Are you planning a trip to the Normandy capital and love art in all its forms? Visit Rouen’s 10 museums to learn more about the city’s rich history and culture!
Whether you’re passionate about iron, ceramics, painting, sculpture, literature, science or history, the conurbation has a multitude of museums to visit. We came across representations of the emblematic Joan of Arc and great figures of Impressionism such as Claude Monet!
In this article, we give you our photo tips for visiting the 10 best museums in Rouen. Sharing our experiences will help you better organize your visits.
These reviews are completely independent, we visited anonymously and paid our entrance fees in full.
Tips for visiting Rouen’s best museums
Rouen museum map
The reality of Rouen’s museums
The heart of Normandy’s capital is home to a number of museums, each more fascinating than the last. You’re bound to find a museum to suit your preferences. In fact, we’ve written an article listing the must-do activities for your stay in Rouen.
Discover our 10 favorite museums, a journey through the art, history and culture of this historic city. It’s an enriching experience that will give you a better understanding of the town’s heritage and an appreciation of the region’s artistic diversity.
Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, appropriate clothing and hydration before you set off!
Our favorite places
Before diving into the in-depth analysis of each museum, we had to share our favorite spots with you!
- Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen: we were impressed by the richness and diversity of the collections. From the master of chiaroscuro, Caravaggio, to the master of impressionism, Claude Monet, there was only one step!
- Joan of Arc Museum (Historial ): we loved delving into the story of this young heroine. A city icon you must (re)discover!
- Musée de la ferronnerie (Le Secq des Tournelles): we were seduced by this place, even though we weren’t particularly keen on the art of iron. A real favorite that we wanted to share with you!
Rouen Pass: 24h, 48h or 72h
Since June 2023, you can explore the city with the Rouen Pass. Available in 24h, 48h or 72h formulas, this tourist pass offers special rates on public transport, guided tours, sites and monuments, cruises, accommodation and restaurants. Among the museums included in this pass are the Historial Jeanne d’Arc, and temporary exhibitions at the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Musée Industriel de la Corderie Vallois. Visit their official website to find out more.
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
1. Joan of Arc Museum (Historial)
Why visit it? Our review
Through an immersive journey, the museum invites visitors to discover the story of Joan of Arc. It focuses on the period from the end of his life to his posterity. The palace itself was the setting for the 2 trials of the famous Pucelle d’Orléans. She was burnt alive in 1431 in the Place du Vieux-Marché, aged just 19 at the time. With 1,000m2 dedicated to a spectacular and innovative tour, we’re convinced that the Historial will become a must-see venue in Rouen!
The 3 things to see during your visit
It’s hard to choose what we liked best about our visit, so innovative was it? But here are a few of our favorites:
- the second trial of Joan of Arc: the original staging and changing rooms made it easier to grasp and retain the historical information.
- the panorama from the Watchtower: the climb to the top of the tower is well worth it. It offers superb views of Rouen’s main monuments.
- the cabinet of curiosities: we found this space very amusing, displaying all sorts of unusual objects bearing the effigy of the town’s heroine.
Practical advice
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 7pm.
- Closed Mondays, January 1, May 1 and December 25.
- Included in the Rouen Pass.
- Suitable for children.
- Length of visit: 2 hours.
- Full adult price: €11.
- Link to the official museum website.
2. Rouen Museum of Fine Arts
Why visit it? Our review
We highly recommend a visit to this museum. It houses one of France’s most prestigious public collections. We discovered incredible paintings, sculptures and other objets d’art dating from the 15th century to the present day. It is also home to works by such great artists as Rubens, Caravaggio, Velázquez, Géricault, Delacroix, Monet and Modigliani: Rubens, Caravaggio, Velázquez, Géricault, Delacroix, Monet and Modigliani. The list is not exhaustive. Our visit took us into different artistic worlds. What a pleasure it is to be able to enjoy such diversity within the museum!
The 3 things to see during your visit
We’d like to share with you our 3 favorite moments during our visit:
- the Joan of Arc exhibition, highlighting a great woman in history.
- the play of light on paintings by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, known as Caravaggio.
