Picardy Sightseeing, Attractions & Activities Guide

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, Amiens Cathedral is France’s largest, with soaring vaults, intricate sculptures and stunning stained glass. Its vast nave and detailed façade make it a UNESCO World Heritage gem and a must-see in Picardy.

The Château de Compiègne is a majestic royal and imperial residence surrounded by vast gardens and forest. Its grand apartments, museums, and galleries reflect centuries of French art, history, and courtly life.

The Maison de Jules Verne in Amiens celebrates the famed author’s life and imagination. Set in his former home, it showcases personal artefacts, manuscripts and model airships, offering a captivating glimpse into Verne’s visionary world.

The Musée de Picardie in Amiens is a grand 19th-century museum showcasing fine arts, archaeology and local history. Its elegant galleries house works from antiquity to modern times, making it one of France’s richest regional museums.

Arras Cathedral, a neoclassical masterpiece rebuilt after the Revolution, stands on the site of a former Gothic church. Its grand columns, calm interior and impressive organ make it a serene and striking landmark in the heart of Arras.

The Mémorial de l’Internement et de la Déportation at the Camp de Royallieu in Compiègne preserves the memory of those detained before deportation during WWII. Its exhibitions and reconstructed barracks evoke powerful stories of suffering and resilience.

The Musée des Beaux-Arts in Arras, housed in a former Benedictine abbey, features an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and ceramics. Highlights include works by Rubens and local artists, set within elegant 18th-century architecture.

L’Église Notre-Dame-des-Ardents in Amiens is a beautiful neo-Gothic church known for its striking stained glass and twin spires. Built in the 19th century, it commemorates a medieval miracle and remains a peaceful place of reflection.