Self-Guided Walking Tour of Amiens (2025)

The Tour Perret is a striking example of modernist architecture, located in the heart of Amiens. Designed by the renowned architect Auguste Perret, this 110-meter-high tower was completed in 1954 and stands as a symbol of post-war reconstruction. The tower’s clean lines and the use of reinforced concrete reflect Perret’s innovative approach to building, as well as his vision for urban development. It was one of the first high-rise buildings in France, and its sleek, utilitarian design makes it a prominent feature of the city’s skyline. Visitors can ascend the tower to enjoy panoramic views of Amiens and the surrounding area, providing a unique perspective of the city.

While the Tour Perret’s architectural significance is remarkable, it also has cultural and historical importance. Perret’s design helped redefine the urban landscape of Amiens after much of the city was destroyed during World War II. The tower’s modernist aesthetic contrasts sharply with the medieval and gothic architecture found throughout the city, making it an intriguing spot for architecture enthusiasts. Today, it remains a testament to the resilience of Amiens and its commitment to rebuilding in the aftermath of the war.

The Maison de Jules Verne is a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of France’s most celebrated writers. Located in the heart of Amiens, the house where Verne lived from 1882 to 1900 has been turned into a museum dedicated to his life and works. The building itself is a beautiful representation of 19th-century architecture, with a rich, historic charm that echoes the era in which Verne wrote many of his famous novels. Inside, visitors can explore a collection of personal items, manuscripts, and first editions, offering a rare insight into the mind of the visionary author behind Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and Journey to the Center of the Earth.

In addition to the permanent exhibits, the Maison de Jules Verne also features interactive displays and temporary exhibitions that highlight Verne’s extraordinary imagination and his legacy in literature. Visitors can step into rooms where Verne once wrote, evoking the atmosphere of creativity that fueled his visionary tales of adventure and exploration. The museum also reflects his deep connection to Amiens, showcasing how the city and its surroundings inspired many of his stories, making it a must-see for literature fans and anyone curious about Verne’s groundbreaking contributions to science fiction and adventure.

The Cirque Jules Verne is a historic and captivating venue located in Amiens, blending the magic of circus arts with the legacy of one of France’s most famous writers. Built in 1889, this grand structure is not just a circus but a true architectural masterpiece, designed in the style of a traditional circus hall with a striking combination of steel and glass. The building’s remarkable design features a large, dome-shaped roof and a facade that has been carefully preserved, making it an essential part of Amiens’ cultural heritage. Over the years, the circus has hosted a wide range of performances, from acrobatics to theatrical productions, continuing to serve as a center of artistic expression.

Today, the Cirque Jules Verne is a vibrant cultural hub that offers a variety of performances and events. It is particularly known for its contemporary circus productions and innovative performances, which honor the spirit of adventure and exploration found in Jules Verne’s writings. The venue also serves as a reminder of the city’s artistic history, where Verne himself was known to have attended performances during his lifetime. For visitors, the Cirque Jules Verne provides not only a chance to experience world-class entertainment but also a piece of history that ties together the city’s literary and theatrical traditions.

The Musée de Picardie, located in Amiens, France, is a prominent museum renowned for its extensive collections spanning from prehistory to the 19th century. Established in 1802 as the Musée Napoléon, it was initially housed in the Hôtel de Ville. The current building, constructed between 1855 and 1867, was purpose-built to serve as a museum, making it one of the first in France designed specifically for this purpose. Architects Henri Parent and Arthur-Stanislas Diet designed the edifice in the Second Empire style, drawing inspiration from the expansions of the Louvre under Napoleon III. This architectural endeavor was largely driven by the Société des Antiquaires de Picardie, aiming to provide a dedicated space for the region’s rich collections.

The museum’s collections are diverse and comprehensive. The archaeological section, located in the basement, features artifacts from ancient Greece, Egypt, and the local Picardy region, including the notable mummified remains of an Egyptian woman named Setjaïmengaou from the 7th century BC. The medieval department showcases masterpieces from the 12th to 16th centuries, such as the Puys d’Amiens from the Amiens Cathedral. The fine arts collection encompasses works from the 17th to 20th centuries by artists like El Greco, Frans Hals, Jean Siméon Chardin, and Francis Bacon. Additionally, the museum houses monumental frescoes by Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, including “Peace and War” (1861) and “Work and Rest” (1863), enhancing the grandeur of its interior spaces.

