The former capital of Picardy, Amiens is home to the largest Gothic cathedral in France. It’s also a thriving university town — and a popular destination for 20th Century history buffs. Accommodation options range from intimate B&Bs to chic boutique hotels, set within the pedestrianised city centre or the surrounding countryside. Check out our Gurus’ list of the best places to stay in Amiens for a memorable trip as a couple or with family and friends.

Amiens’ Notre Dame Cathedral is the city’s most famous landmark. Set just alongside the reconstructed old town, this is a wonderful starting point for those looking to experience the city on foot. The nearby Beffroi d’Amiens is striking, as are the Musée de Picardie and the Maison Jules Verne, once the home of the legendary writer. Keep an eye out for the otherworldly Tour Perret, Europe’s first skyscraper.

Many travellers come to Amiens to delve into the region’s First and Second World War history. This was some of the most contested land of the Western Front, and the tunnels at La Boiselle or the crater-studded battlefield and trenches of Vimy Ridge are a stark reminder of the tragedy of war. The fields of Flanders are marked with moving memorials, too, and guided tours offer an in-depth insight into this sobering past. There is, also, a remarkable beauty to this region. Its magical light delighted the likes of Degas and Seurat, whilst the Somme and Canche Rivers are brilliant for keen birdwatchers and kayakers. The Hortillonnages, Amiens' gorgeous market garden, is one of our favourite spots.

Small and characterful, the best places to stay in Amiens tend to fill up fast during the summer months. Book your holiday well in advance.

The Best Places to Stay in Amiens

For a Central B&B

• Maison d'Hôtes Ginkgo is a charming little B&B in a residential part of Amiens. Within walking distance of restaurants and historic sites, this affordable spot features contemporary rooms — some with space for families. Enjoy breakfasts of seasonal, organic produce in the courtyard before heading out to see the city.
• Maison Ulysse sits just a street from the famed Cathedrale Notre-Dame d'Amiens. You can expect four simple, light-filled rooms with flexible spaces for couples, friends or families and modern bathrooms. Big breakfasts set guests up for the day.
• Une Maison en Ville offers retro-chic rooms with high ceilings and well-proportioned windows, some of which overlook the sunlit courtyard. A trendy B&B with a friendly feel and inviting communal spaces, close to the Musée de Picardie.

For a Boutique Hotel

• Hotel Marotte is a chic boutique hotel with 33 spacious rooms and suites in central Amiens. Feast at La Galerie des Recettes, the relaxed restaurant, or kick back at the spa, complete with a sauna and fitness centre. There are smart contemporary rooms in the Cube, and more traditional options in the Old House.

For a Tranquil Escape

• Le Domaine des Bruyères has five rooms with crisp, white-on-white interiors in a timbered building in the forest of Boves. Smart and modern, with great continental breakfasts and easy access to hiking and cycling trails. There's also a three-bedroom apartment for families or groups.
• Villa Varentia, tucked on the edge of Villers-Bretonneux, is a red-brick guesthouse with attractive rooms and suites overlooking the trees. Kick back in the spa or in the swimming pool after days of exploring Amiens and the surrounding countryside as a couple or with friends.
• Le Macassar is a luxurious Art Deco B&B surrounded by romantic gardens in Corbie. The two rooms and four suites feature patterned textiles and carved antique pieces — some have murals. Unwind in the Moroccan-style den, the pretty Majorelle room or the library with billiards table. A characterful romantic escape.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY House

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Charles de Gaulle Airport or to Paris-Beauvais Airport and travel onwards by car or train. Amiens is just an hour by TGV from Paris.
• Picardy is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit between June and September for the warmest weather (peaking at around 24°C), although this is the busiest time to travel. April-May and October are quieter and cooler.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Picardy.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.