rouen to tours france

9 Best Day trips from Rouen (Normandy, France)

• Post category: Brittany and Normandy
• Post author: Nassie Angadi

The city of Rouen in Normandy is surrounded by beautiful medieval towns, and a countryside dotted with ancient stone churches . Located in the region of Normandy , it is in an area that has much to offer.

From Joan of Arc to WWII , there are many tourist attractions to see, explore, and visit. It is also one that is known for its food and local specialties that are much loved by the locals in this region.

While it is relatively close to Paris , it has a completely atmosphere and culture. So if you are looking at staying in Rouen and using it as a base while exploring the region, you won’t be disappointed. So let’s have a look at the top places to visit on a day trip from Rouen, shall we? Allons-y!

The beach town of Étretat in Normandy is one of those places that is very famous in France, but quite unknown to foreigners and tourists.

A small town on the north coast of France, the area is known for the striking rock formations known as  falaises  in French, that carved out of its white cliffs.

Étretat also has beautiful beaches and a long boardwalk all along its coast line. In summer or winter, this coastal town attracts tons of visitors.

With award-winning gardens, beautiful seashore, and a charming old town, there is plenty to see and do in Étretat. It is located about 1h15 away from Rouen. You can read more about visiting Etretat here, and find out about tour options from Rouen .

2. Honfleur

The seaside town of Honfleur is located on the Atlantic coast as well as the mouth of the Seine river. It is located about 1 hour away from Rouen.

With its historic old port sending sailors across the ocean way for centuries, this historic city has now started attracting a different type of sea-lover: the tourist and beachgoer.

The historic old town of Honfleur is a UNESCO World Heritage site , with its wonderful skyline and delicious Norman specialties . There are also several beaches nearby like the Plage du Butin and Saint-Laurent-sur-mer. You can read more about visiting Honfleur here.

3. Deauville

Since the mid 19th century, Deauville has been regarded as one of the most prestigious seaside towns in all of France.

Along with its twin city, Trouville-sur-mer which shares the same long beach coastline, Deauville is the place to be for bourgeois Parisians. Both cities are located about 1h10 from Rouen.

As the closest seaside resort to Paris, the town on the Côte Fleurie has long been home to French high society’s homes by the seaside, often referred to as the “Parisian riviera”.

In the early 20th century, the Barrière Hotel Group built two 5-star hotels along with one of the largest casinos in Europe, putting the town of Deauville firmly on the map with the European jet set. You can read more about visiting Deauville here.

4. D-Day Beaches

There is a lot to see in Normandy , but if you are short on time and want to pay your respects to the soldiers who fought so bravely on D-Day, a day trip from Paris is quite do-able.

There are many cemeteries, monuments, and museums dedicated to the lives of those soldiers and those living in France at the time. A somber journey, but one that is worth the trip.

One the closest beaches that Americans will want to visit is Omaha beach . It is located about 2 hours away from Rouen.

It is estimated that 34,000 American and Allied soldiers landed here on June 6th, 1944. Between 2,000 – 5,000 soldiers were killed, wounded, or were deemed missing along this stretch of Normandy coastline.

You can read more about visiting the D-day beaches here, as well as see tour options to visit the D-day beaches, the Allied cemeteries and more here.

One of the most charming cities in Normandy has to be the small town of Bayeux, which is about 1h45 from Rouen.

With a charming cobblestone streets, small canals, and an impressive gothic cathedral, it is a town where you get a real sense of French history .

It is perhaps most famous for its Bayeux tapestry, an exquisitely stitched medieval tapestry that tells the story of William the Conqueror’s invasion of England in 1066. The tapestry can be viewed in the Bayeux Tapestry museum.

At the local tourist office, you can get a walking tour guide of the old town of Bayeux. The old town is pretty easy to navigate, with markers on the ground and knowledge panels along the way.

The guide will help you find the key landmarks like the Bayeux Tapestry Museum and the Bayeux Cathedral. You can read more about visiting Bayeux here.

6. Mont-Saint-Michel

One of the most beautiful and unique sights in the world, Mont Saint Michel is a vision to behold. Legend has it that the archangel Michael appeared to St. Aubert of Avranches in 708 and instructed him to build a church on a large rock.

Surrounded by marshland, it turns the UNESCO World heritage sight into an island when the tide comes in. The Abbey of Mont Saint Michel only has 7 monks living there these days, but it is still one of the most spectacular churches in France .

It takes about 2h35 hours to get there from Rouen so this one day trip that I would recommend going with a tour company . You can read more about visiting Mont Saint Michel here.

7. Giverny and Claude Monet Gardens

If you enjoy art and nature, you will enjoy the trip out to idyllic Giverny and the French countryside. It is about 1 hour away from Rouen, and is like stepping into another world.

This was the sanctuary of Impressionist painter Claude Monet , one of the most famous French artists of all time . He lived here for over 40 years, with many of his famous artist friends regularly visiting him here

You can visit his home, his famous gardens, as well as the Museum of Impressionism which holds some of his works and other impressionists from that era. You can read more about visiting Giverny here.

It is in the city of Caen in Normandy that William the Conqueror is buried in the Abbaye aux Hommes , in the heart of his duchy. He may have conquered England in 1066, leaving his descendants to rule through the House of Windsor, but his heart was in France.

Caen was William’s capital in Normandy, an easy access point for his newly conquered Kingdom in the British Isles. That proximity to England also put Caen on the front lines during WWII.

The city suffered greatly during the D-Day invasion and subsequent Battle of Caen, with much of the old city destroyed. These days the city has been fully reconstructed and restored, and makes a wonderful destination point for a day trip.

Caen is located about 1h25 away from Rouen. You can read more about visiting Caen here.

If you are looking for something a little more quiet, the historical town of Evreux may be just what you are looking for. With much of the center rebuilt after WWII, Evreux manages to combine the modern with the past.

In its heart are the city’s historic ramparts, now turned into a stream for swans and ducks. There is also the magnificent Evreux cathedral and the old Saint-Taurin Church for a bit of spiritual ambiance.

With its gallo-roman heritage and a famous rock festival every June, there is plenty to enjoy in this small town. You can read more about visiting Evreux here.

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Normandie Lovers

To awaken your senses in Normandy - Claire et Manu’s Blog

15 best things to do in Rouen (photos + tips)

by Emmanuel ROBINSON , Region Lovers | July 18, 2023 | no intrusive ads, no sponsored content, just some affiliate links - if you use them, we get a small commission (read more)

Planning your next trip to Normandy? For a weekend or even a week, there’s no shortage of things to do in Rouen .

With its rich historical heritage and colorful half-timbered houses , we were charmed by the town. Whether you’re passionate about history , gastronomy or art , the capital of Normandy is sure to surprise you. Cathedrals , churches , museums , restaurants and other good addresses abound!

Seduced by this city, we share with you our selection of 15 must-do activities . In this article, we give you our photo tips for visiting Rouen with complete transparency.

This is a completely independent opinion, based on our own experience . We visited the region anonymously , making our own choices, and paying all our bills in full.

The best things to do in Rouen

Before revealing all our ideas for things to do and see in Rouen, here’s a short video to give you an initial impression.

1. Visit the Big Clock

Why visit the gros horloge .

During our stay in Rouen, we visited the city’s emblematic monument: the Gros-Horloge. Have you ever heard of this historic monument? This 14th-century astronomical clock is located in the heart of Normandy. From the street, the low-angle view of the building is impressive. The richness of the sculpted details on the façade is truly impressive. We’ve written a full article on the subject.

What you will see

As we climbed the stairs to its tower, we were rewarded with a panoramic view of Rouen’s rooftops. The interior of the Gros-Horloge also houses a museum that allowed us to delve into the fascinating history of this incredible timepiece. The visit helped us better appreciate the importance of this symbol of the city and its rich history.

Did you know that this is one of the oldest clock mechanisms in Europe? We highly recommend a visit to the interior of the Gros Horloge. Many tourists only appreciate the building’s exterior, even though there’s so much to discover in its museum!

How much time to allow

You should allow less than 1 hour to visit this building.

More information on the Gros-Horloge

Opening hours:

• every day except Monday,
• April to September: 10am to 1pm (last entry at 12pm) and 2pm to 7pm (last entry at 6pm),
• October to March: 2pm to 6pm (last admission at 5pm).

Ticket price:

• full price: €7.50,
• concessions: €3.80,
• free for children under 6 and people with disabilities.

For those who prefer to be accompanied, there are guided tours of Rouen’s historic center. They obviously include a visit to the Gros Horloge. It’s an interesting way to discover the city, as you’ll have access to juicy anecdotes about the various locations.

Check out our guided tour offers in Rouen here!

2. Contemplating Rouen Cathedral

Why visit rouen cathedral .

A jewel of flamboyant Gothic architecture, Rouen Cathedral is a must-see when visiting the city. Admirers of the Gothic style, we marveled at the church’s façade. The closer we got, the more we could appreciate the extraordinary architectural work carried out on this religious building. Are you also impressed by all these details?

Once inside the cathedral, we discovered a number of historical treasures, including the tomb of Richard the Lionheart . The interior is equally magnificent. The columns and vaulted ceilings bear witness to Gothic architecture. The atmosphere in the church is peaceful. It’s an ideal place to pause for a few moments and appreciate the immensity of the religious building.

To admire the church in detail, while reading the explanatory panels, allow between 1h and 1h30 for the visit.

More information on Rouen Cathedral

• April to October: 7.30am to 7pm on weekdays and 8am to 6pm on Sundays and public holidays,
• November to March: 7.30am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm on weekdays, and 2pm to 6pm on Sundays and public holidays,
• closed on Monday mornings, January 1, May 1 and November 11.

Please note that the ambulatory closes 30 minutes before the cathedral’s closing time.

Visits to the cathedral are free of charge.

See our article on Rouen Cathedral!

WHERE TO STAY IN Rouen

Option 1: in the old town center

A charming historic heart, museums and attractions around every corner… We recommend..:

• Gustave Flaubert Literary Hotel with lots of quotes – see prices, photos and availability .
• Hôtel de Bourghteroulde set in a 16th-century residence – see prices, photos and availability .

Option 2: near the station

Just a 10-minute walk from the historic center, you’ll find more modern options. We recommend..:

• Blu Radisson Hotel next to the Jeanne d’Arc Tower – see prices, photos and availability .
• Hotel de Dieppe Best Western and its Art-deco ambience – see prices, photos and availability

See all our reviews of the best hotels in Rouen

3. Explore the Museum of Fine Arts

Why visit the musée des beaux-arts de rouen.

Do you enjoy cultural and artistic visits? So don’t hesitate, you must visit this museum! Located in the heart of the city, we were won over by the richness and diversity of its collections. From Rubens to Modigliani to the master of chiaroscuro, Caravaggio, we were impressed from start to finish.

We discovered incredible paintings, sculptures and other objets d’art dating from the 15th century to the present day. The list of great artists exhibited here is considerable. Works by Velázquez, Géricault, Delacroix and others also feature on the museum’s walls.

Did you know that Normandy is the birthplace of Impressionism? At the museum, you can appreciate the work of important figures in this artistic movement. We were captivated by paintings by Auguste Renoir, Camille Pissarro, Alfred Sisley and the undisputed master Claude Monet. If, like us, you’re a fan, we’ve organized a short tour of Normandy in the footsteps of the Impressionist .

In our opinion, you should allow at least 1h30 to visit the museum. As lovers of fine art, we could easily have stayed for half a day. In fact, the museum boasts a wealth of collections and incredible works of art.

More information on the Museum of Fine Arts

• every day from 10am to 6pm, except Tuesdays,
• closed on January 1, May 1, November 1 and 11 and December 25.

The museum is free, as are all the city’s public museums. It also hosts temporary exhibitions for which a charge may be made.

DISCOVER Rouen

• Best things to do in Rouen: 15 ideas
• Rouen’s tourist calendar: our selection of events
• Where to stay in Rouen: our best hotels
• Where to eat in Rouen: 20 best restaurants
• Rouen’s 10 best museums
• Itineraries in Rouen: 1 day – 2 days
• Rouen Museum of Fine Arts
• Rouen Cathedral
• Rent a car in Rouen

4. Take a tour of the historic center

Why visit rouen’s historic of rouen.

Exploring Rouen’s historic center was an interesting and enjoyable experience. The cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and many emblematic monuments took us back in time. Around every corner, we discovered architectural treasures. We got lost in the picturesque streets of the Gros-Horloge and the Saint-Maclou district. A visit to the Place du Vieux-Marché, where Joan of Arc was burned, is a must! Here you can commemorate the martyrdom of this incredible war heroine.

You’ll discover all the city’s must-see buildings:

• Rouen Cathedral,
• the Big Clock,
• Abbatiale Saint-Ouen,
• Sainte-Jeanne-d’Arc Church,
• Saint-Maclou Church,
• the Palais de Justice.

This list is not exhaustive, as the conurbation is home to a large number of churches and cathedrals.

To be able to discover all these monuments at your leisure, we recommend that you spread your visits over a full day.

Find out more about the historic center

A visit to Old Rouen and its medieval streets will transport you to another era. If you’d like to discover the city from a different angle, we recommend a personalized private tour with a local guide. It’s a fun and rewarding experience. There’s no one better than a local to talk about his town!

Discover our guided tours of Rouen’s historic center!

OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Normandy

• Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
• Choose a car that is comfortable enough (distances can be long) but compact (some parking lots and villages are narrow).
• Think of the complete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
• There is a lot of demand, book it early .

Thanks to the museum’s immersive tour, we immersed ourselves in the history of the famous Pucelle d’Orléans. The museum also deals with the end of the young woman’s life and her passage to posterity. We recommend this educational and entertaining experience.

How can you admire Joan of Arc and not visit the Place du Vieux-Marché? It’s steeped in history, with a memorial church and bustling market. It was there that she was burnt at the stake at the age of 19. We had trouble picturing the scene, so full of life and joy is this square right now.

The exterior of the Église Sainte-Jeanne-d’Arc is original, isn’t it? Its modern architecture, reminiscent of the sea, appealed to us. It’s an emblematic building dedicated to the memory of the illustrious heroine. Its bold design captivated us from the moment we arrived. As we stepped inside, we were impressed by the peaceful atmosphere, creating a space conducive to reflection and contemplation.

If you’d like to explore the city in search of Jeanne, we recommend a minimum of half a day, or even a full day.

More information on Rouen and its favorites

Do you like logic games? The Tour Jeanne d’Arc, the only remaining vestige of the Château de Rouen, is the setting for an escape game. Also known as the Rouen Dungeon, you can take part in a unique interactive experience!

To relive our entire experience at the Joan of Arc Museum, read our article!

6. Discover the Abbatiale Saint-Ouen

Why visit saint-ouen abbey in rouen.

This magnificent Gothic church is renowned for its splendor and grandeur. It’s one of the city’s architectural treasures. It is also famous for its impressive Cavaillé-Coll organ , renowned for its powerful, sonorous sound. Our visit to the abbey was both a spiritual and aesthetic experience, as we admired Rouen’s religious heritage.

The Abbatiale Saint-Ouen is a fascinating architectural marvel. Its imposing Gothic façade and colorful stained glass windows lend it a mystical atmosphere. Stepping inside, we were mesmerized by the height of the vaults and the richness of the carved details. Its harmonious proportions, ornate chapels and religious works of art bear witness to the refinement of Gothic art.

We recommend you allow 30 minutes to visit the abbey.

Further information on Abbatiale Saint-Ouen

• April 1 to October 31, 10am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm,
• November 1 to March 31, 10am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm,
• closed Mondays and Fridays, December 25 and January 1.

The religious building is currently in peril. It is the largest restoration project ever undertaken by the City of Rouen. It is scheduled for completion in 2024. We really enjoyed our visit, despite the work in progress. And after all, isn’t it essential to restore this prestigious abbey church?

USE OUR GUIDE TO PLAN A DREAM TRIP TO Normandy

All the information you need for your trip:

• 8 maps that make planning easier
• 160+ pre-selected locations
• Practical advice
• 300+ photos to help you choose

7. Stroll through the Jardin des Plantes

Why visit the botanical gardens of rouen.

The Jardin des Plantes is a magnificent natural area in the heart of Rouen. It’s an oasis of tranquility and unspoilt beauty, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. We strolled along the aisles, admiring the carefully landscaped varieties of plants and flowers. It’s also a privileged place for botany enthusiasts, offering the chance to discover a large collection of remarkable plants and trees.

Lawns, ponds and greenhouses added an extra dimension to the experience. The autumn colors added a lot of charm to the place. The reflection of the golden leaves in the water was a superb sight. In the greenhouse, we fell in love with this lighting scheme. The water lilies and other aquatic plants look completely pink! Pretty amazing, isn’t it?

We recommend you allow 1 hour for a complete tour of the garden.

More information on the Jardin des Plantes in Rouen

• November to February, 8am to 5:30pm,
• March to April, 8am to 6:45pm,
• May to August 8am to 8:15pm,
• September to October, 8am to 6:45pm.

Access to the garden is free.

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8. Discover the Musée de la ferronnerie in Rouen

Why visit the musée le secq des tournelles.

Are you curious? If so, you’ll love Rouen’s iron art museum, which hides many strange treasures. Housed in a former Gothic church, the Musée Le Secq des Tournelles is home to the world’s largest collection of antique ironwork. Between signs, tools and scientific instruments, we discovered unique iron objects!

We can assure you that you won’t see work like this anywhere else! The collection spans the Gallo-Roman era to the 20th century. It features pieces from all over Europe. It was Jean-Louis-Henri Le Secq des Tournelles who came up with the idea, realizing the great potential of iron. We highly recommend a visit here. Even though we weren’t particularly interested in ironwork, we fell in love with this museum!

In our opinion, it takes 45 minutes to visit the museum. If you’re particularly interested in ironwork, the tour can last up to 1h30. The museum boasts a rich collection of surprising works.

Further information on the Musée de la ferronnerie in Rouen

• open daily from 2pm to 6pm, except Tuesdays,

The museum is free, as are all the museums of the Réunion des Musées Métropolitains Rouen Normandie.

Read our article on the Musée de la ferronnerie in Rouen!

9. Have a snack at the Salon de Thé Dame Cakes

Why go to dame cakes for tea.

Are you as greedy as we are? If you are, you’ll love the Salon de Thé Dame Cakes. Housed in a former wrought-iron workshop, it is one of our sweet favourites. We tasted delicious home-made pastries made from seasonal produce. We’ve even included it in our selection of the best restaurants to eat at in Rouen .

The retro decor lends the premises a romantic ambience. We could easily have imagined a writer settling here to write a story inspired by Rouen. After this little gourmet break, you’ll have plenty of energy to continue your tour of the city. It hides even more culinary and historical treasures!

Between the cakes, tarts, crumbles, financiers, chocolate cakes and other sweet treats, it was hard to choose! To accompany these sweets, we had a 2nd decision to make about drinks. Tea lovers will love the Mariage-Frères range of teas. But there were also must-tries, such as grandma-style hot chocolate, Norman coffees, Alain Milliat fruit juices and homemade iced teas.

You’ll need to allow for a snack break of between 30 minutes and 1 hour.

More information about Dame Cakes Tea Room

The Salon de Thé is open every day except Sunday from 10am to 7pm.

Our article on the Dame Cakes Tearoom will be available soon!

10. Stroll through the narrow streets of Normandy

Why visit rouen’s narrow streets.

A stroll through the narrow streets of Rouen is like being transported back in time to the city’s historic heritage. We were charmed by the picturesque half-timbered houses lining the narrow streets. The city was punctuated by splashes of color, giving it a warm atmosphere.

Traditional and authentic, we loved exploring the Normandy capital. As we strolled along, we enjoyed the unique architectural details, small artisan stores and local restaurants and cafés. Every street corner revealed a new surprise.

It wasn’t unusual for us to come across a magnificent flamboyant Gothic building on a street corner. In this case, it was the Palais de Justice . It is listed as a historic monument. In addition to its judicial function, the building is also a tourist attraction due to its architectural beauty and history. Its imposing façade and many details make it a must-see on any visit to Rouen.

To take your time and enjoy a leisurely stroll through Rouen, we recommend reserving a half-day. You can also take the opportunity to try out a restaurant or go shopping.

More information on one of the city’s curiosities

Next to Saint-Maclou Church, our attention was drawn to the leaning house. As we approached this iconic building, we were amused by its sloping appearance, which created a surprising illusion. The destruction of the adjoining houses led to this unique architectural feature. If you’re creative, you can take original photos of this unique place!

Book your guided tour of Rouen here!

11. Taste local specialities

Why try regional products.

If you come to Rouen and don’t try the local culinary specialties, you’re really missing out! This town is part of a French region particularly renowned for its local produce. If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in for a treat, but don’t worry about putting on a few pounds!

The star of the Norman table, cheese is a regional speciality you don’t want to miss! With varying degrees of flavour, they come in all shapes and textures. The emblematic cheese of the Seine-Maritime region is Neufchâtel. Have you ever tasted this heart-shaped cheese? Between Livarot, Pont-L’Évêque and the famous Camembert, we had a wonderful time! Visit the official website of the Office Tourisme de Normandie to learn more about Normandy PDO cheeses.

If you’re in a sweeter mood, we recommend a detour to Chocolaterie Auzou in Rouen . A traditional local pastry, “Larmes de Jeanne d’Arc” are small cakes made from almonds, sugar, chocolate and cocoa. Ideal for a gourmet break, they’re a real treat for young and old alike!

Normans love a good, long dinner. If you really want to sample the local cuisine at a restaurant in Rouen, you’ll need to save room for cheeses and desserts. It may take a little longer! You can read our article on the best restaurants to eat in Rouen to discover our selection.

More information on local specialities

Normandy is one of France’s largest cheese-producing regions.

12. Visit the Aître Saint-Maclou

Why visit the aître saint-maclou .

This unique historic site is imbued with a mysterious atmosphere and macabre beauty. An “aître” is a piece of open land and/or a covered passageway used as a cemetery. The half-timbered galleries surrounding the inner courtyard house ossuaries and sculpted tombs. This bears witness to the town’s dark past, when it was struck by the plague. We admired the architectural details representative of the flamboyant Gothic art of the period. What’s more, the area is surrounded by charming cobbled streets and lively cafés, adding a picturesque dimension to your visit. It’s a place steeped in history that we recommend you discover!

This unique site is representative of Norman architecture. A former cemetery surrounded by half-timbered buildings, we loved discovering this place right in the heart of Rouen. Visiting the aître, we were captivated by the Gothic architecture and the sculpted details of the facades. The covered galleries surrounding the inner courtyard added a special dimension to the whole.

We were fascinated by the walls adorned with macabre motifs and the gravedigger’s tools, a reminder of the place’s historic past. The Aître Saint-Maclou is a place steeped in history and well worth a visit on any tour of the city. We also found the building charming and typical!

We recommend you allow 45 minutes to visit this historic monument in Rouen.

More information on Aître Saint-Maclou

The Oyster House is open to the public free of charge every day from 9am to 7pm. You can access the main courtyard via the passageway at 186 rue Martainville.

Find out more about the secret history of the Aître Saint-Maclou!

13. Take an excursion from Rouen

Why take an excursion from rouen.

An excursion from Rouen offers a unique opportunity to explore the emblematic destinations of Normandy. Whether it’s a cultural, historical or artistic visit, you’ll have a day full of discoveries. The Normandy capital is close to 3 must-see tourist attractions: the D-Day landing beaches, Mont-Saint-Michel and Giverny.

A visit to the D-Day landing beaches will allow you to commemorate history and pay tribute to the soldiers of the Second World War. The tour includes a stop at each of these destinations:

• Pointe du Hoc,
• Omaha Beach,
• Arromanches-les-Bains,
• German battery at Longues-Sure-Mer,
• Colleville-sur-Mer American Cemetery.

Read our article on the D-Day landing beaches!

A trip to Mont-Saint-Michel will transport you to a breathtaking medieval setting, with its majestic abbey perched on a rocky islet. Here you can observe:

• the magnificent bay of Mont-Saint-Michel,
• the exceptional abbey,
• unique architecture.

8 reasons why you absolutely must visit Mont-Saint-Michel!

On our way to Giverny, we explored the enchanting gardens that inspired the famous painter Claude Monet, immersing ourselves in the world of Impressionism. You can explore the city and its surroundings:

• Claude Monet’s house and gardens,
• the Musée des Impressionnismes,
• Hotel Baudy,
• the Old Mill in Vernon,
• the Eure Valley tourist railway.

Our article on must-do activities in Giverny!

How to get there:

• Driving time to the landing beaches: 2h,
• Driving time to Mont-Saint-Michel: 2h40min,
• Driving time to Giverny: 1h.

Visiting time on site:

• landing beaches: 4h,
• Mont-Saint-Michel: 3h,
• Giverny: one day.

More information on excursions from Rouen

These destinations offer a cultural and historical diversity that will enrich your Normandy experience.

• Landing beaches: Book your excursion!
• Mont-Saint-Michel: Book your excursion!
• Giverny: Check out our tour offers quickly, places are going fast!

14. Spend the night at the Hôtel Littéraire Gustave Flaubert

Why stay at the hôtel gustave flaubert in rouen.

If you’re looking for a well-located place to discover the city of Rouen, with a little culture thrown in for good measure, we recommend you stay at this establishment . It is one of our favorite hotels . Dedicated to Gustave Flaubert, the famous 19th-century writer from Rouen, the hotel offers an original concept based on literature.

Read our full review of our very positive experience at this establishment!

The rooms are all different, tastefully decorated and inspired by the novels of Gustave Flaubert. In each room, a different quotation from the author will serve as the headboard. We enjoyed the literary winks hidden in every nook and cranny of the hotel, which made our experience a lot of fun. A well-stocked library is available for guests wishing to borrow a book for the duration of their stay.

See more photos of the Hôtel Littéraire Gustave Flaubert in Rouen!

We recommend that you stay at least one night to enjoy this unique experience, which takes you away from the standardized atmosphere of chain hotels. If you have the opportunity to extend your stay in Rouen, we recommend staying longer.

More information about Hôtel Littéraire Gustave Flaubert in Rouen

The hotel opened its doors in 2013, in the courtyard of a historic building dating back to the 17th century. It was conceived and created by Jacques Letertre, president of the Société des Hôtels Littéraires, which launched this original concept of accommodation dedicated to literature in France.

The first literary hotel opened in Paris in 2007, dedicated to Marcel Proust, closely followed by other establishments dedicated to authors such as Oscar Wilde, Jules Verne, George Sand and Arthur Rimbaud.

