Rouen

Rouen
Rouen is a historic city in Northern France that's often overlooked by tourists heading to Paris, but it absolutely deserves your attention. Located on the Seine River in Normandy, this medieval city has a rich past dating back to Roman times.
The centerpiece of Rouen is its magnificent Gothic cathedral, which was famously painted by Claude Monet in a series of works. The city's old quarter features well-preserved half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets that transport visitors back in time.
Rouen has strong connections to Joan of Arc - this is where she was tried, imprisoned, and unfortunately burned at the stake in 1431. Today, a modern church stands at the site of her execution in the Old Market Square.
The city offers excellent museums, including the Fine Arts Museum with an impressive collection of Impressionist paintings. The gastronomy scene is typical of Normandy, with apple-based products like cider and calvados, alongside excellent cheeses and seafood.
With its mix of impressive architecture, significant history, and authentic French atmosphere, Rouen provides a perfect taste of Normandy without the crowds of more famous French destinations.
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Things to do in Rouen
Top things to do in Rouen by www.thecrazytourist.com
Where to stay in Rouen
Best hotels in Rouen:
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Ibis budget Rouen Centre Rive Gauche (budget hotel)
The ibis budget Rouen Centre Rive Gauche offers straightforward, comfortable accommodation about 1.5 miles from the city center. It's a convenient choice for exploring Rouen on a budget.
The rooms are simple yet functional, featuring flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and free WiFi. While not extravagant, they provide a clean and quiet space to relax after a day of sightseeing. The hotel also has welcoming common areas, including a modern lobby where guests can unwind or enjoy a drink. A highlight is the breakfast, which is well-liked by guests, and there's paid on-site parking available, which is useful for those driving. The friendly staff makes checking in easy, making this a great option for a no-frills stay in Rouen.
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Hôtel de Bourgtheroulde (luxury hotel)
Hôtel de Bourgtheroulde is a magnificent historic hotel located in the center of Rouen. The building showcases exquisite Renaissance architecture, with a striking stone facade and intricate detailing that reflects the area’s rich history.
Inside, the hotel offers spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can also enjoy the exceptional indoor pool and spa, a great way to relax after a day of exploring the city. The hotel’s prime location places you just moments away from top sights like the Gros Horloge clock and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The staff are warm and attentive, ensuring a memorable experience. For a luxurious stay in Rouen, this hotel provides a perfect blend of history and modern comfort.
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Mercure Rouen Centre Cathédrale (medium range hotel)
The Mercure Rouen Centre Cathédrale is ideally located in the center of Rouen, just steps from the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and other historic landmarks. The rooms are stylish and comfortable, equipped with air conditioning and free WiFi for a relaxing stay.
The hotel offers a great breakfast buffet to kickstart your day of exploring, and there's a bar for evening drinks. A big plus is the underground parking garage, a real convenience in the city's older areas. With attractions like the Place du Vieux Marché and the Gros Horloge clock nearby, and the train station just a 20-minute walk away, this hotel is a perfect base for experiencing all that Rouen has to offer.