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?
What you will see
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.
How much time to allow
To admire the church in detail, while reading the explanatory panels, allow between 1h and 1h30 for the visit.
More information on Rouen Cathedral
Opening hours:
- 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
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.
What you will see
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.
How much time to allow
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
Opening hours:
- 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
- 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.
What you will see
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.
How much time to allow
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 thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
5. Follow in the footsteps of Joan of Arc
Why visit the Joan of Arc monuments in Rouen?
Joan of Arc is one of the city’s most emblematic figures. She is a national heroine revered for her role as military leader during the Hundred Years’ War and her martyrdom in Rouen. Visiting the historic capital of Normandy, we were able to relive crucial moments in his life. At the Joan of Arc Museum, we were transported back to 1431, when she was tried and sentenced to death.
What you will see
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.
How much time to allow
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.
What you will see
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.
How much time to allow
We recommend you allow 30 minutes to visit the abbey.
Further information on Abbatiale Saint-Ouen
Opening hours:
- 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?
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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.
What you will see
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?
How much time to allow
We recommend you allow 1 hour for a complete tour of the garden.
More information on the Jardin des Plantes in Rouen
Opening hours:
- 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!
What you will see
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!
How much time to allow
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
Opening hours:
- open daily from 2pm 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 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!
What you will see
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.
How much time to allow
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!
DISCOVER Rouen
- Best things to do in Rouen: 15 ideas
- 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
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.
What you will see
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.
How much time to allow
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
Whytry 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!
What you will see
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!
How much time to allow
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.
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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!
What you will see
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!
How much time to allow
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.
What you will see
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 much time to allow
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!
What you will see
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!
How much time to allow
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!
What you will see
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!
How much time to allow
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
Rates:
The museum is free, as are all the city’s public museums. It also hosts temporary exhibitions for which a charge may be made.
Opening hours:
- 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!
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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.
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 thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
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 of
Practice
- 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.
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 thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
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!
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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.
