The Best & Cheapest Way to Get from Paris to Rouen by Train

Is Rouen a good day trip from Paris and how do you get there by train?

Taking a day trip from Paris to Rouen by train is not only easy but relatively quick and totally doable.

Table of Contents

With regular trains starting early in the morning and a journey of just over an hour, it’s the perfect day trip from Paris that’s packed with history and gorgeous medieval buildings.

Although the streets of Paris hold a lot of appeal, they can also get very busy, especially in the tourist season at Christmas and in the summer.

Plus, there is so much more to France than just Paris.

A traveler clad in a wide-brimmed hat and a brown suede jacket, with a mustard yellow backpack, is standing on a train platform, looking over their shoulder at a stationary train. The station is covered with a glass roof and has architectural metal trusses, characteristic of European train stations.

Taking the train from Paris to Rouen

The App I use to book most of my trains in France is Trainline, as it’s handy to have everything on your phone.

Plus you’re getting live updates of any disruptions. Although, the trains in France are pretty good, to be honest, and I’ve never had a problem with them.

I’ve also used Omio, which is great for trains, buses, flights and ferries.

Your step-by-step guide on Paris to Rouen by train

Go to Paris Saint Lazare Station

Start your journey at Paris Saint Lazare Station, one of the main hubs for trains departing to various destinations in France. You will probably need to take the Metro to get there and the station you’ll be travelling to is Rouen Rive Droite.

Train Frequency and Timing

Trains to Rouen run frequently throughout the day. The first train departs at 5:46 AM, ideal for an early start. The last train returning from Rouen to Paris leaves at 21:01, allowing for a full day in Rouen.

Choosing Your Train

Several trains, including express options, are available for this route. Express trains, known as Train Nomad, significantly reduce travel time, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach Rouen Rive Droite.

Purchasing Tickets

Tickets can be purchased at the station or in advance online, although I recommend booking in advance using either Trainline or Omio as you’re likely to get a better deal.

Navigating Saint Lazare Station

Saint Lazare is a large station with 27 platforms and multiple levels, but the trains to Rouen usually leave from Level 1.

Arrival at Rouen Rive Droite

The station is located within the town centre, so it’s easy to explore Rouen’s attractions, many of which are within walking distance from the station.

Image of a grand historical train station facade with a prominent clock tower bearing two large clocks. The architecture is ornate with sculptures and detailed stone carvings, and the tower is topped with a green, illuminated lantern. The sky is clear and blue, accentuating the beige and stone hues of the building.

Alternative options for getting Rouen from Paris

Of course, trains aren’t the only option for your trip to Rouen. You also have the option of renting a car and driving or catching a bus.

Paris to Rouen at a Glance

Train: 1 hour, 22 minutes, approx 20€ (quickest)
Bus: 1 hour, 35 minutes, as little as 4€ (cheapest)
Car: 1 hour, 40 minutes, 80 miles/130 km (most flexible)

Paris to Rouen By Bus

Taking the bus is much cheaper, but also considerably longer, so if you’re only spending one day in Rouen, I’d recommend taking the train. However, if you’re watching your budget then the bus is a great option.

The best advice I can give you when it comes to taking a bus to Rouen is to think about the time of day and traffic conditions, as these can significantly affect your travel time.

Bus Companies

Various companies operate bus services between Paris and Rouen. Popular options include FlixBus and BlaBlaBus, with the latter being available on Omio. Each company has its own schedule and pricing, so it’s advisable to compare them for the best fit for your itinerary and budget.

Departure Points in Paris

Bus departure points can vary depending on the bus company. Common departure locations in Paris include Bercy Seine Bus Station, Porte Maillot Coach Park, and Gallieni International Bus Station.

Journey Duration

The bus journey from Paris to Rouen typically takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken.

Ticket Booking

Tickets can be purchased online or at the bus station. Advanced booking is recommended to secure a seat, especially during peak travel times.

Arrival in Rouen

Buses usually arrive at the Rouen Bus Station, located near the city centre. From the bus station, you can access local public transportation or walk to many of the city’s attractions.

Alt text: "A modern city bus with a green and yellow color scheme travels across a cobblestone bridge in an urban setting. The background features the ornate architecture of a historic building with intricate details and a mansard roof, suggestive of a French cityscape under a grey, overcast sky.

Paris to Rouen By Car

Travelling from Paris to Rouen by car is another option if you want more flexibility and would like to explore more of Normandy, which, I recommend you do if you have time as it is packed with history with so many beautiful little villages.

If you’re thinking of hiring a car, I recommend Discover Cars. I’ve used them myself, and pretty much every time, their options are quite a bit cheaper than other car rental search engines, or even going direct to the rental car company.

Route and Distance

The distance from Paris to Rouen is approximately 80 miles/130 kilometres, and the most common route is via the A13 motorway, which is a direct and efficient path.

Travel Time

The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Traffic can be heavier during peak hours and on weekends, so I’d recommend leaving either before or after rush hour. Paris traffic is a nightmare.

Tolls

Unfortunately, the A13 is a toll motorway. The toll cost varies, but expect to pay a fee for using this route. Just make sure you have your credit or debit card handy.

Luckily, I have a French car, but if you’re driving a right-hand drive car without any passengers, you’ll need to get out of the car to pay the toll. It’s a pain but, no way around it really.

