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Discover Picardy | A Visitor's Introduction to Picardy

Recommended places to visit, places to stay and things to do in Picardy

Why is Picardy worth a visit? Picardy, in Northern France, combines gentle countryside, historic towns and a peaceful coastline. Explore medieval Amiens with its majestic Gothic cathedral, visit poignant First World War battlefields, or enjoy charming villages and rolling farmland. Ideal for relaxed touring, Picardy offers authentic French experiences, delicious regional cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere, all within easy reach of Calais and Paris.

Includes the départements: Aisne Oise Somme

Abbeville

Abbeville, set in the heart of the Somme region, is rich in history and natural beauty. This charming town is known for its gothic Saint-Vulfran Collegiate Church and the Boucher de Perthes Museum, housing archaeological treasures. Surrounded by the lush countryside of the Picardy region, Abbeville serves as a gateway to the historic battlefields of the Somme.

Albert

Albert, located in the heart of the Somme region, is steeped in World War I history. The town is renowned for its iconic golden Virgin Mary statue atop the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Brebières, a beacon during wartime. Today, Albert serves as a poignant base for exploring the nearby battlefields and memorials, offering insights into the region's turbulent past.

Amiens

Amiens, the capital of the Somme department, boasts a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Amiens Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in France. The city is also celebrated for its picturesque floating gardens, "hortillonnages," and a vibrant cultural scene that includes a renowned Christmas market. Amiens combines rich history with lush, natural landscapes, making it a captivating destination.

Baie-de-Somme

Baie de Somme, on France’s northern coast, is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. This vast estuary blends marshes, dunes, and sea, hosting seals and migratory birds. Picturesque villages like Saint-Valery-sur-Somme add charm with historic streets and harbor views. Ideal for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting, the bay offers serene beauty and coastal magic.

Beauvais

Beauvais, located in northern France, is renowned for its awe-inspiring Saint-Pierre Cathedral, which boasts the highest Gothic choir in the world. This small yet historically rich town also features the National Tapestry Gallery, displaying exquisite craftsmanship. With its charming medieval streets and a relaxed pace of life, Beauvais offers a quiet escape with deep cultural roots.

Cayeux-sur-Mer

Cayeux-sur-Mer, on the Baie de Somme coast, charms with its long pebble beach lined by colorful bathing huts—the longest row in Europe. This quiet seaside town offers fresh sea air, scenic boardwalk strolls, and easy access to nature reserves. It’s a peaceful spot for relaxing, birdwatching, and enjoying the rugged beauty of northern France’s coastline.

Chantilly

Chantilly, a picturesque town north of Paris, is famed for its magnificent Château de Chantilly, set amidst vast gardens and reflecting pools. This historic estate houses the Condé Museum with an exceptional collection of art and a well-preserved library. Known for its equestrian culture, Chantilly also hosts prestigious horse races, making it a haven for horse lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Château-Thierry

Château-Thierry blends rich history with scenic charm. Known for its World War I memorials and medieval château ruins, it also celebrates poet Jean de La Fontaine. The town sits along the Marne River, offering picturesque walks and local champagne tasting. It’s a peaceful yet culturally vibrant stop in northern France.

Compiègne

Compiègne is rich with history and royal heritage. It's known for its grand Château de Compiègne, a former royal residence that now features museums dedicated to the Second Empire. The surrounding forest of Compiègne, vast and inviting, is perfect for outdoor activities and also holds historical significance as the site of the WWI Armistice signing. This town beautifully blends natural beauty with historical layers.

Creil

Creil, located in the Oise Valley just north of Paris, blends industrial heritage with natural beauty. Known for its ceramic history and diverse communities, the town offers riverside walks, green parks, and cultural venues like the Maison de la Faïence. Its mix of urban energy and scenic spots makes Creil a dynamic gateway to northern France.

Fort-Mahon-Plage

Fort-Mahon-Plage, on the Picardy coast, is known for its wide sandy beach and active outdoor scene. Ideal for sand yachting, kite flying, and beach walks, it also borders the dunes and pine forests of the Marquenterre. With family-friendly vibes and natural beauty, it’s a laid-back destination perfect for seaside fun and nature escapes.

Laon

Laon, perched atop a limestone hill in northern France, boasts a stunning medieval skyline dominated by its Gothic cathedral. Encircled by ancient ramparts, the old town features cobbled streets, Romanesque churches, and panoramic views of the Picardy countryside. With its well-preserved heritage and tranquil atmosphere, Laon offers a captivating journey into France’s medieval past.

Le Crotoy

Le Crotoy, nestled on the edge of the Baie de Somme, offers a unique south-facing beach and a blend of maritime charm and natural beauty. Once a haven for writers and painters, its harbour, seafood spots, and scenic train to Saint-Valery-sur-Somme make it a delightful coastal retreat rich in character and tranquility.

Noyon

Noyon, a historic town in northern France, is famed for its impressive Gothic cathedral—one of the earliest in the country—and as the birthplace of John Calvin. Surrounded by peaceful countryside, its old town features medieval architecture and quiet charm. Noyon offers a serene blend of religious heritage, history, and small-town French character.

Péronne

Péronne, situated in the Somme region of France, is deeply rooted in World War I history. The town is home to the Historial de la Grande Guerre, a museum dedicated to the social and cultural aspects of the war. Surrounded by battlefields and memorials, Péronne offers a profound insight into the past, while its picturesque town centre provides a peaceful contrast to its poignant past.

Rue

Rue, a small town near the Baie de Somme, charms with its striking Gothic belfry and Chapelle du Saint-Esprit, both rich in architectural detail. Surrounded by quiet countryside, it offers a peaceful base for exploring nearby coastal and nature sites. With its historic core and relaxed pace, Rue is a hidden gem in northern France.

Senlis

Senlis, a picturesque medieval town near Paris, enchants with cobbled streets, ancient ramparts, and a majestic Gothic cathedral. Once favored by French kings, it preserves Roman ruins and a rich royal past. Surrounded by forest and history, Senlis offers a peaceful, timeless escape with art, architecture, and nature in perfect harmony.

Soissons

Soissons, one of France’s oldest towns, offers a deep dive into early French history. Known for the iconic Soissons Cathedral and the Saint-Jean-des-Vignes Abbey ruins, it played a key role in the Merovingian era. Set along the Aisne River, the town blends ancient architecture with peaceful green spaces, making it a charming and historic getaway.

The Somme Battlefields

The Somme Battlefield in northern France is a poignant reminder of WWI's brutal history. Visitors can explore preserved trenches, memorials, and museums dedicated to the soldiers who fought in one of the war's deadliest battles. The landscape, once scarred by conflict, now offers a peaceful setting to reflect on the past and the resilience of the human spirit.

St-Quentin

St-Quentin, in northern France, blends Art Deco elegance with Gothic grandeur. Its striking Town Hall and Basilica showcase rich architectural styles, while World War I sites reflect its historical depth. The town also offers museums, tranquil canals, and vibrant markets, making it a lively yet reflective destination with a unique cultural and historical mix.

St-Valery-sur-Somme

St-Valery-sur-Somme, located at the mouth of the Somme River, is a captivating medieval port town. It boasts a rich history, including links to William the Conqueror and Joan of Arc. Today, visitors can explore its preserved medieval ramparts, enjoy fresh seafood, and spot seals from the harbour. The town is also a key point on the scenic Bay of Somme, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and birdwatching opportunities.

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