Chroma at Amiens Cathedral | Hauts-de-France Tourism

Northern France _ Amiens _ Notre Dame Cathedral _ Chroma ©CRTC Hauts-de-France_Nicolas Bryant — ©Northern France, Amiens, Notre Dame Cathedral, Chroma |Hauts-de-France Tourisme - Nicolas Bryant

Chroma at Amiens Cathedral

A magical night-time experience for all the family.

As night falls in Amiens, the great Gothic façade of its cathedral becomes the stage for an unforgettable open-air spectacle. Chroma, the city’s celebrated son-et-lumière show, transforms the UNESCO-listed Amiens Cathedral into a living canvas of colour, sound and storytelling — a moment of wonder to share with children and adults alike.

Easy to reach by car, just off the A16 between Paris and the Channel ports, Amiens is an ideal stop for families travelling through Northern France. And Chroma is one of those experiences that turns an evening into a lasting memory.

When history lights up the present

Using cutting-edge projection technology, Chroma reveals the cathedral’s sculptures, carvings and architectural details in vivid detail. Narration and specially composed music guide the audience through the story, helping younger viewers understand the meaning behind the stone figures and scenes.

As colours spread across the façade, visitors discover something surprising: the cathedral as it would have appeared in medieval times, painted in bright, expressive tones. The show offers a fascinating introduction to French cultural heritage — playful, immersive and accessible, even for children encountering Gothic architecture for the first time.

Each performance lasts around 50 minutes and takes place on summer evenings, making it a relaxed and free cultural highlight after a day of exploring the city.

Northern France _Amiens _ Cathedral _ Chroma © CRTC Hauts-de-France - Teddy Hennin — ©Northern France, Amiens, Cathedral, Chroma |CRTC Hauts-de-France-Teddy Henin

Northern France _ Amiens _ Notre Dame Cathedral _ Chroma © CRTC Hauts-de-France - Stéphane Bouilland — ©Northern France, Amiens, Notre Dame Cathedral, Chroma |CRTC Hauts-de-France - Stéphane Bouilland

A family-friendly city to explore

Chroma is just one of many reasons Amiens is such an appealing destination for families. The city offers a welcoming atmosphere, plenty of places to eat and stay with children, and a variety of nearby attractions to fill a short break or holiday.

Boat rides through the peaceful canals of the Hortillonnages, the city’s unique floating gardens, provide a gentle contrast to the evening spectacle. Meanwhile, the Jules Verne House introduces children to the imagination of one of France’s most famous writers through interactive and engaging displays.

A joyful blend of learning, relaxation and shared discovery, Amiens invites families to slow down, look up and enjoy the magic together.

Find out more about Chroma at Amiens Cathedral and plan your evening