Amiens: The Complete Guide

Amiens Cathedral

Amiens is a delightful city in the Hauts-de-Franc region that offers a peaceful yet engaging stop on any northern France itinerary. Its lively yet relaxed atmosphere is shaped by a charming mix of canal-side cafés, open-air markets, and pedestrian-friendly streets. A visit to Amiens wouldn’t be complete without spending time along the Somme River, where you can enjoy a boat ride through the city’s unique floating gardens, known as the Hortillonnages. The canals provide a refreshing green escape within the city, and they’re especially lovely to explore in the warmer months.

The town also has a creative and cultural flair, with independent bookstores, contemporary art spaces, and seasonal festivals that liven up its historic quarters. It’s compact enough to explore on foot, but full of hidden corners that reward those who wander. Whether you’re in town for an overnight stop or a longer stay, Amiens offers a tranquil yet enriching break from the busier destinations further south, with enough charm to make it a highlight of your journey through northern France.

History of Amiens

Amiens: Roman Foundations and Early Development

Amiens began as a settlement of the Ambiani, a Gallic tribe, before becoming part of the Roman Empire around the 1st century BCE. The Romans named it Samarobriva, meaning “bridge over the Somme,” and developed it into an important regional center with roads, public baths, and a forum. Its strategic position at the crossroads of trade routes ensured prosperity through antiquity. Remnants of the Roman period, such as walls and artifacts, still hint at this early urban structure.

Christianity took hold in Amiens during the Late Roman period, and by the 4th century, it had become the seat of a bishopric. The transition from Roman to early medieval city occurred gradually, as the region faced waves of invasions and shifts in power during the decline of the Western Roman Empire.

Amiens: Medieval Growth and Gothic Grandeur

During the Middle Ages, Amiens flourished as a center of commerce and religious life. Its textile industry, especially cloth production, became a major economic driver. In the 13th century, the city’s most famous monument, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens, was constructed. It remains one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in France and a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The city’s layout expanded around religious institutions, trade quarters, and defensive walls.

Amiens was also the site of several important assemblies and treaties during this era. Despite its growth, it wasn’t immune to turmoil—conflicts such as the Hundred Years’ War and local revolts disrupted life, though the city managed to rebuild and retain its regional influence.

Amiens: Renaissance to Revolution

From the 16th to 18th centuries, Amiens modernized slowly. It retained its importance in the textile trade, and its position along the Somme helped it remain connected to national and international markets. The Wars of Religion touched the city briefly, but it largely avoided major destruction. The 1597 Siege of Amiens by Spanish forces during the French Wars of Religion was one of the city’s most dramatic events before the Revolution.

By the late 18th century, Amiens was evolving into a more administrative and industrial town. The French Revolution brought social and political upheaval, but the city adapted, with its institutions restructured and religious properties repurposed or destroyed.

Amiens: 19th Century Industrialization and Culture

In the 19th century, Amiens expanded rapidly due to industrialization. Textile factories, rail connections, and new infrastructure transformed the cityscape. The Somme River was further developed to support industrial and commercial transport. This era also saw the beautification of the city with public gardens, boulevards, and modern civic buildings.

It was during this period that Jules Verne, the famous author, settled in Amiens, and his presence added a touch of literary prestige to the city. His home became a landmark, and his contributions to the city’s cultural scene are still celebrated today.

Amiens: 20th Century Wars and Reconstruction

Amiens was severely affected by both World Wars. In World War I, it was near the front lines and played a critical role during the Battle of Amiens in 1918, a turning point in the war. Much of the city suffered damage, particularly during German offensives and aerial bombings.

World War II brought further destruction, including bombings in 1940 and again during the Allied liberation. Post-war reconstruction reshaped much of Amiens’ modern identity. Concrete buildings and new housing replaced destroyed quarters, while efforts were made to restore surviving historical structures.

