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A Perfect Long Weekend in Rouen, France

Discover the medieval charm of Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy.

22 April 2023

Rouen is the historic capital of Normandy, France and is famous for its stunning Gothic architecture, including the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Place du Vieux-Marché. The city's rich heritage can be traced back to the Middle Ages, and visitors can learn more about its fascinating history by exploring the various museums, galleries, and landmarks scattered throughout the city. A trip to Rouen would not be complete without sampling the region's famous cuisine and enjoying its picturesque riverfront setting along the Seine River.

Travel plan

• Check in at the charming 16th-century Hôtel des Carmes, located in the old town.
• Visit the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral, home to Monet's iconic paintings of the facade.
• Stroll through the cobbled streets and half-timbered houses of the Vieux-Marché district.
• Stop at Place du Vieux-Marché for a coffee and to admire the spot where Joan of Arc was burned.
• Browse the art and antique shops along Rue du Gros-Horloge.
• Have dinner at the cozy La Couronne, the oldest restaurant in France, where Julia Child first tasted sole meunière.

• Start the day with a croissant and coffee at Maison Lô, a rustic-chic bakery that offers classes.
• Cross the Seine river to visit the modern Rive Gauche district and its panoramic Eglise Saint-Joseph.
• Have lunch at the Michelin-starred Gill, a temple of contemporary French cuisine.
• Visit the stunning Musée des Beaux-Arts, with masterpieces by Caravaggio, Rubens, and Delacroix.
• Enjoy a glass of wine and tapas at La Parenthèse, a trendy wine bar with a terrace overlooking the Seine.
• Dine at L'Espiguette, an intimate, family-run restaurant that serves seasonal, organic produce from Normandy.

• Start the day with a sweet treat at the quirky Pâtisserie-Chocolaterie Gosselin, famous for its éclairs.
• Visit the Saint-Maclou Church, a masterpiece of Gothic flamboyant architecture.
• Learn about the life and works of Rouen's most famous son, writer Gustave Flaubert, at the Maison de Gustave Flaubert.
• Browse the boutiques and bookshops of the Saint-Romain district, and admire its charming cobblestones and timbered houses.
• Have lunch at the casual chic Les P'tites Assiettes, a creative restaurant that showcases local ingredients.
• Spend the afternoon at the Jardin des Plantes, a lush botanical garden with exotic plants, statues, and a small zoo.

• Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the vintage-chic Café Ozawa, famous for its fluffy pancakes.
• Visit the Musée de la Céramique, a charming museum dedicated to the art of pottery.
• Admire the Impressionist paintings at the Musée d'Art Moderne André Malraux, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Dufy.
• Sample the local cheeses and charcuterie at the artisanal La Cave aux Fromages.
• Browse the hip boutiques and galleries of the Saint-Sever district, known for its alternative vibe and street art.
• Have dinner at La Walsheim, a cozy, candlelit bistro with a menu that changes daily according to the market.