Enchanting Canals and Medieval Charm: Saint-Leu in Amiens

Discover the medieval charm and vibrant canals of Saint-Leu in Amiens, France, a picturesque neighbourhood brimming with art, culture, and culinary delights.

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Saint-Leu

Saint-Leu, often referred to as the 'Little Venice of the North,' is a picturesque neighbourhood in the heart of Amiens, France. This charming district is known for its vibrant canals, colorful houses, and a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. Wander through its narrow, cobbled streets and you'll find yourself transported to another era, where every corner tells a story. Saint-Leu is a haven for art and culture enthusiasts. The area is dotted with numerous galleries, artisan workshops, and cozy cafes. The iconic Notre-Dame d'Amiens Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just a stone's throw away, making it easy to explore this architectural marvel. Don't miss the floating gardens, or 'hortillonnages,' which are unique to this region and offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Food lovers will also find Saint-Leu to be a culinary delight. The neighbourhood boasts a variety of restaurants and bistros that serve everything from traditional French cuisine to modern gastronomic delights. Be sure to try the local specialty, 'ficelle picarde,' a delicious crepe filled with ham, cheese, and mushrooms. Whether you're interested in history, art, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Saint-Leu offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary culture. It's a must-visit destination in Amiens that promises to leave you enchanted.

Local tips in Saint-Leu

Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can be uneven.
Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquillity of the canals before the crowds arrive.
Take a guided boat tour to explore the unique 'hortillonnages' or floating gardens.
Don't forget to bring a camera; the colorful houses and scenic views are picture-perfect.
Try the local specialty, 'ficelle picarde,' at one of the neighborhood bistros.

File:Amiens, 44 rue du Hocquet (3).JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:0 Amiens - La Somme - Quai Belu (1).JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:0 Amiens - Place du Don - Cathédrale (1).JPG - Wikipedia

File:Amiens.- Tour de la maison de jules Verne.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Fichier:Hortillonnages d'Amiens.JPG — Wikipédia

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Jules Verne House

Discover the legacy of Jules Verne in his charming house-museum, a must-see for literature enthusiasts and those intrigued by the world of science fiction.

Saint-Leu Catholic Church at Amiens

Explore the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of Saint-Leu Catholic Church in Amiens, a must-visit tourist attraction.

Archaeological Garden of Saint-Acheul

Explore the Archaeological Garden of Saint-Acheul in Amiens, where history comes alive through fascinating exhibits and beautiful gardens.

Saint-Leu

Explore the enchanting canals and vibrant streets of Saint-Leu, Amiens, where history and culture come alive in a picturesque setting.

L'Homme sur sa bouée

Discover L'Homme sur sa bouée, an iconic sculpture in Amiens that embodies creativity and artistic expression amid a vibrant cityscape.

Statue de Pierre l'Ermite

Explore the Statue de Pierre l'Ermite in Amiens, a historical landmark that reflects the city's rich heritage and artistic beauty.

Mission Saint Leu

Explore the serene Mission Saint Leu, a stunning Catholic church in Amiens, featuring breathtaking architecture and a peaceful ambiance for visitors.

Moulin Passe-Avant

Experience the captivating history and beauty of Moulin Passe-Avant, a charming mill in Amiens that showcases the region's rich industrial heritage.

Ruins of Hotel Dieu Saint Jean

Discover the captivating ruins of Hotel Dieu Saint Jean, a historical gem in Amiens, showcasing the grandeur of medieval architecture and rich cultural history.

Unmissable attractions to see

Saint-Leu Catholic Church at Amiens

Immerse yourself in the historical charm of Saint-Leu Catholic Church in Amiens, where Gothic architecture and serene spirituality converge.

Les maisons de Saint -Leu

Explore the enchanting Les maisons de Saint-Leu in Amiens, where colorful houses and serene canals create a picturesque and culturally rich experience.

Essential places to dine

Le Quai

Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Quai in Amiens, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary artistry amidst beautiful canal views.

Le Dos D'Âne

Experience the authentic taste of France at Le Dos D'Âne in Amiens - where delicious crepes meet exceptional hospitality.