Book your night at the Hôtel Gustave Flaubert in Rouen!

15. Visit the Musée de la Céramique

Why visit the musée de la céramique in rouen.

This museum is a must for craft enthusiasts. Discover the history of ceramics in Rouen through a variety of collections, from painted earthenware to delicate porcelain. We admired unique pieces and immersed ourselves in the creative world of ceramic artists. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions featuring contemporary ceramics. An enriching visit for enthusiasts and amateurs alike!

The tour is divided into several phases:

• First floor: early European earthenware, the work of Rouen ceramist Masséot Abaquesne and other works from Normandy,
• 1st and 2nd floors: masterpieces of Rouen earthenware, porcelain and fine earthenware and products from the Manufacture de Sèvres.

We loved visiting this museum, as we were able to admire some original works of art!

We recommend that you allow between 45min and 1h to visit this museum. It also depends on your level of interest in the various collections on display. For ceramics enthusiasts, the visit can easily be extended.

Further information on the Musée de la Céramique

• Open every day except Tuesday, from 2pm to 6pm.
• Closed on January 1, May 1, November 1 and 11, December 25.

Our article on the Musée de la Céramique will be available soon!

Around Rouen: exploring the Normandy coastline

While you’re in Rouen, we strongly recommend that you take the opportunity to discover the Normandy coast. It’s beautiful, with cliffs, beaches and charming coastal villages. Depending on the towns you visit, you’ll discover superb landscapes and typical villages.

Whether you prefer large seaside resorts or small picturesque ports, the coastline is an ideal destination for enjoying the sea and nature.

• Driving time to Deauville-Trouville: 1h30min,
• Driving time to Dieppe: 1h,
• Driving time to Le Havre: 1h25min,
• Driving time to Étretat: 1h25min,
• Driving time to Ouistreham: 1h45min.

See our articles on 25 things to do in Dieppe and 25 things to do in Étretat . We also recommend that you read our article on Le Havre and its places to discover .

Best things to do in Rouen with your children

In Rouen, you’ll find plenty of interesting activities to share with your children. In fact, we’ve listed some of them in our article on the city’s best museums (article to come).

Museum of Natural History

If you’re looking for an educational experience, the Museum of Natural History boasts an impressive collection of fascinating animals and specimens.

Museum of Antiquities

History buffs will prefer to explore the Musée des Antiquités , housed in the former convent of the Visitation Sainte-Marie, and featuring unique antique objects.

Museum of Education

The Museum of Education allows children to learn more about the history of education through interactive exhibits. The building housing the museum is typical of Norman architecture.

Our articles on the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Antiquities and the Museum of Education will soon be available!

A ride on the Little Train of Rouen

Are you looking for something more fun? We recommend exploring the city on board the Petit Train de Rouen. Thanks to this guided tour, your children will discover the city’s main sights while being entertained! Rouen offers a wide range of activities for children, combining discovery, education and entertainment.

What to visit in Rouen: other churches

Rouen is Victor Hugo’s “city of a hundred steeples chiming in the air”. The Normandy capital’s rich religious heritage explains why there are so many remarkable churches to visit. You can consult the official website of the Observatoire du Patrimoine Religieux, which lists them. In addition to the must-see Notre-Dame de Rouen Cathedral, the Abbatiale Saint-Ouen and the Église Sainte-Jeanne-d’Arc, we discovered other impressive buildings in the city. The Église Saint-Maclou is another Gothic masterpiece, known for its unique architecture and sculpted details.

Each church has its own charm and history, offering an interesting architectural variation across the city. There’s also the Église Saint-Godard, with its magnificent stained-glass windows, and the Église Saint-Laurent, now home to the Musée de la ferronnerie. The architectural and historical diversity of Rouen’s churches makes it a fascinating destination for the art and religious history lovers among you.

PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Normandy

Inspiration destinations

• Deciding where to go in Normandy – the best destinations
• Our weekend ideas: best-of , romantic , unusual , seaside , luxury , family
• 16 seaside hotels in Normandy
• The most beautiful charming hotels in Normandy

• Best things to do in Normandy
• Best cities in Normandy
• Most beautiful beaches of Normandy
• Most beautiful villages of Normandy
• Best castles of Normandy
• Best abbeys of Normandy
• Read our complete guide to visit the Mont-Saint-Michel
• Discover the D-Day sites

• Where to stay in Normandy – best places and hotels
• See our tips for renting a car at CDG airport , Orly airport , Beauvais airport , Caen , Rouen , Bayeux …

What to do near Rouen: outdoor activities

Do you like thrills? Located 40 minutes from Rouen in Romilly-sur-Andelle, you can choose from a wide range of outdoor activities. Rock-climbing enthusiasts can indulge their passion on the rock faces of the Andelle Valley. For those who prefer the water, kayak excursions along the waterway linking the Andelle and Seine rivers are available. We enjoyed this unique way of discovering the surrounding Normandy countryside.

If you’re looking for an even more adventurous experience, caving allows you to explore the Grandes Carrières de Caumont and discover fascinating rock formations. Try not to stain yourself like we do! In short, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities near Rouen. Set off on an adventure to suit your tastes and your level of daring!

Book your outdoor activity now!

Practical tips and map: Rouen, Normandy, France

Where is rouen.

Rouen is located in north-western France, in the Normandy region.

How to get there

We recommend you travel to Rouen by train. The train station offers regular services to Le Havre, Dieppe, Yvetôt, Elbeuf, Caen and Paris. Once you’ve arrived at Rouen station, all you have to do is walk around the city.

See available timetables and book your train and coach tickets now .

You can also drive to Rouen and park in a parking lot. The town is easily accessible from other Normandy towns such as Le Havre, Caen and Deauville via the A13 freeway. From Paris, the journey takes 2 hours. There are regular traffic jams at the Seine crossing.

If you’re traveling from elsewhere in France, you can reach Rouen via the A13 or A28 motorways, or via the national and departmental roads.

Finally, if you’re traveling by car from other European countries, you’ll need to plan your itinerary around your point of departure, using European freeways such as the E44, E46 or E402.

Frequently asked questions

Where to go for a walk in rouen.

If you’ve already visited the Jardin des Plantes, don’t worry, there’s still plenty to discover. We warmly recommend climbing to the top of Côte Sainte-Catherine as the sun begins to decline. Once you’ve reached the top, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the city and observe the majestic silhouette of Rouen Cathedral.

As the sun set, we were struck by the beauty of the Normandy capital. As the light fades, you’ll be able to watch darkness slowly settle in, creating a landscape worthy of a painting. In fact, Claude Monet painted his painting “Vue générale de Rouen” from this vantage point, which can be seen at the Musée des Beaux-Arts.

If you’re looking for a pleasant urban stroll, we recommend walking along the banks of the Seine. They are quite lively, with cafés, restaurants and boutiques creating a friendly atmosphere. We enjoyed the spectacle of passing barges and the lively atmosphere of the quayside. For admirers of beautiful boats, you’ll be aware that Rouen regularly organizes the Armada . Since the 1st edition in 1989, the town has hosted a gathering of tall ships, each more impressive than the last!

Which location best represents Rouen?

If you were to ask a Norman this question, the answer would undoubtedly be the Gros Horloge. Located in the heart of the city, this remarkable astronomical clock is a gateway to the historic center. However, competition with Rouen Cathedral is fierce. With its impressive Gothic facade and imposing spires, the church is also an essential symbol of the city. Its rich history has been immortalized in Claude Monet’s famous paintings!

Where to go in Rouen when it rains?

As you can see, the Normandy conurbation is rich in culture and history. When the weather turns fickle, you can take refuge in the city’s museums, or in one of its many churches. At the Musée Flaubert et d’histoire de la médecine, we delved into the memories of the Flaubert family. In the 2nd stage, we looked at the history of medicine from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. Literature fans will also appreciate the Musée Pierre Corneille. We discovered the place where Le Cid was written. It’s also the playwright’s birthplace!

Coming soon: our articles on the Musée Flaubert et d’histoire de la médecine and the Musée Pierre Corneille!

All our tips in this article were put into words with the help of Elisa.

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Things to Do in Rouen (France)

15 Best Things to Do in Rouen (France)

Rouen is a Norman city in a prime location between Paris and the port of Le Havre on the banks of the Seine.

In medieval times this made the city a merchant’s paradise, and Rouen grew dramatically in the 14th and 15th centuries when traders settled near the Rive Droite and built themselves handsome timber-framed homes.

Hundreds of these old buildings are still standing along adorable cobblestone streets.

Rouen also serves up world-beating landmarks to steal your heart, whether it’s a working medieval clock, a record-breaking cathedral or sights that recall the final days in the life of Joan of Arc.

Lets explore the best things to do in Rouen :

1. Rouen Cathedral

For four years at the end of the 1870s Rouen Cathedral was the tallest building in the world.

This was after the neo-gothic tower was finished, replacing a renaissance one destroyed by lightning earlier that century.

There are some highly distinguished burials at this breathtaking building: namely Richard the Lionheart, and the early Norman rulers like Rollo and William I. Many of the stained glass windows made in the 1200s survive, and there are some gorgeous ones to see in the south transept that date from the 1500s.

The cathedral’s delicate western facade was the subject of some of Monet’s most famous paintings: He made 30 between 1892 and 1893, capturing it in different weather and at different times of the year.

2. Gros Horloge

One of Rouen’s big medieval landmarks, the Gros Horloge is an astronomical clock with a mechanism from the 1300s mounted above a renaissance arch and passageway.

The structure is a belfry that was erected in the 15th century to replace a wooden one destroyed during the Harelle Revolt in 1382. The clock is believed to be the largest mechanism of this kind still intact, and its face dates to 1529, representing a sun with 24 rays on a blue sky background.

The Rue du Gros Horloge is a one of Rouen’s main shopping streets, where high-street stores are juxtaposed with marvellous half-timbered houses, some of which still show damage from the Second World War.

3. Musée des Beaux-Arts

Rouen’s world-class fine arts museum was inaugurated in 1801 when the precious items seized from churches and stately homes during the Revolution were nationalised.

It ranks as one of the richest provincial museums in the country with art, sculpture and decorative items from the 1500s to the 20th century.

Here are some of the names you may know : Caravaggio, Poussin, van Dyck, Velázquez and Veronese.

The impressionists, very active around Rouen, also feature heavily , with works by Sisley, Renoir, Degas, Monet, Pinchon and Pissaro.

4. Vieux Rouen

When Rouen’s ramparts were destroyed in the 18th century they were replaced by broad boulevards that continue to mark the limits of the medieval old centre.

This part of Rouen has 227 registered historical monuments, which places it sixth for all French cities.

Every few steps there’s yet another reason to get your phone or camera out.

Vieux Rouen contains around 2,000 timber-framed houses, the oldest of which dates back to the 1200s, and the older they get the more charmingly crooked they become.

The oldest can be seen on Rue Étoupée, Rue Saint-Amand, Rue Damiette and Rue Abbé-de-l’Épée, to name just four of many streets.

5. Jardin des Plantes

Just south of the old centre, Rouen’s main park is the site of many a family outing but it also has scientific merit, tending plants from five different continents.

The park is fabulous from April through to November.

In spring the wisteria irises, camellia and rhododendrons produce a riot of colour.

Then in summer the rose gardens are in bloom, and autumn brings those famous reds and oranges.

If you do come in winter, then life continues inside the garden’s greenhouses where tropical species thrive all year round.

6. Ceramics Museum

The palatial 17th-century townhouse, Hôtel  d’Hocqueville was built over a part of Rouen’s former castle and has contained the city’s Ceramic Museum since 1984. The attraction holds the coveted “Musée de France” label and shows off the historic riches of Rouen’s celebrated potteries, with a fine assortment of faïence and porcelain.

There are almost 6,000 items in all, demonstrating the excellence of local craftsmen but also displaying pieces such as a beautiful vase by the art deco designer Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann.

7. Historial Jeanne d’Arc

Joan of Arc was tried right here in Rouen’s Episcopal Palace in 1431, so it’s fitting that there should be a museum dedicated to her life in this historic building.

What you encounter isn’t so much a museum with static displays and artefacts, as a dynamic multimedia journey through her short but eventful life.

The “historial” takes just over an hour to complete and is the kind of immersive light and sound show that French attractions do so well.

You cut straight to the facts of her heresy trial and her violent demise, but also learn about her legacy and how she became a French historical icon.

8. Church of Saint-Maclou

As you’ll often see in the best French gothic churches, the portal of the western facade has carvings on its tympanum (the panel above the entrance). In a typically apocalyptic vision you can identify Jesus in the middle, and on his right hand are the righteous on their way to heaven, while on the left are the damned going to hell.

A brief walk from the church on Rue Martainville is the Ossuary of Saint-Maclou.

After an outbreak of plague in 1348 that killed three quarters of this parish the local cemetery was deemed insufficient and this eerily beautiful ossuary was constructed around a courtyard.

The bones were removed in the 1700s but you can make out carvings of skulls and bones in the buildings’ timbers.

9. Musée Le Secq des Tournelles

This one-of-a-kind museum is inside the former Church of Saint-Laurent, which was completed at the start of the 16th century.

After entering it may take a moment to comprehend what you’re looking at: Hanging in the church’s gothic arches and in glass cabinets is centuries-worth of ironwork collected by Henri Secq Tournelles and bequeathed to the museum in the 1920s.

