The Gem

Amiens is a city and commune in northern France, located 120 km (75 mi) north of Paris and 100 km (62 mi) southwest of Lille. With 136,449 inhabitants (2023), it is the prefecture of the Somme department in the Hauts-de-France region. A central landmark of the city is Amiens Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in France. Amiens also has one of the largest university hospitals in France, with a capacity of 1,200 beds. The author Jules Verne lived in Amiens from 1871 until his death in 1905, and served on the city council for 15 years. Amiens is the birthplace of current French president Emmanuel Macron.

As you wander the streets of Amiens, you'll be transported back in time by the city's stunning Gothic architecture, including the world-famous Notre-Dame Cathedral of Amiens. This incredible structure is the largest Gothic cathedral in France and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting towering spires, intricate carvings, and breathtaking stained glass windows that will leave you in awe.

But Amiens is more than just a city of stone and mortar. You'll also find plenty of green spaces to explore here, including the beautiful Hortillonnages floating gardens. These unique gardens are a network of small islands and canals that have been cultivated for centuries, offering a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city where you can stroll along the waterways, admire the colorful flowers and plants, and even take a boat tour.