4 Days of Fun, Food, and History in Rouen

Discover the magic of Rouen, where family fun meets historic wonders.

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Rouen, France promises a delightful blend of history, culture, and fun-filled activities. Explore the captivating medieval architecture of Rouen Cathedral and immerse yourself in the city's rich past through the interactive exhibits at the Musée Jeanne d'Arc. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque cobblestone streets of the Old Town, indulging in delicious treats from local cafés and boutique shops. With its vibrant atmosphere and diverse attractions, Rouen offers an unforgettable experience for families of all ages.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Historical Heartbeat

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Des Deux Magots, located in the picturesque Vieux Marché Square.
  • Marvel at the grandeur of Rouen Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that will make you feel like a tiny ant in comparison.
  • Immerse yourself in history at the Joan of Arc Museum, where you'll uncover the incredible story of the young heroine.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along Rue du Gros-Horloge, a charming street lined with half-timbered houses and quirky boutiques.
  • Indulge in a gastronomic adventure at La Couronne, the oldest inn in France, and savor their famous duck confit like a true gourmand.
  • End your day with a romantic evening walk by the Seine River, admiring the beautifully lit bridges and the shimmering reflections of the city lights.
Day 2

A Whirlwind of Art and Charm

  • Begin your day with a visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, home to an impressive collection of paintings by renowned artists.
  • Wander through the vibrant Saint-Maclou district, filled with flower-filled courtyards and quaint antique shops.
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at La Petite Auberge, a cozy restaurant offering authentic French dishes bursting with flavor.
  • Meander through the Jardin des Plantes, a lush botanical garden where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
  • Unleash your inner child at the Rouen Science and Discovery Center, where interactive exhibits and mind-boggling experiments await.
  • Relish a delightful dinner at Au Petit Marais, a charming bistro that serves delicious traditional Normandy cuisine with a twist.
Day 3

Savoring the Spectacular Sights

  • Start your day with a visit to the stunning Musée Le Secq des Tournelles, where you can admire an extraordinary collection of wrought iron masterpieces.
  • Take a scenic drive to the nearby Château de Martainville, a fairytale castle surrounded by picturesque gardens and a tranquil lake.
  • Enjoy a picnic in the Parc du Champ de Mars, soaking up the sun and watching locals indulge in friendly games of boules.
  • Uncover the hidden gems of the Gros-Horloge district, where charming little cafes and shops await to delight your senses.
  • Treat yourself to a delectable dinner at La Walsheim, a Michelin-starred restaurant famed for its innovative cuisine and attention to detail.
  • End your day with a magical evening stroll through the enchanting streets of Rouen, where the city's ancient charm comes alive.
Day 4

Delving into Culinary Delights

  • Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Marché Saint-Marc, where you can sample an array of fresh local produce and delectable treats.
  • Embark on a culinary adventure with a cheese tasting session at Fromagerie Durand, where you'll discover the true essence of Normandy.
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Le Bréard, where the talented chef crafts mouthwatering dishes using the finest regional ingredients.
  • Indulge in a sweet escapade at Pâtisserie-Chocolaterie Lecureux, where exquisite pastries and velvety chocolates await your taste buds.
  • Take a leisurely boat trip along the Seine River, basking in the beauty of Rouen's picturesque waterfront.
  • End your culinary journey with a delightful dinner at Gill, a Michelin-starred restaurant that showcases the best of traditional French cuisine with a modern twist.

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.

More travel plans

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A trip to Rouen, France would offer visitors a chance to explore the stunning Gothic architecture of its historic cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval engineering that took over 400 years to build. Foodies will find plenty to savor in the city's bustling markets and gourmet restaurants, including classic Normandy dishes such as local cheeses, cider, and seafood. For art lovers, Rouen is home to numerous museums featuring works by renowned artists such as Monet and Renoir, as well as an impressive collection of ancient and contemporary art.

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