Hauts-de-France Travel Guide

Discover the rich culture, scenic beauty, and natural wonders of Hauts-de-France with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Hauts-de-France

Hauts-de-France is a picturesque region located in the northeastern part of France. Situated in proximity to Belgium and the English Channel, the region is known for its rich culture, scenic beauty, and natural wonders. It is home to several small towns, charming villages, and bustling cities that offer a glimpse into the region’s vibrant history and modern-day charm. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the top places to visit, activities to do, and cultural experiences to have in Hauts-de-France.

List of Places to Visit in Hauts-de-France

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Hauts-de-France is steeped in history, and there are several museums, historical sites, and landmarks that are worth exploring:

  • Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille: This is one of the largest museums in France, and it houses an impressive collection of artwork from different periods and cultures.

  • Maison de la Culture d’Amiens: This is a renowned cultural institution that hosts a variety of events, exhibitions, and performances throughout the year.

  • The Bay of Somme: This is a pristine, unspoiled natural reserve that is a haven for wildlife and a favorite among birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.

  • Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Amiens: This is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in France and is known for its intricate architecture and stunning stained-glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Hauts-de-France: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re a nature lover, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Hauts-de-France:

  • Les Hortillonnages: These are floating gardens located in Amiens, and visitors can explore them on a traditional boat or by foot.

  • Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d’Opale: This is a vast natural park that covers over 158,000 hectares and offers diverse landscapes and outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and kayaking.

  • Mont-Saint-Michel: This is an iconic tidal island that is renowned for its stunning views and picturesque architecture. It is home to several medieval buildings and a beautiful abbey.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hauts-de-France

Hauts-de-France is a region that is best explored on foot or by bike. Some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in the area include:

  • The Chemin des Dames: This is a 30-kilometer long path that follows the ridge of the Chemin des Dames plateau.

  • The Avenue Verte: This is a 160-kilometer long route that connects Paris to London and passes through several scenic towns and villages in Hauts-de-France.

Best Things to Do in Hauts-de-France: Activities and Tours

There are many things to do and see in Hauts-de-France, and some of the top activities and tours that are worth checking out include:

  • Tour of the Battlefields: This is a guided tour that takes visitors to some of the most important World War I battlefields in the region.

  • Beer Tasting Tour of the Flanders: This is a guided tour that takes visitors to some of the best breweries in the Flanders and offers a chance to sample some of the region’s traditional beers.

  • Visit to Street Art Murals in the Region: This is a self-guided tour that takes visitors to some of the most impressive street art murals in the cities of Lille, Dunkirk, and Amiens.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hauts-de-France

If you have a week to explore Hauts-de-France, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Destination
1 Lille
2 Dunkirk
3 Amiens
4 Bay of Somme
5 Mont-Saint-Michel
6 Boulogne-sur-Mer
7 Le Touquet-Paris-Plage

Food and Drink Scene of Hauts-de-France

Must-Try Dishes

Hauts-de-France is known for its hearty, traditional cuisine, and there are many local dishes that visitors must try, including:

  • Moules-frites: This is a dish of mussels served with fries, and it is a staple in the region.

  • Carbonnade Flamande: This is a hearty beef stew made with beer, onions, and bread.

  • Tarte au Maroilles: This is a savory tart made with Maroilles cheese, which is a local specialty.

Local Beverages

In addition to traditional French wines, there are also several local beverages that visitors can try in Hauts-de-France, including:

  • Beer: The region is known for its beer production, with over 30 breweries located in the area.

  • Genièvre: This is a type of gin that is produced in the Flanders region and is often served as an aperitif.

Where to Stay in Hauts-de-France: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many different types of accommodations available in Hauts-de-France, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the top places to stay in the region include:

  • La Grange de Salomé: This is a beautifully restored farmhouse that offers cozy rooms and traditional French breakfasts.

  • Hotel Carlton Lille: This is an elegant hotel located in the heart of Lille, and it offers a range of amenities and services to guests.

