THINGS TO DO IN Rouen: 2-DAY ITINERARY

Tucked along a sharp bend in the Seine, Rouen is steeped in thousands of years of history. From Roman ruins to Viking raids and Medieval remnants, visitors will find traces of the past in every corner of town whether it be the Bubonic Plague or the 100 Years War. Some of the most prominent moments in the city’s history revolve around the famous heroine Joan of Arc, who was trialed and burned at the stake right in the heart of the city.

Dotted with Gothic cathedrals, Rouen is also an architectural paradise. Museum lovers can get excited too as there are a bounty of wonderful exhibits to explore with days worth of interesting artifacts and famous figures to uncover. In classic French fashion, Rouen also happens to be a culinary capital with plenty of delicious restaurants to sample mouth-watering Normandy specialties.

Our two-day itinerary includes the best things to do in Rouen. From exploring unique Medieval history to getting a panoramic view of the city bathed in golden light from Saint-Catherine's Hill, this is your luxury guide to Rouen, France. Grab a glass of calvados and come stroll with us through this city of spires!

Day 1

Morning: Place du Vieux Marché

The historic Place de Vieux Marché is the best place to start your tour through Rouen. Joan of Arc was burned at the stake here, but despite this grizzly piece of the past, the square retains much of its Medieval charm. Colorful, half-timbered homes, charming restaurants, and Gothic churches line the Place du Vieux Marché.

Eglise Sainte-Jeanne d’Arc

Located within the Place du Vieux Marché, the Eglisé Sainte-Jeanne d’Arc was erected next to the site of Jeanne d’Arc’s death. The small church combines both modern and Renaissance architecture. Taken from the rubble of the Church of Saint Vincent, which was destroyed in WWII, the stained glass windows are original from the 16th century. The exterior of the church was designed to resemble a longship, reflected in the interior roof which resembles the interior timbers of the hull of a ship.

Temple Saint-Eloi

Continue south of the Vieux du Marché to the Temple Saint-Eloi, a magnificent cathedral that combines both Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Visitors can tour the church or attend concerts here.

Le Gros-Horloge

Walk east to the Place de la Pucelle, another Medieval square in the historic center of Rouen, to see Le Gros-Horloge. This Renaissance architectural masterpiece bridges Rue du Gros Horloge, forming a majestic archway and serving as a home for the 14th-century astronomical clock. This gilded clock tells the time, day of the week, and the moon's phase. Visitors can tour the inside of the building, a dedicated museum, church, belfry, and the clock face room.

La Maison Sublime

The oldest Jewish monument in France, La Maison Sublime is where you’ll finish your morning tour of Rouen. This structure was discovered during a construction project in the original Jewish Quarter of Rouen. While its purpose is ambiguous, Hebrew engravings revealed that it was used by Jewish residents in Medieval times and remains a fascinating piece of the city's intricate history.

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Afternoon: Cathédrale Notre Dame de Rouen

The largest church in Rouen, the Cathedral Notre Dame de Rouen is a Gothic architecture masterpiece and one of Claude Monet’s recurrent subjects. Aside from being an Impressionist muse, the cathedral is steeped in history. Built on the site of an 4th-century basilica, religious structures that were built here stood the test of Viking invasions and WWII bombing. With the tallest spire in all of France, visitors can reach dizzying heights by climbing the St. Roman Towers 150 steps to get a sense of the cathedral's grandeur and to see the beautiful carillon, made up of 64 bells. It’s also possible to descend into the depths of the cathedral on a special tour of the Romanesque crypts. Those who happen to be visiting in summer should return for an evening light show on the facade of the cathedral.

Historial Jeanne d’Arc

Located just beside the cathedral, the Historial Jeanne d’Arc ( the Joan of Arc Museum) can be accessed inside of the Archbishop’s Palace. This is the very site where Jeanne d’Arc’s trial took place and where she was sentenced to death by burning at the stake. Visitors are guided through interactive, multimedia exhibits that tell the story of the trial itself and her life.

