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Les Hortillonnages (Floating Gardens)
intro
The Hortillonnages of Amiens are beautiful floating market gardens. With its 300 hectares of water gardens, Amiens is known as the Venice of the North. These areas offer 65 kilometers of canals and seven market gardens. Every Saturday, the locals sell their produce (fresh vegetables) at a floating market in the Saint-Leu district. On the 3rd Sunday of each month, the market gardeners dress in traditional costumes and go down the Somme. When they reach the Quai Bélu, they sell their vegetables on the Place Parmentier, across the river. The best way to experience these marvelous gardens and historical heritage sites is with a boat ride. You can rent one and ride on your own or take a guided electric boat tour (from April to October). As you're mesmerized by the colorful gardens, don't forget to look for dragonflies, wild birds, and even herons on the tranquil waterways and see the incredible cathedral spire in the background.
Additional Information
Les Hortillonnages are a picturesque network of floating gardens that blend nature, history, and tradition. They provide a unique opportunity to explore the intricate waterways by boat, experiencing the serene beauty and spotting a variety of wildlife.
Reasons to Visit:
- Experience a unique boat tour through ancient gardens.
- Enjoy the tranquility and scenic views of lush landscapes.
- Discover a rich array of flora and fauna in the marshlands.
Things to Avoid:
- Avoid visiting during heavy rain as boat tours may be canceled.
- The paths can be muddy; avoid wearing shoes that are not suitable for wet conditions.
Accessibility Level: Medium
Some areas have accessible pathways, but boat tours may not be suitable for wheelchair users.
Address:
54 Boulevard de Beauvillé, 80000 Amiens, France
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Basic Info
COUNTRY & Region
France,
Europe
ACCESSIBILITY LEVEL
Medium
LOCAL CURRENCY
Euro (EUR)
Price Level
Medium
SAFETY LEVEL
Recommended Duration
• 3-5 hours (Half a day)
• Full day
• Full day
Electricity
Electricity
220-240V,
50Hz
Plug Type
• Type C (Round pin)
• Type E (Two round pins with earth pin)
• Type E (Two round pins with earth pin)
Activities To Do In Les Hortillonnages (Floating Gardens)
Best Time To Visit
Best Months: April to October
The gardens are lush and vibrant in spring and summer, with mild weather ideal for boat tours.
Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.
SAFETY Level
Safe. These floating gardens in Amiens offer peaceful boat tours. The area is considered safe for visitors.
The rating is based on multi-year peace, crime, and security indices. Before you go, always verify current conditions through official government travel advisories.
Spoken Languages
French is the formal language.
Basic English is spoken by some guides, but learning a few French phrases can enhance your experience.
Learn The Language
- Hello: Bonjour
- Thank you: Merci
- How much?: Combien ça coûte?
- Boat: Bateau
- Garden: Jardin
- Where is…?: Où est…?
Money & Payments
Everything you need to know about money while traveling
LOCAL CURRENCY:
Euro (EUR)
Price Level:
Medium
Cards Vs. Cash
How Much Cash to Carry (on you)
Per person, per day – pocket cash for small purchases.
Local:
Euro (EUR)
≈ USD
Average Daily Costs (per person)
Full daily spend estimation (accomodation, food, transportation, attractions).
Travel Style | Euro (EUR) | ≈ USD ($) |
|---|---|---|
Budget | ||
Mid-range | ||
Comfort |
The Prices, Daily costs, and calculator results are estimates for planning purposes only. Actual costs may vary based on season, booking timing, personal spending habits, and currency fluctuations. TravelingWiz cannot be held responsible for discrepancies between these estimates and your final trip expenses.
Best Value Tips
Book your boat tour in advance during peak seasons to secure the best times and rates. Consider visiting on weekdays for fewer crowds.
Pre-Order Tickets
Avoid disappointment when tickets sell out — and skip the long lines by booking online in advance. You’ll often save up to 20% too.
Save up to 20%
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What To Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes, ideally waterproof, for exploring garden paths.
- Light, weather-appropriate clothing for spring and summer visits.
- Sunscreen and a hat for sunny days, as shade may be limited on boat tours.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
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FAQs
What are Les Hortillonnages?
Les Hortillonnages are floating gardens in Amiens, France, formed on small islands in marshland and accessed by boat.
How do I get to Les Hortillonnages?
Les Hortillonnages are located in Amiens, accessible by car or train from Paris. The gardens are close to the city center.
Can I visit Les Hortillonnages without taking a boat tour?
While boat tours offer the best experience, there are pathways on some islands for walking, though limited.
Is Les Hortillonnages suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a great spot for families, though young children should be supervised near water.
When is the best time to visit Les Hortillonnages?
The best time to visit is from April to October when the gardens are in full bloom.
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