This historic French city on the Seine River was a medieval economic powerhouse. Its Roman-era walls and amphitheatre ruins reflect its ancient roots and revolutionary past.
Rouen, the capital of Normandy, lies 78 miles northwest of Paris along the Seine River. In its medieval quarter, you'll walk past the Notre-Dame Cathedral with its 151-meter spire, stop at cafés nestled between 15th-century half-timbered houses, and discover the 14th-century Gros Horloge clock still marking time. The city played a crucial role in French history as the location of Joan of Arc's execution and inspired Claude Monet to paint his famous cathedral series.
Getting to Rouen
Trains from Paris Saint-Lazare station reach Rouen in 90 minutes, with about 15 departures daily. If you're driving, take the A13 motorway from Paris, which takes about 1 hour 40 minutes. The nearest international airport is Paris Charles de Gaulle, from where you can take a train or rent a car.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
The 151-meter spire of Notre-Dame Cathedral - the highest church tower in France - rises above Rouen's rooftops. Two distinct towers frame the western facade: the 12th-century Tour Saint-Romain and the 15th-century Tour de Beurre. Step inside to explore the 11th-century crypt, see the 13th-century choir stalls, and visit the Renaissance tombs in the Lady Chapel.
Medieval Quarter Streets
The narrow cobblestone streets of Vieux Rouen wind between more than 2,000 half-timbered houses, including 227 protected historic buildings. Walk along Gros-Horloge street to see the 14th-century astronomical clock mounted in a Renaissance arch. Many medieval buildings tilt at sharp angles, creating unexpected perspectives as you explore the old town.
Joan of Arc Sites
The modern Church of Saint Joan of Arc in Place du Vieux Marché marks the spot of Joan of Arc's execution in 1431. Its architecture resembles an upturned Viking boat. Visit the Donjon of Rouen Castle (Tour Jeanne d'Arc), where Joan was imprisoned during her trial. The History Museum tells her story through interactive multimedia exhibits.
Museums and Art
You'll find French paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries at the Museum of Fine Arts, including works by local artists Pierre Corneille and Gustave Flaubert. The Secq des Tournelles museum, set in a former church, contains an extensive ironwork collection. At the ceramic museum, you can trace the evolution of Rouen's faĂŻence pottery from the 16th to 18th centuries.
Local Markets and Food
Visit the covered market hall near Place du Vieux MarchĂ© Tuesday through Sunday, 8am to 6pm. Local vendors sell Normandy cheeses, fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and regional specialties. In October, the FĂȘte du Ventre food festival brings local producers and chefs together. Try traditional Norman dishes at La Couronne, France's oldest inn (operating since 1345).
Getting Around
You can walk to most attractions within 15 minutes in the city center. For longer trips, use the Astuce network of trams, buses, and river shuttles. Two tram lines run through an underground tunnel beneath the city center. The TEOR bus system connects eastern and western Rouen.
