Rouen on a Budget: Unleash Family Fun!

Discover Rouen: A charming adventure awaits for the whole family!

19 July 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

A Whirlwind Welcome to Rouen

  • Check into the charming family-friendly Hotel des Arcades, located in the heart of Rouen's historic center.
  • Stroll through the cobblestone streets and soak up the medieval atmosphere of the Gros Horloge, a stunning astronomical clock.
  • Dare to climb the towering spire of Rouen Cathedral and feast your eyes on panoramic views of the city.
  • Grab a warm crêpe from a nearby street vendor and savor its buttery goodness as you explore the vibrant Vieux Marché.
  • Pay your respects to Joan of Arc at the Place du Vieux-Marché, where she met her fiery fate.
Day 2

Art, History, and Mouthwatering Delights

  • Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts and lose yourself in a treasure trove of masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, and Degas.
  • Marvel at the stunning façade of the Palais de Justice, an architectural gem that has its fair share of scandalous tales.
  • Indulge in a delicious lunch at Au Petit Chantaîgne, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Norman cuisine.
  • Embark on a river cruise along the Seine and enjoy picturesque views of Rouen's enchanting waterfront.
  • Don't miss the chance to try some local favorites like Neufchâtel cheese and Calvados apple brandy.
Day 3

A Journey Through Time

  • Take a scenic drive to the nearby village of La Bouille and savor fresh seafood dishes at La Petite Auberge.
  • Explore the ruins of Château Gaillard, Richard the Lionheart's magnificent fortress overlooking the Seine.
  • Immerse yourself in the medieval streets of Rue Eau-de-Robec, where charming half-timbered houses line the canal.
  • Ignite your imagination at the Aître Saint-Maclou, a courtyard adorned with carved skulls and macabre symbols.
  • End the day at La Couronne, the oldest inn in France, and enjoy a sumptuous dinner fit for royalty.
Day 4

Secrets and Surprises

  • Discover the hidden gems of Rouen's backstreets on a guided walking tour led by a charismatic local.
  • Step inside the Maison Sublime, a quaint half-timbered house showcasing the rich history of Rouen's former Jewish community.
  • Uncover the mysteries of the underground at the Historial Jeanne d'Arc, an immersive museum dedicated to the legendary heroine.
  • Relish a leisurely picnic in the Jardin des Plantes, Rouen's oldest botanic garden, filled with blooming flowers and tranquil ponds.
  • Enjoy a delightful dinner at L'Aître de Victor Hugo, a quirky restaurant where each dish tells a literary tale.
Day 5

Farewell to Rouen

  • Get a last taste of Rouen's culinary delights with a visit to the bustling Marché Saint-Maclou, brimming with local produce.
  • Embark on a mini-adventure to the nearby Château de Martainville, a fairy-tale castle housing a fascinating museum of rural life.
  • Admire the intricate ironwork of the Pont Gustave-Flaubert, Europe's highest vertical lift bridge spanning the Seine.
  • Leave a piece of your heart in Rouen as you bid farewell to this enchanting city and its warm-hearted inhabitants.
  • And as you make your way home, cherish the memories and start planning your return to experience Rouen's magic again!

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

4 Days of Fun, Food, and History in Rouen

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.

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 in 2 days: Gothic charm & gourmet delights

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.

Rouen on a Budget: 5 Days of Charm and Culture

Rouen, France is a charming medieval city with a rich history and stunning architecture that makes it perfect for budget travel. You can visit the stunning Gothic cathedral, explore the winding streets of the old town, and sample local delicacies at affordable cafes. To save money, consider staying at a budget hotel or Airbnb, and take advantage of free walking tours.