Amiens, France

Capital City

With a population of just 136,449, Amiens is no bustling metropolis. The tax burden is heavy, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache, but the city's compact size and central location make it an appealing option for those seeking a calmer pace of life outside the chaos of France's major urban centers. Amiens' oceanic climate brings relatively mild winters and cool summers, though heavy rainfall can be a nuisance year-round. Overall, this historic cathedral city is best suited for those drawn to its quaint charm and cultural offerings, rather than those in search of big-city excitement.