2024 05 10 Rouen V. Debels 36Rouen is a city where the past meets the present with disconcerting ease. A weekend is enough to succumb to its charms, but a lifetime wouldn’t be enough to see it all.
Here, between cobbled streets, medieval facades and arty cafés, the city overflows with fascinating energy. It’s the perfect getaway with friends or family to get lost, find yourself and explore it all. Where to go?
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Rouen Gros Horloge 2014 1smt V.rustuelCapital of Normandy and often nicknamed the City of a Hundred Spires, Rouen invites you to step back in time as soon as you set foot in its historic center. As you look up, Notre-Dame Cathedral rises majestically. Monet found inspiration here, why shouldn’t you? Behind itshalf-timbered facades, history is told in every detail: the Gros-Horloge, witness to another century, and the Place du Vieux-Marché, scene of Joan of Arc’s last moments.
Nearby, don’t miss thechurch of Saint-Ouen, a true Gothic masterpiece, or thechurch of Saint-Maclou, equally fascinating for its architectural details. These buildings reflect the city’s rich religious past and are full of treasures to explore.
But Rouen isn’t just an open-air museum. It’s also an atmosphere. Stroll through the Saint-Maclou district, where vintage boutiques and lively bars jostle in the shadow of the Gothic Saint-Maclou church. And if you like surprises, push open the door to theAître Saint-Maclou: a courtyard from another time, perfect for a moment of suspended animation.
Rouen lives to the rhythm of its river. The redeveloped quays offer an astonishing mix of relaxation and dynamism. Take a bike or simply walk from Pont Flaubert to Hangar 106. Here you’ll find concerts, exhibitions and an unobstructed view of the Picasso cranes, relics of the port’s past. Enjoy without looking at the clock!
Looking for a panoramic view? Head to Sainte-Catherine hill for a breathtaking view of the city and its bridges. For the more adventurous, take a bateau-mouche and discover Rouen by water, day or night.
Rouen’s cultural and nightlife scene is equally appealing. History buffs will love theHistorial Jeanne d’Arc, an immersive tour where tales of the past mingle with captivating scenography. Something else? Head for the Musée des Beaux-Arts or an evening at the Théâtre des Arts. Inspiration guaranteed!
For gourmets, Normandy’s specialities have more than one trick up their sleeve. Take a detour to the restaurants in the historic center, where you can sample the famous Rouen-style duck, an emblematic dish of the region, or the world-famous paillardises. Rue des Carmes abounds in bistronomic restaurants and cosy cafés. And for a trendy evening out, there’s nothing like the Martainville district for sipping a cocktail.
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Rouen Sma Valentin Debels 28Looking for a breath of fresh air? The Jardin des Plantes, a green setting in the heart of the city, is an invitation to get away from it all.
And for a more unusual adventure, take a walk or bike ride along the Robec river : mills, streams and charming alleyways will make you forget you’re in the middle of the metropolis.
Enjoy your visit to Rouen!
Want to extend your stay in Rouen?
Stay at theHôtel Littéraire Flaubert, in the heart of the historic center, and let yourself be transported into the world of the emblematic writer.
For a more intimate experience, opt for Le Skâllar, a cosy cottage with decor inspired by the Vikings series.
As for gastronomy, enjoy local and seasonal cuisine at Café Hamlet, nestled in the enchanting setting of the Aître Saint-Maclou.