Amiens: A City of Heritage and Renewal

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Amiens focused on revitalization and heritage preservation. Its cathedral became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Hortillonnages were developed into a key cultural and ecological feature. Investments in education, green space, and cultural programming have turned Amiens into a livable, modern city with deep historical roots. Today, it balances its Roman, medieval, and industrial past with a forward-looking cultural identity.

Visiting Amiens for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Amiens on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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15 Best places to See in Amiens

This complete guide to Amiens not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Amiens and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Hotel de Ville - Amiens

Amiens Hotel De Ville
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Florestan
The Hôtel de Ville d'Amiens, or Amiens City Hall, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural evolution. Constructed in 1760 by architects Pierre-Louis Beffara and Jean-Jacques Jumel-Riquier, the building showcases a neoclassical design characterized by its symmetrical façade, Doric and Corinthian columns, and a prominent pediment housing a clock. This structure replaced an earlier town hall…
Location: Hôtel de Ville d'Amiens, Place de l'Hôtel de ville, Amiens, France | Distance: 0.0km
Visiting Hotel de Ville - Amiens

We recommend to rent a car in France through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Belfry of Amiens

Belfry Of Amiens
CC BY-SA 3.0 / MonsieurDisorder
The Belfry of Amiens, standing tall in the heart of the city, is a symbol of municipal freedom and resilience dating back to the Middle Ages. Originally built in the 12th century and then reconstructed and modified over the centuries, the current structure reflects a blend of Gothic and classical architectural styles. Its initial purpose was both practical and symbolic—housing…
Location: Beffroi d'Amiens, Place Maurice Vast, Amiens, France | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Belfry of Amiens

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Amiens . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Dewailly Clock

Amiens Horloge Dewailly
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Zairon
The Dewailly Clock, located in Amiens, France, is a notable landmark that combines functional timekeeping with artistic sculpture. Commissioned in 1896 through a bequest from former mayor Louis Dewailly, who allocated 25,000 francs for its creation, the clock was designed to provide a public timepiece for the city's residents. Architect Émile Ricquier, known for his work on the Amiens Municipal…
Location: Espace Dewailly, Place Louis Dewailly, Amiens, France | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Dewailly Clock

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Convent of the Grey Sisters

Convent Of The Grey Sisters
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chabe01
The Couvent des Sœurs Grises in Amiens has a rich history dating back to 1486, when members of the Third Order of Saint Francis, known as the "Sœurs Grises" or "Grey Sisters," settled in the city. They took residence in the Hôpital Saint-Nicolas-en-Coquerel, dedicating themselves to caring for the sick, aiding the poor, and providing shelter to travelers. The convent's…
Location: Vestiges du Couvent des Sœurs Grises d'Amiens, Canton d'Amiens-1, Amiens, France | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Convent of the Grey Sisters

Explore Amiens yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Maison du Pèlerin

Maison Pèlerin
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chabe01
The Maison du Pèlerin in Amiens, situated on Place Notre-Dame adjacent to the cathedral, is a notable example of early 20th-century architecture designed to emulate medieval aesthetics. Contrary to its antique appearance, this half-timbered house was constructed in 1904 by architect Edmond Douillet. It was part of a project to create a series of buildings reflecting medieval styles; however, only…
Location: Place Notre Dame, 80000 Amiens, France | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Maison du Pèlerin

Musée de Picardie

Musée Picardie Amiens
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chabe01
The Musée de Picardie in Amiens stands as a testament to 19th-century French cultural ambition and architectural innovation. Established in 1802 as the Musée Napoléon, it found its permanent home in a purpose-built edifice constructed between 1855 and 1867. Designed by architects Henri Parent and Arthur-Stanislas Diet, the building was inspired by the expansions of the Louvre under Napoleon III,…
Location: Musée de Picardie, Rue Puvis de Chavannes, Amiens, France | Hours: Open every day except Mondays, January 1st, May 1st and December 25th from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Tuesday to Friday. It is open from 11am to 6pm, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. | Price: Adults €9 | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Musée de Picardie