Saint-Maclou Catholic Church

Saint-Maclou is yet another beautiful Gothic church in the heart of Rouen’s historic district. Built in 1437, the church has striking features that survived WWII including Renaissance doors, a rose window, pentagonal porch, Renaissance organ, and a Gothic staircase. Architecture buffs will love this stop!

Aître Saint-Maclou

Continue just down Rue Martainville to reach the Aître Saint-Maclou. Originally an ossuary, Aitre Saint-Maclou was a burial place for victims of the Bubonic Plague which killed an estimated 75% of Rouen’s population. The building itself is in the traditional, half-timbered Medieval style with four galleries surrounding a courtyard. Visitors will find macabre details embedded into the architecture, including skull carvings and the skeleton of a cat on display.

Marché Saint-Marc

If your stomach is starting to rumble, you’ll be excited for the next stop! The Marché Saint-Marc is the oldest and largest market in Rouen. Stroll through the stalls with heaping piles of fresh produce, locally produced cheese, fresh baked bread, and cider to uncover the flavors of Normandy.

La Halle Aux Toiles

At one time the largest market in all of France, La Halle Aux Toiles, translated to The Cloth Hall, sold everything from pottery to linen. Almost completely destroyed in the Allied Bombings, the structure was rebuilt following the war, including a memorial to those who lost their lives.

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Day 2

Morning: Hotel de Ville Rouen

Kick off day two at the administrative center of Rouen, the Hotel de Ville Rouen. Built in 1800, the Hotel de Ville is housed within what was once the Saint-Ouen Abbey. Almost completely destroyed in WWII, the building underwent multiple modifications in its lifetime. Aside from a historic past, this is where weddings and other resident affairs take place.

Saint-Ouen Abbey Church

Another Medieval Gothic masterpiece, the Saint-Ouen Abbey Church was once a Benedictine monastic abbey and is the burial site of Saint-Ouen and, explaining its namesake. In terms of architecture, the church is a mixture of Flamboyant and Neo-Gothic. The transept and impressive organ are two of the highlights of the church’s interior. A series of religious sites have been built on the grounds, including the original monastery in 563.

Jardin de l'Hôtel de Ville

Just outside the cathedral and Hotel de Ville, these gardens are a quiet respite from the city. Shrouded in chestnut trees, it also provides a spot to grab beautiful pictures of Saint-Ouen.

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Afternoon: Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen

After a morning of exploring more of Rouen’s religious history, it's time to head for the city’s museums. Just across from the leafy Square Charles Vedrel park, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen is an impressive collection of artwork that dates back to the 15th-century and extends to modern times. Visitors will find paintings from renowned artists like Caravaggio, Degas, and Monet, a collection that started in the late 1700’s and continued through to the 1970’s. Thousands of artworks are displayed throughout the museum’s 63 rooms, from still lifes to landscapes and portraits.

Musée le Secq des Tournelles

Located just behind the Musée des Beaux-Arts is the humble Musée le Secq des Tournelles, a museum dedicated to wrought ironwork. Visitors will find everything from locks and keys to intricately designed doorknockers and unique light fixtures. These iron works of art came from all corners of Europe and span from useful objects to masterpiece quality. Jean-Louis-Henri Le Secq Destournelles began this vast collection in 1865 which was continued by his son and displayed in the 15th-century Eglise Saint-Laurent.

Musée de la Céramique

Only a two-minute walk away is the Musée de la Céramique, showcasing ceramic art from across Europe and the world. Over 5,000 pieces are displayed inside the 17th-century building, highlighting everything from porcelain to blue cameos and the revered Masséot Abaquesne, tilework created in Rouen.

Donjon de Rouen

The last piece of the 13th-century Rouens castle, the Donjon de Rouen was once a dungeon where Joan of Arc was shown instruments of torture. Built by King Philip Augustus, the Donjon de Rouen houses an escape game today.

