With 7 days in Rouen, you'll have time to experience the city's highlights. Beyond its postcard-perfect medieval core, Rouen reveals a vibrant, modern city with a world-class Fine Arts Museum housing works by Caravaggio, Velázquez, and a superb collection of Impressionist paintings. The striking, modern Église Jeanne d'Arc, built on the very spot where the Maid of Orleans was martyred, houses stunning 16th-century stained-glass windows saved from a bombed church, creating a profound dialogue between past and present.
Why Visit Rouen
Stand in the Footsteps of Giants: Connect with profound history at the exact site of Joan of Arc's execution, marvel at the cathedral that Monet immortalized, and see the actual tower where she was imprisoned in the donjon of the city's ancient castle.
A Feast for Art Lovers: Beyond Monet's muse, the Musée des Beaux-Arts boasts an exceptional collection from the Renaissance to Modigliani, while the contemporary light show 'Rouen Cathedral, the Monumental Experience' projects Monet's paintings onto the cathedral facade itself.
Indulge in Authentic Norman Cuisine: Savor the rich, butter- and cream-based dishes of Normandy in historic settings. Taste duck à la Rouennaise, tripes à la mode de Caen, authentic Camembert cheese, and finish with a trou Normand—a shot of Calvados apple brandy between courses.
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Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Start your Rouen adventure by getting your bearings and exploring the city's most iconic landmarks. Take time to soak in the atmosphere and discover why this destination captures the hearts of millions.
Rouen Cathedral
Experience Rouen Cathedral, one of Rouen's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into France's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 2: Local Life & Neighborhoods
Experience Rouen like a local today. Wander through authentic neighborhoods, discover hidden cafes, and get a taste of everyday life in France.
Gros-Horloge
Experience Gros-Horloge, one of Rouen's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into France's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 3: Art, History & Discovery
Uncover layers of history that shaped Rouen. From ancient remains to modern marvels, today reveals the stories behind the city's evolution.
Joan of Arc Church
Experience Joan of Arc Church, one of Rouen's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into France's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 4: Off the Beaten Path
Venture beyond the tourist trail to discover Rouen's lesser-known treasures. These local favorites offer authentic experiences away from the crowds.
Old Market Square
Experience Old Market Square, one of Rouen's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into France's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 5: Markets, Food & Exploration
Indulge your senses with Rouen's culinary scene. From bustling markets to beloved local spots, today is a feast for both eyes and taste buds.
Fine Arts Museum
Experience Fine Arts Museum, one of Rouen's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into France's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 6: Culture & Hidden Gems
Dive deeper into Rouen's rich cultural heritage. Today is about understanding what makes this city tick, from its artistic legacy to its local traditions.
Rue du Gros-Horloge
Experience Rue du Gros-Horloge, one of Rouen's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into France's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 7: Final Treasures
Make every moment count on your final full day. There's still so much to discover in Rouen, and today brings fresh adventures.
Ready to explore Rouen?
Travel Tips
- 1Book accommodation in the city center for easy access to attractions. Rouen is best explored by combining walking with public transport.
- 2The best time to visit Rouen is April to October. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- 3The local currency is Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted.
- 4A few words in French go a long way with locals. Even "please" and "thank you" will earn smiles.
- 5Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip. WiFi can be spotty in historic areas.
- 6With 7 days, consider a day trip outside Rouen to experience more of France.
Must-Try Food in Rouen
💡 The best view of the Gros-Horloge is not from underneath it, but from the small courtyard just off Rue du Gros-Horloge, accessible through an archway.
Book Activities in Rouen
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Neighborhoods to Explore in Rouen
Vieux-Marché & Cathedral Quarter
The historic and spiritual heart of Rouen, centered around its two most iconic landmarks.
Saint-Maclou & Saint-Patrice
A quieter, deeply atmospheric district east of the cathedral, famed for its stunning churches and hidden courtyards.
Left Bank (Rive Gauche)
The modern, bustling commercial and university district across the Seine.
Day Trip Ideas
With 7 days in Rouen, you have time for a memorable day trip. Here are some great options nearby:
Honfleur
This picturesque fishing port, with its iconic slate-fronted houses surrounding the Vieux Bassin, was a favorite of Impressionist painters like Boudin and Monet.
Giverny
Pilgrimage site for art lovers, this is where Claude Monet lived, painted, and created his famous water lily pond and flower gardens.
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