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Rouen: Explore Medieval Architecture and the Gros Horloge

Panorama_de_Rouen_depuis_la_Corniche.jpg: stephane martin derivative work: Inkey, Rouen banner, CC BY-SA 2.0
Photo: Panorama_de_Rouen_depuis_la_Corniche.jpg: stephane martin derivative work: Inkey, Rouen banner, CC BY-SA 2.0
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Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Rouen? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Rouen.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to Normandy, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to Normandy here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Rouen offers a rich tapestry of history and culture, inviting visitors to explore its medieval charm and vibrant arts scene. The city, known for its pivotal role in historical events, boasts a blend of Gothic architecture, cobblestone streets, and a deep connection to figures like Joan of Arc. Visitors can expect a journey through time, with opportunities to experience both the grandeur of its past and the dynamic cultural expressions of today.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. The Museum of Fine Arts in Rouen: Housing an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings from the Renaissance to the present, including works by Monet and Géricault. Distance in km: 0.31
2. Aître Saint-Maclou: ⭐ A unique site, this former ossuary dating from the Black Death in the 14th century is an eerie yet fascinating place. Its courtyard is surrounded by half-timbered buildings with carved wooden details depicting macabre scenes. Distance in km: 0.41
3. Rouen Cathedral: ⭐ ⭐ A stunning example of Gothic architecture, famous for its association with Claude Monet's series of paintings. Distance in km: 0.45
4. Palais de Justice: ⭐ A stunning example of Gothic civil architecture, the Palais de Justice of Rouen is notable for its flamboyant Gothic facade and the history it holds as a former parliament building of Normandy. Distance in km: 0.49
5. Gros Horloge: ⭐ An iconic astronomical clock dating back to the 14th century, located in a Renaissance arch crossing a busy street of Rouen. The clock is beautifully ornate, and visitors can learn about the mechanism and history of time measurement. Distance in km: 0.56
6. Seine River Banks: The banks of the Seine River offer picturesque views and are ideal for leisurely walks. The area is also popular for boat tours, which provide a unique perspective of Rouen and its historical buildings. Distance in km: 0.67
7. Old Town of Rouen: ⭐ The historic heart of Rouen is a maze of cobblestone streets, medieval half-timbered houses, and charming squares. It's a living museum, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Distance in km: 0.73
8. The Maritime Museum in Rouen: Dedicated to the maritime history of Normandy, the museum showcases the region's strong ties to the sea, including exploration and trade. Distance in km: 2.8
9. Jardin des Plantes de Rouen: This botanical garden offers a peaceful escape with its beautifully landscaped gardens, greenhouses, and collections of plants from around the world. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet retreat. Distance in km: 2.84
10. Forêt Domaniale de Roumare: A vast forest area just outside Rouen, offering numerous trails for walking, horse riding, and cycling. Its diverse landscape and wildlife make it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Distance in km: 6.87
11. The Bocage Normand: A picturesque landscape characterized by small fields, hedgerows, and orchards, offering a glimpse into traditional Norman rural life. Distance in km: 18.51
12. Jumièges Abbey: ⭐ The ruins of one of the oldest and most important Benedictine monasteries in Normandy, known for its dramatic setting and architectural beauty. Distance in km: 20.34
13. Abbey of Saint-Wandrille: ⭐ A still-active Benedictine monastery, known for its beautiful architecture and the monks' production of craft beer. Distance in km: 25.73
14. Château Gaillard: Ruins of a medieval castle built by Richard the Lionheart, offering panoramic views of the Seine River and the surrounding landscape. Distance in km: 31.83
15. The Abbey of Bec-Hellouin: A beautiful example of Norman architecture and a site of significant historical importance in the development of the Benedictine order. Distance in km: 36.25

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Rouen offers a blend of historical charm and natural beauty, providing a serene environment for tourists seeking relaxation. The city is known for its picturesque landscapes, with lush parks and tranquil gardens that invite visitors to unwind. Whether strolling along the Seine or exploring hidden green spaces, Rouen provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

1. Jardin des Plantes de Rouen: A large botanical garden with diverse plant collections.

The Jardin des Plantes de Rouen is a beautiful botanical garden that spans 10 hectares. Visitors can explore a wide variety of plant species, including rare and exotic plants. The garden features themed areas such as the rose garden, alpine garden, and tropical greenhouse. It is an ideal place for a relaxing stroll, picnics, and educational activities.

Type: garden | Fee: free
2. Parc de la Cerisaie: A serene park known for its cherry blossoms.

Parc de la Cerisaie is a charming park located in Rouen, famous for its beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring. The park offers peaceful walking paths, open green spaces for relaxation, and a playground for children. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon or a family outing.

Type: park | Fee: free
3. Square Verdrel: A small but picturesque garden in the city center.

Square Verdrel is a quaint garden located in the heart of Rouen. It features a pond with ducks and swans, well-maintained flower beds, and shaded benches under mature trees. This garden is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets and is perfect for a short break or a quiet read.

Type: garden | Fee: free
4. Parc Grammont: A large park with sports facilities and walking trails.

Parc Grammont is a spacious park that offers a variety of activities for visitors. It includes sports facilities such as football fields and tennis courts, as well as walking and jogging trails. The park is ideal for sports enthusiasts and families looking for an active day out. It also hosts occasional events and concerts.

Type: park | Fee: free
5. Forêt Verte: A vast forest area perfect for hiking and nature walks.

Forêt Verte, or the Green Forest, is a large forested area located near Rouen. It offers numerous hiking and walking trails through dense woodlands, providing a natural escape for those seeking tranquility and fresh air. The forest is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a great spot for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Type: green_area | Fee: free

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Office de Tourisme de Rouen

Tourist information center

Address: Esp. Marcel Duchamp, 76000 Rouen, France

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Rouen?

Rouen offers a variety of mobility options that cater to different preferences and needs. The city center is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance from each other. Public transportation is well-developed, providing an efficient way to navigate the city and its surroundings. Cycling is also a viable option, with infrastructure in place to support it.

In the heart of Rouen, pedestrian-friendly zones make walking a pleasant way to explore historical sites and local shops. The local transportation network, operated by TCAR, includes buses and a light metro system called TEOR, which connects key areas efficiently. For cycling enthusiasts, bike rentals are available through services like Cy'clic, which offers convenient rental stations throughout the city. Ride-sharing services such as Uber are also operational, providing an alternative for those preferring private transport. Practical tips include checking the latest schedules for public transport, especially during weekends or holidays, and considering a travel card for unlimited rides if planning to use buses and the metro extensively.