Eglise Saint-Patrice

End the day at another of Rouen’s Gothic religious sites, the Eglise Saint-Patrice. Built in the 16th-century, the church holds striking stained glass pieces created in the 15th-century.

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Other Things to Do in Rouen

• Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle: A massive collection of 800,000 objects, Rouen’s Natural History Museum was one of the most impressive museums of its kind at its opening in 1828. Exhibits include a Paleontology Room, Mammals Gallery, the Gallery of Continents, and the Dioramas of Normandy, among others.

• Musée Flaubert et d’Histoire de la Médecine: Housed in the home of the famous French author, Gustave Flaubert, Rouen’s Musée Flaubert et d’Histoire de la Médecine combines the interests of the Flaubert family—medicine and literature. Visitors will find a display of the Flaubert’s personal collection of medical paraphernalia and books, collected by both Gustave and his father who was a doctor.

• Musee des Antiquites: Situated along the Seine, the Musee des Antiquites is located in the center of Rouen. Displaying artifacts that came from the nearby Roman ruins, the Theatre de Lillebonne, and other eras, the Musee des Antiquities showcases pieces that span from Roman times to the Renaissance period. Peruse the artifacts and admire the architecture of the 17th-century convent where they’re housed.

• Musée Pierre Corneille: Located in the south of Rouen along the Seine, visitors can tour that home of Pierre Corneille, the famous French dramatist and playwright. The home and grounds are beautiful, including the half-timbered house, quaint gardens, bread oven, and classic Norman orchards. Visitors will find antique furniture and other artifacts inside.

• Manoir de l'Aumônerie: A manor house built by the Knights Templar, the Manoir de l’Aumonerie is a private residence today that allows tours. Built in 1214, visitors will find Medieval features like wells, gardens, and elaborate frescoes. Guests can take guided tours and even spend the night at the property in one of the onsite cottages.

• Jardins des Plantes de Rouen: Situated south of the Seine, the Jardins des Plantes de Rouen is a sprawling botanical garden with exotic birds and plants to admire. The greenhouse at the core of the gardens is over 150 years old. Several structures that are scattered throughout the garden, including the Orangery and 17th-century Pavilion, house exhibitions and courses.

• Panorama de Rouen de la Cote Sainte-Catherine: Climb up the grassy slopes of Sainte-Catherine Hill for beautiful views over Rouen, its Gothic spires dotting the skyline, and the Seine, winding its way through the city. Even Monet once climbed this hill to paint a portrait of the city’s cathedrals. This area is particularly stunning at sunset and great for picnics. It is exactly 1.5 km from Cathedral Square to reach the top of the hill.

• Palais de Justice: Built in 1499, Rouen’s Palais de Justice has been a community meeting place for centuries. Once the seat of Normandy’s parliament, visitors can admire its unique mix of architectural styles from Louis XII to flamboyant Gothic, recreated after it was almost completely destroyed in WWII. You can also see remnants of the destruction in the buildings facade off of Rue Jeanne d’Arc. For those who want to get a glimpse at the inside, tours are held on Tuesdays and the last Friday of the month.

• The coast of the Seine River: Running straight through the center of the city, visitors can walk along the banks of the Seine in Rouen. The Prairie Saint Sever, Ile Lacroix, Quai de Rouen, and the Parc de la Presqu’ile Rollet all make for excellent spots to take in the riverside scenery.

• Cimetiere Monumental: Overlooking Rouen from its precipice on a northern hill, the Cimetiere Monumental is one of the most important cemeteries in the city. Just some of the famous people buried here include French novelist, Gustave Flaubert, the artist Marcel Duchamp, and the famous composer, Francois Boieldieu.

• Spa du Drap d’Or: Hidden away inside the five-star Hotel de Bourgtheroulde, Spa du Drap d’Or offers visitors a peaceful respite. Soak in the indoor swimming pool or utilize the counter-current swimming system for laps. Treatments offered include massage, facial treatments, body treatments, and more. The hammam and sauna are also excellent places to unwind.