As you arrive at the Place au Fil, look up and you’ll see the Belfry of Amiens rising above the square—a symbol of the city’s independence since the 12th century. Originally built as a watchtower and a bell tower, it served both to warn citizens of danger and to mark important civic moments. Over time, it became a proud emblem of local authority, separate from the Church or nobility. Though damaged and rebuilt several times, especially after fires and wartime destruction, the belfry still stands tall today at 52 meters, blending Gothic roots with later classical features.

If you’re up for the climb, the interior offers a steep but rewarding staircase that leads to sweeping views over Amiens—from the rooftops of the old town to the spires of the nearby cathedral. Along the way, exhibits trace the belfry’s evolution and its place in city life, from medieval times through the Revolution. Whether you go inside or simply admire it from the square, this UNESCO-listed monument offers a strong sense of Amiens’ civic pride and its long-standing tradition of self-governance.

As you reach the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, take a moment to admire Amiens’ City Hall—a grand neoclassical building completed in the 18th century. With its elegant symmetry, classical columns, and stately façade, it reflects the ambitions of a city rebuilding itself after centuries of upheaval. The structure you see today was finished around 1760, replacing an earlier town hall that had remained unfinished since the 16th century. Note the clock at the top and the sculpted figures commemorating key figures from Amiens’ history, including those who helped secure its communal charter back in the 1100s.

This square and the Hôtel de Ville have witnessed some of Amiens’ most important events, including the signing of the Treaty of Amiens in 1802, which briefly ended war between Britain and Napoleonic France. Over the years, wings were added to form a courtyard, giving the complex the shape it has now. While it remains a functioning center of local government, the building also stands as a symbol of Amiens’ resilience and civic identity—an enduring backdrop to everyday life and historical milestones alike.

As you step into the quiet greenery of the Square du Cloître des Sœurs Grises, you’re walking on the grounds of a former Franciscan convent that once played a vital role in Amiens’ social life. Founded in 1486 by the “Grey Sisters”—a branch of the Third Order of Saint Francis—the convent was home to women who devoted their lives to caring for the poor, the sick, and travelers in need. The original convent buildings included a church, cloister, and residential quarters, expanded over the centuries as the order grew. Though much of the complex was lost during the French Revolution and later bombings in 1940, the spirit of compassion that defined this space still lingers.

What remains today are portions of the cloister walls, now forming the backdrop to this peaceful public garden. The Square du Cloître offers a rare pocket of calm in the city, where locals and visitors alike can pause among the trees and low stone walls that hint at centuries of quiet service and reflection. As you walk through, imagine the daily rhythms of the sisters who once lived here—tending to the vulnerable, moving between prayer and care, and shaping a legacy that earned the site recognition as a historic monument.

The Man on his Buoy (L’Homme sur sa Bouée) was part of a public commission in 1993, Stephan Balkenhol sculpted three figures from a single tree trunk. Two of these—The Man in the Red Shirt and The Woman in the Green Dress—were installed on the facades surrounding Place du Don. The third, The Man on his Buoy, was placed in the river, where he became an emblem of the Saint-Leu district. After years of water exposure, the original wooden figure deteriorated and eventually broke at the ankles. In 2019, it was replaced by a new version crafted by the artist in stainless steel to better withstand the elements. You may see clothes adorning the statue, a favourite pastime of local students…

The Quartier St Leu is one of Amiens’ most picturesque and vibrant neighborhoods, brimming with history and character. Known for its charming canals, narrow cobblestone streets, and colorful buildings, the St Leu district was historically a working-class area that has been transformed over time into a lively hub of creativity and culture. Walking through the quarter, visitors are treated to a mix of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, with quaint cafés, art galleries, and boutiques lining the streets. The neighborhood’s proximity to the Somme River gives it a distinct atmosphere, with bridges and picturesque waterway views enhancing its appeal.

