Straight answers to the questions visitors ask most — from the best time to go to where to eat and what to do with kids.
Late spring to early autumn (May–September) is ideal: mild weather, long evenings and the free Cathédrale de Lumière light show. June 2027 is exceptional — it brings the Armada (17–27 June). Spring and early autumn are quieter; winter has the Christmas market. More on when to go →
One full day covers the essentials of the old town. Two days let you add a museum and a Seine cruise; three days make room for a Normandy day trip such as Giverny or Étretat. Things to do in Rouen → · Day trips →
The fastest way is the train from Paris Saint-Lazare to Rouen Rive Droite in about 1h15–1h30. By car it is roughly 1h45–2h via the A13 motorway, depending on traffic. Full guide: Paris to Rouen →
Free on-street parking is scarce in the centre, but easier in outer neighbourhoods, and park-and-ride lots on the edge of town let you finish by tram or bus. During the Armada, use park-and-ride and public transport — the central quays are closed to traffic. Parking guide →
Plenty: the free Musée des Beaux-Arts, the soaring cathedral and Gothic churches, the covered Aître Saint-Maclou, and a climb up the Gros-Horloge. A full rainy-day guide →
The Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral painted by Monet, the Gros-Horloge, the Place du Vieux-Marché and Joan of Arc, the Aître Saint-Maclou and the churches of Saint-Maclou and Saint-Ouen. See all the sights →
Rouen’s signature dish is duck à la rouennaise (pressed duck). Save room for sweet treats — sucre de pomme and mirlitons de Rouen — and Normandy classics like camembert, cider and Calvados. Rouen food specialities → · Where to eat →
Climb the Gros-Horloge for rooftop views, follow Joan of Arc’s story at the immersive Historial Jeanne d’Arc, explore the river story at the maritime museum, run around the Jardin des Plantes, and walk or cycle the quays. The free Musée des Beaux-Arts is family-friendly too. More ideas →