Cathédrale Notre-Dame d'Amiens

Cathédrale Notre Dame D’Amiens
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Pierre Poschadel
The Cathédrale Notre-Dame d'Amiens is not only the largest Gothic cathedral in France but also one of the most breathtaking examples of medieval architecture in Europe. Built in just over 50 years, from 1220 to the late 13th century, its immense scale and harmonious design make it a masterpiece of High Gothic style. The cathedral’s towering façade, intricately carved portals,…
Location: Cathédrale Notre-Dame d'Amiens, Place Notre Dame, Amiens, France | Hours: From April 1st to September 30th: from 8:30 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. (until 7:30 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays – subject to availability). From October 1st to March 31st: from 8:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. (until 6:30 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays). | Price: Free | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Cathédrale Notre-Dame d'Amiens

Man on his Buoy

Man On His Buoy
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Yassine Boukhriss
Stephan Balkenhol’s Triptych (1993), located in the Saint-Leu district of Amiens, is a playful yet thought-provoking trio of oak sculptures that have become a beloved part of the city's visual identity. Carved from a single tree trunk, the work features three human figures: The Man on his Buoy, positioned in the middle of the Somme River; The Woman in the…
Location: L'Homme sur sa bouée, Amiens, France | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Man on his Buoy

Cirque Jules Verne

Cirque Jules Verne
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chabe01
The Cirque Jules Verne in Amiens stands as a remarkable example of 19th-century architecture and a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage. Inaugurated on June 23, 1889, the circus was designed by architect Émile Ricquier, a protégé of Gustave Eiffel. Its distinctive 16-sided polygonal structure, with a diameter of 44 meters, was inspired by the Cirque d'Hiver in Paris.…
Location: Centre de documentation Cirque Jules Verne, Rue Cozette, Amiens, France | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Cirque Jules Verne

Quartier St Leu à Amiens

Quartier St Leu à Amiens
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Alexandre Bucquet
The Quartier Saint-Leu is a historic and picturesque district in Amiens, located at the foot of the city's renowned cathedral. Characterized by its network of canals, narrow cobblestone streets, and colorful half-timbered houses, Saint-Leu offers a charming blend of medieval architecture and vibrant modern life. The area is often referred to as the "Little Venice of the North" due to…
Location: amiens, Rue St Leu, Amiens, France | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Quartier St Leu à Amiens

Tour Perret

Tour Perret
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Bfauvergue
The Tour Perret in Amiens stands as a significant emblem of post-war reconstruction and architectural innovation. Designed by the renowned architect Auguste Perret in 1942, the tower was conceived as part of a comprehensive plan to rebuild the area around the Amiens railway station, which had suffered extensive damage during World War II. Construction commenced in July 1949, with the…
Location: Tour Perret, Amiens, France | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Tour Perret

Maison de Jules Verne

Maison De Jules Verne
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Chatsam
Jules Verne is the author behind one of the most iconic French novels ever written: Around the World in 80 Days, a literary classic that has been translated more times than any other French work. His visionary imagination and enduring impact on literature are vividly brought to life at the Maison de Jules Verne, the home where he lived with…
Location: Maison de Jules Verne, Rue Charles Dubois, Amiens, France | Hours: Daily: 10am-12:30pm and 2pm-6pm Closed Tuesday | Price: Adults: €9 | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Maison de Jules Verne

Les Hortillonnages (Marsh Gardens)

Hortillonnages D’Amiens
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Claude Shoshany
The Hortillonnages of Amiens are a unique network of floating gardens spanning approximately 300 hectares within the city. These gardens are interlaced with a maze of canals, locally known as "rieux," creating a picturesque landscape often referred to as the "Little Venice of the North." The term "hortillonnages" is derived from the Picard word "hortillon," meaning market gardener, which in…
Location: Les hortillonnages, Amiens, France | Distance: 1.1km
Visiting Les Hortillonnages (Marsh Gardens)

