10 Things To Do In Rouen France You Can Do In A Weekend

Rouen is a city that doesn’t disappoint but is a weekend long enough?

In a word, no. There are so many things to do in Rouen that personally, I don’t think a weekend is long enough to do the city justice.

After spending a weekend in Rouen recently I left knowing I had only scratched the surface and I can’t wait to go back.

It has over 2,000 years of history and more stunning half-timbered buildings than you can shake a stick at. Plus, it’s only an hour’s train ride away from Paris. Perfect as a day trip too.

I didn’t know much about Rouen before I went, other than it was the place where Jeanne d’Arc (Joan of Arc) was burnt at the stake. But there is so much more to this city than that.

For a start, did you know that Rouen has been awarded the Unesco Creative City gastronomic label? And I’m not surprised, as the food here is insanely good.

Let’s dive in and discover why Rouen is a city you’ll want to not only visit but come back to time and time again.

A stunning elevated view of Rouen, showcasing the intricate Gothic architecture of Rouen Cathedral, which dominates the skyline with its elaborate spire. The cathedral's complex façade and flying buttresses are visible against a moody sky, suggesting either early morning or late afternoon light. In the foreground, traditional half-timbered houses with steeply pitched roofs, typical of Normandy's architectural style, cluster tightly together. The muted tones of the buildings, consisting of browns, beiges, and greys, complement the historic and somber atmosphere of the scene. The overall image captures the essence of Rouen's historical charm, blending imposing religious structures with the quaint, cozy feel of the city's old residential buildings.

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Is Rouen worth visiting?

That’s an easy question to answer YES Rouen is definitely worth visiting. From the moment you step foot on the cobbled stones, you’re transported back in time to medieval France.

It’s impossible to not be impressed by the history here. The streets are lined with half-timbered buildings of all shapes and sizes. And the thing I love is that none of them are straight or symmetrical.

Being from England I’m used to seeing similar buildings, but to see so many like this everywhere you look takes your breath away.

And most of the centre is pedestrianised so you’re not worried about cars, which is great.

However, don’t try to drive your car into the centre of Rouen like we did. It was a nightmare. Everywhere is one way, and bollards stop you from going on many of the streets.

My Sat Nav was telling me to drive down streets I couldn’t actually get to. I ended up dumping it in an underground car park and leaving it there till the end of our trip.

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.

Where is Rouen?

Rouen is located in northern France, sitting along the banks of the Seine River. It’s the capital of the Normandy region and is situated about 135 kilometres northwest of Paris.

The Stats about Rouen at a glance

As part of my trip, I met with Yannick from the Tourist Board in Rouen, who was beyond helpful. She arranged a couple of tours for me, as well as providing some great restaurant recommendations.

The front of a traditional French bakery, 'Artisan Boulanger,' located in a half-timbered building characteristic of some historical French towns. The upper stories of the building feature a timber frame with white infill, while the ground floor showcases a large window displaying an array of bread and pastries, illuminating the shop's interior with warm light. A red sandwich board stands on the pavement, advertising the bakery's offerings alongside a tall red chair and small table, suggesting a place for customers to enjoy a quick bite. The shop sign features a classic French baguette, adding to the authentic ambiance.

I was amazed to hear that Rouen has 12 museums you can visit for free. Most cities have one day a month when they offer free entry, such as in Bordeaux where it’s the first Sunday of the month, but in Rouen, this is the case 7 days a week.

There were also a few other fascinating stats that made me realise just how much this city has going for it.

The highest spire in France 151 m Cathédrale Notre-Dame
2,000 timber-framed buildings
228 listed buildings
67 stars in the Michelin Guide
A UNESCO for food culture
650 restaurants and 196 bars
Listed as a Villes et Pays d’art et d’histoire for its heritage and art

The 10 BEST Things To Do in Rouen in a Weekend

Before we dive into the list of my recommendations for what to do in Rouen, I should just say that three days just weren’t enough.

You can certainly pack in all the highlights, but with 650 restaurants, cruises on the Seine, 500 km of walking trails and the first Impressionist collection outside the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, I needed a few more days.

A tabletop scene from a visitor's perspective in Rouen. There is a cup of cappuccino with a heart-shaped design in the foam, sprinkled with chocolate, accompanied by a small packet of sugar. To the right, there's a stylish souvenir coaster with the word "ROUEN" in bold, decorative lettering. An audio guide device with buttons lies next to the coaster, indicating the availability of an audio tour. In the background, a folded brochure advertises an "Audio-Guided Visit from Rouen," available in multiple languages, including English, as denoted by the UK flag. This setting suggests a leisurely break during a touristic exploration of Rouen, combining the enjoyment of a local café with the cultural experience of the city.

