Rouen, the capital of Normandy, is a city steeping in history, brimming with stunning Gothic architecture, and home to some of France’s most charming streets. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a picturesque French getaway, Rouen offers plenty to explore.
Best of all? It’s an easy day trip.
From Paris, hop on a train. In under two hours, you’ll find yourself wandering through the old town, exploring medieval alleyways, admiring soaring cathedral spires, and indulging in Normandy’s rich culinary traditions.
Cruise ships often offer excursions from Le Havre cruise terminal to Rouen and Giverny, home of Claude Monet. Private tours from Le Havre can also be arranged.
Ready to discover the best things to do in Rouen? Here’s where to start.
Admire the Rouen Cathedral
One of Rouen’s most famous landmarks, the Rouen Cathedral, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Also known as the Notre Dame de Rouen, or Notre Dame Cathedral, construction began in the 12th century. Additions and restorations continued for centuries.
While it’s not unusual for cathedrals in Europe to take decades (or even centuries), it’s a long time by European standards. Today, the Rouen Cathedral is one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in the world.
Intricate carvings and statues adorn the façade, so detailed you can spend hours studying them.
The façade inspired Claude Monet to paint it more than 30 times, capturing the changing light throughout the day.
Highlights:
- The cast-iron spire, which made it the tallest building in the world from 1876 to 1880.
- 13th-century stained glass windows, featuring an unmistakable deep cobalt blue known as “the blue from Chartres.”
- The tomb of Richard the Lionheart, King of England, whose heart is buried here.
Step inside to experience the cathedral’s grandeur, where soaring vaulted ceilings and centuries-old history create a breathtaking atmosphere.
Private walking tours can be a fantastic way to experience Rouen. Experienced guides share their connection to Rouen with a bit of personal information, providing a delightful and personalized experience.
Walk through history at Gros Horloge
Wandering through Rouen’s medieval quarter, you’ll come across one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks: Le Gros Horloge. It’s the best known Rouen attraction.
This stunning astronomical clock, dating back to 1389, sits within an archway spanning Rue du Gros Horloge, one of Rouen’s busiest pedestrian streets. The clock moved from its original location to the arch in the 16th century.
Not only does the clock still tell time, the dials are full of astronomical symbolism. Using representation of gods and planets, it tells the day of the week and the phase of the moon. By using symbols rather than numbers or letters, even the uneducated and illiterate peasantry of the Middle Ages knew the day and time.
Why Visit?
- The gold-adorned clock face, featuring sun rays, a starry sky, and intricate Renaissance details.
- Behind-the-scenes tours let you see the clock’s fascinating mechanics. Climb to the top of the belfry for a panoramic city view.
- Hidden symbolism in the design, including the passover lamb, a nod to Rouen’s medieval wool trade.
Another way to experience Rouen is through a small group tour. Small group tours can be more enjoyable than exploring on your own. You may even visit unusual places that can be hard to find on your own with an enjoyable and humorous guide.
Explore the Saint-Maclou Church & Aître Saint-Maclou
Rouen is known as the city of 100 spires. St. Maclou church is among its most striking. Built in the 15th century, it’s one of the finest examples of Flamboyant Gothic architecture. The church was dedicated to Saint Maclou, the patron saint of builders. Elaborate carvings and dramatic flying buttresses are hallmarks of the church’s distinct architectural features.
A short walk away, you’ll find Aître Saint Maclou, one of Europe’s few surviving medieval ossuaries. During the Black Death in 1348, three quarters of the city’s inhabitants died and the churchyards were too small to hold them. So a new burial ground was built.
In 1526, the Aître Saint Maclou was again too small, so the parish built three galleries around the cemetery to hold the remains. Old bones were disinterred and moved to the attics of these galleries, providing plenty of ventilation and making them visible to all.
Macabre symbols decorate the columns supporting the galleries, showing the site’s morbid past. But today it’s the home of the Regional Fine Arts School. It gives new meaning to being “bored to death” during class!
Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts
For art lovers, the Musée des Beaux-Arts is a must. Home to one of France’s most impressive fine art collections outside Paris, the museum showcases masterpieces spanning from the 15th century to modern times.
Notable works include:
- Paintings by Monet, Renoir, and Pissarro, who captured the beauty of Normandy’s landscapes.
- Works by Caravaggio and Rubens, adding dramatic Baroque flair to the collection.
- An entire section dedicated to Impressionism, which was born in Normandy.
The museum is free to enter, making it an accessible cultural highlight of any trip to Rouen.
Step Back in Time at Place du Vieux-Marché
The Place du Vieux Marché is the historic heart of Rouen and has been for centuries. Cafés, restaurants, and half-timbered buildings line this lively square.
Rouens old market square is also where Saint Joan of Arc met her tragic fate in 1431.
What to see:
- Joan of Arc Church, a striking modern building that honors the French heroine.
- The site where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake, marked by a simple cross.
- La Couronne, the oldest inn in France, where Julia Child had the meal that sparked her love for French cuisine. You can still order the same dish today!
The bottom line: the best things to do in Rouen
From its stunning cathedral and medieval streets to world-class art and Joan of Arc’s legacy, Rouen is a city that blends history, culture, and charm. This Norman gem offers countless opportunities for inspiration, whether you’re exploring for a day or lingering for a long weekend.
Ready to plan your trip? Discover more Normandy travel inspiration or contact us to craft your perfect itinerary!
