Introduction

The Maison de Jules Verne, located in the heart of Amiens, France, is an essential destination for literature enthusiasts, history aficionados, and cultural travelers. This beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion was Jules Verne’s home from 1882 to 1900, during which he authored some of his most influential works, including parts of the famed "Voyages Extraordinaires" series. Today, the house stands as a vibrant museum, meticulously restored to reflect Verne's life and times, offering immersive exhibits, guided tours, and rich educational programming. Beyond its literary significance, the Maison de Jules Verne anchors a network of Amiens historical sites, inviting visitors to experience the city’s unique blend of heritage, creativity, and innovation. (amiensbnb.com, cityzeum.com, Somme Tourisme)

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)