Going back to the 1500s are tavern signs, chests,  tools, hinges, locks, keys, jewellery and basket hangers.

10. Old Market Square

On the western end of the Rue du Gros-Horloge is the square where Joan of Arc was burnt alive on May 30 1431. Around the square are some lovely half-timbered and corbelled houses, and in the middle is the modern St.

Joan of Arc Church, built in 1979. Before the Second World War Rouen’s stained glass windows were removed from the city’s various churches and placed in storage.

The medieval Church of Saint-Vincent that was at this location was destroyed during the bombing, but its glorious surviving windows now adorn the modern church in its place.

11. Musée Flaubert et d’Histoire de la Médecine

A museum with both a medical and literary vocation, this attraction is found at the birthplace of the 19th-century Gustave Flaubert, in the former Hôtel-Dieu hospital.

The whole place is full of strange curios from the more primitive days of medicine, like an 18th-century mannequin used for childbirth demonstrations, military surgery kits, the mummified heads of two political agitators hanged in the 1700s and a collection of 200 antique medicinal jars.

On the first floor is the room where Gustave Flaubert, author of Madame Bovary was delivered.

12. Palais de Justice

Set in the old Jewish quarter, Rouen has the largest gothic civic building in the country, built to house the Exchequer of Normandy from 1499. The Parliament of Normandy also sat here from the 1500s to the 1700s.

The sandy-coloured building is in the late flamboyant gothic style, with decorative spires, gargoyles and a balustrade tracing the roof.

There’s clear evidence of bomb damage from the liberation of Rouen in the Second World War, kept as a memorial.

These are working courts, but you can see what it’s like on tours every Tuesday and on the last Friday of each month.

13. Panorama XXL

The quays on the Seine have been revitalised in the last few years and one of the new attractions is Panorama XXL. This is pretty much what the name suggests; a massive, 360° panoramic painting that is updated for a new exhibition every few months.

These ultra-realistic panoramas of historical cities are made by the artist Yadegar Asisi and projected onto a huge spherical screen.

In 2015 the subject was ancient Rome, and in 2016 there’s an exhibition of Rouen during gothic times.

It’s a small attraction but you’ll spend a lot of time in awe at the rich detail of the image.

14. Country Walks

Normandy has a reputation for its wooded countryside, with farms bordered by hedges, orchards and rich greenery.

Lucky for you, Rouen is on the edge of a large natural park that continues all the way to the coast: Just west of Rouen the River Seine meanders into the Parc Naturel régional des Boucles de la Seine Normande.

Your best bet for a day in the countryside would be to pick up the GR2 trail, beginning at the peaceful hamlet of Saint-Pierre-de-Manneville and winding along the course of the Seine for 120 kilometres.

Of course, you don’t need to go that far, but the stretch through Saint-Martin-de-Boscherville (15 minutes from Rouen) guides you past a 12th-century abbey.

15. Food and Drink

If you walk the GR2 in the summer you should plan your lunchtime picnic around the delectable fresh fruit (cherries and plums) that is sold on the roadside by local farmers.

Fruit farms surround Rouen, and here the apple is king.

It goes into the city’s souvenir candies like sucre de pomme and cent-clochers (apple infused chocolates), and is distilled to make Calvados apple brandy.

Among the cheeses from the Normandy region are the renowned Pont-l’évêque, neufchâtel, and not to forget camembert.

15 Best Things to Do in Rouen (France):

• Rouen Cathedral
• Gros Horloge
• Musée des Beaux-Arts
• Vieux Rouen
• Jardin des Plantes
• Ceramics Museum
• Historial Jeanne d'Arc
• Church of Saint-Maclou
• Musée Le Secq des Tournelles
• Old Market Square
• Musée Flaubert et d'Histoire de la Médecine
• Palais de Justice
• Panorama XXL
• Country Walks
• Food and Drink

11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rouen

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 25, 2023

Author Lisa Alexander lived in France for two years and has traveled extensively through the country.

A stroll through the quaint old streets of Rouen, in Upper Normandy , feels like a walk back in time. There are historic places to visit at every turn, from the Middle Ages to the modern era.

For believers, the journey leads a few steps closer to heaven. Rouen has more than 50 religious buildings, and many of the churches are gems of Gothic architecture. You can also retrace the steps of Joan of Arc to see where she went to trial and where she was martyred.

Most of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Rouen lie within the city's pedestrian zone, a charming area of winding medieval lanes and half-timbered houses . Highlights include the magnificent cathedral, the renowned Fine Arts Museum, and the remarkable Gros-Horloge clock tower.

Rouen still reveals the destruction suffered during the Second World War. The exquisite façade of the Palais de Justice has evidence of shell holes from Allied bombings.

Soak up the history and culture in this charming town with our list of the top attractions in Rouen.

See also: Where to Stay in Rouen

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen

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In the heart of the old town, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen is a stellar example of Gothic architecture and holds the title of France's tallest cathedral . The monument's main structure was built in the 13th century, but the building was not completed until the 16th century.

The dazzling elaborate façade inspired Impressionist painter Claude Monet. The cathedral's central doorway was the subject of Monet's famous painting series . He painted the scene at different times of day to capture the effects of various lighting.

Above the façade, two towers loom over the town. The tower on the right is called the Tour du Beurre (Butter Tower) because it was paid for by offerings from the faithful, who in return were permitted to eat butter during Lent.

The cathedral also boasts France's highest spire at 151 meters. Despite damage during the Second World War, the cathedral still has some original stained glass windows.

During summer, splashy illuminations and sound effects bring the Rouen Cathedral to life. The Cathedral Light Show delights onlookers with its colorful animations projected onto the monument's façade, along with music, which tells the story of the Viking invasions of the 9th century and heroic saga of Joan of Arc in the 15th century.

The Cathedral Light Show is held at 11pm on weekends in June and every evening from July through mid September (show times are earlier in the late summer).

Address: 3 Rue Saint-Romain, Rouen

The Musée des Beaux-Arts ranks among the most important art museums in France . This exceptional fine arts museum is renowned for its variety and breadth of artistic movements. The collection presents a wide range of paintings, sculptures, drawings, and objets d'art from the 15th century to the 21st century.

The most notable works include the 17th-century masterpieces by Caravaggio, Diego Velázquez, Anthony van Dyck, Nicolas Poussin, and Philippe de Champaigne. 19th-century works include those by Eugène Delacroix, Théodore Géricault, and Paul Delaroche as well as Impressionist works by Claude Monet, Alfred Sisley, Camille Pissarro, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir.

Address: Esplanade Marcel-Duchamp, Rouen

This majestic 14th-century building was created as a church for the powerful Benedictine monastery of Saint-Ouen. A masterpiece of Late Gothic (Rayonnant) architecture, the abbey church is classified as a Historic Monument.

Immense in its proportions (137 meters long by 33 meters high), the vaulted interior offers a peaceful space for spiritual worship. Exquisite 14th-century stained-glass windows allow light to filter into the sanctuary. In the south transept of the abbey is the Portail des Marmousets that depicts events of the Virgin Mary.

Be sure to see the famous Cavaillé-Coll organ , which is often used for musical concerts. Considered one of the most beautiful organs in the world, this particular Cavaillé-Coll organ has 5,000 pipes and four keyboards that produce perfect pitch.

On the same square as the abbey stands the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), once used as the dormitory for the monastery's monks. Behind the Hôtel de Ville are the former abbey gardens, now a public park.

Address: Place du Général de Gaulle, Rouen

During the "Black Death" plague of 1348 , around a third of the town's inhabitants perished. The now-pleasant courtyard of the Aître Saint-Maclou stands on a site that was once used for burials, and the buildings surrounding the cemetery served as the ossuary.

Listed as a Historic Monument, the building's galleries feature macabre décor depicting skulls, bones, gravedigger tools , and objects of funeral rites. The skeleton of a cat was discovered in the masonry. During the Middle Ages, cats (especially black cats) were considered to be evil spirits, and the cat would have been enclosed here (while still alive) to protect against bad luck.

The colonnaded galleries of the Aître Saint-Maclou also feature décor on a macabre theme. For instance, one set of intricately carved stone columns depicts "La Danse Macabre" (The Macabre Dance), a motif that was common in Europe in the 15th century, and this particular artistic rendition in sculpture is one of the finest examples found in France.

The recently restored "La Danse Macabre" at the Aître Saint-Maclou is open to the public. Guided tours are available in French. Groups may request guided tours in other languages.

The Aître Saint-Maclou also hosts art exhibitions, lectures, concerts, art workshops, and guided nighttime visits.

Address: 188 Rue Martainville, Rouen

A splendid example of medieval civilian architecture, the Palais de Justice houses the Rouen Law Courts and was the meeting place of the Parliament of Normandy. This Gothic masterpiece was built in the early 16th century, damaged during World War II, and subsequently restored.

The building is not open for tours, but you can see the ornate detailing of the façade and especially the incredible gargoyles. The central wing features a resplendent balustrade, soaring pinnacles, and perforated buttresses. The Palais de Justice was damaged during an Allied bombing in 1944, and the shell holes are still visible in the building's exterior walls.

In 1976, during a renovation of the Palais de Justice, the remains of a beautiful stone building were uncovered beneath the courtyard. The building was determined to be the lower room of an old Yeshiva (rabbinical school) that dates from 1100. Once uncovered, this Monument Juif (Jewish Monument) was immediately protected by an archaeological crypt.

The location was at the center of the old Jewish quarter that flourished during the time of William the Conqueror until the expulsion of the Jews in 1306. Rouen's Monument Juif is the oldest Jewish monument discovered in France .

The Monument Juif site is now called La Maison Sublime . Tourists may visit the site on a guided tour, which must be reserved in advance. The one-hour guided tours are available on Saturdays at 10:30am and 2:30pm.

Address: 36 Rue aux Juifs, Rouen

One of the most emblematic sites in the historic center of Rouen, the Gros-Horloge lies just south of the Palais de Justice.

From the southeast corner of the Place du Vieux Marché (where the Eglise Jeanne d'Arc is located) the Rue de Gros-Horloge leads to the cathedral. Halfway along this charming route of cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, the Tour du Gros-Horloge adjoins a Renaissance pavilion.

The Gothic belfry tower was built in 1389 for defensive purposes and the decorative clock dates from 1889. The belfry clock still serves its timekeeping functions for the city. Visitors should take a moment to admire the clock's incredible details.

The deity symbolizing the day of the week appears on a triumphal chariot at noon. A globe above the dial shows the phases of the moon, and sheep represent the wool industry. Depicted in the middle of the clock, a Passover lamb represents the arms of the city.

Address: Rue du Gros-Horloge, Rouen

The Eglise Saint-Maclou is just a short walk east of the cathedral. This jewel of Flamboyant Gothic architecture was built in 1437 and dedicated to Saint Malo. A blend of different architectural styles is found throughout the church, from the Gothic staircase to the Baroque confessionals.

The ornate façade features five arched porches, which provide a dramatic entrance to the church. The porches enclose Renaissance-era wooden doors embellished with intricately carved Biblical scenes.

Saint-Maclou Church was severely damaged during WWII and has been well restored. In particular, the belfry was repaired and its five church bells now resound with daily chiming.

Address: Place Barthélémy, Rouen

This surprisingly modern church let's you appreciate the invincible spirit of Joan of Arc, who spent the last days of her life in Rouen. The church was built at the Place du Vieux Marché, the very site where Joan of Arc was martyred (she was burned at the stake in the center of the square).

Designed to commemorate the famous saint, the Eglise Jeanne d'Arc was given a radical design. The shape of the church's roof represent the flames of the stake. Inside the church are spectacular Renaissance stained-glass windows that were taken from the former Church of Saint-Vincent.

This contemporary church provides an inspiring place for spiritual contemplation. The church is open to the public, free of charge, every day year-round (except on December 25th and January 1st).

Every year on or around May 30th, the Jeanne d'Arc Festival is held here to commemorate the French heroine.

Address: Place du Vieux Marché, Rouen

Housed in the former Gothic church of Saint Laurent, this unique museum boasts an exceptional collection of antique wrought-ironwork . The 15th-century church building still has its stunning stained-glass windows, including the remarkable "Tree of Jesus" window.

The largest museum of its kind in the world, it contains 14,000 items that date from the Gallo-Roman era to the 19th century. The collection covers a wide range and variety of ironwork, such as railings, door knockers, locks, scientific instruments, and jewelry.

Address: Rue Jacques-Villon, Rouen

Official site: http://museelesecqdestournelles.fr/en

In the elegant Hôtel d'Hocqueville, the Museum of Ceramics displays a wonderful collection of faience and porcelain. The collection includes earthenware from Rouen, as well as from other cities, such as Delft in Holland.

Exhibits are devoted to delicate 19th- and 20th-century Sèvres porcelain objects, created by the ateliers of France's renowned Manufacture de Sèvres. There are also examples of Rococo chinoiserie, ceremonial dinnerware sets, and lovely faience sculptures.

Address: 1 Rue Faucon, Rouen

When Joan of Arc was brought to trial in 1431, she was taken to the dungeon of this tower to stand before her judges. Here she endured threats of torture by those who accused her of heresy.

Classified as a Historic Monument, the Tour Jeanne d'Arc (also called the " Donjon de Rouen ") is the only remaining part of the château built by Philippe Auguste in 1207. This large and imposing cylindrical tower features three superimposed rooms and an attic.

