In the northeastern corner of the country, visit Hauts-de-France, a vast region standing out for its proud Picard heritage and intriguing war history. Its scenic and eclectic terrain includes everything from stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs to hilly fields and dense forests. Appreciate the gothic Flemish architecture gracing the towns and try regional food favorites such as maroilles cheese, Belgian beer and meats in jelly.
To get a sense of the gothic splendor of Hauts-de-France, visit the former industrial city of Lille. Head inside the Lille Cathedral and admire the works of art on display. Appreciate the stunning façade of the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille and wander through the courtyard of the 17th-century Vieille Bourse. Other highlights include the Citadel of Lille, the Beffroi de Lille and the Porte de Paris.
Get a flavor of the local culture in the Musée de Picardie in Amiens. Study the intriguing statues and French gothic façade of the Amiens Cathedral and attend an event at the Amiens Circus. Visit the sights of the nearby towns of Beauvais and Compiègne.
The entire region was forever altered by the world wars of the 20th century. Study the exhibits in the Franco-Australian Museum, the Historial de la Grande Guerre and the Somme 1916 Museum to understand more about the Battle of the Somme. Walk along the historic Beach of Malo-les-Bains in Dunkirk and visit the Museum Dunkerque 1940.
For family entertainment, plan to visit the Zoo Amiens Métropole and Zoo Lille. Don’t miss the Parc Astérix, an enormous amusement park based on beloved comic books.
The vast department of Hauts-de-France lies along the English Channel and the Belgian border in the northeastern reaches of France. Fly, drive or ferry into Calais to enter the region or drive north from Paris for several hours. While in the area, travel to the surrounding departments of Normandy, Île de France and Grand Est.
Between its beaches, cliffs and fields, Hauts-de-France has a unique heritage and a rich history.
