Experience Rouen's Rich History in 3 Days

Discover the medieval charm of Rouen, France - a city of art, history and gastronomy.

03 May 2023

Visiting Rouen, France as a tourist is a journey back in time to the medieval era. A must-visit destination includes the stunning Gothic cathedral, which inspired Monet's renowned paintings. One can also explore the picturesque Old Town, indulge in savory French delicacies, and learn about the city's rich cultural heritage.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Explore the Historic Heart of Rouen

  • Stay at Hotel des Carmes, located in a quiet district a short walk from the city center
  • Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Rouen Cathedral and take in its stunning Gothic architecture
  • Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of the old town, stopping at the Place du Vieux-Marché to see where Joan of Arc was executed
  • Indulge in a sweet treat at La Charlotte aux Fraises, a popular pastry shop with delicious tarts and cakes
  • Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen, featuring a vast collection of paintings and sculptures from the 16th-21st centuries
  • End your day at the Gros-Horloge, a remarkable 14th-century astronomical clock that marks the heart of the city
Day 2

A Day on the Banks of the Seine

  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Seine and stop at the Place des Carmes for a morning coffee
  • Visit the stunning Jardin des Plantes, a botanical garden featuring exotic plants and tranquil lawns perfect for picnicking
  • Tour the Aître Saint-Maclou, a macabre former plague cemetery turned art museum
  • Grab lunch at Le Saint-Sever, a cozy bistro known for its fresh seafood dishes
  • Take a boat tour along the Seine, offering unparalleled views of the city and its surroundings
  • End your day with a glass of wine at the trendy La Galerne wine bar
Day 3

Uncovering Rouen's Artistic Side

  • Fuel up with breakfast at the hipster café Le Dalva, offering artisanal baked goods and specialty coffee
  • Visit the Musée Le Secq des Tournelles, showcasing a unique collection of wrought iron artifacts and medieval weapons
  • Check out the street art scene in Rouen's Saint-Sever district, with colorful murals adorning the walls of the city's buildings and alleyways
  • Grab a quick lunch at Les P'tits Ventres, a quaint sandwich shop with fresh ingredients and rustic charm
  • Explore Rouen's contemporary art scene at the FRAC Normandie Rouen, featuring cutting-edge exhibitions and installations
  • End your day with dinner at La Couronne, one of the oldest restaurants in France and a favorite of Julia Child, serving traditional Norman cuisine in a cozy, candlelit setting.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Rouen

Rouen is a city with a rich history and a penchant for setting things on fire (thanks Joan of Arc). But don't worry, the only thing flaming hot these days are the city's world-renowned pastries.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

5-day Rouen, France Adventure Guide

As a tourist, a trip to Rouen offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of France. Visitors can explore the stunning Gothic architecture of the Rouen Cathedral, wander through the charming cobblestone streets of the medieval old town, and indulge in delicious French cuisine and wine at local cafes and restaurants. The city also boasts numerous museums, art galleries, and historical sites, making it a perfect destination for history buffs and culture lovers.

Rouen: A Family Adventure of History, Culture, and Fun

A family-friendly trip to Rouen, France offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and fun activities for everyone. Visit famous landmarks such as the stunning Rouen Cathedral and explore the charming medieval streets of the old town. Engage in interactive experiences like the Museum of Science and Industry, and enjoy leisurely walks by the beautiful Seine River for a memorable getaway in Rouen.

Rouen on a Budget: Unleash Family Fun!

Rouen, France, is an ideal family-friendly destination offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and fun activities. Explore the majestic Rouen Cathedral, famous for its stunning Gothic architecture, and take a walk through the charming medieval streets. Engage the kids with a visit to the informative Atelier-musée du Chocolat, where they can indulge in the world of chocolate making and taste delicious treats.

Rouen Adventure on a Budget: 4 Days of Fun

A trip to Rouen, France on a limited budget can still be enjoyable and memorable. Visit the impressive Gothic cathedral, walk through the quaint cobblestone streets of the old town and indulge in some local cuisine at the many budget-friendly restaurants and cafes. Take a stroll along the Seine River and immerse yourself in the history and culture of this charming French city without breaking the bank.