Normandy, France
Rouen's most famous landmarks shape its skyline and historical identity. Do not miss these prominent attractions during your visit.
For booking tickets to attractions and tours in Rouen, consider platforms like GetYourGuide, which offers a range of options.
The clock's single hand indicates the hour, and allegorical figures below the clock face represent the days of the week.
Superb flamboyant Gothic architecture from the late 15th century. Intricate facade and wooden doors. Free entry.
Former ossuary from the Black Death. Half-timbered buildings with macabre carvings. Now houses an art school and shops. Free entry.
Magnificent Gothic and Renaissance building. Historically the Parliament of Normandy. Exterior view recommended, public access limited.
Remaining part of Château de Rouen where Joan of Arc was interrogated. Small admission fee for tower and exhibition.
Iconic pedestrian street leading to Gros Horloge, lined with charming half-timbered houses, shops, and cafes. Public access 24/7.
Beyond its historical and architectural wonders, Rouen offers pleasant natural spaces for relaxation and enjoyment.
A beautiful 8-hectare botanical garden on the left bank of the Seine. Features diverse plant collections, themed gardens, and impressive greenhouses. Open daily, free entry.
A large urban park on the right bank of the Seine. Offers expansive green spaces, walking paths, and recreational facilities. Open daily, free entry.
Revitalized quays along the River Seine offer pleasant walking and cycling paths. Excellent views of the city, bridges, and river traffic. Popular for leisurely strolls. Public access, free.
These parks offer ideal spots for a relaxing picnic. Grab some local cheeses, bread, and cider from a market.
Capture scenic river views or the diverse flora in the botanical garden. Golden hour light creates stunning visuals.
The botanical garden and riverside areas attract various bird species, offering opportunities for quiet observation.
Rouen holds several less-crowded treasures offering unique insights into the city.
Located within the Gros Horloge belfry. A fascinating small museum looking at the clock's intricate mechanism and the history of timekeeping.
A stunning example of Gothic architecture, often overshadowed by the Cathedral. Remarkable stained glass and serenity. Free entry.
Explore these lesser-known but equally captivating sites for a understanding of Rouen's charm and history.
To maximize your sightseeing, prioritize your interests and plan routes efficiently. Most major historical sites are within walking distance in the historic center.
Consider purchasing a Rouen City Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions, as it offers discounts and free public transport. Check the Rouen Tourist Office website for pass options and current pricing.
Guided tours offer valuable context and insights into Rouen's rich history and architecture. Many attractions provide audio guides for self-paced exploration.
While the historic center is mostly pedestrian-friendly, some cobbled streets may present challenges for mobility.
Capture Rouen's beauty with these photography tips for its famous landmarks and charming streets.
Seek out local perspectives and learn about daily life.
While Rouen's historic core captivates, nearby attractions offer further exploration of Normandy's charm.
A ruined medieval castle built by Richard the Lionheart. Offers dramatic views of the Seine Valley. About a 40-minute drive from Rouen.
Home and gardens of Claude Monet, including the famous water lily pond. About a 45-minute drive. Book tickets in advance, especially during spring/summer.
Coastal towns like Etretat (famous cliffs) and Honfleur (picturesque harbor) are within a 1-1.5 hour drive, perfect for a day trip.
Visit Rouen (Monet's Cathedral series), then travel to Giverny to explore Monet's gardens. A must for art enthusiasts.
Book Impressionist ToursExplore Rouen's medieval core, then drive to Château Gaillard for a dive into Richard the Lionheart's history.
Discover Normandy StaysCombine a morning in Rouen with an afternoon trip to Honfleur's charming harbor or Etretat's striking cliffs.
Find Coastal HotelsFor history buffs, major D-Day landing beaches and memorials are a 2-hour drive west, making a full-day trip possible.
Explore Historical ToursDrive through the Norman countryside to visit local farms and producers of cheese, cider, and Calvados for tastings and purchases.
Rent a Car in NormandyWhile Rouen has good public transport within the city, a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the wider Normandy region.
The best time to visit attractions often depends on the season, with summer being busiest but offering specific events.
Wear comfortable shoes. Rouen's historic center involves extensive walking on cobbled streets.
Allocate ample time for the Cathedral and Historial Jeanne d'Arc, as they both have much to offer.
Beyond standard tours, discover Rouen from new angles.
Explore Rouen through the lens of art and historical figures who shaped it.
Gain fresh perspectives of Rouen from the Seine or from elevated viewpoints.
Join a local photography workshop to capture Rouen's beauty more skillfully, learning techniques specific to its unique architecture and light.
Inquire at the Tourist Office or local art schools for any available short workshops.
Take time to admire the intricate details of Rouen's buildings, from Gothic facades to half-timbered designs.
The historical plaques on buildings often share details about their past.
Experience Rouen's landmarks transformed by evening lights, especially the spectacular Cathedral sound and light show during summer.
Check the Tourist Office for exact showtimes and dates.
A route focusing on half-timbered houses, hidden courtyards, and the Aître Saint-Maclou.
Connects sites related to her trial and execution, including the Historial Jeanne d'Arc and Place du Vieux-Marché.
A walk along the Seine's banks, crossing various bridges for city views.