No 1 Discover Vieux Rouen

It was love at first sight for me. Everywhere you look in Rouen, there is something to see. With 2,000 half-timbered buildings, there are so many Instagram moments that you end up whipping your camera out every couple of minutes to document it all.

The houses and buildings are all different colours and, even shops like Subway looked pretty due to being part of an old building.

You’ll notice that some houses have a second floor that overhangs the first. These houses were built in the 16th century, but because the streets were so narrow, it meant the houses opposite each other were almost touching.

By the 17th century, it was considered a fire hazard, so they started building houses with a flat second floor.

A picturesque cobblestone street in Rouen, France, flanked by distinctive half-timbered houses. The house on the left is particularly striking, with its upper stories dramatically leaning to one side, showcasing the historical settling of buildings over time. Its timber frames are filled with cream and brown colors, and it features slate grey roofing. To the right is another half-timbered building with pink and grey hues. Outdoor seating from a café spills onto the sidewalk in the foreground, inviting a moment of leisure. The gloomy sky above suggests overcast weather. The presence of these well-preserved medieval structures provides a window into the architectural heritage of Rouen, contributing to its charm as a historical destination.

The most famous house is at 4, place Barthélémy on the corner of rue Damiette called The Leaning House. It’s a 17th-century building that, as the name would suggest, has a real lean to it and slopes.

It’s thought that this happened due to the destruction of some houses around it when the square was built. It looks as though it could topple over at any minute, but it makes for a great picture.

We were staying bang smack in the centre near the antique area on Rue des Chanoines, which was the passageway for the monks.

The storefront of 'Dame Cakes,' a tea room in Rouen, France. The sign above the entrance features elegant wrought-iron work and sophisticated script against a black background. Beneath a decorative awning labeled "SALON de THÉ" is a beautiful wooden door flanked by large windows showcasing an inviting display of cakes and pastries. The door is adorned with intricate carvings, and a lush flower arrangement sits above the awning, adding a splash of color to the façade. A sandwich board sign stands on the cobblestone pavement in front, hinting at a cozy spot where visitors can enjoy tea and homemade sweets. The architecture and décor suggest a blend of traditional craftsmanship with a touch of luxury, inviting passersby to step in and savor the delicacies within.

One end led straight to the cathedral, and this street had some fascinating shops with the most beautiful antiques.

But my favourite was Dame Cakes Tea Room (Salon de Thé). It was originally the workshop of a famous ironworker, Ferdinand Marrou.

And I can highly recommend trying the hot chocolate and a selection of Madeleines, simply delicious.

No 2 The Gros Horloge (Clock Tower)

This image features the Gros Horloge, an iconic astronomical clock in Rouen, France. The clock face is ornate, with gold embellishments and Roman numerals, set against a dark, detailed background. Above the clock is a small golden sun sculpture, and the entire piece is framed by an elaborate arch with classical architectural details. To the left, the edge of a half-timbered building is visible, contrasting with the clock's grandeur.

I’d heard a lot about this astronomical clock, and I was keen to see it as it is one of the oldest in France. The clock’s bell tower was built in 1389, and it’s set within a Renaissance arch over the Rue du Gros-Horloge.

As you look at it, you’ll see that the clock is set against a blue starry background, and the 24 hours are represented by the sun’s rays.

Above the dial is a globe featuring the phases of the moon, and if you look carefully, you’ll see a lamb in the centre underneath the dial representing the city’s arms.

Rouen is known for its wool, so sheep play an important part in the history and culture.

This image showcases a wider view of the Rue du Gros-Horloge in Rouen, with the Gros Horloge visible on the right. The intricate details of the arch and the clock are more apparent from this angle. The street is lined with traditional half-timbered buildings, and cobblestones pave the way. The historical architecture of the area provides a sense of Rouen's rich past, with modern elements subtly integrated, like the bollards at the street's edge.

The Gros Horloge and its belfry have been listed as historic monuments since 1862. Inside is a museum of the clockmaker’s workshop, the bells, weights, machinery, and the dome of the bell tower.

