Best Places to Visit in Picardy | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Picardy Travel Guide
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Welcome to Picardy, France! Located in the northern part of the country, Picardy is a region known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and charming towns. This region offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, from the medieval city of Amiens with its magnificent Gothic cathedral, to the battlefields of the Somme where significant World War I events took place. Nature lovers will be delighted by the picturesque countryside, dotted with rolling hills, rivers, and forests, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. Additionally, Picardy is renowned for its culinary delights, including the famous Picardy snails and the delicious Maroilles cheese. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, Picardy has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this captivating region of France!
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Best Places To Visit in Picardy
1. Amiens: Located in the heart of Picardy, Amiens is a charming city known for its stunning Gothic cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is also famous for its beautiful canals, picturesque gardens, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the historic city center, stroll along the Quai Belu, and enjoy a boat ride on the canals. Amiens is also home to several museums, including the Musee de Picardie, where art enthusiasts can admire a diverse collection of artworks.
2. Chantilly: Nestled in the Oise department of Picardy, Chantilly is a small town renowned for its magnificent Chateau de Chantilly. This fairytale-like castle is surrounded by a vast park and gardens, offering visitors a tranquil and scenic escape. The town is also famous for its horse racing heritage, and visitors can witness thrilling races at the Chantilly Racecourse. Art lovers will appreciate the Musee Conde, which houses an impressive collection of paintings, manuscripts, and rare books.
3. Beauvais: Known for its impressive Gothic cathedral, Beauvais is a historic city that offers a glimpse into the region's rich past. The Cathedrale Saint-Pierre de Beauvais is known for its soaring vaults and intricate stained glass windows. Visitors can also explore the charming old town, with its narrow streets and half-timbered houses. Beauvais is also a great destination for shopping, with its bustling markets and boutique shops offering a variety of local products.
4. Saint-Quentin: Situated in the Aisne department, Saint-Quentin is a vibrant city with a rich architectural heritage. The city's main attraction is the Basilique Saint-Quentin, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Visitors can also explore the charming Place de l'Hotel de Ville, lined with beautiful buildings and bustling cafes. Saint-Quentin is also known for its lively cultural scene, with numerous theaters, art galleries, and music festivals taking place throughout the year.
5. Compiegne: Located at the confluence of the Oise and Aisne rivers, Compiegne is a picturesque town with a fascinating history. The town is famous for its Chateau de Compiegne, a former royal residence that now houses a museum showcasing the history of the area. Visitors can also explore the beautiful Compiegne Forest, which offers numerous walking and cycling trails. Compiegne is also known for its lively market, where visitors can sample local delicacies and purchase artisanal products.
6. Laon: Perched on a hilltop, Laon is a medieval city that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The city is known for its impressive Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Laon, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets of the old town, admiring the well-preserved half-timbered houses and charming squares. Laon is also a great destination for history enthusiasts, with its well-preserved city walls and ancient fortifications.
7. Senlis: With its well-preserved medieval charm, Senlis is a delightful town that transports visitors back in time. The town is known for its stunning Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Senlis, which features a unique blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Visitors can explore the cobbled streets of the old town, lined with charming shops and cafes. Senlis is also home to several museums, including the Musee d'Art et d'Archeologie, where visitors can learn about the town's rich history and artistic heritage.
8. Noyon: Situated on the banks of the Oise River, Noyon is a small town with a rich architectural heritage. The town's main attraction is the Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Noyon, a stunning example of early Gothic architecture. Visitors can also explore the charming old town, with its well-preserved medieval buildings and picturesque squares. Noyon is also known for its lively market, where visitors can sample local produce and traditional delicacies.
9. Soissons: Steeped in history, Soissons is a city that has witnessed significant events throughout the centuries. The city is known for its impressive Cathedrale Saint-Gervais-et-Saint-Protais, which showcases a mix of architectural styles. Visitors can explore the ancient Abbey of Saint-Jean-des-Vignes, which offers a glimpse into the city's medieval past. Soissons is also famous for its annual Fete de la Musique, a vibrant music festival that attracts artists and music lovers from all over.