  • Auberge de Jeunesse HI Lille: This is a budget-friendly hostel that is perfect for backpackers and solo travelers.

What to Buy in Hauts-de-France: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back from Hauts-de-France include:

  • Maroilles Cheese: This is a pungent, soft cheese that is unique to the region and can be found in most local markets and cheese shops.

  • Lace and Embroidery: The region is known for its intricate lace and embroidery work, which makes for beautiful souvenirs and gifts.

  • Beer: There are over 30 breweries in the region, so visitors can bring back a variety of local beers.

Local Culture and Customs of Hauts-de-France

The local culture and customs in Hauts-de-France are deeply influenced by the region’s rich history and traditions. Some customs that visitors may come across include:

  • Carnival: The region is known for its elaborate carnival celebrations, which take place in different cities and towns throughout the year.

  • Flemish Influence: The Flanders region in Hauts-de-France has a strong Flemish influence, with many people speaking a dialect of Flemish known as West Flemish.

Best Time to Visit Hauts-de-France

The best time to visit Hauts-de-France is during the spring and summer months (between April and September), when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hauts-de-France

Do:

  • Try the Local Cuisine: Hauts-de-France has a diverse and delicious cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local dishes and drinks.

  • Explore the Outdoors: The region is known for its natural beauty, so be sure to spend some time hiking, biking, or kayaking.

Don’t:

  • Assume Everyone Speaks English: While English is widely spoken in the larger cities and tourist areas, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic French phrases.

  • Forget to Tip: It’s customary to leave a small tip (10-15%) at restaurants and cafes in France.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hauts-de-France

Hauts-de-France is a safe region to visit, but visitors should take the usual precautions when traveling, such as being aware of their surroundings and belongings, and taking care when traveling alone at night.

Health in Hauts-de-France

France has a high standard of healthcare, and visitors to Hauts-de-France can expect to receive excellent medical care if needed. Visitors should ensure that they have adequate travel insurance before arriving in the region.

Getting to Hauts-de-France: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hauts-de-France

The region is served by several airports, including:

  • Lille Airport: This is the most convenient airport for visitors to the region.

  • Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport: This is the largest airport in France and is located about 2 hours south of Hauts-de-France.

Bus Stations Near Hauts-de-France

There are several long-distance bus companies that operate in the region, including Eurolines and Flixbus. The main bus stations in the region are located in Lille, Amiens, and Dunkirk.

Other Options

Hauts-de-France is well-connected to the rest of France and Europe by train, with high-speed trains connecting Lille to Paris in just over an hour.

How to Get Around in Hauts-de-France

The best way to get around in Hauts-de-France is by public transportation, including buses, trains, and trams. Visitors can also rent a car or bike to explore the region independently.

Where to Go Next from Hauts-de-France: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors to Hauts-de-France can consider:

  • Bruges, Belgium: This charming town is just a short train ride away from Lille and is known for its picturesque canals and medieval architecture.

  • Paris, France: The capital city of France is just a short train ride away from Hauts-de-France and offers visitors a range of cultural experiences, from museums to shopping and dining.

Conclusion

Hauts-de-France is a diverse and beautiful region of France that is well worth exploring. From its rich history and culture to its stunning natural landscapes and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or history buff, Hauts-de-France is a destination that shouldn’t be missed.

Amiens cathedral Amiens cathedral Typical dunes on the beach at Le Touquet Typical dunes on the beach at Le Touquet Thiepval Memorial to the missing of the Somme Thiepval Memorial to the missing of the Somme Grand' Place, Arras Grand' Place, Arras Château de Chantilly on a sunny day Château de Chantilly on a sunny day Coucou! - gargoyles on Laon cathedral Coucou! - gargoyles on Laon cathedral Moules frites Moules frites Windmill in Aisne Windmill in Aisne


    Amiens
    Arras
    Beauvais
    Belle-Église
    Calais
    Chantilly
    Douai
    Dunkirk
    Laon
    Le Touquet
    Lens
    Lille
    Montreuil