Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy in northern France, is renowned for its rich medieval heritage, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The city played a significant role in French history and is famously known as the place where Joan of Arc was tried and executed. With its charming old town, beautiful churches, and fascinating museums, Rouen offers a wealth of attractions for visitors. Here are some of the best places to visit in Rouen, France:
1. Rouen Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen)
Rouen Cathedral is an iconic Gothic masterpiece and one of the most stunning cathedrals in France. The cathedral’s impressive facade, intricate details, and soaring spires make it a must-visit. The famous painter Claude Monet immortalized the cathedral in a series of paintings.
- Key Attractions: Gothic architecture, Monet’s paintings, historic significance.
- Activities: Exploring the interior, viewing the facade, attending a mass.
- Location: Place de la Cathédrale, Rouen.
2. Gros-Horloge
The Gros-Horloge is an astronomical clock dating back to the 14th century, located in the heart of Rouen’s old town. The clock is housed in a Renaissance archway and features a beautifully decorated dial. Visitors can also tour the clock tower for panoramic views of the city.
- Key Attractions: Astronomical clock, panoramic views.
- Activities: Touring the clock tower, exploring the old town.
- Location: Rue du Gros-Horloge, Rouen.
3. Old Market Square (Place du Vieux-Marché)
The Old Market Square is a historic site known for its vibrant atmosphere and as the location where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431. The square is surrounded by half-timbered houses and features the modern Church of Saint Joan of Arc.
- Key Attractions: Half-timbered houses, Church of Saint Joan of Arc.
- Activities: Exploring the square, dining in local restaurants.
- Location: Place du Vieux-Marché, Rouen.
4. Church of Saint Joan of Arc (Église Sainte-Jeanne-d’Arc)
The Church of Saint Joan of Arc is a modern church built in the Old Market Square, dedicated to the French heroine Joan of Arc. The church’s unique architecture and stunning stained glass windows make it a notable landmark.
- Key Attractions: Modern architecture, stained glass windows.
- Activities: Exploring the church, learning about Joan of Arc.
- Location: Place du Vieux-Marché, Rouen.
5. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen
The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen is one of France’s most important art museums, housing an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum’s collection includes works by artists such as Monet, Delacroix, and Caravaggio.
- Key Attractions: Fine art collection, historical paintings.
- Activities: Exploring art exhibits, attending special exhibitions.
- Location: Esplanade Marcel Duchamp, Rouen.
6. Historial Jeanne d’Arc
The Historial Jeanne d’Arc is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Joan of Arc. Located in the former Archbishop’s Palace, the museum uses multimedia exhibits and interactive displays to tell the story of Joan’s life and her trial.
- Key Attractions: Multimedia exhibits, interactive displays.
- Activities: Learning about Joan of Arc, exploring the museum.
- Location: Place de la Cathédrale, Rouen.
7. Saint-Maclou Church (Église Saint-Maclou)
Saint-Maclou Church is a beautiful example of Flamboyant Gothic architecture. The church is known for its intricate facade, stunning stained glass windows, and impressive wooden doors. It is located in the heart of the old town.
- Key Attractions: Gothic architecture, stained glass windows.
- Activities: Exploring the church, photography.
- Location: Rue Martainville, Rouen.
8. Aître Saint-Maclou
Aître Saint-Maclou is a unique medieval ossuary and courtyard. The site was originally a cemetery during the plague and is known for its macabre decorations and carvings. It now houses the Rouen School of Fine Arts.
- Key Attractions: Medieval ossuary, macabre decorations.
- Activities: Exploring the courtyard, learning about local history.
- Location: Rue Martainville, Rouen.
9. Jardin des Plantes
The Jardin des Plantes is a beautiful botanical garden in Rouen, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The garden features a variety of plant species, a greenhouse, a rose garden, and a duck pond.
- Key Attractions: Botanical garden, greenhouse, rose garden.
- Activities: Walking, picnicking, enjoying nature.