This area is also home to some of the city’s most notable landmarks, including the St Leu Church, a beautiful 19th-century Gothic church, and the Maison de la Culture d’Amiens. It’s a perfect area for those looking to experience the authentic local lifestyle while enjoying a more relaxed pace away from the hustle of the city center. The district hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, making it a vibrant and dynamic part of Amiens. Its unique blend of tradition and contemporary culture makes the Quartier St Leu an essential stop for any visitor to the city.

The Hortillonnages, or Marsh Gardens, are a beautiful and unique network of floating gardens located just outside Amiens, on the banks of the Somme River. Spanning over 300 hectares, these tranquil, waterlogged plots are carefully cultivated by local gardeners and have been a part of the region’s agricultural heritage for centuries. The gardens, which are accessed by small boats, offer visitors a peaceful retreat, where they can explore the lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and winding waterways that make this area so special. The beauty of the Hortillonnages lies in the combination of nature and human craftsmanship, as the farmers use traditional methods to maintain these fertile plots, growing a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, and flowers.

A boat ride through the Hortillonnages offers a serene and immersive experience, providing an opportunity to observe the natural environment and learn about the area’s unique history. The marshes are an essential part of Amiens’ cultural and ecological heritage, providing a peaceful counterpoint to the bustling urban center. Whether you’re an avid gardener or simply looking for a tranquil escape, the Hortillonnages offer a rare chance to experience the beauty of nature in one of France’s most well-preserved wetlands.

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens is an awe-inspiring Gothic masterpiece, renowned for its grandeur and architectural brilliance. Completed in the early 13th century, it is the largest cathedral in France and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cathedral’s towering facade is adorned with intricate sculptures and stunning stained glass windows, depicting scenes from the Bible and local history. Inside, the vast, soaring nave creates an ethereal atmosphere, with high vaulted ceilings and remarkable acoustics. The cathedral is also famous for its breathtaking light and sound show, known as “Chroma,” which illuminates the cathedral’s stunning features in a mesmerizing display of colors.

Beyond its visual splendor, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens is an important religious site, still serving as the seat of the Diocese of Amiens. The building’s history reflects centuries of devotion, and it has been a place of pilgrimage for many. Visitors can also explore its crypts and chapels, where some of the relics of the city’s saints are preserved. Whether you are an admirer of architecture, a history buff, or simply in awe of monumental beauty, the cathedral’s sheer scale and intricacy make it an essential destination when visiting Amiens.

The Dewailly Clock (Horloge Dewailly) is one of Amiens’ most iconic landmarks, situated in the heart of the city near the central square. Built in 1868, this beautiful clock tower was a gift from local businessman and philanthropist Édouard Dewailly. The clock itself is an impressive feat of engineering and design, with intricate details and a striking mechanism that rings on the hour. Its elegant facade, featuring both Roman and Gothic architectural elements, adds to the charm of Amiens’ historical center. The clock tower also serves as a reminder of the city’s industrious past, as it was part of an initiative to showcase the region’s industrial prowess during the late 19th century.

The Dewailly Clock is not just a functional timepiece; it is a central symbol of Amiens’ rich history and serves as a meeting point for locals and visitors alike. It has become a significant part of the urban landscape, offering an atmospheric spot from which to appreciate the surrounding historic buildings. The clock’s regular chimes provide a comforting rhythm to the city, and its unique blend of architectural styles makes it a favorite among tourists exploring the city’s historical heart.

The Maison du Pèlerin is a charming historical site that offers a warm welcome to visitors and pilgrims passing through Amiens. Located near the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, this house has been a place of hospitality for centuries, originally providing lodging and support to those traveling to the cathedral on religious pilgrimages. Today, the Maison du Pèlerin is a visitor center that provides helpful information about Amiens, its rich history, and its religious significance. The building itself is a fine example of traditional architecture, with a welcoming atmosphere that reflects its long-standing role as a place of refuge.

Visitors to the Maison du Pèlerin can learn about the pilgrimage routes that once passed through Amiens, as well as the city’s religious traditions and festivals. The center also offers maps, guides, and other resources for exploring the city, making it an excellent starting point for anyone looking to discover more about Amiens’ rich cultural and spiritual heritage. With its historical connection to the cathedral and its role as a center for pilgrims, the Maison du Pèlerin embodies the spirit of hospitality and faith that has been a hallmark of Amiens for centuries.