Make Rouen part of your holidays
If you are looking for an easy destination to visit outside Paris, why not consider a day in Rouen? Whether you are staying in one of our Paris apartments , or one of our Normandy vacation rentals Rouen is a gem in France not to be missed. Rouen is located in the Normandy region of France north of Paris.
From Gare Saint Lazare in Paris, you can take a train and be in this charming town in 1 hour and 40 minutes. The train makes 4 stops along the way, one of them is Giverny which is also worth a visit so maybe these two destinations can be combined.
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ROUEN DURING THE MIDDLE AGES
If you want to get a feel for what France during the Middle Ages was like, Rouen is a perfect place to start. As you wander the streets, half-timbered houses feel like they are leaning in to greet you. These houses are sometimes more than 500 years old but have withstood time. In French they are called “Maison à Colombage”. The small streets meander and lead you to many historical places.
Jeanne d’Arc (Joan of Arc) who is nicknamed as “The Maid of Orléans”, is considered the heroin of France in her fight for France against the English during the Hundred Years’ War. As many know, she was burned at the Stake on May 30, 1431. You can visit the actual place where she was burnt.
Today a very modern church, Church of St. Joan of Arc, was erected just next to this area but the square is charming and it is the perfect place to stop for a drink or have a meal.
The oldest Hotel in France is located on this square. It is called “La Couronne and was established in 1345! Restaurants specialize in local dishes and for those who love seafood, the seafood platters are copious and deliciously fresh!
CATHEDRALS, CATHEDRALS, CATHEDRALS!
As you continue on, don’t miss the many cathedrals that are home to Rouen.
One of the most famous is the Notre-Dame Cathedral that has been honored by Monet in some of his most famous paintings. Other spectacular cathedrals are Saint-Maclou and Saint-Ouen, which are both perfect examples of Gothic churches.
ROUEN A TOWN KNOWN FOR ITS CERAMICS
Rouen is also known for its ceramics. Small shops offer a nice selection of local ceramics and those who are interested in learning more can go to the Ceramic museum. Rue St. Nicolas, which is just north of the Notre-Dame Cathedral, is lined with some of the artisans who still practice their art; make sure to check it out!
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LES BEAUX ARTS
There are many museums in the town of Rouen, but if you love art, don’t miss the Musée des Beaux-Arts which has a fantastic collection of paintings, drawings and sculptures. Caravage, Velâzquez, Delacroix, Géricault, Modigliani, Monet, Sisley and even Rembrant are all present! Have a drink after you visit in the very lovely atrium and I can assure you that your trip to Rouen will feel complete and you will have discovered one of France’s beauties!
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