The Hauts-de-France, a northern region with a rich industrial past, is home to hidden gems: the city of Arras and its Flemish squares, the Opal Coast beaches, or Amiens and its majestic cathedral. The region is steeped in history with World War I memorials and former mining sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage. A wonderful idea to explore French regionsoff the beaten path.
Where is the Hauts-de-France region?
The Hauts-de-France region, located at the northern border of France, is made up of 5 departments: Aisne, Nord, Oise, Pas-de-Calais, and Somme.
It spans approximately 31,800 km², or 5.5% of the French territory. Its surface area is roughly equivalent to that of Moldova.
It is a proud and united region, shaped by its industrial past, its windswept coasts, fertile countryside, and artistic and historic cities such as Lille, Arras, and Amiens. It attracts those who appreciate authentic terroirs and warm hospitality.
Map of the Hauts-de-France Region
Map of the region Hauts-de-France
Why discover the Hauts-de-France region?
Located at the northern tip of France, the Hauts-de-France region is often overlooked, yet it hides unexpected treasures. A land of history, character and contrasts, it offers an emotional and invigorating journey, blending memory, nature and contemporary creativity.
The Opal Coast beaches, with their white cliffs, shifting dunes and family seaside resorts (Wimereux, Le Touquet, Berck-sur-Mer…), are a popular destination for a revitalizing escape. Hiking enthusiasts and lovers of wide open spaces will be delighted by the Blanc-Nez and Gris-Nez capes, where the English coast can sometimes be seen.
The Somme River in Saint-Valery-sur-Somme
Further inland, character villages, Gothic cathedrals (like that of Amiens, the largest in France) and memory fields evoke the dark hours of World War I. Sites such as Vimy, Notre-Dame-de-Lorette or Péronne bear witness to the region’s living memory.
The Amiens Cathedral
The Hauts-de-France region is also known for its repurposed industrial heritage. Former mining sites, like those in the UNESCO-listed Mining Basin, have been transformed into dynamic cultural venues. The Louvre-Lens, built on a former industrial site, embodies this artistic renaissance. In Roubaix, the La Piscine museum is a jewel of Art Deco architecture, while in Lille, the regional capital, culture, design and festivity thrive in a young and creative city.
Gastronomy is not to be outdone: carbonnade flamande, welsh, mussels and fries, filled waffles, craft beers… Hauts-de-France wins over bon vivants and curious minds. The markets and estaminets give pride of place to local products and conviviality.
Discovering the Hauts-de-France means exploring France’s regions differently. It’s an invitation to go beyond clichés, to meet warm people, to immerse yourself in a vibrant popular culture, and to enjoy a beautiful diversity of landscapes, know-how and authentic experiences.
Travel reports and tips on my travels and discoveries in Hauts-de-France
List of French Regions (12 regions + Corsica – DROM-COM)
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Hi ! My name is C-Ludik and I’m the person who runs this creative space. Welcome to ‘Tween here and there, a travel blog that shares awesome destinations, stunning photographs and captivating travel stories from around the world. No two landscapes are ever the same because of a different light, different conditions… whether it's a new or an old place. That’s what I love about nature and landscape photography. As the famous Ibn Battuta traveler said: « traveling – it leaves you speechless then turns you into a storyteller ». He’s right ! Behind the photographer, I see myself more as a storyteller. When I arrive on a place, I try to respond to what I see and tell the story of the land. If you love travel, exploring new places, and seeing more of this beautiful world then you'll be right at home here. ‘Tween here and there is the travel inspiration for those with full-time jobs and for those in search of any off-the-beaten track destinations around the world, near and far.