Rouen, the capital of Normandy, is a perfect destination for an exciting day trip any time of the year. It is conveniently located just over an hour's train ride from Paris. Often called a mini Paris, Rouen packs a punch with its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and charming atmosphere.
This place has plenty to see and do, but less crowded than Paris. Don't miss the chance to visit the cathedral that inspired Claude Monet's paintings and stand on the site where Joan of Arc met her tragic end.
If you need more inspiration for your visit, check out our list of must-do activities below. Thanks to its compact size, Rouen is perfect for a day trip. However, if you want to fully enjoy all the amazing museums, delicious food and experience the city at night.
I recommend spending at least two days there. One of the best things about Rouen is that everything is conveniently located close to each other, making the city easy to explore on foot. Plus, there are plenty of fantastic food, coffee, and pastry shops to take a break and relax when sightseeing becomes tiring. This tower is the only remaining piece of the mediaeval Rouen castle where Joan of Arc was held captive before her tragic fate in 15th Century. Despite being burned at the stake for heresy at 19, Joan of Arc's legacy as a French heroine continues throughout the city.
There is a small exhibition about Joan of Arc and the castle at the tower, which you can access via the rue du Bouvreuil. Have you ever imagined visiting a 15th Century church filled with wrought iron artwork from all over Europe? This Gothic-style church of Saint-Laurent is home to an impressive collection of 14, iron pieces, including shop signs, decor items, locks, and sewing tools, all beautifully displayed in glass cabinets across two floors.
