A Perfect Day in Historic Rouen

Unleash the wild in Rouen, the ultimate stag party destination.

22 April 2023

Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy, is a perfect destination for a stag do. This picturesque city known for its famous cathedral, Joan of Arc museum, and lively bars and clubs - are perfect for a weekend away with your buddies. Take a river cruise, explore the historic town, and let loose with some delicious French food and wine in a city full of character and history.

Day trip plan

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Day

A Day of Adventure in Rouen

  • Rouen, a city of stunning architectural marvels, storied past, and delicious culinary delights, is an ideal destination for a stag do. Here's what you can do on your one day in Rouen:
  • Start your day with a visit to the iconic Rouen Cathedral, famous for inspiring Monet's series of paintings. Its Gothic architecture, stained-glass windows, and intricate sculptures are breathtaking.
  • Next up, explore the historic district of Old Rouen, with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and charming boutiques. Stop for a coffee or a drink in one of the many cafes and bars.
  • For lunch, head to the bustling Place du Vieux-Marché, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. Here, you'll find a variety of restaurants serving local specialities like galettes, camembert, and apple cider.
  • After lunch, visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Renaissance to the present day. Highlights include works by Monet, Delacroix, and Renoir.
  • In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River and admire the city's many bridges, including the Pont Gustave-Flaubert, the highest vertical-lift bridge in Europe.
  • For dinner, head to La Couronne, the oldest inn in France, where Julia Child famously ate her first French meal. Feast on classic French dishes like escargots, coq au vin, and crème brûlée.
  • End your day with a few drinks at L'Oncle Scott's, a popular English-style pub in the heart of Rouen, before retiring to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

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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