Rouen, the capital of Normandy, is a city steeping in history, brimming with stunning Gothic architecture, and home to some of France’s most charming streets. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a picturesque French getaway, Rouen offers plenty to explore.
Best of all? It’s an easy day trip.
From Paris, hop on a train. In under two hours, you’ll find yourself wandering through the old town, exploring medieval alleyways, admiring soaring cathedral spires, and indulging in Normandy’s rich culinary traditions.
Cruise ships often offer excursions from Le Havre cruise terminal to Rouen and Giverny, home of Claude Monet. Private tours from Le Havre can also be arranged.
Ready to discover the best things to do in Rouen? Here’s where to start.
Admire the Rouen Cathedral
One of Rouen’s most famous landmarks, the Rouen Cathedral, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Also known as the Notre Dame de Rouen, or Notre Dame Cathedral, construction began in the 12th century. Additions and restorations continued for centuries.
While it’s not unusual for cathedrals in Europe to take decades (or even centuries), it’s a long time by European standards. Today, the Rouen Cathedral is one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in the world.
Intricate carvings and statues adorn the façade, so detailed you can spend hours studying them.
The façade inspired Claude Monet to paint it more than 30 times, capturing the changing light throughout the day.
Highlights:
- The cast-iron spire, which made it the tallest building in the world from 1876 to 1880.
- 13th-century stained glass windows, featuring an unmistakable deep cobalt blue known as “the blue from Chartres.”
- The tomb of Richard the Lionheart, King of England, whose heart is buried here.
Step inside to experience the cathedral’s grandeur, where soaring vaulted ceilings and centuries-old history create a breathtaking atmosphere.
Private walking tours can be a fantastic way to experience Rouen. Experienced guides share their connection to Rouen with a bit of personal information, providing a delightful and personalized experience.
Walk through history at Gros Horloge
Wandering through Rouen’s medieval quarter, you’ll come across one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks: Le Gros Horloge. It’s the best known Rouen attraction.
This stunning astronomical clock, dating back to 1389, sits within an archway spanning Rue du Gros Horloge, one of Rouen’s busiest pedestrian streets. The clock moved from its original location to the arch in the 16th century.
Not only does the clock still tell time, the dials are full of astronomical symbolism. Using representation of gods and planets, it tells the day of the week and the phase of the moon. By using symbols rather than numbers or letters, even the uneducated and illiterate peasantry of the Middle Ages knew the day and time.
Why Visit?
- The gold-adorned clock face, featuring sun rays, a starry sky, and intricate Renaissance details.
- Behind-the-scenes tours let you see the clock’s fascinating mechanics. Climb to the top of the belfry for a panoramic city view.
- Hidden symbolism in the design, including the passover lamb, a nod to Rouen’s medieval wool trade.
Another way to experience Rouen is through a small group tour. Small group tours can be more enjoyable than exploring on your own. You may even visit unusual places that can be hard to find on your own with an enjoyable and humorous guide.
Explore the Saint-Maclou Church & Aître Saint-Maclou
Rouen is known as the city of 100 spires. St. Maclou church is among its most striking. Built in the 15th century, it’s one of the finest examples of Flamboyant Gothic architecture. The church was dedicated to Saint Maclou, the patron saint of builders. Elaborate carvings and dramatic flying buttresses are hallmarks of the church’s distinct architectural features.
A short walk away, you’ll find Aître Saint Maclou, one of Europe’s few surviving medieval ossuaries. During the Black Death in 1348, three quarters of the city’s inhabitants died and the churchyards were too small to hold them. So a new burial ground was built.
In 1526, the Aître Saint Maclou was again too small, so the parish built three galleries around the cemetery to hold the remains. Old bones were disinterred and moved to the attics of these galleries, providing plenty of ventilation and making them visible to all.
Macabre symbols decorate the columns supporting the galleries, showing the site’s morbid past. But today it’s the home of the Regional Fine Arts School. It gives new meaning to being “bored to death” during class!
Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts
For art lovers, the Musée des Beaux-Arts is a must. Home to one of France’s most impressive fine art collections outside Paris, the museum showcases masterpieces spanning from the 15th century to modern times.
Notable works include:
- Paintings by Monet, Renoir, and Pissarro, who captured the beauty of Normandy’s landscapes.
- Works by Caravaggio and Rubens, adding dramatic Baroque flair to the collection.
- An entire section dedicated to Impressionism, which was born in Normandy.
The museum is free to enter, making it an accessible cultural highlight of any trip to Rouen.
Step Back in Time at Place du Vieux-Marché
The Place du Vieux Marché is the historic heart of Rouen and has been for centuries. Cafés, restaurants, and half-timbered buildings line this lively square.
Rouens old market square is also where Saint Joan of Arc met her tragic fate in 1431.
What to see:
- Joan of Arc Church, a striking modern building that honors the French heroine.
- The site where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake, marked by a simple cross.
- La Couronne, the oldest inn in France, where Julia Child had the meal that sparked her love for French cuisine. You can still order the same dish today!
The bottom line: the best things to do in Rouen
From its stunning cathedral and medieval streets to world-class art and Joan of Arc’s legacy, Rouen is a city that blends history, culture, and charm. This Norman gem offers countless opportunities for inspiration, whether you’re exploring for a day or lingering for a long weekend.
Ready to plan your trip? Discover more Normandy travel inspiration or contact us to craft your perfect itinerary!