Restaurant Le 31

Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Le 31 in Amiens - where tradition meets taste along the scenic riverbank.

L'ENVIE

Discover L'ENVIE in Amiens: A charming restaurant offering exquisite French cuisine and delightful river views.

Le Port Saint Leu

Discover the essence of French cuisine at Le Port Saint Leu in Amiens - where every dish tells a story.

La Ferme

Experience authentic French cuisine at La Ferme in Amiens, where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes for a delightful dining experience.

La Table Saint Firmin

Experience exceptional French cuisine at La Table Saint Firmin in Amiens, where local flavors meet culinary excellence.

ONHA Vietnam Street-Food

Discover authentic Vietnamese street food at ONHA in Amiens – where every dish tells a story.

NAXOS

Experience the authentic flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Naxos in Amiens—where every meal is a celebration of taste and tradition.

Nouvelle Carte

Experience authentic French cuisine at Nouvelle Carte in Amiens - where local flavors meet culinary artistry.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Centre commercial Grand A

Explore the dynamic Centre Commercial Grand A, a shopping paradise in Glisy, France, offering a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment.

Shopping Promenade Coeur Picardie

Discover the vibrant Shopping Promenade Coeur Picardie in Amiens, your go-to destination for shopping, dining, and family fun.

Cultura

Discover Cultura in Amiens, where creativity thrives with a rich selection of books, crafts, music, and unforgettable gifts for every traveler.

Galeries Lafayette Amiens

Discover the charm of shopping at Galeries Lafayette Amiens - a blend of luxury, style, and French elegance awaits you.

The Magical Store - Amiens

Experience the charm of The Magical Store in Amiens - where fashion meets creativity in a unique shopping atmosphere.

Skyclub Vintage

Explore Skyclub Vintage in Amiens for a unique shopping experience filled with timeless fashion and eclectic styles.

casanier _ déco & cadeaux

Explore the charming Casanier - Décor & Gifts in Amiens for unique home goods and thoughtful souvenirs that reflect local craftsmanship.

Diabolo Vintage

Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Diabolo Vintage in Amiens, the perfect spot for unique clothing and nostalgic treasures.

La Galerie

Discover La Galerie in Amiens for the finest men's clothing, blending style and quality in a welcoming atmosphere.

Signatures

Discover the elegance of Amiens at Signatures, your go-to destination for unique gifts, fashion accessories, jewelry, and exquisite perfumes.

Tommy Hilfiger

Explore the stylish collection at Tommy Hilfiger in Amiens, where contemporary fashion meets timeless elegance for an unforgettable shopping experience.

La petite Boutique de Saint-Leu

Explore La petite Boutique de Saint-Leu in Amiens for exquisite handicrafts that capture the essence of local artistry and culture.

Design wave Studio

Discover unique fashion at Design Wave Studio in Amiens, where local artistry meets contemporary style in a charming boutique setting.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Delirium Café

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unparalleled beer selection at Delirium Café, the ultimate destination for beer lovers in Amiens.

Couleur Café - Bar à Cocktails Rhumerie Saint Leu Amiens

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Amiens at Couleur Café, a cocktail bar where creativity meets tradition in the heart of Saint Leu.

Taverne Electrik

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Amiens at Taverne Electrik, where local flavors and lively ambiance create unforgettable memories.

Les Enfants Terribles

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Les Enfants Terribles, a bar in Amiens offering crafted cocktails and local wines in a charming district.

BackStage

Discover BackStage in Amiens – A vibrant bar offering a unique atmosphere and a delightful drink selection for every tourist.

Le Longchamp

Experience the charm of Amiens at Le Longchamp, a bar tabac where locals gather to enjoy drinks and good company in a delightful atmosphere.

Les murets.shop

Discover the charm of Les Murets, a cozy bar in Amiens offering a delightful selection of drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night.

Le Lutétia

Experience the local ambiance at Le Lutétia, a cozy bar tabac in Amiens, offering delightful drinks and snacks in a welcoming atmosphere.

Esco Bar

Experience the lively ambiance of Esco Bar in Amiens, where cocktails meet local rum in a cozy and friendly setting.