• St. Mary Fountain: A magnificent fountain that serves as the core of Rouen, the St. Mary Fountain is an homage to the city’s history. Built in 1910, features include ships that represent the Seine River and other agricultural and industrial motifs.

• Pont Gustave Flaubert: Spanning the Seine in western Rouen, is the impressive vertical-lift bridge, Pont Gustave Flaubert. The bridge spans 120 meters across the river and lifts to allow the passing of barges and other boats. It was also designed to direct traffic away from the city center. Pont Gustave Flaubert is named for the famous novelist who was born in Rouen.

Best Day Trips From Rouen

• Parc Naturel Régional des Boucles de la Seine Normande: Only a 40-minute drive from Rouen, the Parc Naturel Régional des Boucles de la Seine Normande, is a protected section of the Seine and its surrounding forests, hillsides, and marshland. Cyclists will particularly love the area as there are several routes to explore, including the Route des Fruits. There are also several museums and historic buildings located within the park.

• Le Havre: Just one hour by train from Rouen, Le Havre is steeped in WWII history. Just across the water from Honfleur, Le Havre is perched along the Seine estuary where the river meets the sea. The city is also known for its unique architecture and layout, designed by Auguste Perret following the war. Famous for his use of concrete, the city was the first to be UNESCO designated following WWII. It is also commonly known as the birthplace of Impressionism because of Monet’s famous painting of Le Havre, titled “Impression, Sunrise”.

• Honfleur: A one hour drive from Rouen, Honfleur is a historic port town situated on the Seine estuary. Known for the beautiful Vieux Bassin, a quaint harbor lined with colorful, half-timbered homes and restaurants, the city attracted many artists, including Monet and Degas. Many of France’s explorers left from Honfleur to explore North America.

• Lisieux: Just over an hour drive from Rouen, the small town of Lisieux is best known as a religious pilgrimage site, only second to Lourdes. The striking Basilica of Saint Therese of Lisieux is a mammoth, Gothic cathedral in the center of town where pilgrims gather to pay homage to Saint Therese. Many come from across the world to visit The Shrine of St. Therese specifically.

• Bayeux: One hour and forty minutes outside of Rouen, Bayeux is the famous home of the Bayeux Tapestry, one of the most impressive works of Romanesque art. Detailing the Norman conquest of England by William the Conqueror, the tapestry stretches 70 meters and is housed inside the La Tapisserie de Bayeux. Aside from seeing this 11th century masterpiece, the town of Bayeux is a charming destination in itself. Make a visit to the gargantuan Bayeux Cathedral and the Museum of the Battle of Normandy for more background on this historic Norman city.

• Amiens: One hour and twenty minutes from Rouen, Amiens is dotted with UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Amiens Cathedral. The Somme river runs through the center of town and is home to the famous hortillonnages, Amiens floating gardens. Both of these features make it a worthwhile day trip, although there are plenty of other gems to discover.

• Caen: Entrenched in WWII history, Caen is best known for the Memorial de Caen and its D-Day Exhibit. The Caen Castle is another must-visit site and one of the largest walled fortifications in all of Europe, housing the Musée de Normandie, highlighting Normandy heritage, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.

• Mont Saint Michel: One of the most famous destinations in France, and rightfully so with its magical appearance, Mont Saint-Michel is two hours and thirty minutes from Rouen and well worth the trek for a day trip. Another pilgrimage site, the Abbey Mont-Saint Michel sits atop its rocky precipice with fun shops and crepe stands clustered around its base. Surrounded by vast tidal plains that are known for being notoriously dangerous, the abbey was built in the 11th century.

• Cider Route: This 25-mile-long route runs through Normandy’s countryside, hopping between cider producers. Learn more about the apple farmers, cider producers, and the stunning Norman countryside along the way.

