Rouen is a dynamic city marked by gorgeous architecture, innovative minds, and a storied past. Being one of Normandy’s capitals, it is a city that will engage you whether you are visiting one of its famous landmarks, recreating its intriguing history, or getting lost in its colorful streets. Here is a list of the top things to see and do in Rouen.
- Explore Art and History
Rouen has no shortage of museums to explore as it is a city that has been acclaimed by artists and has a rich history. The Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses France’s second-largest collection of Impressionist masterpieces, is a must-see for art aficionados. Head to the Musée Le Secq des Tournelles for something a little different, where wrought iron works adorn the walls of a former church. Aficionados of natural history and antiquities will like the Musée de Rouen, while fans of exquisite ceramics will enjoy the Musée de la Céramique. Whatever your preferences are, the city has plenty to offer you.
- Discover the History of Joan of Arc
The sad conclusion of Saint Joan of Arc’s life occurred in Rouen, and her legacy lives on throughout the city. Follow in her footsteps by paying a visit to the Historial Jeanne d’Arc, her trial site turned museum that offers tourists an interactive tour of Joan of Arc’s life and mythology. The Joan of Arc Tower, a historic dungeon where the Saint was imprisoned during her trial, is about a kilometer from the museum.
The Église Sainte-Jeanne-d’Arc de Rouen then commemorates her execution at the stake for heresy. The church is a one-of-a-kind structure on the town’s Old Market Square, with spectacular stained-glass windows. A statue of Joan of Arc stands outside, claimed to be at the same spot where her life came to an end.
- Observe People in the Old Market Square
During the Middle Ages, the Old Market Square was used as a place of execution for guilty criminals. It is now one of Rouen’s main squares, bustling with activity, thanks to the terraces of colorful buildings that border its perimeter. Enjoy a coffee break here while watching Rouennais go about their everyday lives, or go out for a night in the town at one of the surrounding restaurants. La Couronne, France’s oldest auberge and the site of Julia Child’s first dinner in the country, is one of the timber homes that flank the plaza.
- Admire the Streets of Rouen
Rouen’s streets are dotted with photo-worthy, colorful half-timber structures, making a mere stroll around the city enough to warrant a visit. Take a journey down the Rue de l’Épicerie, a once-bustling street immortalized in an 1898 artwork by Camille Pissarro.
Of course, no trip to Rouen would be complete without viewing the Gros-Horloge, a magnificent Renaissance clock that towers above the Rue du Gros Horloge and is regarded as a symbol of the Norman city. Keep a lookout for street art, which has been praised around the city.
- Go for a Picnic in Jardin des Plantes
The Jardin des Plantes is a large city garden that spans over 85,000 square meters and has plant varieties from all over the world. A rose garden, a medicinal plant garden, and an Asian-inspired rock garden are among the highlights. A greenhouse, a honey garden, and an aviary with parrots, parakeets, and golden pheasants are also available. The gardens are a great place to spend a beautiful afternoon, and they are especially popular with youngsters.
- Buy Fresh Goods from the Market
Each week in Rouen, there are numerous markets, but there are a few that stand out in particular. Clos Saint-market, Marc’s which is open every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday from 6:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., offers a diverse selection of local items. The Vieux-Marché, located in Rouen’s Old Market Square, is a traditional market with vendors selling farm-fresh fruits and vegetables as well as flowers. It is open from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday, and from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday. On Saturdays, from 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., there is a flea market.
- Take in the Countryside Surroundings
Beyond the city limits, there are magnificent villages and countryside scenes to be discovered. The remnants of a former Roman Catholic abbey may be found in Jumièges, which is 28 kilometers west of Rouen. Lyons-la-Forêt, some 40 kilometers east of the city, has been designated as one of France’s most beautiful villages. The Château de Bois-Guilbert, located northwest of Rouen, is a seven-hectare square park with a beautiful garden created by Normandy native Jean-Marc de Pas and filled with statues. Those who want to get some exercise can ride their bikes or walk through the countryside, discovering the routes that run alongside the natural park des Boucles de la Seine.
- Dine Like Royalty
Rouen has a wide range of dining options, from small crêperies to Michelin-starred restaurants. Regardless of where you go, you’ll get a good lunch made using local products. The Rouen duck is a must-try dish in the city. Rouen duckling is a crushed duck cooked with red wine from Beaune, Porto, and Cognac and thickened with blood, according to a 1933 recipe.
- Visit a Couple of Churches
Rouen is home to a number of beautiful Gothic churches. The Notre-Dame Cathedral, the most well-known and dominant of the group, is by far the most ornate and intriguing, and it is also France’s tallest cathedral. Keep in mind that the embalmed heart of Richard the Lionheart rests in his tomb inside, so do not only look at the outside. The Abbey of Saint-Ouen is a prime example of Flamboyant Gothic architecture, while the Church of Saint-Maclou offers a unique aesthetic with its five gabled arches on its facade.
Feel free to include Rouen in your trip plans and take advantage of the city’s wonderful culture, history, and cuisine. Purchase your tickets as soon as possible!