Le French

Discover the essence of French hospitality at Le French, a delightful bar in Amiens with exquisite drinks and a cozy atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Saint-Leu

Discover Saint-Leu with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwahr]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît
  [seel voo pleh]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi
  [ex-kew-zay mwa]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et toi?
  [byahn. ay twah]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr lah kart, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahng pah duh vyand]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [oh suh-kour]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay vooz ahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-pay-lay lah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-pay-lay uh may-day-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray zah-shay...]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhust]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-veh voo beh-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kehl er ay-til]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel ay oon er]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [dees er ay duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [ee-air]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-man]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [twah]
- 4Quatre
  [kah-truh]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [sept]
- 8Huit
  [weet]
- 9Neuf
  [nuf]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où est...
  [oo ay...]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kehl ay lah-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-veh voo muh mohn-tray (surr lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn ay luh proh-shahn (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ...)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Saint-Leu

Saint-Leu is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Amiens, with its origins tracing back to the Roman era. The area was initially a settlement along the banks of the River Somme, which was vital for trade and transportation. The name 'Saint-Leu' is derived from 'Leu,' an ancient word for 'wolf,' indicating the area's early connections to local wildlife and folklore.
During the 19th century, Saint-Leu became known for its textile industry, particularly in the production of wool. The presence of the river facilitated the establishment of numerous mills and factories. This industrial boom attracted a significant workforce, leading to a demographic shift and the development of working-class communities within the neighborhood.
Saint-Leu is characterized by its picturesque canals and historic buildings, many of which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries. The neighborhood's architecture reflects the rich history of Amiens, with charming facades and narrow streets that transport visitors back in time. Notable structures include the former textile factories, which have been repurposed into residential and commercial spaces, preserving the historical essence of the area.
Throughout its history, Saint-Leu has been a melting pot of cultures, influenced by various waves of immigration. This diversity is reflected in the neighborhood's culinary scene, offering a mix of traditional French cuisine and international flavors. Local markets and eateries celebrate the area's cultural heritage, making it a vibrant spot for both residents and visitors.
In recent years, Saint-Leu has undergone significant revitalization efforts, transforming it into a trendy destination for art and culture. The neighborhood hosts various cultural events and festivals that highlight its historical significance and contemporary creativity. Local artists and artisans have established workshops and galleries, contributing to a thriving creative community that draws tourists from across the region.

Saint-Leu Essentials

Saint-Leu is easily accessible from other neighbourhoods in Amiens. From the Amiens train station, you can take a short walk or a taxi to reach Saint-Leu. The area is well connected by public transport, including buses that frequently run to and from the city center. If you are coming from nearby towns, regional trains also connect to Amiens, and you can switch to local transport to Saint-Leu.
Saint-Leu is a pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood, making it easy to explore on foot. Public buses run regularly throughout the area, providing access to other parts of Amiens. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bicycle from local shops or using the city's bike-sharing program. Taxis and rideshare services are also available for quicker transport.
Saint-Leu is generally a safe neighbourhood for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on personal belongings, particularly in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it’s advisable to stay vigilant, especially around busy tourist spots.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance in France. Local hospitals and clinics are present in Amiens, and it is advisable to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage. Pharmacies are available throughout Saint-Leu for minor health issues, and many staff members speak English.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the cobblestone streets can be uneven. Don't wear overly casual or beach attire while dining in local restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in places of worship. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't use your phone loudly or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Bonjour'. Don't forget to say 'Merci' when receiving help. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine, particularly the famous picardies. Don't forget to ask for recommendations from locals.
To experience Saint-Leu like a local, visit the picturesque canals and take time to enjoy a coffee at one of the many quaint cafés along the waterfront. Engage with local artisans and shopkeepers, as they love sharing stories about their crafts. Don't miss the local markets for fresh produce and traditional foods. For a unique perspective, explore the neighbourhood's street art and vibrant murals that reflect its cultural heritage.

Enchanting Canals and Medieval Charm: Saint-Leu in Amiens

Local tips in Saint-Leu