The Tour Jeanne d'Arc is open to the public free of charge for independent visits on Saturdays and Sundays from 2:30pm until 4pm. Guided tours are available on Saturdays and Sundays at 3pm.

Once a forbidding dungeon, today the Tour Jeanne d'Arc provides a venue for an amusing game. The Hyper Escape Game was created specifically for this heritage site. Combining virtual-reality activities and puzzles, the Hyper Escape Game (in French or English) allows participants to experience the Siege of Rouen that occurred in 1419.

This 60-minute game is available on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday between 4:30pm and 11:30pm and Sunday between 4:30pm and 10pm. Visitors may schedule game reservations for teams of three to six players.

Address: Rue Bouvreuil / Rue du Donjon, Rouen

The best place to stay in Rouen is the historic city center, with medieval buildings, winding cobblestone streets, and plenty of restaurants and shops. This is also a pedestrian-only zone and home to many of the main attractions. Below are some highly-rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• The Hotel de Bourgtheroulde, Autograph Collection is housed in a modernized 15th-century building just steps from the pedestrian-only historic city center. The hotel has a fine-dining restaurant open for special events, a casual brasserie, and an upscale spa with an indoor swimming pool and sauna.
• In a half-timbered historical structure is the four-star Hôtel Mercure Rouen Centre Cathédrale Hotel , just steps away from the cathedral. Amenities include a breakfast buffet, snack bar, and complimentary newspapers.
• In a prime location near the Place du Vieux Marché is the contemporary-style Best Western Plus Hôtel Littéraire Gustave Flaubert . This four-star hotel offers 24-hour front desk reception, a breakfast buffet, and a fitness center.

Mid-Range Hotels

• The charming three-star Hôtel Mercure Rouen Centre Cathédrale is found on a picturesque pedestrian street, in the heart of Rouen's old town. Occupying a quaint half-timbered building, the hotel features cozy rooms with old-fashioned décor and a lovely garden patio.
• Offering a great value for the price, the ibis budget Rouen Centre Rive Gauche is convenient if you are visiting Rouen with a car. The historic center of Rouen is about a 10-minute drive. This modern two-star hotel offers 24-hour check-in and a breakfast buffet.

Budget Hotels

• Featuring rooms with high ceilings and half-timbered walls, the two-star Hôtel Morand is a good budget option near the train station and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. It's just a short walk from the old town (historic center).
• Another historic half-timbered building, Le Vieux Carré hotel has a beautiful courtyard where breakfast is served on warm days. The hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the cathedral.
• A 10-minute tram ride from the city center is the two-star ibis budget Rouen Petit Quevilly , featuring basic guest rooms and easy access to the motorway.

One of the most enjoyable things to do on a clear, sunny day is to take a scenic drive along the picturesque "Route des Abbayes," which leads between Rouen and Le Havre, running parallel to the Seine River for much of the way.

This well-signposted route offers a delightful scenic drive. The ever-changing landscape and many historic buildings, such as the abbeys of Jumièges and Saint-Wandrille, make this journey worthwhile.

About 12 kilometers from Rouen, the small village of Saint Martin de Boscherville lies in a Regional Natural Park along the Seine River. The 12th-century Abbey of Saint-Georges de Boscherville and the surrounding scenery are the main tourist attractions.

The village is part of the Parc Naturel Régional des Boucles de la Seine Normande , a gorgeous area of Normandy bounded by pristine marshlands of the Seine and the lush Roumare Forest.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Nearby Attractions in Normandy : After visiting Rouen, most travelers will want to explore the Normandy region . This picturesque region features unspoiled natural scenery, charming old port towns, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mont Saint-Michel (a three-hour drive away). For those interested in World War II history, the D-Day Landing Beaches (about a two-hour drive away) are not to be missed.

Places to Visit in the Brittany Region : Many tourists visit Rouen as a day trip from Paris , which is a two-hour train ride away. However, Rouen is also an excellent base for sightseeing in Brittany . Along the Atlantic coast southwest of Normandy, the distinctive region of Brittany boasts picture-perfect medieval towns with half-timbered houses, alluring fairy-tale castles, ancient megalithic monuments, and quaint fishing villages.

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Rouen, situated on the banks of the River Seine, is Normandy’s vibrant, historic and cultural capital. Monet’s famous depictions of Rouen Cathedral have made this vast edifice many visitors’ favourite building in the city, but there are also many fine museums to explore, not to mention the Gros Horloge clock tower, France’s oldest inn La Couronne and the beautiful modern church dedicated to Joan of Arc.

Centuries of history

The Seine was key to Rouen’s development over hundreds of years into one of France’s greatest ports. Romans and Vikings both settled in this part of the Seine Valley, and when the Vikings became Normans in the 10th century, Rouen became Normandy’s capital.

English medieval history is closely linked to Rouen . The Anglo-French kings kept a deep affection for the city. William the Conqueror often held court here.  Richard the Lionheart  was crowned Duke of Normandy in the city, and literally left his heart there… as would  Joan of Arc , much against her will, when, in the second half of the Hundred Years’ War, English forces occupied much of northern France, including Normandy and its capital. After Joan had inspired a lightning series of successes against the English army south along the Loire, she was captured by Burgundians and ransomed off at vast price to the English. Joan was tried by French churchmen in English-ruled Rouen in 1431, ending up on the funeral pyre here in 1431. A museum in honour of Joan of Arc d’Arc,  Historial Jeanne d’Arc , housed in the Archbishop’s Palace next to the cathedral. Further well-established, excellent museums cover different periods of the city’s history and focus on its strong artistic and craft traditions.

Discover Rouen’s historic quarters

In medieval times, lords and the prosperous merchants of the city, as well as commissioning fine homes for themselves, supported the building of great religious buildings. Lined up in a row going from east to west through the centre of town is a string of tremendous churches – Saint-Ouen, Saint-Maclou, Notre Dame Cathedral and the modern church dedicated to Joan of Arc. It wasn’t for nothing that  Victor Hugo famously described Rouen as ‘the city of a hundred spires’ . 

In addition, don’t miss the  Gros Horloge  astronomic clock, the splendid gothic architecture of the Palais de Justice and the Aître Saint-Maclou, whose carved skull and crossbones make it one of the most striking medieval cemeteries in Europe.

Rouen’s historic centre is also packed with tempting shops and restaurants, and great weekly markets. This being a university town, there is a thriving nightlife too.

The River Seine and its quaysides

Rouen is now focusing its attention on the River Seine, with increasing initiatives to open up the quaysides to the public. Parks and gardens have recently been built along the left bank, while on the right bank, bars, restaurants and nightclubs line the quayside. The  Rouen Armada  maritime festival provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to enjoy everything that this newly-developed part of Rouen has to offer. The next edition will take place in 2027 (17-27 June).

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Paris in a Day: Private Shore Excursion from Rouen Cruise Port

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Brushstrokes & Beauty: Private Giverny Gardens Shore Excursion from Rouen

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Rouen is the Capital of Haute Normandie, located between Paris and the English Channel. The town is very attractive as it boasts a large number of attractions and monuments. The Notre Dame Cathedral is without a doubt one of the most impressive in France. Its nave with eleven bays covered with a superb six-part vault and the lantern tower endow the edifice with a stunning sense of proportion.

Other not to miss attractions include the Old Rouen, historical city centre, the Gros-Horloge, square where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake, St Maclou and Saint-Ouen churches, Rouen Cathedral and if time permits try and visit the Rouen museum of Fine Art. We organise private guided walking tours in the town of Rouen with local certified guides that will reveal all the History and Architectural highlights of the town only for your small group.

Our half day or full day private day trips & shore excursions departing from Rouen are all conducted by expert local tour guides that speak impeccable English. Your guide will meet you at your ship and will go over the itinerary and program of the day with you. Then board your premium vehicle and begin to make your way on this private day tour.

Visit the D-DAY normandy landing beaches with one of our expert guides. On June 6, 1944, the allied troops landed on the Normandy beaches, marking the beginning of a fierce and deadly battle that would culminate in the liberation of France a few months later. Visit the most important sites with your own personal guide.

Discover one of the most emblematic sites of Normandy, Giverny. The village is one of the most famous in France as it features Monet’s house, one of the most well known 19th century impressionist painters of France. Upon arrival, skip the line as you are taken by your guide to the entrance where your visit of Claude Monet's House and Gardens in Giverny will begin. First visit the house, then make your way outside to visit the different gardens. Make sure to not miss the water lilies.

From Rouen we also organise private tours to Paris & Versailles Palace. Since these small group shore excursions are private, it is possible for us to customize your tour and adapt it to your wishes. For Paris, we can organize a panoramic tour to point out the highlights the French Capital has to offer. Other great sites to visit include the Eiffel tower, the Concorde, Arc de Triomphe, the Marais and Montmartre districts and so much more.

For Versailles Palace we usually include a private guided tour of the Palace. Your ticket will also include the Gardens so as to make the most out of your visit. During the day, your guide will be able to make suggestions if you are looking for a nice place to have lunch. Pick up and return will be directly at ship.

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The Best Tours to the Normandy D-Day Beaches from Rouen

Tours to the Normandy D-Day beaches from Rouen, France, offer a poignant and informative journey through one of the most significant chapters in modern history. These excursions provide visitors with the opportunity to pay tribute to the brave soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives during the Allied invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, known as D-Day.

Guided tours typically depart from Rouen and travel to the Normandy coast, where participants visit key sites associated with the D-Day landings. Among the highlights are the beaches of Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno, and Sword, where Allied forces landed under heavy fire from German defenses. Visitors can walk along the same sands where history was made and gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by the soldiers on that fateful day.

At each beach, knowledgeable guides provide insights into the strategic importance of the landing sites, the tactics employed by Allied forces, and the harrowing experiences of the soldiers who fought there. Visitors may also have the opportunity to explore bunkers, gun emplacements, and other remnants of the German defenses that still dot the coastline.

In addition to the beaches, tours often include visits to key landmarks such as the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial at Colleville-sur-Mer, where thousands of American soldiers are buried overlooking Omaha Beach. The cemetery serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and offers visitors the chance to pay their respects to the fallen.

Other notable stops may include the Pointe du Hoc, a cliff-top promontory where U.S. Rangers scaled the cliffs to destroy German artillery positions, and the museums and visitor centers that provide further insight into the events of D-Day and the subsequent Battle of Normandy.

Overall, tours to the Normandy D-Day beaches from Rouen offer a profound and moving experience, allowing visitors to connect with the past and gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom during World War II.

(Prices are listed in U.S. Dollars.)

Private Tour: D-Day Beaches from Rouen

From le havre - wwii - american landing beaches discovery private tour, how much do normandy beaches tours cost in rouen.

In Rouen, Normandy Beaches tours cost on average $1,256 based on our research of 2 different tours. Many of these tours offer varying activities, add extra services, and last different lengths of time, so it's not always possible to compare every option equally. Also, the highly rated options tend to cost a bit more on average.

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If you're looking for more things to do in Rouen, see also The Best Walking Tours in Rouen .

Rouen Travel Costs Rouen Hotel Prices

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Rouen? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Rouen? .

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The Best Itinerary for Walking in the Old Town of Rouen

Last Updated:  9 December 2019

On a sunny Summer day I headed to Rouen , the historic capital of Normandy . For many years I have been eager to discover the ‘City of 100 bell towers’ from the words of Victor Hugo. So I booked a train ticket for a day-trip from Paris and explored the historic city. Prior to my visit I had planned walking in the old town of Rouen with not-to-miss landmarks. Here is the itinerary. I hope you’ll find it useful convincing  enough to stop at Rouen too!

Forget the suburbs and reach the old town!

Coming from the direction of Paris or Le Havre, the industrial suburbs of Rouen might not impress you. Don’t worry, for beyond lies the historic city centre , a “must-see” in the region. It would be a shame to miss a stroll through its fascinating heritage that includes Gothic churches and mansions and hundreds of restored half-timbered houses… Since the aftermath of World War Two, the city centre has undergone a costly upmarket restoration of its historical gem, which is largely pedestrianised.

Walking in the Old Town of Rouen

My walk through the main landmarks and monuments of Rouen was 5.5 km long. I made it in one day but to be honest it was quite a race. I stopped too many times to get the photos you’ll see below… and unfortunately had to hurry inside the beautiful churches of the town! If you intent to visit the Clock tower and the Fine Arts museum, I recommend you stay overnight in Rouen.

Where to stay in Rouen?

You can choose from a great range of accommodation in Rouen, from hotels to B&B and campings! My recommendation is to book your accommodation near the city-centre. Although it’s a more pricey option, you’ll save time on transportation and can access most of the landmarks I discovered while walking in the old town of Rouen.

Also, when possible, don’t wait the last minute to book as finding hotel rooms can be a problem, especially on the weekends.

To book your accommodation in Rouen, click on this affiliate link which will redirect you to our partner booking.com… or use the interactive map below:

Alrighty, let’s start walking in the old town of Rouen…

Temple St. Éloi, Place Martin Luther King

The walk starts from the Protestant Temple St. Éloi on Place Martin Luther King (not far from the banks of River Seine).

The 16th century church of Saint Éloi became a Protestant place of worship for the Reformed church in 1803.

Reach the adjacent Place de la Pucelle.

