What to do and see in Hauts-de-France, France: The Best Things to do Good for a Rainy Day

Amiens Cathedral is one of the finest examples of late Gothic art in Europe. It is also the Cathedral of records since it is the largest in France and the spire rises to a height of 112.70 meters. The towers provide splendid views of the city and of the last medieval steeple still be seen on a Cathedral. Re-opening of the Cathedral Treasury. Cathedral designated world heritage site by UNESCO. Open: > April, May, June, September: Guided tour at 3 p.m. and 4.30 p.m. except Saturday and Sunday, Unaccompanied tour from 2.30 to 5.15 p.m. > July, August: Guided tour at 11 a.m., Unaccompanied tour from 2.30 p.m. to 5.15 p.m. > October to March: Guided tour at 3.45 p.m. Closed: > Tuesdays. > 1st January, 1st May and 25th December. > Last Sunday in September. Admission fees: Adults : 7,50 €; Concessions (18 to 25) = 4,50 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groups

The visit of the belfry (14-15th) will allow you to discover its rooms and espacially the 62th bells of its carillon which is a real musical instrument. Enjoy a panoramic, unforgettable view of the old Douai from the platform.

Set in a remarkable sculpture park, the LaM has established a unique itinerary for visitors, highlighting the intersection between modern art, contemporary art and art brut. With over 7,000 works, the museum provides a striking overview of the art of the 20th and 21st centuries. By encouraging new ways of interacting and thinking about art, whether through its permanent collection, temporary exhibitions or cultural programme, the museum is focused on sparking your sense of curiosity, and leaves you feeling inspired and moved. Inaugurated in 1983 to house the modern art donation bequeathed by Geneviève and Jean Masurel, the LaM has since emerged as a leading museum on the world stage. Boasting an ambitious programme, it encourages encounters between artists who not only bear witness to their time, but weave a deeply personal perspective into their work.

A secret base at the heart of Second World Wae history...A real underground town, constructed in 1943 and 1944 by the German army to go ahead with the launch V2 rockets on London, La Coupole is an exceptional site on which the destiny of Europe could have been played out...Today, it is an astonishing museum, a centre to gain an understanding of the historical and scientific stakes at play during the Second World War, from Occupation to the hidden face of space conquest. New! La Coupole now houses a revolutionary 3D planetarium. Sit insite the massive 360° room wearing your active 3D glasses and travel thtough the universe...

Designed by architect Julien Destrée, the Old Stock Exchange (circa 1653) is a magnificent example of the Flemish baroque style.

Welcome in Jules Verne's Home... Come and visit the house where the famous writer lived for 18 years in Amiens and where he wrote most part of his work. You will discover a luxurious private mansion of the XIXth century that will make you discover Jules Verne, his life and his "Extraordinary Voyages". From 15th April to 14th October, opened every day. From15th October to14th April, closed on Tuesday.

Dating back to the 15th century, the Chateau de Pierrefonds was comprehensively restored and altered by architect Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th century to transform it into an imperial residence for Napoleon III. The chateaux often seems to have been specially built for a swashbuckling film with its richly varied painted and sculpted decors, its defensive system and drawbridge, walkways and drop-boxes, not to forget the two reconstructions of medieval siege engines. Open: > 2nd May to 4th September: from 9.30 a.m. to 6 p.m. > 5th September to 30th April: from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. Last admission 45 minutes before closing time. Closed: > Mondays from 5th September to 30th April. > 1st January, 1st May and 25th December. Admission fees: Adults : 7,50 €; Concessions (18 to 25) = 4,50 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groups.

1 MUSEUM, 3 SHIPS, 1 LIGHTHOUSE With 1,600 square meters (over 17,000 square feet) of exhibitions, 4 centuries of history, 500 works (models, videos, paintings, …) and 5 locations to visit (the Museum, 3 ships and the Risban lighthouse), we offer many ways to embark on a maritime adventure!

Established in Calais, inside an authentic nineteenth century lace factory, the Museum of Lace and Fashion is a specialist museum for the famous lace woven on looms. A museum of both fashion and industry, its vast galleries present the techniques, the lingerie and haute couture associated with this prestigious textile, as well as its most contemporary aspects. The high point of a visit to this important museum is to discover the lace weaving looms in operation, those monumental cast iron machines that produce this exceptional fabric.