You get panoramic views of the city and the Rouen Cathedral from the upper terrace. There is a small fee of €7.50 to go in, and you’ll need to check opening times on the website.

No 3 Rouen Cathedral (Notre Dame)

The photograph showcases the magnificent facade of Rouen Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Rouen) with its intricate Gothic architecture. The cathedral towers with its spires reaching towards the cloudy sky, and a detailed rose window is partially visible. In the foreground, a contemporary metal and wire sculpture of a deer enclosed in a spherical frame contrasts with the historic backdrop, creating a blend of old and new.

It’s hard not to be impressed by the cathedral as it really is an absolute masterpiece. It’s the detail in the carvings that blows your mind.

My hubby couldn’t quite get his head around the fact that all of this had been hand-carved by stone masons chipping away to create these tiny statues and features.

A close-up image showing the elaborate stone carvings on the exterior of Rouen Cathedral. The figures, possibly saints or biblical characters, are adorned with detailed robes and stand within ornate niches. The craftsmanship displays the weathering of time, highlighting the texture and age of the stone.

It’s no secret that Claude Monet was a big fan of the cathedral, and he spent two years in rented rooms that overlooked it from 1892-1894.

He could often be found in the cathedral square, painting away at different times of day to capture the changing light.

And it’s true, the cathedral takes on a different look depending on the time of day.

A Quick History of the Cathedral

Its origins trace back to the establishment of Christianity in Rouen around 260 AD, with the first church believed to have been on or near the site of the present cathedral. A large basilica was constructed here in 395.

It was significantly enlarged in 650 and again by Charlemagne in 769. However, from 841 onwards, it suffered extensive damage due to a series of Viking raids.

The Gothic architecture was introduced in 1145 by Archbishop Hugues of Amiens. Then in 1185 Gautier the Magnificent began building the western end of the sanctuary.

A major fire in 1200 interrupted this work, but it was quickly resumed and by 1207, the main altar was in place in the choir.

This image captures the interior of Rouen Cathedral with a focus on the high Gothic arches and stained glass windows that cast colorful light into the space. Stone statues line the nave, leading the eye towards the altar in the distance. The cathedral's grandeur is evident in the height of its vaulted ceilings and the elegance of its supporting columns.

Cardinal-Archbishop Georges d’Amboise, serving from 1494 to 1510, was instrumental in integrating Renaissance features into the Gothic design. This included the construction of a new tower, known as the Butter Tower, to match the older Saint-Romaine tower.

This tower got its nickname by charging the well-to-do of society to consume milk and butter during Lent, a great way to raise some coffers.

The cathedral underwent various challenges and changes in the following centuries. During the French Wars of Religion in the late 16th century, it was badly damaged, and in the French Revolution, it was nationalised and briefly turned into a Temple of Reason.

Some of its furniture and sculptures were sold off, and chapel fences were melted down to make cannons.

The image features a close-up of a recumbent statue believed to represent Richard the Lionheart, inside Rouen Cathedral. The effigy is highly detailed, with the figure depicted in repose, hands clasped in prayer. An inscription in Latin is visible on the base of the tomb, adding to the historical significance of the monument.

In 1822, lightning destroyed the wood and lead Renaissance spire of the central tower. It was replaced with a controversial cast iron spire, which was completed in 1882 meaning the spire made the Rouen Cathedral the world’s tallest building.

During World War II, the cathedral was hit twice by Allied bombs, causing significant damage. A major restoration effort followed the war, concluding in 1956. Further restoration and consolidation work continued until 2016.

In 1985, excavations under the church revealed remnants of earlier Paleochristian buildings and the foundations of the Carolingian cathedral.

For me, though, it was the opportunity to see the tomb of Richard the Lionheart, the third son of Eleanor of Aquitaine and King of England.

I’d already seen where his body was buried at Fontevraud Abbey alongside his mother and father, Henry II. But his heart, at his request, was buried in Rouen and is still kept at the cathedral in an iron box.

No 4 Palais de Justice

This image shows the Palais de Justice in Rouen, an impressive example of Gothic architecture. The building's façade is ornate with a series of gables adorned with intricate carvings and finials. A black wrought-iron fence runs along the front, behind which informational panels are mounted for visitors. Two people are examining the panels, providing a sense of scale against the grandeur of the historic courthouse.

The Palais de Justice was the scene of my car issues, where I had to perform a three-point, or maybe it was a five-point turn, to avoid a bollard and make a quick exit back onto the main road.