Amiens Zoo

Zoo Amiens
CC BY-SA 4.0 / BB 22385
Established in 1952, the Amiens Zoo has evolved into a prominent cultural and conservation institution in the Hauts-de-France region. Spanning approximately 7 hectares, the zoo is home to nearly 700 animals representing around 120 species from across the globe. Many of these species are classified as threatened, endangered, or critically endangered, underscoring the zoo's commitment to biodiversity preservation. The zoo's…
Location: Zoo d'Amiens Métropole, Rue Faubourg de Hem, Amiens, France | Hours: February - March - October - November: 10am-5pm April - May - June - September 10am-6pm July - August 10am-7pm | Price: Adults €11.5 | Website | Distance: 1.5km
Visiting Amiens Zoo

Jules Verne's Tomb

Jules Verne’s Tomb
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tropique
Jules Verne, the renowned French author celebrated for his pioneering science fiction works, passed away on March 24, 1905, in Amiens, France. He was laid to rest in the city's Cimetière de La Madeleine. Initially, his gravesite was marked by a simple cement plaque inscribed with "Jules Verne 1905." In 1907, a more elaborate monument was commissioned to honor his…
Location: Tombe de Jules Verne, Rue Saint-Maurice, Amiens, France | Distance: 2.4km
Visiting Jules Verne's Tomb

Best Day Trips from Amiens

A day trip from Amiens offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Amiens provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Parc de Samara

Parc De Samara
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Pierre Poschadel
Located approximately 15 kilometers west of Amiens, the Parc de Samara is a 30-hectare archaeological park that offers visitors an immersive journey through 600,000 years of human history. Established in 1988, the park is situated at the site of the ancient oppidum of La Chaussée-Tirancourt, a fortified Iron Age settlement. Samara serves as both a natural and cultural reserve, providing…
Location: Samara Arboretum, Rue d'Amiens, La Chaussée-Tirancourt, France | Hours: FROM APRIL TO JUNE AND FROM SEPTEMBER TO NOVEMBERMonday to Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Weekends, public holidays and during school holidays in zone B: from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. IN JULY AND AUGUSTEvery day from July 6: from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. | Price: Adult: €13 | Website | Distance: 10.8km
Visiting Parc de Samara

Abbaye Royale de Saint-Riquier

Saint Riquier
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Paul Hermans
Nestled in the verdant countryside of the Somme department in Hauts-de-France, the Abbaye Royale de Saint-Riquier welcomes you with its soaring Gothic arches and the gentle murmur of the Authie River nearby. As you approach along the tree-lined avenue, the abbey’s twin western towers come into view, their stonework gleaming in the morning light. The expansive forecourt invites a moment…
Location: Abbaye Royale de Saint-Riquier - Baie de Somme, Place de l'église, Saint-Riquier, France | Hours: Guided tours begin at 10 am and 2 pm daily (April–October) | Website | Distance: 36.5km
Visiting Abbaye Royale de Saint-Riquier

Abbeville

Abbey Abbeville
Nestled in the lush Somme Valley of the Hauts-de-France region, Abbeville makes an inviting base for both nature lovers and urban explorers. Begin your morning with a stroll along the river Somme, where cherry blossoms and willow-lined quays set a tranquil scene. Local cafés by the Pont-République serve rich Picardy coffee and buttery croissants, perfect accompaniments before heading out to…
Visiting Abbeville

Beauvais

Beauvais
Visiting Beauvais offers a refreshing mix of charm, elegance, and a sense of quiet authenticity. When you arrive, the first thing that strikes you is the peaceful rhythm of the town, with its relaxed pace that feels far from the rush of bigger cities. The centerpiece, of course, is the magnificent Beauvais Cathedral — towering and incomplete, yet breathtaking in…
Visiting Beauvais

Le Touquet

Le Touquet
Le Touquet, located in the Hauts-de-France region, is a charming seaside town that offers the perfect mix of beach relaxation and outdoor activities. Known for its beautiful wide sandy beaches, Le Touquet attracts visitors with its vibrant atmosphere and variety of things to do. Whether you’re strolling along the boardwalk, cycling through its coastal paths, or enjoying water sports like…
Visiting Le Touquet

