Origins and Architecture
Constructed between 1845 and 1854 for notary Jean-Baptiste-Gustave Riquier, the Maison de Jules Verne is recognized for its red-brick façade, limestone accents, and distinctive tower topped with a domed skylight. The architecture reflects the ambitions and elegance of the Belle Époque bourgeoisie, providing spacious salons, a winter garden, and a spiral staircase leading to Verne’s personal study in the tower—offering panoramic city views. (amiensbnb.com, francerent.com)
Jules Verne’s Residency
Jules Verne and his wife, Honorine, resided here from 1882 to 1900. The house became a creative sanctuary where Verne composed some of his most enduring novels, while also serving as a social center for literary salons, masquerade balls, and gatherings with admirers from across the globe. (myfrenchlife.org)
Literary Legacy and Civic Life
Within these walls, Verne penned works that would define modern science fiction and adventure literature. His study, preserved with original furniture and books, offers a tangible link to his disciplined creative life. Verne also actively participated in Amiens’ civic sphere, serving as a city councillor and supporting cultural projects like the Cirque Jules Verne. (myfrenchlife.org)
Preservation and Museum Transformation
After Verne’s death in 1905, the house changed hands several times before the City of Amiens acquired it in 1980. Extensive restoration followed, transforming the residence into a museum in partnership with the Centre International Jules Verne (CIJV). The museum now safeguards thousands of artifacts and manuscripts, including the renowned Piero Gondolo della Riva collection. (jules-verne.net)
Visiting the Maison de Jules Verne
Visiting Hours
- April 15 to October 14
- Weekdays (except Tuesday morning): 10:00–12:30 and 14:00–18:30
- Weekends: 11:00–18:30
- October 15 to April 14
- Weekdays (except Tuesday): 10:00–12:30 and 14:00–18:00
- Weekends: 14:00–18:00
- Closed Tuesdays and certain public holidays (January 1, May 1, December 25)
(Cityzeum)
Tickets and Admission
- Adults €9.00
- Reduced €5.00 (ages 6–18, eligible students, groups, job seekers, minimum pensioners, some association members)
- Family Ticket €25.00 (2 adults + 2 children 6–18 years)
- Combined Ticket €16.00 (Maison de Jules Verne + Musée de Picardie), €9.00 reduced
- Free Admission Children under 6, visitors with disabilities and companions, ICOM/ICOMOS members, teachers prepping visits, press, guides, and during national events with proof
- Amiens City Pass Free entry for pass holders
(Amiens tourism pass)
Tickets are available on-site (contactless payment recommended) and online.
Tours and Accessibility
- Self-Guided Visits Panels and multimedia displays in each room
- Guided Tours
- Standard: Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday at 15:00
- Family Tours: First Sunday monthly
- Theatrical Tours: 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Sundays monthly, with actors as Verne or his characters (Somme Tourisme)
- Group tours in French and English by reservation
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair access to all levels
- Facilities for hearing and cognitive impairments
- Companions admitted free
(Amiens Pass)
How to Get There
- Address 2 rue Charles Dubois, 80000 Amiens, France
- On Foot/Bicycle 20-minute walk from Amiens Cathedral, 15 minutes from Musée de Picardie; bike parking available
- Public Transport
- “Otages” stop (lines L, N2, N3, 11, 12)
- “Joffre” (free city shuttle, lines 6, 15)
- Train 10-minute walk from Amiens station
- Car Paid street parking nearby; free parking at Cirque Jules Verne; underground lots at Gare and Jacobins
(Amiens practical info)
Facilities and Services
- Gift/book shop with Verne works and souvenirs
- Reception and relaxation area
- Restrooms, baby-changing facilities, cloakroom
- Contactless payment
- Photography (non-flash) allowed in most rooms
(Amiens practical info)
Exhibits and Experiences
Thematic Rooms
- Study ("Cabinet de Travail") Verne’s writing desk and chair, styled as a ship’s cabin (Amiens Vivre Aujourd’hui)
- Winter Garden Glass-roofed conservatory with exotic plants
- Grand Salon Music room with period instruments
- Dining Room Neo-Gothic décor
- Library Books, memorabilia, and Verne’s influences
- Smoking Room ("Fumoir") Relaxation salon
- Collections Over 700 objects and documents from the 30,000-piece Piero Gondolo Della Riva collection (Somme Tourisme)
Interactive and Family Activities
- Creative workshops and treasure hunts for children (school holidays)
- Themed birthday parties
- Monthly family tours and dramatized, costumed tours
Special Events and Programming
- Dramatized tours Second Sunday monthly (except July–August)
- Workshops/Puzzles During school breaks
- Conferences/Literary Evenings Talks, readings, screenings
- Annual Events
- February: Puzzle challenges
- May: Museum Night
- September: European Heritage Days
(Somme Tourisme, Maison Jules Verne agenda)
Nearby Amiens Historical Sites
Maximize your visit with these nearby attractions:
- Amiens Cathedral UNESCO Gothic masterpiece
- Musée de Picardie Art and archaeology, 15 minutes’ walk
- Cirque Jules Verne Historic circus next door
- Hortillonnages Floating gardens
- Saint-Leu district Picturesque old town
- Comédie de Picardie, Théâtre de Marionnettes Chés Cabotans Live performances
Many visitors combine these sites for a full day of cultural discovery. (cityzeum.com)
FAQs
What are the Maison de Jules Verne visiting hours?
See Visiting Hours above; closed Tuesdays and major holidays.
How much are tickets?
€9 for adults; see Tickets and Admission for full details.
Are guided tours available in English?
Yes, by reservation for groups.
Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Fully accessible with adapted facilities.
Can I visit as part of a group?
Yes, group visits by reservation: +33 3 22 45 45 75 or [email protected].