Place de la Pucelle and Hôtel de Bourgtheroulde

The name of the square led many to erroneously believe this was the place where Joan of Arc had been burnt at the stake. Actually the maid was killed on the adjacent square of Place du Vieux-Marché.

The fine Gothic  Bourgtheroulde House (pronounce ‘Bourtroud’) dates from the 16th century. It served as a residence to Guillaume II le Roux, Lord Bourgetheroude and member of the Exchequer of Normandy. Although dominantly Gothic, there are some Renaissance influences visible from the courtyard. After having housed a bank for many years, it became a 5 star hotel in the 2010s.

From there, walk on rue de la Vicomté and turn right on Rue du Gros Horloge towards the Cathedral.

Rue du Gros Horloge

Sometimes called by locals “Rue du Gros”, this 420 metre long street is famous for the astronomical clock (the “ Gros Horloge ”). C harming half-timbered buildings built on waterproof stone bases border the picturesque cobbled street. Some of them feature richly decorated corbelling made of oak. Some experts date a few of the houses along the Rue du Gros Horloge to before the time of Joan of Arc’s death at the stake in 1431.

The astronomical clock known as Le Gros Horloge is the pride of the Rouen people. It dominates a Renaissance arch which has spanned the historic street since 1527. The clock lies roughly equidistant between the Place du Vieux Marché and the cathedral. The Gros Horloge itself dates back to the 16th century and its movement from 1389. A Gothic belfry flanks t he Gros Horloge. It was built between the 14th and the 15th centuries and houses the bells linked to the clock’s movement.

Camille Pissarro  painted the Rue du Gros Horloge in 1885.

Rue du Gros-Horloge became the first pedestrian street in France in 1971. Apart from its historic atmosphere, it owes its popularity to the numerous shops and department stores. The view of the cathedral in the distance towering over the half-timbered façades is pretty amazing.

Walk through the end of the pedestrian street to the Place de la Cathédrale. There, you can find Rouen’s Tourist Office Centre and the stunning western façade of Rouen’s cathedral.

Place de la Cathédrale and Rouen Cathedral

Rouen’s most distinctive landmark, seen from far away, is the lofty and imposing cathedral , whose spire stands 151 metres high. From the Place de la Cathédrale, the church appears in all its glory, with its Tour de Beurre (butter tower) to the right and the Tour Saint Romain to the left.

Facing the cathedral, turn to the right and after a few metres, enter the Bureau des finances (House of the Exchequer) where you will find the Tourist Board of Rouen.

House of the Exchequer

The  Bureau des Finances (House of the Exchequer) houses the Tourist Board of Rouen and faces the cathedral’s façade. Built from 1509 to 1540 for the Exchequer General of Normandy, it represents a fine example of Flamboyant Gothic architecture and also features early Renaissance elements.

Walk across the Place de la Cathédrale towards the Tour Saint Romain, then turn right at Rue Georges Lanfry. Continue straight ahead: the street changes its name to Rue Saint Romain.

Rue Saint-Romain

On your right is the “Cour des Libraires” leading to the North Transept of the Cathedral.

There are many half-timbered houses bordering the north side of the street.

On rue Saint-Romain are the ruins of a former chapel where the trial of  Joan of Arc  ended on the  29th May 1429 . It is there as well that her rehabilitation was proclaimed in  1456 .

Later on, cross the Rue de la République and you will arrive on the little intimate square of Place Barthélémy towered by the impressive church Saint Maclou. The place Barthélémy owes its name from the 19th century architect who built the church spire. In order to install the spire, architects  had  several houses destroyed. To the left of the facade, observe the lovely 16th century fountain.

Saint Maclou Church

The Church of Saint-Maclou  is arguably one of the most striking churches in Rouen. A Flamboyant church dedicated to Saint Malo, it is considered one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in Rouen, alongside with the cathedral and the Church of Saint Ouen. A fine elaborated spire has topped the lantern tower since the 19th century.

Take the rue de Martainville on the right when you exit the church. A few metres beyond the chevet of the church, enter the Aître Saint Maclou on your left.

The rue Martainville is one of my favourite streets when walking in the old town of Rouen. I love its typical half-timbered houses.

The Saint Maclou Ossuary

This is definitely one of the strangest sites of Rouen. The unique ossuary Saint Maclou (in French: Aître de St Maclou ) is a popular landmark to discover. To place the ossuary in context, one must recall the Great Plague of 1348. As in most European cities, many of the townsfolk died during the plague. The cemetery around Saint Maclou became too small to house all the dead and a new cemetery needed to be built. Therefore, victims of the plague were buried on this site in large communal graves.

The decorations reflect their original purpose: skulls, crossbones, gravediggers’ tools and objects… Take a closer look on the columns and you will observe Death leading Life in a “danse macabre”.

From the Aître Saint Maclou, return to Place Barthélémy and turn right on Rue Damiette.

Rue Damiette

Rue Damiette links the squares of Place Barthélémy to Place du Lieutenant Aubert. Restored half-timbered houses border the narrow street. On rue Damiette, the spire of Saint-Maclou seems to respond to the lantern tower of St. Ouen church .

Cross the Rue d’Amiens and walk straight ahead for a few meters. On your left starts the medieval and picturesque Rue Eau de Robec.

Rue Eau-de-Robec

Rue Eau-de-Robec is lined up with half-timbered houses and in its centre is a streamlet crossed by a walkway.

Arriving on the Place du Général de Gaulle, you will see the mighty Saint Ouen Abbey overlooking the greenery of the well-maintained gardens of the Town Hall. On your right, Rue des Faulx, stands an interesting row of half-timbered houses with the spire of Rouen Cathedral in the distance.

Enter the public park of the Jardins de l’Hôtel de Ville.

Saint Ouen Abbey Church

Saint Ouen is an impressive sanctuary and one of the largest churches built in the Rayonnant Gothic style. The abbey church comprises of two spire-towers on the western façade and a majestic 88 metre central tower. The latter rises above the crossing of the transept and is nicknamed the “Crown of Normandy”.

Take the time to stroll in the Gardens of the Town Hall which surround the Abbey with have views of the whole building. To the North stands the classical building of Rouen’s Town Hall.

The City-Hall of Rouen

The classical building which stands close to the Abbey is Rouen’s present day City Hall . It was the monk’s dormitory until the French Revolution. The monks had only just completed the building when they had to give it away to the municipality.

Reach the narrow and picturesque street of rue du petit porche and at the end of the street turn left to the Place de la Rougemare.

Place de la Rougemare  lies outside the limits of the touristy part of Rouen but is worth mentioning for its peaceful character.

Continue on rue du Cordier and cross the Place du Dr A. Cerné to reach the rue du Donjon.

Rouen’s Tower of Joan of Arc

Oddly overlooking a residential area, the medieval tower is all that is left of the once-mighty castle of Rouen. The king of France order its dismantlement in the 16th century. However only the keep still stands to this day. It bears the name of Joan of Arc Tower since the maid entered the castle prior to her imprisonment by the English.

Return to the crossroads and turn right to rue Bouvreuil to the Fine Arts Museum of Rouen.

Square Verdrel and the Fine Arts Museum of Rouen

The public garden of the Square Verdrel  opened in the Second Empire (mid-19th century). It faces the massive building of Rouen’s Fine Arts Museum .

It was Napoleon I was founded the renowned museum. However the present building only dates back to the end of the 19th century. It underwent restauration works in 1994.

Cross the rue Lecanuet and walk through the rue de l’écureuil where you can stop for a good cup of coffee at Citizen Café .

Turn left on the rue Ganterie.

Around the Place des Carmes

The rue de Ganterie is lined up with some interesting half-timbered houses.

Turn right on the rue des Carmes and reach the Place des Carmes. From there, take the rue de la Chaîne which is bordered by a fine half-timbered hôtel particulier.

At the end of the street is the Place Saint Amand.

Café terraces occupy the little Place Saint-Amand  in the Summer. There are some beautiful half-timbered houses to admire.

Follow the narrow street of rue Saint-Amand.

Another picturesque place I discovered while walking in the old town of Rouen – Rue Saint-Amand really gives an idea of what Rouen looked like in the Middle-Ages:

Reach the Place de la Cathédrale by walking through the rue Saint Nicolas and rue de la Croix de Fer. 

From the Cathedral square, take the rue des Carmes on the right and turn left on the rue aux Juifs.

The Parliament of Normandy

Rouen may be famous for its Gothic churches, however these should not over-shadow other civil buildings. One of them is the Gothic building of the Parliament of Normandy . One of the rare civil constructions in Gothic style in the late Middle Ages in France.

Once the Gothic building was the seat of the Parliament of Normandy. The remarkable edifice features typical Gothic decoration: crocheted pinnacles, gargoyles, four centred arches, statues and a Flamboyant balustrade with interlaced rosettes at the base of the roof.

When reaching the end of the building on the rue aux Juifs, turn right on the rue Jeanne d’Arc before taking the rue Guillaume le Conquérant to the left. Walk along the street until you reach the rue Écuyère. Take the street on the right and walk to the next crossroads with rue des Bons Enfants .

Rue des Bons Enfants

Continuing the axis of rue Ganterie previous crossed is Rue des Bons Enfants . Fine half-timbered houses border the street. Observe them closely: one of them seems it will collapse at any time soon!

Walk along the rue des Bons Enfants and turn left on the rue de l’Ancienne Prison to reach the last stage of our walk: the Place du Vieux-Marché.

Place du Vieux-Marché

Place du Vieux Marché is arguably the main square of Rouen’s old town. With its half-timbered houses and restaurant, it is dominated by the modern church of Saint Joan of Arc .

The 1979 modern and wacky and spiky-looking memorial church is at odds with the surrounding fine brown-and-white half timbered houses. Some people see in the shape of the church an upturned boat or the pyre on which the Saint was burnt. The church is surmounted by a trapezoidal slate roof topped the church. The elongated feature forms a walkway across the square. In addition the scaly tiling of the roof matches the fish-shaped windows.

Inside the church

Inside, 13 stained-glass windows from the Renaissance era form a glass wall of 500 square metres. It bathes the interior in exceptional light.

These fine windows date back to the 16th century. They originally decorated another church which was destroyed during the Second World War. However, authorities anticipated war damages and put the windows in safe. They stored them untouched until they found their new home some 40 years later.

The stained-glass windows illustrate Christ’s childhood, Passion, Crucifixion and Resurrection, and life events of Saint Peter, Saint Anne and Saint Anthony of Padua.

Where was Joan of Arc burnt at stake?

A small commemorative plaque and a 20 metre high cross mark the spot on which Joan of Arc was burnt alive on the 30th May 1431. On the adjacent walls, the marks of a former church destroyed in the past are visible.

This walk ends at the Place du Vieux-Marché. For another interesting walk in Rouen why not ascending the Côte Sainte-Catherine for a panoramic view of the whole city of Rouen…

Things to do in Rouen, Normandy

Looking for activities and things to do in Rouen? Check out the offers from our partner Get Your Guide:

Walking in the old town of Rouen: more info

Here’s a few website and blogs about Rouen that you might find useful:

• on the blog: Rouen Old Town
• on the blog: Rouen Cathedral
• Tourist Board of Rouen
• Tourist Board of Normandy
• Wikipedia’s article on Rouen

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About the author

Pierre is a French/Australian who is passionate about France and its culture. He grew up in France and Germany and has also lived in Australia and England. He has a background teaching French, Economics and Current Affairs, and holds a Master of Translating and Interpreting English-French with the degree of Master of International Relations, and a degree of Economics and Management. Pierre is the author of Discovery Courses and books about France.

Like it? Leave a comment!

Pierre, I like your instructions and map. I will be doing Rouen in a day trip. I wonder if you can recall how long this walk took? Thanks!

Hello Karen, actually it took me a full day but I did stop at many sites to take photos. Realistically I would say half a day is enough to discover the old town of Rouen (without entering the museums).

Hello, thank you for your response to my question! It’s good to know I can do your path in less than a full day. I’ll re-work the order in which I follow your course, as I’d be starting from the train station. That should work well if I can re-order all the sights, and then I can finish with the museum. I think your online walking tour and commentary is very nice, helpful, and well done! Best, Karen

Thank you Karen! I was hoping to update this page soon as it has been a little while since I published it (3 years ago). Enjoy Rouen! 🙂

Merci, Pierre. I will be in Paris and Rouen and Giverny at the end of April; if you edit or update any info on this page before that, would you let me know!

Best. Karen

Merci, Pierre. This is my 4th attempt to reply to your last message; for some reason, they are not getting through. Anyway, I was saying I will be in Paris, Rouen and Giverny at the end of April, so if you edit or update any info on this page, please let me know! Best, Karen

Hello Karen! Yes, this reply got through!! 🙂 I will let you know when the article is updates, I’ll try my best before your trip 😉 Cheers, Pierre

Dear Pierre,

I am a Kiwi but have lived in England since 1959. Fitted in 5 years in Sydney and 5 years in Mayenne. My daughte has lived in the Deux Sevres for over 20 years and I am a Huguenot descendant. I enjoyed the virtual walk around Rouen which I have managed to bypass for years but never enjoyed.

I am a researcher at the Huguenot Museum Archives in Rochester and work on possible Huguenot inquiries.

I am researching for my own interests a Jean Tirel, a Huguenot pastor who died in prison in Rouen in 1693. In your own research on Rouen have you discovered any images of the Ancient Prison of the 1690s?