Lille

Lille France
Lille is a vibrant city in northern France that combines French and Flemish influences, offering visitors a lively mix of culture, shopping, and gastronomy. Lille is one of the most underrated cities in France. The city's charming old town, Vieux Lille, is filled with cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and historic architecture, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. Lille is…
Visiting Lille
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Rouen

Rouen
Visiting Rouen offers a rich and atmospheric experience in one of the most striking cities of Normandy. Known for its cobbled streets, timber-framed houses, and impressive cathedral, Rouen is a city that combines charm with a distinctly artistic edge. Whether you're meandering through medieval alleyways or browsing boutiques and cafés, the city feels both accessible and steeped in character—ideal for…
Visiting Rouen
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Boulogne-sur-Mer

Boulogne Sur Mer
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Pierre Poschadel
Boulogne-sur-Mer is a characterful coastal city in the Hauts-de-France region that blends maritime atmosphere with small-town charm. It’s best known for its lively fishing port and long promenade, where you can stroll along the sea, enjoy fresh seafood, and take in sweeping views of the English Channel. The city feels distinctly local, with colorful daily markets, family-run brasseries, and friendly…
Visiting Boulogne-sur-Mer
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Giverny

Monets Garden
Visiting Giverny feels like stepping into a painting. The village is famously beautiful, with colorful gardens spilling over stone walls, winding lanes shaded by trees, and a peaceful, slow-paced atmosphere that invites you to linger. As you stroll through the village, you’ll find that almost every corner offers a picture-perfect view — whether it’s a row of traditional Norman houses,…
Visiting Giverny
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Tournai

Tournai
Visiting Tournai offers a charming experience in the heart of the Wallonia region of Belgium, known for its rich cultural heritage and striking medieval architecture. The city’s compact size makes it ideal for leisurely exploration on foot, where you can admire the stunning Gothic and Romanesque buildings that define its skyline. Tournai’s position along the Scheldt River adds to its…
Visiting Tournai

Ypres (Ieper)

Ypres, Belgium
Visiting Ypres (Ieper) offers a deeply moving experience set within the scenic landscape of West Flanders. The town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming streets, and significant World War I heritage. Walking through the city centre, you’ll encounter beautiful squares and historic buildings that blend vibrant local life with poignant reminders of the past, making it a unique…
Visiting Ypres (Ieper)
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Paris

Driving In Paris
Paris, in the Île-de-France region, is a city that effortlessly blends classic beauty with vibrant, modern life. Whether you’re walking along the Seine, sipping coffee at a café, or admiring the Eiffel Tower at sunset, the atmosphere is unmistakably stylish and romantic. The city’s neighborhoods each have their own charm, from the artistic vibe of Montmartre to the elegance of…
Visiting Paris
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Where to Stay in Amiens

The best place to stay in Amiens for first-time visitors is the city center, especially near the cathedral and the Place Gambetta. This area puts you within easy walking distance of major sights like the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the St. Leu district, and the riverfront. A top pick here is Hotel Marotte, a boutique hotel in a charming 19th-century building that blends luxury with a central location. For those who prefer something more contemporary but still close to the action, Mercure Amiens Cathédrale is just steps from the cathedral and offers modern comfort with easy access to everything on foot.

If you’re looking for a quieter stay, the Henriville quarter south of the center offers leafy streets and 19th-century mansions, while still being close enough to walk or bike into the heart of the city. A lovely option in this area is Le 3 Fuscien - Chambres d’hôtes, which provides a peaceful guesthouse feel and warm hospitality. Whether you prefer to be in the vibrant center or tucked into a quieter corner, Amiens offers accommodation to suit a variety of tastes while keeping the city’s charm close at hand.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Amiens. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Amiens Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Amiens

Amiens in Spring

Spring is one of the best times to visit Amiens, especially from April to June when the city starts to bloom with fresh greenery and colorful flowers. The Hortillonnages, Amiens’ famous floating gardens, come alive during this time and are perfect for boat tours or walks along the canals. The weather is mild and ideal for exploring the city’s historic streets, cathedral, and markets without the summer crowds.

