Rouen, France: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure!
Experience history, culture, and family fun in enchanting Rouen, France.
19 July 2023
Raymonde Gagnon
France Travel Writer
Rouen, France offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its rich history, charming architecture, and a variety of kid-friendly attractions. Explore the stunning Rouen Cathedral and the famous Gros-Horloge clock tower, while the Le Secq des Tournelles Museum will captivate children with its collection of medieval ironworks. Moreover, wander along the scenic banks of the Seine river and indulge in delicious French cuisine at the local cafés and restaurants, making your visit to Rouen an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Travel plan
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- Start your day with a visit to the stunning Rouen Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that will leave you in awe.
- Take a stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town, lined with half-timbered houses that look straight out of a fairytale.
- Pay a visit to the Gros-Horloge, an impressive astronomical clock that still keeps perfect time.
- Indulge in a delicious lunch at a traditional Norman brasserie, where you can savor local specialties like creamy Camembert cheese and apple tarts.
- Explore the Museum of Fine Arts, housing a rich collection of paintings and sculptures from various periods.
- End your day with a leisurely boat ride along the Seine River, admiring the picturesque views of Rouen's waterfront.
- Get your history fix at the Joan of Arc History Museum, where you can learn about the life and legacy of this legendary heroine.
- Wander through the serene Jardin des Plantes, a botanical garden with beautiful landscapes and colorful flowers.
- Head to the Musée Le Secq des Tournelles, a quirky museum housed in an old church, showcasing an impressive collection of ironworks.
- Refuel with a delightful lunch at a creperie, indulging in savory galettes and sweet crepes.
- Visit the Saint-Maclou Church, known for its intricate gothic architecture and captivating stained glass windows.
- Spend your evening in the bustling Place du Vieux-Marché, enjoying a delicious dinner at a cozy restaurant and soaking up the lively atmosphere.
- Start your day with a visit to the Panorama XXL, an immersive experience where you can step into a gigantic 360-degree painting.
- Embark on a scenic bike ride along the Rue de l'Aître Saint-Maclou, a quaint street lined with colorful houses and unique shops.
- Discover the quirky Maison des Quatrans, a half-timbered house that stands out with its unusual inverted design.
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a trendy bistro, trying out modern interpretations of traditional Normandy dishes.
- Visit the Secq Tournelles Garden, a charming little park where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- End your day with a visit to the Ceramics Museum, where you can admire the exquisite pottery and ceramics crafted by local artisans.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Rouen by plane is to fly into Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris and then take a direct train to Rouen from either Paris Saint-Lazare or Paris Montparnasse station.
Car
The best way to get to Rouen by car is to take the A13 motorway from Paris which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Train
The best way to get to Rouen by train is to take a direct train from Paris Saint-Lazare station which takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Boat
The best way to get to Rouen by boat is to take a river cruise along the Seine River which will take you directly to Port de Plaisance in Rouen.
Bus
The best way to get to Rouen by bus is to take the Flixbus from Paris which takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.