- the poetry that emanates from “Champ de coquelicots, environs de Giverny” by Impressionist master Claude Monet.
Practical advice
- Open daily from 10am to 6pm, except Tuesdays.
- Closed on January 1, May 1, November 1 and 11 and December 25.
- Temporary exhibitions included with the Rouen Pass.
- Suitable for children.
- Tour duration: 1h30min.
- Free admission.
- Link to the official museum website.
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
3. Gros Horloge Museum
Why visit it? Our review
If you can admire the clock of this historic monument from the Gros Horloge shopping street, it would be a shame not to visit. Learn more about the city’s influence during the Renaissance. Did you know that Rouen was France’s 2nd largest city until the 17th century? We were fascinated by the clock mechanism and the discovery of the bells. What an opportunity to observe them from the inside! Last but not least, you can enjoy the finest panoramic view of the Normandy capital. For all these reasons, we’ve listed it in our article 15 must-do activities in Rouen.
The 3 things to see during your visit
We were charmed by this place. Here’s our selection of favorites from the Musée du Gros-Horloge:
- the discovery of the clock mechanism, a veritable jewel of engineering.
- The explanations of the different sections of the dial were also very interesting, and helped us to better understand how it works.
- the breathtaking view of Rouen and its magnificent cathedral from the top of the tower. It was a magical moment that we loved.
Practical advice
- Open April to September, 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 7pm, and October to March, 2pm to 6pm.
- Closed Mondays, January 1, May 1, November 1 and December 25.
- Suitable for children.
- Duration of visit: 1 hour.
- Full adult price: €7.50.
4. Musée de la ferronnerie (Le Secq des Tournelles)
Why visit it? Our review
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 highly recommend a visit here. Although we weren’t particularly interested in ironwork, we fell in love with the place.
The 3 things to see during your visit
The museum never ceased to surprise us from start to finish! Here’s a short list of our favorite moments:
- the incredible view of the nave: this vast space is a clever blend of Gothic architecture and unique ironwork.
- the magic staircase: beautifully crafted, this huge iron structure is incredibly beautiful. It blends in perfectly with the decor of the former Gothic church. Unfortunately you won’t be able to stand on it, as it seems to float in the air!
- unlikely iron parts: have you ever seen miniature pistols or travel coffee grinders? This unique museum is full of surprises you won’t soon forget!
Practical advice
- Open daily from 2pm to 6pm, except Tuesdays.
- Closed on January 1, May 1, November 1 and 11 and December 25.
- Suitable for children.
- Duration of visit: 45min.
- Free admission.
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. Ceramics Museum
Why visit it? Our review
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 3 things to see during your visit
The collection was varied and interesting, but if we had to pick out 3 items that particularly stood out for us..:
- products from the Masséot Abaquesne workshop in Rouen: you can see magnificent pavement tiles (floor coverings used to decorate medieval buildings, both religious and secular) from the Château d’Écouen on display on the walls.
- works from the Manufacture de Sèvres, full of finesse and eccentricity.
- original contemporary pieces from highly creative minds, such as the plate pictured below entitled “Vanité aux plantes de pieds” by ceramist Valérie Delarue.
Practical advice
- Open daily from 2pm to 6pm, except Tuesdays.
- Closed on January 1, May 1, November 1 and 11 and December 25.
- Suitable for children.
- Duration of visit: 45min.
- Free admission.
Link to our dedicated article (coming soon).
6. Museum of Antiquities
Why visit it? Our review
At the Museum of Antiquities, we were immersed in history through the centuries. You’ll discover unique objects that bear witness to the daily lives of past civilizations. From Roman sculptures to medieval ceramics, each piece offers a captivating insight into the cultural evolution of different regions of the world. It was a very enriching experience that gave us a better appreciation of the region’s historical heritage.
The 3 things to see during your visit
In our opinion, there are 3 things you shouldn’t miss when exploring the area:
- the museum’s unique architecture: housed in the former convent of the Visitation Sainte-Marie, the place is incredible. Within the building, the play of light is impressive, thanks to the superb colored stained glass windows.
