint cobbled streets or enjoying a leisurely meal in one of its welcoming restaurants, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped away from the strains of modern life into a simpler, more laid-back time. The first stop for most people who visit Amiens is its vast cathedral (phone: 33 (0)3 22 80 03 41), a UNESCO World Heritage listed Classic Gothic masterpiece that is best known for the fine sculptures on its main facade and in the south transept. It’s open April–Sept 8.30am–6.15pm, rest of year 8.30am–5.15pm.
Smaller in scale but just as interesting is the Maison de Jules Verne (00 33 [0]3 22 45 45 75), occupying the 19th-century townhouse that was once home to the novelist, poet and playwright famed around the world for his science fiction. It’s open April 15th–October 14th Monday and Wednesday–Friday 10am–12.30pm and 2–6.30pm, Tuesdays 11am–6.30pm, and Saturdays and Sundays 11am–6.30pm; rest of year Monday and Wednesday–Friday 10am–12.30pm and 2–6pm, Saturdays and Sundays 2–6pm.
Amiens is also home to the Cirque Jules Verne, inaugurated by the writer. A listed historical monument, this rare permanent circus constructed in 1889 hosts both traditional and contemporary street and circus acts.
Also unique to this compact city are the hortillonnages – floating market gardens that have been cultivated since the Middle Ages. Wandering along the towpaths of this network of minuscule canals, or exploring them by traditional boat, is one of the highlights of a weekend in Amiens.
If you can tear yourself away from one of the cosy hotels or B&Bs that characterise Amiens, early Saturday mornings see the city’s water market on the canals of the hortillonnages – a great opportunity to sample regional specialties including ficelles picardes (oven-baked savoury pancakes) and macaroons. In April (and October), foodies will also delight in the réderie or fleamarket, with local produce stalls alongside stands selling retro furnishings, vintage records and more.
