A port city, Rouen has many facets. Marked by history since Antiquity, she attended the pyre of Joan of Arc. Today, the city of 100 spiers knew preserve its ancient soul, while looking to the future. On the banks of the Seine, along its cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses or on the heights of the city, it will have some nice surprises in store for you. What to do in Rouen? Here are our 10 must-see visits!
Stroll through the medieval streets
This is the first thing to do in Rouen to get an overview of the city. The center is mainly pedestrian, which allows to appreciate all its beauty. With around 2 colorful half-timbered houses, the alleys have a crazy charm. One of the most interesting places is the Saint-Maclou district, also known as the “Antiquaires district”. Don't miss the Gros-Horloge, a Renaissance treasure.
A city alley
Walk in the footsteps of Joan of Arc
It is on the Place du Vieux Marché that Joan of Arc was burned alive May 30, 1431. To learn more about her history and the trial that brought her death, go to the Historial Joan of Arc, located in the Archiepiscopal Palace. This interactive exhibition will immerse you in the Middle Ages, alongside the Maid. Another attraction to do in Rouen: a route with an audio guide in the footsteps of Joan of Arc.
Old Market Square
See Notre-Dame Cathedral
Treasure of Gothic art, Notre-Dame Cathedral dominates the city and impresses with its cast iron spire which rises to 151 meters in height, making it the tallest in France. This visit is a must to do in Rouen, as it is linked to the history of the city over the centuries. It is here, for example, that the Dukes of Normandy rest, as well as the heart of Richard the Lionheart.
The Notre-Dame cathedral
Overlook the city from Sainte-Catherine
What to do in Rouen to have a beautiful panorama of the city? Climb the 525 steps that lead to the top of Sainte-Catherine hill. From the top of its 140 meters, it offers a breathtaking view. It is also here that the painter Claude Monet produced his work “Vue générale de Rouen”, in 1892. If you have the time, prepare a picnic to enjoy on the spot!
View from Sainte-Catherine hill
Take a tour of the Panorama XXL
This large blue building, located on the banks of the Seine, is a real eye-catcher, and rightly so! This is a visit to do in Rouen if the weather is gloomy. The Panorama XXL is an unusual cultural place that exhibits 360 ° panoramic works. Combining painting, drawing, digital photography and original soundtrack, these paintings invite you to travel. Immerse yourself in the heart of ancient Rome or in the Rouen of the Middle Ages! You can also admire extraordinary landscapes such as those of the Amazon or the Great Barrier Reef.
Panorama XXL, on the port
Take a walk in the Jardin des Plantes
This is a great walk to do in Rouen, especially if you are with your family! Covering 85 m², the Jardin des Plantes is made up of different spaces where plants from five continents are represented. Committed, he actively participates in the conservation of endangered plant species. A relaxation area, it also offers a magnificent greenhouse as well as numerous aviaries where parakeets and parrots frolic happily.
Garden plants
Discover the city of 100 bell towers
It was Victor Hugo who gave this name to Rouen in 1830. The city has indeed many religious buildings of different styles and eras. Fans of architecture and history will be delighted! Which ones to do in Rouen? Visit for example the Saint-Ouen Abbey and its gigantic proportions, or the recent Joan of Arc church and its astonishing blend of modernity and classical art.
The Saint-Ouen abbey
Visit Rouen along the Seine
The Seine separates the city in two, the river is therefore a central element in the life of Rouen. On its shores, docks have been set up to be able to walk or cycle. You can also navigate on the Seine during an excursion: ideal for getting another point of view over the city. Rouen hosts the Armada of Liberty, a meeting place where the largest sailing ships in the world gather. An unmissable stroll to do in Rouen!
Rouen during the Armada
Walk around the Museum of Fine Arts
If there is one museum to do in Rouen, this is it! Covering all eras, it brings together vast collections of paintings, sculptures and works of art. For example, you can admire works by Monet, Renoir, Delacroix, Modigliani, and many others! Sixty rooms welcome you to take in the view. In addition to the splendid permanent collections, the Museum of Fine Arts regularly organizes temporary exhibitions.
Beaux-arts museum
Feast on local specialties
Notice to gourmets, you will be delighted by the taste buds! As elsewhere in Normandy, Rouen has many charming restaurants where you can taste excellent local products. The apple will of course be at the heart of many dishes, associated for example with duck. The cheeses perfume and wake up the plates, like the mythical Camembert. On the sweet side, the apple is also in the spotlight, cooked and caramelized in a thousand ways. Here is a gourmet activity to do in Rouen!
Discover gastronomy in charming restaurants
Useful information
Finally, some information to prepare your stay as well as possible:
- Tourist Office : The Tourist Office organizes guided tours on many themes and depending on the age of the children if you are with your family.
- Museums: The city's museums are free, like the splendid Museum of Fine Arts.
- Transport: Good to know, all public transport is free on Saturdays.
- Weather report : Check the weather forecast for Rouen before packing your bags!
The essentials of Rouen… and after?
What great visits to do in Rouen! If you want to extend your getaway in the region, do not hesitate to consult our article on the 27 things to see in Normandy!