- the Oissel treasure: a significant testimony to the circulation of money in Normandy during the Hundred Years’ War, this is one of the most important local treasures of the late Middle Ages.
- the origins of writing: the museum’s Mesopotamian and Egyptian collections feature Sumerian cuneiform tablets and authentic hieroglyphs.
Practical advice
- Open Tuesday to Saturday, 1:30pm to 5:30pm, and Sunday, 2pm to 6pm.
- Closed on January 1, May 1, November 1 and 11 and December 25.
- Suitable for children.
- Duration of visit: 1 hour.
- Free admission.
Link to our dedicated article (coming soon).
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. Flaubert Museum and History of Medicine
Why visit it? Our review
This museum offers a fascinating insight into the world of writer Gustave Flaubert and the history of medicine. In visiting this place, we explored the different facets of the author’s life and work. Discover the Flaubert house and its family secrets! What’s more, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the history of medicine through rich exhibits and unusual objects. It’s a unique experience that combines literature and science, two fields of major cultural importance.
The 3 things to see during your visit
Combining literature and science, the museum won us over with its singularity. We think this is a must during your visit:
- observe Jean-Baptiste Laumonier’s anatomical waxes, which are particularly realistic and rather repulsive,
- identify objects that belonged to Gustave Flaubert and his family,
- explore the apothecary and immerse yourself in the world of pharmacy.
Practical advice
- Open Tuesdays from 10am to 12:30pm and 2pm to 6pm, and Wednesdays to Saturdays from 2pm to 6pm.
- Closed Sundays and Mondays, and all public holidays.
- Suitable for children.
- Duration of visit: 1 hour.
- Free admission.
In fact, if you want to extend your experience with the author, we strongly recommend staying at the Hôtel Littéraire Gustave Flaubert. It is featured in our article on the best hotels in Rouen.
Link to our article on the Musée Flaubert et d’histoire de la médecine (coming soon).
8. Pierre Corneille Museum (Birthplace)
Why visit it? Our review
Pierre Corneille’s birthplace is a must-see for lovers of literature and theater. It was in this historic house that one of France’s greatest playwrights was born on June 6, 1606. A visit to this place steeped in history will enable you to discover the environment in which he grew up and drew his inspiration. Personal objects, manuscripts and period documents are on display, offering a unique insight into the life and work of this immense writer. It’s an invaluable opportunity to immerse yourself in Corneille’s world and better understand his cultural heritage.
The 3 things to see during your visit
During our tour of the museum, we were struck by 3 factors that you absolutely must see on your visit:
- Édouard Pelay’s Cornelian collection: a great bibliophile, he owned rare first editions and an extensive iconography of the writer and his family,
- Pierre Corneille’s ebony cabinet: this small piece of furniture in the Louis XIII style is the only object to have belonged to the writer,
- A model of Rouen’s Old Market in 1525: an attempt at a reconstruction based on “Le Livre des Fontaines” by Jacques Le Lieur.
Practical advice
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, 2pm to 6pm.
- Open by reservation only, Tuesday to Friday, 9am to 12pm.
- Suitable for children.
- Duration of visit: 45min.
- Free admission.
- Link to the official museum website.
Would you like to extend your literary experience in Rouen? If so, we recommend staying at the Hôtel Littéraire Gustave Flaubert, which we really liked!
Coming soon, our article on the Musée Pierre Corneille.
9. National Museum of Education
Why visit it? Our review
It’s the place to be if you want to understand the evolution of education in France. A visit to this museum allows you to explore the history of teaching through a rich collection of objects, documents and testimonials. A reconstructed classroom immersed us in the atmosphere of the time. We could relive the experience of the students of yesteryear. In addition, interactive exhibits and fun activities made the visit informative and entertaining for the whole family. It’s a unique opportunity to understand the importance of education in our society and how it has evolved over time.
The 3 things to see during your visit
We found these collections very interesting, but if we had to remember just 3 things..:
- the reconstructed classroom circa 1900, with vintage desks and school smocks hanging on the wall, we took a real leap back in time!
- the art of calligraphy, we were struck by the finesse of the strokes used to trace the letters of the alphabet.