Edward Hill

Dear Edward, Thank you for your comment. Unfortunately I didn’t stumble across images of the old prison. According to my research, this pastor from Chefresne et Gavray was imprisoned at the Conciergerie of Rouen’s Palais de Justice… if I’m not mistaken it would be the site of today’s Court of Justice, a beautiful flamboyant monument still standing in the old town.

Thanks for your trouble Pierre.

I thought the prison was different from the Palais de Justice as he describes being allowd outside to exercise on the Ramparts. Aren’t the address of the Court of Justice and Rue de Ancienne Prison different locations?

I will make the effort on one of my next trips through Rouen to follow your tour, as my daughter works in Niort.

Hi Edward. Well in fact rue de l’Ancienne prison was a street located next to the Palais de Justice (source : https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rue_de_l%27Ancienne-Prison ) so good news it concurs to what your say! 🙂

Thanks again Pierre. Will concentrate on finding an image of the old Concegiere.

Bonjour Pierre,

Thank you so much! Every photo is beautiful. You are so generous sharing your experiences as they happen. You don't wait until you get back home. That takes away sleep time!

Safe and wonderful travels! Bob Rogers

Always a pleasure, merci beaucoup Bob! 🙂

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25 PLACES TO SEE IN FRANCE

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Free Walking Sightseeing Tours in Rouen, France

Guided free walking tours.

Book free guided walking tours in Rouen.

Guided Sightseeing Tours

Book guided sightseeing tours and activities in Rouen.

Are you ready for an unforgettable time in Rouen, France? Then you've come to the right place with our sightseeing tours. Whether you prefer a guided free walking tour with insider knowledge or enjoy the freedom of a self-guided route, you'll find exactly what you're looking for. Click on a tour and find out more about the highlights that await you!

Freetour: Rouen Like a local Free Tour

Self-guided Tour #1

• Église Sainte-Madeleine
• Musée Flaubert - Histoire de la Médecine
• Maison natale Pierre Corneille
• Jeanne au bûcher
• Temple Saint-Éloi
• Église Saint-Pierre-du-Châtel
• Gros-Horloge
• Église Sainte-Jeanne-d'Arc
• Ancienne église Sainte-Croix-des-Pelletiers
• Hôtel de Sacy
• Église Saint-Patrice
• Tour Jeanne d'Arc
• Musée de la Céramique
• Musée des Beaux-Arts
• Église Saint-Godard
• Musée Le Secq des Tournelles
• Statue de Napoléon
• Église Saint-Nicaise
• Chapelle Corneille
• Chapelle Saint-Louis
• Muséum d'histoire naturelle
• Théâtre des Deux Rives
• Chapelle des Franciscaines
• Centre de ressources du Munaé

Self-guided Tour #2

• Abbatiale Saint-Ouen
• Grosse pierre de Jelling
• Cathédrale Notre-Dame
• Église Saint-Maclou
• Musée national de l’Éducation
• Église Saint-Vivien
• Square Marcel Halbout

Self-guided Tour #3

• Couvent des Pénitents
• Albert Ettinger
• Halle aux Toiles

Self-guided Tour #4

• Pont Flaubert

Self-guided Tour #5

• Église Saint-Gervais

Self-guided Tour #6

• Église Saint-Sever

Why Visit Sights? Self-guided sightseeing tours are a free and safe alternative to bus tours. You can explore Rouen at your own pace, any time! Do something good for your health by walking.

Every weekend is an adventure

Paris to rouen day trip: how to get there and what to do (map included).

• Post published: 8 October 2017
• Post category: Europe / France / Normandy / Paris and suburbs

Rouen is a lovely town with great architecture and history, just 1.5 hours away from Paris. Although it has the potential to be a major tourist destination, you won’t find too many visitors in Rouen. Maybe it’s because it’s impossible to pronounce its name if you’re not French. A Paris to Rouen day trip is easy to organise and a great way to experience a picturesque Normandy town.

Is Rouen worth visiting?

Whenever I am asked the question “Is Rouen worth visiting?”, I say a bit YES! It’s one of the best and easiest day trips you can find from Paris. Whether you spend a few days in Paris and want to explore somewhere different, or you live in Paris and you’re looking for a short break , a day trip to Rouen is a great option. Rouen was built in the twists of the Seine River and was a prominent place during Roman and Medieval times. You can feel History wandering in the old cobbled pedestrian roads in the heart of the city. You pass old medieval Norman-style houses and many imposing buildings from different eras.

I lived there intermittently for about three years when I was a student. The first time I wandered around the unique town centre, I was charmed in a few minutes. Family and friends sometimes came for short visits, and I loved showing them the place.

How to plan your Paris to Rouen day trip

I only have great news about planning a Paris to Rouen day trip: you actually don’t need much planning. The tips and itinerary below may even be enough.

Rouen is the capital of Normandy, located 130 km north of Paris. It takes less than two hours to drive there from Paris and 1.5hrs on average by train.

Don’t want to drive or catch the train? You can also join a tour from Paris (click here for more information*) .

Paris to Rouen by train

Rouen is one of the best day trips from Paris by train . It’s great to visit Rouen on foot, so it’s very convenient to catch a train from Paris Saint Lazare directly to the centre of Rouen (Rouen Rive Droite). You won’t get tired from driving and won’t have to worry about parking your car.

You don’t need to book in advance, and it has always been under 25€ return for me (and more often around 20€). However, you may find better deals when you book online , and you’ll have access to express trains (Train Nomad) that will take you to Rouen in only 1h15. It’s also often quicker to purchase tickets online rather than at the train station.

The first train usually leaves Paris Saint Lazare at 5h46, and the last train from Rouen to Paris Saint Lazare is usually at 21h01. So you’ll be able to spend a full long day in Rouen. You can view the train timetables on the SNCF website .

Saint Lazare station is the second busiest train station in Paris. Trains to go to Rouen leave from Level 1 (Niveau 1). There are 27 platforms, so make sure you’re there in advance to have time to find yours.

Paris to Rouen by car

If you come by car, I recommend finding a spot to park your car for the day and walk. Driving in Rouen isn’t easy. There are many narrow and one-way streets. It’s often much quicker to walk from one point to another. And it’s also the best way to see all the stunning buildings in the old town.

Responsible travel tip : Travelling by train has a lower impact on the environment than driving.

How do you spend a day in Rouen?

Here’s a one-day itinerary with my favourite things to do in Rouen for a day trip. The number refers to the order of the visit as you walk in Rouen and find these places rather than an order of preference. There’s a map at the end of the article with a suggested itinerary for your day in Rouen.

1. Start at the beautiful Rouen train station

If you took a train from Paris to Rouen, take a few minutes to have a look at the station and its belfry when you get out.

2. Check out the Joan of Arc Tower (Tour Jeanne d’Arc)

The Tour Jeanne d’Arc is the only part left of the Castle of Rouen, built in the early 13th century. If you have time, speak French and want to experience history, they organise escape games in the tower  late in the afternoon. I haven’t tried it, but I like the idea!

3. Visit the Beaux-Arts Museum

The Beaux-Arts Museum is free and is France’s second-biggest impressionist art gallery! It opens at 10 am, so it can be hard to fit in a short-day itinerary. If you don’t have time to go in, it’s still a nice building to see from the outside.

4. Palais de Justice

The Palais de Justice  is a fascinating building. I’ve walked past this masterpiece hundreds of times, and I could always spot a new detail on the Gargoyles.

5. Go to where Joan of Arc was executed: Place du Vieux Marché

Place du Vieux Marché is full of history. It’s the place where the French heroine Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431 when Rouen was under the English rule. The new church has interesting modern architecture that contrasts a lot with the old monuments in Rouen. There are many squares in this area to enjoy drinks on a terrace. Place de la Pucelle was my favourite at the time.

6. Admire the fascinating clock (Gros Horloge)

The Gros Horloge is an iconic monument that goes over a busy, paved pedestrian street with half-timbered houses between Place du Vieux Marché and the Cathedral. You can visit it for the single experience of being inside a clock, and the fantastic views of the roofs and the Cathedral. It is one of the oldest working clocks in Europe: the Renaissance arch is from the 16th century, but the mechanism is from the 14th century.

7. Notre Dame Cathedral

As you go down Gros Horloge Street, you cannot miss the majestic Cathedral of Notre Dame . During summer (June to September), there’s a light show on the Cathedral at night (check timetables here ) that you don’t want to miss if you chose to spend one night in the town. There was already a church there in the 4th century. It says a lot about the great past of Rouen. This Cathedral has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, so there is an interesting mix of styles there. I first saw the cathedral in Monet’s famous series of paintings . It is also famous for having the highest spire in France (151 m).

8. Saint Maclou church and Rue Eau de Robec

Then, you can wander towards St Maclou church and get lost in the small streets around. There are many restaurants for lunch. I recommend stopping at the lovely  Rue Eau de Robec .

9. Gardens and Abbatiale St Ouen

If you finish your lunch before 2 pm, take a walk in the Jardins de l’Hotel de Ville (Town Hall Gardens) and admire the Abbatiale St Ouen , one of Rouen’s most famous buildings. It will open again at 2 pm for visits, and it’s worth a look inside.

10. Climb Saint Catherine Hill for the best views of the city

Rouen is surrounded by small mounts. It is not ideal for the climate, but it provides a great bird’s eye view of the city when the weather is clear. The most accessible one is Colline Sainte Catherine (Saint Catherine Hill). You’ll have to walk up there (about 3km) so allow one hour. It can be a great spot for sunset. From the Hotel de Ville bus stop, you can catch Bus 20 and stop at Cimetière du Mont Gargan. In 10 to 15 minutes, you’ll be near the start of the walk. You can check bus trips and timetables on this website .

11. Cruise the Seine River to the Port of Rouen

It might be hard to fit in a cruise on just a day trip to Rouen. But if you’re interested in visiting an inland port with economic importance (it’s not a seducing idea for everyone), it’s worth checking out if the crew from La Lutece are running tours on the day of your visit. The Port of Rouen used to be the main port in France for centuries and remains an important port today. If you don’t speak French, ask in advance if commentaries will be available in English. Hopefully, it has changed since I lived in Rouen.

Where to stay in Rouen

If you’re planning to stay longer in Rouen than just a day trip, I recommend staying in the town centre. There are many accommodation options, and you can easily walk from one place to another.

If you’re looking for something special, the Hotel de Bourgtheroulde *, with its beautiful courtyard views, is one of the most charming options in Rouen. The Hotel de la Cathedrale * is perfectly located and also has a lot of character. Otherwise, one of the cheapest options to stay in Rouen City Centre at a walking distance from the best parts of the old town is the Hôtel du Palais *.

Have you ever done a Paris to Rouen day trip? Share your experience in the comments below!

Interactive map of my one-day itinerary in rouen.

If you manage to catch an early train, you should be able to experience all these activities on a Paris to Rouen day trip.

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What a lovely little city! This looks like it would be a great place to live. I’ve never been to Rouen before, despite several trips to France – I’ve spent most of my time in the south of the country.

Yes, I really enjoyed living there. Plus, it’s not far from Paris, and not far from the coast. The weather was the only downside: a bit too rainy and cold for me 😉 The South of France is lovely, but very different from the regions in the north. If you ever get the opportunity to travel to Brittany, Normandy and the East of France, you’ll discover other facets of the country!

This looks like a great day away from the city. Rouen looks charming!

Thanks, Anya. It’s a very different atmosphere compared to Paris and the half-timbered houses makes the architecture quite different as well!

Travel really changes your life. Beautiful photography too. Love your blog. Keep it up! :1

Thank you, Sonika. I appreciate the encouragements 🙂

What a great tour you have provided. The village looks beautiful and is filled with such history.

Thank you! It’s actually quite bigger than a village (a small city from a French point of view), but the most interesting places are in the small area of the old city centre. It makes it easy to wander around 🙂

I’ve never heard of Rouen before, but it sounds like an awesome idea for a trip from Paris! I love knowing that it’s easy to get there from Paris, and that most of the museums are free!

Yes, we’re very fortunate with our train network in France. It’s easy and often not expensive to go to regional cities from Paris.

I always dream to go to Paris. I hope I could go there in the near future. Your post is very informative, and very helpful. thanks for this.

Thank you. Paris is epic, I hope you’ll have a chance to see it soon.

This is a great post about Rouen. The architecture is beautiful, specially walking by scenic river Seine. I went there years ago on a school trip but didn’t get to see a lot. I will definitely go again now as I fell in love with medieval towns!

Wow! That’s a great school trip, lucky you! 🙂 I love seeing again places I visited as a kid. I get very surprised sometimes!

You’re a pro! I loved reading this? it’s so cool how you add the responsible travel tips – thanks ?

Thank you, Karolina. I find it important to raise awareness so people can decide to make “better” choices, so I’m happy you like them 😀

I should have visited this place when I was in Paris. I had so much free time in Paris and didn’t know what to do… Rouen looks so lovely and nice. I’d love to visit the Beaux-Arts Museum 🙂

Thank you so much for this helpful post! I have noted it and the days adventures if we go to Rouen in a few weeks!

We did this day trip from Paris yesterday. Rouen is absolutely beautiful. Besides the Musée des Beaux-Arts (which was terrific), there are an additional 7 free museums – check out the brochure you can pick up when visiting the Beaux-Arts museum. We mostly followed your path, but took so many side detours when something captured our fancy, so we didn’t have a chance to walk up the hill for a sunset. A one day visit was well-spent, but an additional day might be nice. We will return for an additional day some other time! Thanks for the guidance!

