Romantic Long Weekend in Rouen, France

Discover the romantic charm of Rouen, where history and love blend seamlessly.

22 April 2023

A trip to Rouen, France for a romantic getaway promises a quaint and charming experience. This city, located in the heart of Normandy, is known for its old-world architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning churches. Couples can explore the historic city center, indulge in delicious French cuisine, and soak up the romantic atmosphere.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Rouen

  • Check into Hotel de Bourgtheroulde, a luxurious 15th-century mansion converted into a hotel.
  • Take a stroll down Rue du Gros-Horloge, lined with timbered houses and an impressive clock tower.
  • Settle in for a romantic dinner at La Couronne, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving traditional Norman cuisine.
  • Visit the famous Rouen Cathedral, an iconic Gothic masterpiece that inspired Monet’s brush.
  • End the night with a walk along the Seine River and admire the stunning night lights of the city.
Day 2

Culture & History

  • Head to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, a museum filled with a vast collection of art from the Renaissance to 20th-century pieces.
  • Visit Place du Vieux-Marché, site of the 1431 execution of Joan of Arc.
  • Take a self-guided walking tour of Rouen's historic Quarter, with charming half-timbered buildings and hidden alleyways.
  • Explore the Church of St. Ouen, an elaborate example of Flamboyant Gothic architecture.
  • Treat yourself to some macarons at La Pâtisserie Victor Hugo, a quaint pastry shop with a wide variety of sweets.
Day 3

Day Trip to Giverny & Honfleur

  • Take an early morning train to Giverny, the village where Monet’s iconic gardens are located.
  • Stroll through Monet’s gardens, marveling at the waterlilies, the Japanese Bridge, and the artist's home.
  • Head to Honfleur, a picturesque harbor town with cobbled streets and charming architecture.
  • Explore the Vieux Bassin, a picturesque harbor with colorful boats and fresh seafood restaurants.
  • Sip on a calvados (apple brandy) at La Ferme Saint-Siméon, a historic inn that was once visited by Monet and Baudelaire.
Day 4

Shopping & Farewell to Rouen

  • Visit the Marché Place Saint-Marc, a bustling market with fresh produce, cheese, and delicacies from the Normandy region.
  • Pick up some souvenirs or gifts at the local boutiques, such as L’atelier Keramine for handmade pottery and La Part des Anges for local wines and spirits.
  • Have a final lunch at Brasserie Paul or La Walsheim, both serving traditional French fare in rustic settings.
  • Take a scenic drive to the Cliffs of Étretat, dramatic rock formations that inspired artists such as Monet and Maupassant.
  • Bid Rouen farewell with a romantic walk along the city walls, overlooking the Seine and the charming city below.

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.

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