But even in my slightly stressed state, I couldn’t help but be impressed by the grandeur of the building. We came back as part of our audio tour, and although we couldn’t go inside, it was interesting to hear about the history.

Originally constructed from 1499 to 1507, the building initially served as the Exchequer of Normandy. During the reign of King Francis I in 1515, it was transformed into the Parliament of Normandy, reflecting the city’s political prominence.

Following the French Revolution, it became known as the Palais de Justice.

The photo provides a close-up of the Palais de Justice's detailed stonework in Rouen. The gothic flamboyant style is evident in the ornate tracery and the towering windows with pointed arches. The façade is a light stone color, with each architectural element sharply defined, from the delicate finials to the statues nestled in niches, all set against a clear blue sky.

This transformation marked a shift in the building’s function, aligning it with the revolutionary ideals of justice and governance. It was recognised for its historical importance when it was listed as a historical monument in 1840.

It was significantly damaged during World War II due to bombings in April and August 1944, which nearly destroyed it, and substantial restoration work was carried out to restore it to its former glory.

In the 19th century, to replace statues lost during the French Revolution, sculptor Joseph Brun was commissioned to create replacements for those significant to the building’s history, including figures like Louis XII, Anne de Bretagne, Cardinal d’Amboise, and François I.

No 5 Historial Jeanne d’Arc

The image captures a vibrant stained-glass window inside the Historial Jeanne d'Arc in Rouen. The window depicts colorful scenes with figures in medieval attire, casting vivid reflections onto the ancient stone floor and vaulted Gothic arches of the interior. The warm illumination contrasts with the dark, rustic stonework, creating a dramatic and immersive atmosphere.

Yannick at the Tourist Board arranged for hubby and I to do the tour of Historial Jeanne d’Arc, which conveniently, was just at the end of the alleyway where we were staying. It’s the the largest museum in France dedicated to Joan of Arc and is within the walls of the archiepiscopal palace.

It opened in 2015 and is where Joan of Arc underwent two trials, and it’s not far from the Place du Vieux-Marché, where she was burned alive in 1431.

The tour lasts just over an hour and is a multimedia production that is absolutely brilliant. It’s so well done.

They only allow small groups of people to go through in 15-minute slots, so it’s not too crowded. There were only three of us on ours, so we almost had it to ourselves.

A photograph of a dimly lit, vaulted stone room resembling a crypt, with patterned cobblestone flooring. A solitary bench sits in the center, and a small sculpture is displayed on a pedestal, adding an artistic focal point to the space. The room is likely part of a historical building, featuring medieval architecture that evokes a sense of solemnity and timelessness.

The tour takes you into different areas where each room you’re in transforms into a scene showing you Joan of Arc’s condemnation, complete with the sound of crackling flames.

Through multimedia, we were transported back in time to the dungeon where she was held, the courtroom where she was tried, and the forests from her childhood.

This picture shows an exhibition space within the Mythothèque in Rouen, with projections on the stone walls. Historical images and texts are illuminated, including a figure on a screen that seems to be narrating a story, bringing history to life. The room's design merges the ancient architecture with modern multimedia storytelling techniques.

The Mythothèque, comprising three rooms, showcases archival documents and multimedia devices that highlight the legacy of Joan of Arc through history textbooks and representations over the centuries.

There was also the chance to climb the circular stairs to the top of La Tour du Guet, the Watch Tower. It was raining when I went up, but the panoramic views of Rouen still took my breath away.

And I can’t tell you how out of breath I was as there were A LOT of steps to get to the top.

Inside the State Room in Rouen, this image reveals a grand, baroque-style interior with high ceilings, large windows with yellow drapes, and checkered black and white flooring. Crystal chandeliers hang from the ceiling, and wooden benches are neatly arranged. The room exudes elegance and historical importance, reflective of its ceremonial use.

All the audio is in French, so we were given our own audio to listen to on headphones in English, and it automatically started when the room went dark and the show started, it was excellent.

It’s such a great way to bring history alive, and at the end, you also get to see La Chapelle d’Aubigné and the State Room, which was spectacular.

No 6 Place du Vieux Marché (Market Square)

This was the first place we went to when we arrived, as the car park was just around the corner. You can’t help but notice the very modern Church of Saint Joan of Arc as it dominates the square.

When it was built, it caused a bit of controversy as it was such a modern building and completely at odds with all the medieval half-timbered buildings around it.

