Things To Do
in Rouen
Rouen is a historic city in northern France known for its stunning Gothic architecture, including the iconic Rouen Cathedral. The city is situated along the Seine River and has a charming old town area with cobblestone streets and timber-framed buildings. Rouen has a rich history as the place where Joan of Arc was famously executed in 1431, and visitors can explore various sites related to her life and martyrdom.
Today, Rouen is a vibrant cultural hub with art galleries, museums, and a bustling dining scene showcasing delicious French cuisine.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Rouen Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece. Stroll around the nearby Place de la Pucelle and admire the half-timbered houses.
Visit the Museum of Fine Arts to enjoy an impressive collection of paintings. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Seine River and enjoy the picturesque views.
Dine at a local bistro, savoring traditional Normandy cuisine. Finish your day by exploring the vibrant streets and perhaps catching a local music performance.
Visit the Joan of Arc Historial to learn about the city's rich history. Enjoy the multimedia exhibits showcasing Joan's life and legacy.
Explore the medieval streets of Rouen, including Rue du Gros Horloge. Stop by the iconic Gros Horloge clock for some impressive photos.
Relax at a café in the historic center and sample local pastries. Enjoy the illuminated buildings around you as evening falls.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history with stunning architecture, including the Rouen Cathedral.
- Vibrant arts scene with numerous museums and galleries.
- Charming medieval streets and picturesque half-timbered houses.
- Culinary delights, especially known for traditional Normandy dishes.
- Conveniently located near Paris and beautiful coastal regions of Normandy.
- Weather can be rainy and gloomy, especially in winter months.
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation options may be less extensive than in larger urban areas.
- Tourism can lead to crowded attractions during peak seasons.
- Economic opportunities may be fewer compared to bigger cities.
Best Activities in Rouen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning Gothic architecture and the history of this iconic cathedral.
Take a leisurely walk through Rouen's charming old town with its timber-framed houses and cobblestone streets.
Enjoy a peaceful riverside stroll or find a cozy spot to relax and take in the beautiful views.
Explore the botanical garden with a variety of plant species, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Tours
Uncover the best of Rouen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Rouen
Visit one of these nice places.
The Gros-Horloge is a beautiful astronomical clock and the surrounding area offers stunning views of the city.
Sainte-Catherine's Hill provides a panoramic view of Rouen and the Seine River, offering great photo opportunities.
The Rouen Cathedral has a magnificent facade and its surroundings offer picturesque views of the city.
Food in Rouen
Rouen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A white pork sausage delicately seasoned with milk, eggs, and spices. You can taste authentic Boudin Blanc at Au Petit Paris, a quaint bistro located in the heart of Rouen.
Must-Try!
An aromatic fish stew showcasing the freshness of seafood from the nearby coast. La Walsheim, a charming restaurant by the Seine, serves an exceptional Marmite Dieppoise.
A delectable apple tart enriched with local butter and cream. For an unforgettable Tarte Normande experience, visit Patisserie Lenotre, a renowned pastry shop in Rouen.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Rouen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers an array of local produce, cheeses, and freshly caught seafood. You can savor authentic street food such as galettes and crĂȘpes at the stalls surrounding the market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Rouen, France, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal settings. Kissing on the cheek is also a common way to greet friends and acquaintances.
When dining in Rouen, it is important to wait for the host to initiate the meal and to keep your hands on the table, not in your lap. It is also customary to say 'bon appétit' before starting your meal.
French people, including those in Rouen, value their personal space. It's important to avoid standing too close or making prolonged eye contact, especially with strangers.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Rouen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Rouen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Rouen, France, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is usually included in the bill at restaurants. However, it is common to leave a small amount of change or round up the bill as a token of appreciation for good service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Rouen, especially in larger establishments. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses and local markets. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Rouen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for mild weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor events such as the Rouen Impressionnée festival.
Ideal for warm weather, outdoor dining, and attending music and cultural festivals in the city.
Great for enjoying the fall foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds at tourist sites.
Perfect for experiencing the festive Christmas markets, ice skating, and admiring the city's beautiful holiday decorations.
Rouen at Night
Hiking in Rouen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large forest area located just outside Rouen, offering various hiking trails through beautiful woodlands.
A hill located near Rouen, featuring hiking paths with panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
A regional natural park that offers numerous trails along the Seine River, showcasing breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
A stunning area with picturesque cliffs and trails alongside the Seine, perfect for a scenic hiking experience.
A scenic route that includes vineyards and views over the Seine valley, great for a leisurely hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Rouen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Rouen by plane.
Located approximately 85 kilometers (53 miles) from Rouen, Deauville Airport serves domestic and international flights mainly in the summer months.
Located around 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Rouen, Caen Airport offers flights to various destinations including the UK and seasonal routes.
Approximately 54 kilometers (33 miles) from Rouen, primarily serves general aviation and some passenger flights.
Located about 13 kilometers (8 miles) from Rouen city center, it serves mainly domestic flights and some international destinations.
Located approximately 190 kilometers (118 miles) from Rouen, it is the largest international airport in France, serving numerous destinations worldwide.
Located about 175 kilometers (109 miles) from Rouen, it is another major airport serving international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, encompassing various regional identities across France.
A significant community with roots in North Africa, particularly from Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia.
A diverse group originating from various countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
Individuals from countries in Eastern Europe, including Poland, Romania, and other nations.
Includes people from various Asian countries, with notable communities from Vietnam, China, and India.
Includes various other ethnicities and nationalities present in Rouen.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a highly popular sport in Rouen, with several local clubs and a passionate fan base. The city is home to Rouen FC, which has a rich history in French football.
Rugby has a strong following in Rouen, with local teams competing in regional leagues. The sport enjoys community support and is played at various levels.
Basketball is growing in popularity in Rouen, with several clubs and youth programs aimed at developing local talent. The city hosts various tournaments throughout the year.
Handball is another popular sport in Rouen, with local clubs competing in both men's and women's leagues. The sport has a strong community focus and is widely played in schools.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity in and around Rouen, with multiple cycling paths and events that promote the sport. It is both a competitive and leisure activity among locals.
Athletics programs are well-established in Rouen, with many clubs offering training in various track and field events. Local athletes participate in competitions at regional and national levels.
Volleyball has a dedicated following in Rouen, with both indoor and beach volleyball activities available. Various clubs cater to different age groups and skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rouen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rouen caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants and cafes offering plant-based dishes. Le P'tit Bec and Grain de Vanille are excellent choices for those seeking vegetarian or vegan cuisine.
While gluten-free options may be limited in traditional Norman cuisine, several establishments in Rouen offer gluten-free menus and alternatives. It's advisable to inquire about gluten-free choices when dining out.