Crit’Air Emissions Sticker

The Crit’Air system is used in many French cities to limit pollution. It requires all vehicles to display an emissions sticker indicating the vehicle’s environmental impact.

If you’re renting a car, this should be taken care of, but it’s worth checking. Rouen requires you to have the Crit’Air emissions sticker. It’s not expensive, and I think ours, for a three-year-old Citroen, was only 3.76€

Parking in Rouen

Parking in Rouen isn’t easy. When I went to Rouen, I drove, and the owner of the apartment we were staying in told me it was free to park on the streets on a Sunday, which was the day we arrived.

However, driving in the centre is horrible as there are a lot of one-way and pedestrianised areas. My suggestion is to know the car park you’re going to park in before you arrive so you can head straight there. Below are some car parks to try:

Parking de la Pucelle: This is where I parked, and it is close to the Place Jeanne d’Arc and the historic Jeanne d’Arc Church. We kept our car there for three nights, and it was good because they had CCTV. It was also not expensive so, recommend parking here for ease, cost and safety.
Parking Vieux-Marché – Cathédrale: Located near the Rouen Cathedral and the historic Vieux-Marché (Old Market) area, this underground car park is ideal for those visiting the city’s central attractions.
Parking Palais de Justice: Situated close to the Palais de Justice and other administrative buildings, this car park is convenient for accessing the northern part of the city centre.
Parking Théâtre des Arts: Located near the Rouen Opera House and the Théâtre des Arts, this car park is a good choice for those attending events at these venues or exploring the nearby shopping and dining areas.

A quaint street lined with traditional half-timbered houses, characteristic of certain historical regions in France. The buildings are multi-story, with the upper floors often jutting out over the lower ones, displaying the typical wood and plaster exterior that forms a pattern of vertical, horizontal, and diagonal lines. The ground floors appear to be commercial spaces, some of which are cafes with outdoor seating comprising tables and chairs, now unoccupied. The street is cobblestoned, and despite the absence of people, the presence of open business signs suggests daytime. The sky is clear, hinting at good weather. This setting evokes a sense of stepping back in time and is typical of the architecture found in Rouen, a city in Normandy, France.

Why Taking a Rouen Day Trip from Paris is Worth It

Proximity and Accessibility: The distance from Paris to Rouen is 80 miles/130 km, and just over an hour away from Paris by train. The frequency of trains and the direct route from Paris Saint Lazare to Rouen Rive Droite make it an easily accessible destination for a day trip.

Rich Historical Significance: Rouen is steeped in history. It’s known for its Gothic architecture, including the famous Rouen Cathedral. And the Gros Horlage Clock is worth seeing too. It also holds importance as the site where Joan of Arc was tried and executed. Plus, the old half-timbered houses are stunning. You’ll be whipping your camera out at every turn.

Compact City Centre: Rouen is a very walkable city, with much of it pedestrianised. It’s easy to find your way around and to get to all the big sights, including the Gros Horloge, the medieval quarter, and several museums, within a single day.

A woman stands on the steps of the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Rouen, France. The museum entrance displays classic architecture with a grand arched doorway and a large window above. Two vertical banners featuring artwork flank the entrance, announcing the museum's focus on fine arts. The stone façade and intricate decorative elements above the door give the building a dignified presence.

Culinary Experience: Rouen was awarded the UNESCO Award for Gastronomy and has over 650 restaurants to choose from. What’s not to love about a city with such a wide range of culinary experiences? Plus, you’ll get to try some of the yummy Normandy dishes and indulge in the fabulous Normandy camembert.

Artistic Heritage: The city’s artistic heritage, influenced by impressionist painters, adds another layer of appeal. Claude Monet’s fascination with the Rouen Cathedral led him to paint more than 30 canvases of the structure between 1892 and 1894.

Less Crowded: Compared to Paris, Rouen is generally less crowded, offering a more relaxed atmosphere for tourists to enjoy their day without the hustle and bustle of a big city.

FAQS: Getting to Rouen from Paris by train

Which Paris train station goes to Rouen?

Trains to Rouen depart from Paris Saint Lazare station and go to Rouen Rive Droite. This station provides regular service to Rouen, making it a convenient option for travelers.

How much is a train ticket from Paris to Rouen?

The cost of a train ticket from Paris to Rouen typically ranges from €10 to €35, depending on the class, time of booking, and travel date. Prices can vary based on peak times and availability. It’s advisable to book in advance for the best rates.

Is one day enough for Rouen?

No one day isn’t enough to see all that Rouen has to offer. I’d suggest spending three days to ensure you have time to see everything and enjoy the great restaurant scene in Rouen.

How long is the train ride from Paris to Rouen, France?

The train ride from Paris to Rouen, France, typically takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Travel times may vary slightly depending on the specific train service and schedule.

Final thoughts on getting to Rouen from Paris

If you have time during your trip to Paris for a day trip, I highly recommend going to Rouen. Catching the train from Paris to Rouen is easy, quick and inexpensive.

Rouen itself is stunning, so if you get the chance to stay over I’d jump at it. The streets catapult you back in time leaving you feeling as if you’ve entered a period in history.

As you can tell, I loved my trip to Rouen and can’t wait to return to discover more. Three days here just weren’t enough. I didn’t even make a dent in the restaurants, so that is a good enough reason to make the trip back.

So hopefully you can see now that Paris isn’t the only city to visit in France and there are lots of great destinations under an hour by train to add to your list.