- the “bons points” system, small printed papers used to award points to good students at the time.
Practical advice
- Open Mondays and Wednesdays to Fridays from 1:30pm to 6:15pm, and weekends from 10am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 6:15pm.
- Closed on Tuesdays, January 1, May 1, August 15, November 1, December 24, 25 and 31.
- Ideal for children: dedicated activities.
- Duration of visit: 1h30.
- Free admission.
Link to our dedicated article (coming soon).
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10. Rouen Maritime, River and Port Museum
Why visit it? Our review
Located on the banks of the Seine, this museum immerses visitors in the city’s maritime history. Here, you can discover the importance of the river and the port of Rouen through ship models and authentic maritime objects. We learned more about the trades involved in navigation, importing and exporting goods, and the evolution of navigation techniques.
The 3 things to see during your visit
Housed in a former storage shed on the quays of the Seine, this museum really appealed to us. We immersed ourselves in Rouen’s maritime world and better understood its key role in the region’s development. These were the highlights of our visit:
- the whale skeleton: hanging from the museum’s ceiling, we could observe this magnificent specimen that washed up in the area in 1927.
- the Vikings exhibition: we learned more about the characteristics of their ships, their expeditions and their invasions of Normandy.
- the Thibault collection: an impressive collection of over 200 ship models, including some of the most famous of the 20th century.
Practical advice
- Further from downtown (35min walk).
- Open Tuesday to Thursday, 1:30 to 4:30 pm, and Friday to Sunday, 2:00 to 5:00 pm.
- Closed January 1, May 1, December 24, 25 and 31.
- Ideal for children: dedicated activities.
- Duration of visit: 1h30.
- Full adult price: €5.
- Link to the official museum website.
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…
Museums to do with children
Museum of Natural History
If you’re looking for an educational experience, this museum boasts an impressive collection of fascinating specimens. It’s an ideal destination for a family visit, as you can discover the diversity of nature. Children will be curious about the animal species, minerals and fossils on display. It’s an enriching experience that will stimulate their curiosity and interest in the natural world. We really enjoyed visiting this place.
Coming soon, our article on Rouen’s Natural History Museum.
Musée L’Atrium
Further from the city center, this science museum offers a wide variety of fun and educational activities. Children can enjoy interactive play areas and discover scientific exhibits. Their senses will also be stimulated, as will their creativity and curiosity. We found this place to be particularly suitable for learning, but in a fun way. To find out more, visit their official website.
Other museums around Rouen
If you’d like to explore Rouen’s surrounding area in search of other museums to discover, here are our recommendations.
Musée de la Corderie Vallois (Notre-Dame-de-Bondeville)
Just a 20-minute drive from the heart of Rouen, the Musée Industriel de la Corderie Vallois is well worth a visit. We found this visit an interesting way of learning about the history of rope and cable manufacture, and the techniques used. We were able to contemplate the rope factory’s old machinery: cabling loom, winding machine, braiding machines and other technical tools. What’s more, if you have the Rouen Pass, you’ll have access to the museum’s temporary exhibitions.
Fire Brigade Museum (Montville)
Located a 30-minute drive from downtown Rouen, we found this museum both educational and useful. It’s an interesting way to discover the history and missions of these everyday heroes. You can explore vehicles, observe uniforms and equipment used by firefighters, and learn more about their vital role in protecting the community. To find out more, visit their official website.
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.
Where to eat in Rouen
The capital of Normandy boasts an excellent range of restaurants. There’s something for every taste and budget. Here’s our small selection specially designed for you:
- Restaurant L’Odas – excellent Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking Rouen Cathedral. We have devoted an article to this magnificent building.
- Restaurant Le Jehanne at the Blu Radisson Hotel – quality cuisine in a relaxed chic setting.
- Restaurant L’Épicurius – bistronomic cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
- Café Pâtisserie EMJI – a delicious sweet break in the heart of Rouen.
- Salon de thé Dame Cakes – gourmet pastries accompanied by a fine range of beverages.
Discover our article on the best restaurants to eat in Rouen.
All our tips in this article were put into words with the help of Elisa.