• Calvados Tour: While Normandy is well known for its cider production, apple brandy is another popular tipple. Known as calvados in Normandy, take a tour of the Calvados Experience, an interactive exhibit that details the history and production of this fruity liquor.

• Giverny: Home to Claude Monet’s gardens, Giverny is a small French town just an hour from the center of Rouen. Although the town itself is charming, most visitors head straight for the famous impressionist home and stunning gardens. Stroll across the Japanese bridge with views over the lily ponds or see a selection of his paintings in the museum onsite.

• Les Andelys - Chateau Gaillard: Just one hour from Rouen, the riverside town of Les Andelys is home to Chateau Gaillard once the residence of Richard the Lionheart. Built on a chalk hill bluff that looks out to the Seine River and surrounding countryside, this area is steeped in history with traces of Gallo-Roman settlements. Visitors can explore the remnants of the castle and battlements as well as the Nicolas Poussin Museum, which showcases the artist's French Baroque paintings.

• Jumieges Abbey - Ruins of a Benedictine Abbey: Just 30 minutes outside of Rouen, the ruins of the Jumieges Abbey are often touted as the most beautiful ruins in all of France. Founded in 654 CE by Clovis II and Queen Bathilde, this was once a Benedictine Abbey. The abbey has seen centuries of history including being burned to the ground by Vikings and as a dungeon for King Charlemagne's enemies. It was left in ruins during the French Revolution and never returned to its former glory. Visitors can explore the ruins, including a 500-year-old yew tree that still grows in the cloister.

• Le Bec-Hellouin - Abbey Notre Dame du Bec: Only 45 minutes southwest of Rouen, Le Bec-Hellouin is one of the most charming villages in Normandy. Visitors can stroll the narrow streets, flanked with colorful Norman half-timbered architecture. Historically, Le Bec-Hellouin is known for its religious significance. The Abbey Notre Dame du Bec sits in the center of town. Founded in 1034, the abbey is still in use today as a Benedictine monastery. Visitors can discover the abbey’s grounds on their own but you’ll need to take a guided tour to see the interior.

• Lyons-la-Foret - Picturesque Village: About 40 minutes east of Rouen, Lyons-la-Foret is another quaint Normand village worth seeking out for lovers of fairy-tales. Surrounded by dense forest, visitors can explore the town itself with its cafes, restaurants, shops, and impressive 18th-century covered market, or seek out the 11,000 acre forest.

• Château de Vascoeuil: Also known as Musée Jules Michelet, the Château de Vascoeuil sits just 30 minutes from Rouen. Built in the 15th century, the grounds include the chateau, as well as a museum dedicated to Jules Michelete, a renowned French historian, that’s situated in a half-timbered building adjacent to the chateau itself.

Top Things to Do in Rouen with Kids

• Parc Animalier de la Forêt de Roumare: Winding its way through the dense Roumare Forest, visitors to the Parc Animalier de la Forêt de Roumare will find a 4 km hiking trail where they can potentially view wildlife. Animals including wild boar and deer call the park home. Children will enjoy the interactive displays and wandering through the forest itself.

• Arbr’en Ciel: An adventure park and treehouse all in one, the Arbr’en Ciel is fun for kids of all ages — including adults! Activities include tree climbing, mini golf, outdoor escape games, and elevated obstacle courses among many other fun adventures.

• L’Atrium: A great place to go for a rainy day, L’Atrium is Rouen’s premier science museum. Children will enjoy STEM activities and special exhibits like The Ocean Exhibition and Night of the Stars.

• Biotropica: About 35 minutes south of Rouen, Biotropica is a small zoo and botanical garden. Visitors will find several exhibits from African animals to the penguin cove. Kids will adore the Children’s Farm where they can see small farm animals.

• Gulli Parc Rouen Docks 76: Located near the Seine on the western edge of Rouen, Gulli Parc Rouen Docks 76 offers kids 1 to 12 several play areas including elevated playscapes, indoor games like air hockey, ball pools, slides, and more. This is the perfect place to bring kids on a rainy day.

