Exploring Rouen: A Perfect Day Trip in Normandy
Rouen is a quick trip from Paris, just over an hour by train. The capital of Normandy, it’s full of history and charm. Walking through its cobbled streets, you’ll find striking Gothic churches, half-timbered houses, and lively squares.
The city is compact, so you can explore most of it on foot. Bring comfortable shoes – you’ll be walking on lots of cobblestones! Here’s a quick guide on what to see, eat, and do for a memorable visit to Rouen.
Rouen Cathedral
Rouen Cathedral is the highlight of any trip there. It’s tall, Gothic, and detailed, with spires reaching over 150 meters. Officially known as the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, it’s a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and one of the tallest churches in France. Built over centuries, it mixes different styles, from early Gothic to Flamboyant. In the 19th century, the cathedral suffered bomb damage but was later restored.
Inside, you’ll see stunning stained-glass windows and historical tombs, including that of Richard the Lionheart (his heart, actually).
Claude Monet painted this cathedral over 30 times, capturing how its look changes with the light. Stand across the square for the same view that inspired him.
The Old Town
Rouen’s Old Town has narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses, painted in pastels or striking blues and reds. Many buildings date back to the Middle Ages, but today they house modern shops and cozy cafés.
Stroll down Rue du Gros-Horloge to see Rouen’s giant medieval clock, one of Rouen’s most iconic landmarks. A large, ornate astronomical clock dating back to the 14th century and sitting on a beautiful archway. The gold-and-blue face displays time, moon phases, and even the days of the week, each symbolized by mythological figures.
You can climb the clock’s bell tower for panoramic views of Rouen’s rooftops and spires.
Joan of Arc
Rouen is where Joan of Arc was tried and burned at the stake in 1431. Visit the Historial Jeanne d’Arc, a museum that tells her story through interactive displays and holograms.
Just around the corner, you’ll find the Place du Vieux-Marché, the spot where she was executed. A modern church, Église Sainte-Jeanne-d’Arc, stands there now, with grand architecture and stained glass salvaged from other churches in Normandy.
Art Museum
For art lovers, Rouen’s Musée des Beaux-Arts is a must. It’s free and holds works from famous artists like Monet, Sisley, and Caravaggio. You’ll find everything from classic portraits to Impressionist landscapes, with an entire room dedicated to Monet’s Rouen Cathedral paintings. It’s quiet and easy to explore, great for a relaxing afternoon.
More Sights to See
Besides the cathedral, you can visit the Saint-Ouen Abbey Church and the Saint-Maclou Church, two impressive Gothic sites.
Nearby, the Aître Saint-Maclou is a unique courtyard that once served as a cemetery for victims of the Black Death, with haunting yet fascinating carvings.
For some greenery, stroll through the Town Hall Garden or Square Verdrel, or go to the Jardin des Plantes, a large botanical garden.
Where to Eat
For local specialties, try a crêpe at one of the many crêperies or taste Camembert cheese from Normandy. You can also head to Rue Eaux-de-Robec for excellent ramen spots, or check out the Mediterranean restaurants around town.
If you’re a beer fan, stop by L’Antre du Malt on a quiet piazza by a church, they have a great beer selection and a cozy atmosphere.
Seine walks
The Seine River flows through Rouen, you can have a nice walk along its banks. There are several bridges to cross with lovely views of the city and floating boats.
Check out the south bank quays at Presqu’île Rollet along the Seine, great for a quiet walk by the water. In the evening, the lights along the river create a cozy atmosphere, with many locals strolling.
The duck à l’orange is another regional favorite. Also make sure you sample a tarte normande, a simple and delicious apple tart topped with cream.