- Location: Avenue des Martyrs de la Résistance, Rouen.
10. Rue du Gros-Horloge
Rue du Gros-Horloge is a charming pedestrian street in Rouen’s old town, lined with shops, cafes, and historical buildings. It is one of the city’s main shopping streets and a great place to experience the local culture.
- Key Attractions: Shopping, cafes, historical architecture.
- Activities: Shopping, dining, exploring the old town.
- Location: Central Rouen.
Summary Table
Place | Description | Key Attraction | Distance from City Center |
---|---|---|---|
Rouen Cathedral | Iconic Gothic cathedral | Gothic architecture, Monet’s paintings | Place de la Cathédrale |
Gros-Horloge | 14th-century astronomical clock | Astronomical clock, panoramic views | Rue du Gros-Horloge |
Old Market Square | Historic site where Joan of Arc was executed | Half-timbered houses, Church of Saint Joan of Arc | Place du Vieux-Marché |
Church of Saint Joan of Arc | Modern church dedicated to Joan of Arc | Modern architecture, stained glass windows | Place du Vieux-Marché |
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen | Major art museum with an impressive collection | Fine art collection, historical paintings | Esplanade Marcel Duchamp |
Historial Jeanne d’Arc | Museum dedicated to Joan of Arc’s life and legacy | Multimedia exhibits, interactive displays | Place de la Cathédrale |
Saint-Maclou Church | Beautiful Flamboyant Gothic church | Gothic architecture, stained glass windows | Rue Martainville |
Aître Saint-Maclou | Medieval ossuary and courtyard | Medieval ossuary, macabre decorations | Rue Martainville |
Jardin des Plantes | Beautiful botanical garden | Botanical garden, greenhouse | Avenue des Martyrs de la Résistance |
Rue du Gros-Horloge | Charming pedestrian street in the old town | Shopping, cafes, historical architecture | Central Rouen |
How to Reach Rouen
By Flight
The nearest major airport to Rouen is Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, located about 135 km away. From the airport, you can take a train or bus to Rouen. Alternatively, Rouen has a small airport, Rouen Vallée de Seine Airport, which offers limited domestic flights.
By Train
Rouen is well-connected by train, with frequent services from Paris’s Saint-Lazare station. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. Rouen’s train station, Gare de Rouen-Rive-Droite, is centrally located, making it easy to reach other parts of the city.
By Road
Rouen is accessible via several major highways, including the A13 from Paris. The city is well-connected by road to other parts of Normandy and northern France. Regular buses and car rental services are available for travel within the region.
Best Time to Visit Rouen
The best time to visit Rouen is from May to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city hosts several festivals and events during these months, including the Joan of Arc Festival and the Armada, a major maritime event. Spring and summer are particularly vibrant, with the city’s gardens in full bloom and a lively cultural scene.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Rouen offers a variety of delicious Normandy cuisine, including dishes like duck à la rouennaise, seafood, and the famous Norman cheeses. Don’t miss trying the local cider and Calvados.
- Cultural Insights: Rouen has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, galleries, and historical sites. The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with many events and performances throughout the year.
- Safety Tips: Rouen is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always advisable to take standard precautions, especially in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start with a visit to Rouen Cathedral and the Historial Jeanne d’Arc.
- Afternoon: Explore the Gros-Horloge and the Old Market Square. Have lunch at a local restaurant.
- Evening: Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen and stroll along Rue du Gros-Horloge.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Explore the historic sites of Rouen, including the Rouen Cathedral, Gros-Horloge, and Church of Saint Joan of Arc. Have lunch at a local eatery and visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen in the afternoon. Spend the evening enjoying the lively atmosphere in the Old Market Square.
- Day 2: Start with a visit to Saint-Maclou Church and Aître Saint-Maclou. Then, relax and unwind in the Jardin des Plantes. End your visit with some shopping and dining on Rue du Gros-Horloge.
These places offer a blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty, making Rouen a diverse and captivating destination to explore.