The photograph shows a stone statue of Joan of Arc in prayer, flanked by vibrant floral arrangements of white and purple chrysanthemums. The statue is nestled within a semi-circular alcove, and a protective railing encircles the display. The presence of the statue offers a quiet space of remembrance amidst the bustling city environment.

It was built in honour of Joan of Arc as it was in this square in 1431 that she was burnt at the stake, and you’ll see, in a small garden, a 20-metre-high cross marking the spot with a plaque.

I didn’t go inside the church itself, but if you go in, you’ll see thirteen stained glass windows originating from the 16th century, forming part of the original Saint-Vincent church destroyed during the war.

Luckily they had all been removed and stored for safekeeping before the bombs dropped.

The picture captures the distinctive, sloping roof of the Church of Saint Joan of Arc in Rouen, rising sharply against a cloudy sky. The church's unique silhouette, reminiscent of an upturned ship's hull, is a modern interpretation amidst the city's historic architecture, symbolizing both the flames that consumed Joan of Arc and a gathering of the faithful.

The outside is fascinating. It was commissioned in 1969 and designed by the architect Louis Arretche, who also designed the covered market next to it. Apparently, both buildings are supposed to represent an overturned fishing boat and the flames that engulfed Joan.

To me though, when you look, it seems to more represent fish scales with the slate tiles that were used.

You can actually walk underneath it as it forms part of a covered walkway on the square.

This image is taken inside the Market Place du Vieux in Rouen, showcasing a lively indoor market scene. Stalls with signs for "Volailles" and "Fromagerie" indicate a variety of poultry products and cheeses available. Patrons can be seen browsing, reflecting the daily life and culture of local shopping in Rouen. The market's interior is framed by dark wooden beams, with natural light filtering through the glass roof above.

It’s worth a wander through the market, which is full of Normandy produce, including the cider they’re famous for. There is a great cheese stall, fish counter and bread stall, and it was too much for me to resist, and I couldn’t help but get some camembert to take home with me.

There are plenty of restaurants around the square, and we ate in three of them. We had an amazing meal on our first night at La Couronne, the restaurant responsible for inspiring Julia Child to cook, and the oldest inn in France.

I also couldn’t resist having one of the famous crepes at Crêperie La Cornaëlle, and on our first day, we had a great charcuterie board at Marcel Apéro Bistro to keep our hunger at bay till we went to La Couronne.

No 7 Church of Saint-Maclou

This image features the Church of Saint-Maclou, a masterpiece of the Flamboyant Gothic style, situated in Rouen, France. In the foreground, vibrant flowerbeds in shades of yellow and maroon create a striking contrast against the gray cobblestone plaza. The background displays the church's elaborate façade with its finely carved stone arches and towering spires. Adjacent to the church are traditional half-timbered houses, typical of Normandy's architectural heritage.

Rouen is certainly not short of churches, and the Church of Saint-Maclou is another great example of Gothic architecture. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, it’s the intricate and ornate stone masonry on the windows creating an almost lace-like effect that grabs your attention.

It’s right in the antique district of Rouen, and when we went it had a beautiful display of yellow flowers in front of it. It was badly damaged during WWII and underwent restoration in 2013.

There are a couple of lovely little cafes to sit in and admire the architecture, or in our case, escape the rain.

No 8 Saint-Maclou Ossuary

A view of the Saint-Maclou Ossuary in Rouen, an example of medieval half-timbered architecture. The building features exposed wood beams in a geometric pattern against white infill. A stone staircase leads to a wooden door, reflecting the historical function of the building associated with the rites of the dead.

Just down the road from the church is Aître Saint-Maclou, a medieval ossuary, a place designed for the storage of bones from cemeteries. During the 14th to 17th centuries, Rouen, like many other European cities, faced recurring outbreaks of the bubonic plague, resulting in a high number of deaths.

The city quickly ran out of space as the poor were dying in their hundreds so Aître Saint-Maclou was built to allow for mass burials. As you walk up the little alleyway to reach it you come to a central courtyard, surrounded by timber-framed buildings with ornate carvings.

The courtyard itself is paved with tombstones and is enclosed by a gallery featuring wooden columns and sculptures depicting various macabre and death-related themes.

Close-up of a decorative stone column with sculptural details, located at the Saint-Maclou Ossuary in Rouen. The column showcases Gothic craftsmanship, with a series of small figures and ornamental elements that highlight the medieval ecclesiastical architecture of the period.