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Explore Europe by Train: Easy Day Trips and Connected Cities

Paris to Rouen Day Trip (Is Rouen Worth Visiting?)

Is Rouen worth visiting? A Paris to Rouen day trip has Gothic architecture, medieval streets, Joan of Arc, and the train from Paris it easy!

Rouen History & Today

When choosing my day trips from Paris, I’m often a city is worth visiting if it has intriguing history and beautiful architecture – and a trip to Rouen has that in spades.

Rouen, the capital of Normandy, enjoys an extensive history full of suprise twists and battles for control.  The beginnings of the city trace back to a tribe of Gaul which later the Normans took over.  In 1150 AD, Rouen was given a charter of self-government before King Philip II Augustus brought Rouen into the French Kingdom in 1204.

But that was hardly the end of Rouen’s tumultuous history.  Following becoming part of the French Kingdom, Rouen still had assassinations, surrendering to Henry V of England, and the excommunication of the English King.  Add in Joan of Arc burned at the stake, and later the Kriegsmarine headquarters during the German occupation, and Rouen has weathered it’s share of momentous history.

The history of Rouen is fascinating. If you are into European history, you are going to love exploring the sights of today.

Use this guide to decide if Rouen is worth visiting for you, and if so, make a plan!

Is Rouen Worth Visiting?

While the above tells you about Rouen, it doesn’t really answer whether Rouen is worth visiting.  For me, the answer is an absolute YES.  The train trip (see below) is very manageable at 1.25-1.75 hours long.  The transfer from train station to historic area is a short 10 minute walk, or a super-easy metro trip .  The logistics are easy.

Further, the variety of sites can easily fill several days if you want to see it all!  The main sites include some of the most gorgeous Gothic churches in France.  Then there are the sites from the imprisonment, trials, and martyrdom of Joan of Arc.  There are medieval streets that have been maintained beautifully, giving you the feel of what old Europe was like.  And, of course, the famous astronomical clock, the Gros Horloge. Oh, and Richard the Lionheart’s… heart.

So, if you are in it for one of your easy day trips from Paris by Train , it’s checking all the boxes.

Major Sites for Rouen Day Trip from Paris

Visiting Rouen gives you a wide selection of ways to spend your day.  Fitting everything in to one day may prove challenging, so be sure to prioritize your list and make sure you see the things that are really important to you.  But beyond that, it’s up to you to decide what your Rouen day trip is!

Churches to visit on Rouen day trip from Paris

Rouen Notre Dame Cathedral – Claude Monet Rouen Cathedral paintings

One of the main reasons the answer to Is Rouen Worth Visiting?’ is a resounding YES, is the Notre Dame Cathedral.  It is a nearly overwhelming example of Gothic architecture.  It quite literally will stop you in your tracks.  Apparently, Monet thought so, too, because he spent quite a bit of time in the Exchequer building painting this very cathedral.  You can see this series of painting in the Orsay museum in Paris today. Inside, you will find the beautiful architecture continues as does the history.  Inside this cathedral are the tombs of the Dukes of Normandy, and even the actual heart of Richard the Lionhearted rests here. For practical information on visiting, go to the Rouen Tourism site for the cathedral for the most up to date hours

Eglise St. Maclou

Another startlingly beautiful gothic (technically “flamboyant” gothic, I love that) church in Rouen.  The carved doors on the front are particularly worthy of taking a few minutes to examine.  Another reason to visit this church is its location on Place Barthélémy, mentioned below.  The church is only open to visit inside limited hours on Sat, Sun, & Mon, so see Rouen Tourism for specifics .

Saint-Owen Abby Church

This is a different stop on the church list, because it is not a fully functioning church, the interior is fairly empty.  It leaves you to focus on the Gothic architecture of the building, and the beautiful wrought iron, instead of the great art on the walls or carved wooden seating.  The Abby also borders a small park area that draws strolling people and dog-walkers, so it can be a nice place for a brief respite!   The Abbey site lists visiting times.

Joan of Arc Church

Joan of arc things to do in rouen.

A particularly significant episode in Rouen’s history, is Joan of Arc’s history in the city. It was here in Rouen that Joan was imprisoned, interrogated, and eventually burned at the stake. Whether you see Joan of Arc as a Christian martyr, a strong young women committed to her ideals, or a weird story of a woman with a possible illness, you will have the opportunity to learn more about her. Be sure to see some of these sights on your Rouen day trip.

Joan of Arc Museum

Ok, I have to admit. I had my doubts about the Joan of Arc Museum . When I am doing a day trip, and this holds true for my Rouen day trip, I don’t like to spend a lot of time in museums. I stopped in here because I was really warm, and thought I could hop back out if I didn’t think it was worth it.

Very worth it. They do a great job of telling the story of Joan of Arc through what I will describe as a multi-media, documentary style, re-investigation of the facts. But it is done dramatically with actors in character, and moving you room to room for each stage. I wish we taught more things like this, my kids would love it.

Joan of Arc Tower

Walking along Rue Jeanne d’Arc, between the train station and the rest of the major sites of Rouen, is an easily missed Rouen Joan of Arc site. There is a complicated intersection where Boulevard de la Marne, Boulevard de l’Yser, Rue du Donjon and Rue Verte come together. Look down Rue du Donjon (as in Dungeon) and you will see an old, cylindrical stone tower. This tower is where Joan was interrogated.

For a completely different type of church stop, there is the Joan d’Arc Church.  This church is modern building with one wall of gorgeous stained glass that tells the story of Joan d’Arc.  On the other side of the stained glass, is the actual spot that Joan d’Arc was martyred.    The church welcomes visitors when services are not going on, so step inside to take a look. The Church site lists specifics of times.

Place de Vieux Marché Joan of Arc Martyrdom Site

In the Place de Vieux Marché, just beside the Joan of Arc Church, is a small garden (pictured above). In the midst of it is an easily missed plaque stating that this is the actual spot where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake on May 29, 1431.

Beautiful Streets and Squares of Rouen

Is Rouen worth visiting? Yes – if you like half-timbered buildings and meticulously maintained medieval streets. Here are some favorites to include in your Rouen day trip while you wander.

Rue Gros Horloge

Rue de Gros Horloge crosses Rue Jeanne d’Arc. To the west the road leads to the Joan of Arc church. To the east Rue de Gros Horloge is a pedestrian street that is lined medieval buildings. It passes underneath the Gros Horloge, the astronomical clock, and leads to Place de la Cathédrale and Rouen’s Notre Dame Cathedral.

Rue Saint-Romain

This narrow street, lined with half-timber buildings, stretchest from the Place de la Cathédrale to Place Barthélémy. It also has the Historic Joan of Arc Museum along the way.

Rue Eau de Robec

Just a beautiful street of shops worth the wander. Also close to Saint Owen Abbey Church and the little park beside the church.

Place de la Cathédrale

The Place de la Cathédrale is, fittingly, right outside the Rouen Notre Dame Cathedral. The square is also lined with restaurants, a few shops, and the Exchequer which houses the Rouen Tourism office. On summer evenings, the Cathedral has a light show on the front – definitely a highlight of this beautiful square.

Place Barthélémy

Just outside the Eglise St. Maclou is this surprisingly quiet place. The square is completely surrounded by leaning and varied-shaped, half-timber buildings. There weren’t nearly as many people here, which probably added to its charm.

Rouen Museums for your Day Trip from Paris

Museums are not a top stop for me when doing day trips, including a Rouen day trip. However, if it’s your thing, these are the museums that stand out for me because of the quality and/or uniqueness.

Museum of Fine Arts – Musee des Beau Arts

The art collection in the Museum of Fine Arts in Rouen is impressive. The collection includes paintings, drawings, sculpture, and objects of art from the 15th century to present day. The impressionist area is particularly notable, being the 2nd largest collection in France.

Wrought Iron Museum – Le Secq des Tournelles

I have to list this museum for the uniqueness. Le Sec des Tournelles exclusively displays wrought iron art. This including gates, door knockers, keys, utensils, and more. Admission is also free for the permanent collection.

Flaubert Museum of the History of Medicine

This is another worth mentioning for the uniqueness. Located in the building where Gustave Flaubert was born, the Flaubert Museum is filled with unusual medical items. Want to see a leech perch? You can do it here.

Historic Joan of Arc Museum

See Joan of Arc Sights.

Other Sights Worth Seeing for your Rouen Day trip

Just because I’m listing these under ‘other sights’ does not mean these are low priority stops for your Rouen day trip. A few of these are top sights in Rouen!

Gros Horloge

This famous clock in Rouen is an astronomical clock built in the 14 th century.  The mechanism inside is one of the oldest in France.  The clock originally only had an hour hand that traveled around a 24 hour face, and was cast in wrought iron.  Only later, 1529, was the façade that represents a sun with 24 rays on a starry background.  The dial also shows the phases of the moon and days of the week.  The clock was electrified in 1920.

Aitre St. Maclou

As of the summer of 2019 the Aitre St. Maclou is under renovation and only open for unpredictable times.  However, I look forward to visiting once the renovation in finished.  What seems to be a courtyard tucked away from the street is actually decorated with bones and skulls.  After the plague devastated Rouen, the cemeteries couldn’t hold all the dead.  Twice throughout history this space was used to bury the dead from plague.  When the second plague outbreak hit, the bones of the previously buried were dug up and moved to rooms above the cloister.  The new dead were then buried.  Today it is a unique, somewhat dark, but fascinating reminder of the struggles of the past.

Palais de Justice

The Palais de Justice was the seat of the Parliament of Normandy.  The earliest parts of the ornate building was begun in 1499 and not completed until the middle of the 16 th century.  It took terrible damage during World War II, but has been beautifully restored.

House of Exchequer

Without context this is a building you look at an automatically know it is historic and beautiful.  And it’s useful since today it houses the Rouen tourism office .  But beyond that, it can just seem a beautiful building across from the Notre Dame Cathedral.  However, this is actually the House of the Exchequer, an early Renaissance building from the early 16 th century.  It is now most famous for the fact that it was from this building that Claude Monet painted part of his Cathedral series.

Paris to Rouen Day Trip Train Travel

If you are considering a Paris to Rouen day trip, taking the train from Paris to Rouen is an easy and low-stress way to make it happen. Here are the relevant details to help you out:

Departure Train Station from Paris

Paris St. Lazare train station is where to take the train from Paris to Rouen.  Metro lines 3, 12, 13, & 14 all stop at Paris St. Lazare train station.

Train from Paris to Rouen Duration & Frequency

SCNF Trains runs more than 20 trains to Rouen Rive Droite station throughout the day, beginning at about 6am.  The trip between Paris and Rouen varies in length from 1 hour 12 minutes to 1 hour 41 minutes depending on the stops.  Only a very few trains make a change.

Special Note on Train from Paris to Rouen

Most train tickets for Paris to Rouen will actually be for a train that ends in Le Havre.   Rouen Rive Droite is the first stop on the trip between Paris and Le Havre.  When you are checking the departure screens in the train station for which platform your train is departing from, be sure to look for the train to Le Havre.  The stops of the train will scroll underneath, the first of which will be Rouen Rive Droite. 

Return Trains

Returning to Paris from your Rouen day trip is easy. Return trains are very frequent with final return train departing around 9pm.  (Do not rely on this your actual day of travel!  The schedule may be different based on day of week, time of year, and holiday and special event schedules!)

Rouen Train Station to Historic Sites

Once you arrive at Gare de Rouen, labeled as Gare Rue Verte on maps, there are two easy choices to reach the heart of the historic area:  Metro Rouen and Walking.

Walk to Historic Sites

From the Gare Rouen or Gare Rue Verte, you exit the station, and proceed directly onto Rue Jeanne d’Arc in front of the station.  If you follow Rue Jeanne d’Arc for about 10 minutes, you will be at the Palais de Justice, just steps from the Rue du Gros Horloge and the historic sites.

Metro Rouen

Taking the Metro from Gare rue Verte is not difficult.  The metro station is right under the train station, and is reached by taking the steps/escalator just inside the entrance to the station.  Once at the lower level, you can buy a ticket from the kiosk, and then proceed lower to the metro Rouen platform.

There are two lines for the metro Rouen, but they converge on the same track on this side of the river, so you can take either line from the train station to the historic area.  You can take the metro from Gare Rue Verte, one stop to Palais de Justice.  Once you exit this metro Rouen station, you are only one short block from Rue  de Gros Horloge and the main historic sites.

So, is Rouen worth visiting? Well, I definitely say yes. It might have been my favorite day trip from Paris by train when considering the wealth of history and sights and ease of travel. Hopefully this helps you make your own decision.

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5 thoughts on “ Paris to Rouen Day Trip (Is Rouen Worth Visiting?) ”

[…] What to see in a Rouen Day Trip […]

Love this! We visited the Normandy region recently, but didn’t have time for Rouen. We definitely missed a lot. BTW, where’s your home base? I didn’t see it in your bio.

I really enjoyed Rouen. This last time in Paris I spent most of my time doing day trips, and Rouen was my favorite. And, home for me is the Washington, DC area. 😊 Maybe I should put that somewhere!

[…] Rouen train station is not a large station, and is easily navigated if you are arriving on a Rouen day trip. Rue Verte runs along the west side of the station, then joins with Rue Pouchet in front of the […]

[…] -Megan from Wandertoes […]

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