10. Creil: Located on the banks of the Oise River, Creil is a town known for its industrial heritage and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the Parc de la Breche, a picturesque park that offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Creil is also home to several museums, including the Musee Galle-Juillet, which showcases a collection of glass and ceramics. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Chantilly Forest, which offers numerous hiking and cycling trails.
Hotels Map Of Picardy
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Tours And Activities In Picardy
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Food & Drinks To Try In Picardy
1. Creme Chantilly: Picardy is famous for its delicious whipped cream, known as Creme Chantilly. This light and fluffy cream is often served with fresh fruits or used as a topping for desserts.
2. Maroilles Cheese: Maroilles is a pungent and creamy cheese that originates from Picardy. It has a strong aroma and a rich, tangy flavor. It is often enjoyed on its own or used in traditional dishes like tarts or gratins.
3. Ficelle Picarde: Ficelle Picarde is a popular dish in Picardy, consisting of a thin pancake filled with ham, mushrooms, and cheese. It is then rolled up and baked until golden and crispy. This savory treat is a must-try when visiting the region.
4. Flamiche: Flamiche is a traditional Picardy pie made with leeks and cream. The filling is encased in a buttery pastry and baked until golden and bubbling. It is a comforting and flavorful dish that showcases the region's local produce.
5. Cider: Picardy is known for its production of cider, made from locally grown apples. This refreshing and slightly alcoholic beverage is a great accompaniment to the region's cuisine. It is often enjoyed with savory dishes or as a refreshing drink on a warm day.
6. Biere de Garde: Another popular drink in Picardy is Biere de Garde, a traditional French beer style. This amber-colored beer has a rich and malty flavor with a hint of sweetness. It pairs well with hearty dishes and is a favorite among locals.
7. Tarte au Sucre: Tarte au Sucre is a traditional Picardy dessert that consists of a sweet pastry filled with a rich and gooey sugar filling. It is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea and is a delightful treat for those with a sweet tooth.
8. Potjevleesch: Potjevleesch is a traditional meat terrine from Picardy. It is made by layering different types of meat, such as chicken, veal, and rabbit, along with herbs and spices. The terrine is then cooked slowly until the flavors meld together. It is typically served cold and makes for a delicious appetizer or light meal.
9. Brioche: Picardy is known for its delicious brioche, a sweet and buttery bread. It is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, either plain or with a spread of jam or Nutella. The brioche in Picardy is particularly famous for its light and fluffy texture.
10. Champagne: While not exclusive to Picardy, the region is located near the Champagne region and offers a great opportunity to try some of the world's finest sparkling wines. Champagne is a must-try when visiting Picardy, and there are many vineyards and wineries in the area that offer tastings and tours.
Best Time To Visit Picardy
The best time to visit Picardy, France is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. During this time, the region experiences mild temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the picturesque countryside. The spring months of April and May offer pleasant weather with blooming flowers and lush green landscapes. June to September is the summer season, when the region is at its liveliest with various festivals and events taking place. Additionally, the summer months provide opportunities to visit the coastal areas of Picardy and enjoy the beautiful beaches. It is important to note that July and August are the peak tourist months, so it is advisable to book accommodations and attractions in advance.
Flight Calendar For Picardy
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Transportation To Picardy
There are several transportation options to Picardy, France.
1. By Air: The nearest international airport to Picardy is Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris. From there, you can take a train or rent a car to reach Picardy.
2. By Train: Picardy is well-connected by train from major cities in France and Europe. You can take a train to cities like Amiens, Beauvais, or Compiegne, which are located in Picardy.
3. By Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and take the highways to reach Picardy. The A1 and A16 highways connect Picardy to Paris and other major cities in France.
4. By Bus: There are also bus services available to Picardy from various cities in France. Companies like FlixBus and Ouibus offer bus routes to Picardy.
Once you reach Picardy, you can use local transportation options like buses, trains, or taxis to explore the region.