Notably, the carvings on the beams and columns feature skeletal figures, skulls, and other symbols associated with mortality intended to serve as a reminder of the transitory nature of life and the inevitability of death.

There is even a mummified cat just by the entrance to the courtyard, which was kind of creepy.

Now it’s simply a place you can visit and home to the regional School of Fine Arts, as part of the “Heart of the Metropolis” project.

No 9 Musée Le Secq des Tournelles

The interior of the Musée Le Secq des Tournelles in Rouen, housed in an old Gothic church, showcases an extensive collection of wrought ironwork. The exhibition is displayed against the backdrop of tall stained-glass windows and stone arches, with a variety of intricate metal pieces, from delicate to grand, suspended throughout the space, creating a unique contrast between the medieval architecture and the crafted metalworks.

Le Secq des Tournelles is a museum dedicated to metalwork and ironwork. It was originally a private collection of ironwork artefacts amassed by the 19th-century collector Henri Le Secq des Tournelles. Now it’s a museum showcasing a wide array of historical ironwork pieces, ranging from decorative gates and locks to intricate tools and utensils.

Henri Le Secq des Tournelles was a prominent 19th-century photographer known for his early experiments in the field of photography. His passion for ironwork led him to amass an extensive collection of iron objects, and he played a significant role in preserving and documenting these pieces for future generations.

The collection includes items such as keys, locks, grilles, and decorative elements, each telling a story of craftsmanship and design from its respective period.

No 10 Musée des Beaux-Arts

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.

The Musée des Beaux-Arts is next door to the Tourism Office and is an art museum featuring a diverse collection of artwork from a wide range of artistic styles and periods. It’s definitely worth a visit if you love artists such as Monet, Picasso and Renoir.

A Map of Attractions in Rouen

A map highlighting the top 10 attractions in Rouen, France, with markers indicating their locations. The listed attractions include Le Gros-Horloge, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Palais de Justice de Rouen, Historial Jeanne d'Arc, Place du Vieux Marché, St. Maclou Catholic Church, Fontaine Saint-Maclou, Aître Saint Maclou, Musée Le Secq des Tournelles, and Rouen Museum of Fine Arts. The map provides a visual guide to these points of interest, aiding in navigation and exploration of the city.

Is Rouen Safe?

Yes, Rouen is generally a safe city and I didn’t have any concerns walking around the town on my own.

At night, the city feels safe as well, with good lighting everywhere, though, like in any urban area, it’s wise to be cautious in less populated or dimly lit streets.

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing or purse snatching don’t appear to be common. However, you need to take standard precautions, especially in crowded spots or tourist hotspots, like when the Christmas market is in full swing.

How to get to Rouen

By Air: The nearest major international airport is Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris. From CDG, you can take a train or hire a car.

By Train: From Paris: The train journey from Paris to Rouen takes approximately 1.5 hours, making it a great day trip option from Paris.

Rouen is also well-connected by train to nearby major cities like Lille, Le Havre, and Caen too.

By Car: If you prefer the freedom of a road trip, Rouen is easily reachable by car. It’s approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Paris, depending on traffic conditions.

FAQS: What to do in Rouen France

How long should I spend in Rouen?

Based on my recent trip, where I only had three days, I’d recommend five or seven days, as there is just so much to see and do.

What is Rouen famous for?

Rouen is renowned for its rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and as the place where Joan of Arc was tried and executed. It’s known for the magnificent Rouen Cathedral and its beautifully preserved medieval quarter.

When is the best time to visit Rouen?

The best time to visit Rouen is during late spring or early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the city isn’t too crowded.

Can you go inside the Rouen Cathedral?

Yes, visitors can go inside the Rouen Cathedral. It’s open to the public every day, but remember to check the cathedral website for opening times. I tried to visit on a Monday, and it wasn’t open in the morning. It opened from 2 pm to 6 pm, so I had to come back later.

Final Thoughts on Things To Do In Rouen France

I cannot recommend a visit to Rouen highly enough. Whether you’re a foodie, someone who loves history like me, a fan of medieval architecture or an art lover, you’ll fall in love with this city.

It’s one of the most walkable cities I’ve been too, and I don’t think I could ever tire of looking at all those half-timbered houses. Staying here and waking up in the morning to views of the city is magical.

I was sorry when my trip finished, but I’ll be back as I have more to discover and definitely more restaurants to try.