A key event in late spring is the Festival Art, villes & paysage (Art, Cities & Landscape Festival), which showcases contemporary art installations throughout the Hortillonnages. It’s a unique and peaceful way to experience Amiens’ natural and creative side in full bloom.

Amiens in Summer

Summer in Amiens, from late June through August, brings longer days, warmer temperatures, and a lively cultural calendar. This is the perfect time to enjoy evening strolls along the Somme River or dine outdoors in the Place Gambetta. The city also hosts its most dazzling event, the Chroma Light Show, where the façade of the cathedral is illuminated in vibrant colors, recreating its original painted appearance.

July is particularly festive with open-air concerts, food events, and public art scattered throughout the city. While it can get a little busier in August, Amiens still offers a more relaxed pace than larger French cities in summer.

Amiens in Autumn

Autumn, from September to November, brings golden light, crisp air, and beautiful foliage along the canals and gardens. This season is ideal for cultural visits and cozying up in Amiens’ cafés. The crowds thin out, but the city’s charm remains strong, especially in early autumn.

September also sees the continuation of the Chroma Light Show into the start of the month. Later in the season, food lovers can enjoy autumn markets and seasonal dishes like mushroom-based specialties and hearty stews that reflect the changing palate of the region.

Amiens in Winter

Winter in Amiens is quieter, but December transforms the city with the arrival of one of France’s largest Christmas markets. The Marché de Noël d’Amiens fills the streets with festive lights, regional crafts, mulled wine, and holiday treats. It’s an especially magical time to visit if you’re drawn to cozy winter experiences.

Although January and February are cold and quieter months, they offer a peaceful, local feel—ideal for museum visits and slow travel. If you enjoy a more contemplative pace and fewer tourists, winter offers a unique side of Amiens worth experiencing.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 7°C
  • February 9°C
  • March 12°C
  • April 17°C
  • May 18°C
  • June 22°C
  • July 25°C
  • August 26°C
  • September 23°C
  • October 17°C
  • November 11°C
  • December 9°C

How to get to Amiens

Getting to Amiens by Air

Amiens does not have a major international airport within the city. However, travelers can access the city via several nearby airports:

  • Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): Approximately 99 km (about 1 hour and 22 minutes by car) from Amiens.
  • Paris Orly Airport (ORY): Located around 130 km away, with a driving time of approximately 2 hours.
  • Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL): Situated about 180 km from Amiens, taking roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes by car.

From these airports, you can reach Amiens by rental car, train, or shuttle services.

Getting to Amiens by Train

Amiens is well-connected by train services, making it accessible from various locations:

  • From Paris: Direct trains operate from Paris Gare du Nord to Amiens, with an average journey time of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • From London: Travelers can take the Eurostar from London to Paris Gare du Nord and then transfer to a direct train to Amiens. The total journey time is approximately 3.5 hours.
  • From Lille: Regional trains connect Lille to Amiens, with journey times around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

Getting to Amiens by Car

Driving to Amiens offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore the French countryside:

  • From Calais: After crossing from the UK, Amiens is approximately a 2-hour drive via the A16 toll road.
  • From Paris: Amiens is about 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Paris, accessible via the A1 and A29 motorways.
  • From Brussels: The drive from Brussels to Amiens takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, primarily via the E19 and A2 motorways.

Ensure your vehicle complies with French driving regulations, including carrying a warning triangle, high-visibility jackets, and headlamp beam deflectors.

Travelling around Amiens

Once in Amiens, the city offers various transportation options:

  • Public Transport: Amiens has a reliable bus network that services the city and surrounding areas.
  • Cycling: The city is bike-friendly, with dedicated cycling paths and bike rental services.
  • Walking: Many of Amiens’ attractions are within walking distance in the city center, making it convenient to explore on foot.

Whether you arrive by air, train, or car, Amiens is well-equipped to welcome visitors and provide a pleasant travel experience.

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