• Rouen Espace Karting: For older children (7+) and teenagers, Rouen Espace Karting offers a fun afternoon of go kart racing. Parents can watch from the elevated bar and restaurant or race themselves on the 400m long racetrack.

• Boat ride on the Seine: Get out on the water with the kiddos by taking the Lutece Rouen, a small cruise boat that sails along the Seine, through the heart of the city center.

• Parc de Cleres: Just 30 minutes from Rouen, the Parc de Cleres is a unique mixture of sprawling green space, historic buildings, and a (mostly) free range zoo. Stroll through the English gardens, explore the 16th century Renaissance chateau, or seek out the animals from rare bird species to red pandas.

Best Restaurants in Rouen

• L’Odas (1 Michelin star): The only restaurant in Rouen with a Michelin star, L’Odas is situated in the historic center of the city. An open-air kitchen allows guests to see the masters at work, crafting a menu that changes with the seasons. Guests will find expertly crafted tasting menus with wine pairings and panoramic views of the city.

• Paul-Arthur (MG): Opened by Top Chef contestant, Paul-Arthur Berlan, his namesake restaurant is tucked along the Place de la Pucelle. A Michelin-Guide rated restaurant, diners will find a set lunch menu or choose between a 3 or 6 course dinner featuring a unique play on classic French dishes like beef tartar and veal. You’ll also find plenty of Norman influence, including local cheeses, galettes, and calvados.

• La Pecherie: As its name suggests, La Pecherie puts a distinct focus on local seafood. From their Oyster Bar to set menus that feature octopus, cod, and salmon to rave reviews, just to name a few dishes. Situated along the Seine, they offer both indoor and outdoor seating options. You’ll also find an excellent wine list.

• La Marmite: Located just off the Place du Vieux-Marche, La Marmite provides an intimate setting to enjoy set menus that highlight dishes like lobster ravioli, roasted pigeon, and fresh local fish. You’ll only find 10 tables here which means attentive service but that you’ll also need to make a reservation in advance.

• Gill: A beautiful blend of Normandy and Japan, Gill is a unique, gourmet restaurant in the heart of Rouen. Visitors will find dishes like foie gras and figs, Brittany lobster, and classic pan-fried sweetbreads with sumptuous desserts, including their famous millefeuille. You’ll also have the knowledge of an expert sommelier to help pair wine with the delicious dishes.

• L’Epicurious: L’Epicurious is a fine dining restaurant in Rouen’s historic center that offers hungry diners an elevated French cuisine experience. Guests will find, two, three, five, and seven course menus to choose from, each featuring dishes like seared langoustine tails, whole Normandy pigeon, and whole blue lobster, paired with wine.

Rouen Golf Courses

• Golf Barriere de Honfleur: Two different courses make up the beautiful Golf Barriere de Honfleur. Play the Par 71, 18-hole course at Diane Barrier or the Par 36, 8-hole Lucien Barriere course. Avid golfers will also find putting courses, a driving range, and a practice bunker, along with the gorgeous Deauville Clubhouse and a pro shop.

Racecourses in Rouen

• Deauville-La Touques: Deauville-La Touques holds the most races of any racecourse in France each year. Known for its ability to hold races at any time throughout the year, due to its fiber-reinforced sand track, this race track is great for those both young and old, with plenty of facilities for families. Located right on the sea, this track is in the small town of Deauville.

Where to Stay in Rouen

• Hotel de Bourgtheroulde (5 star): Rouen’s only 5-star hotel, the Hotel de Bourgtheroulde is the perfect place for a luxury getaway in Normandy. A historic property, the hotel is located only a minute’s walk from the famous Le Gros Horloge. Despite the 15th-century building the hotel is housed in, guests will find spacious rooms and bathrooms with contemporary furniture and luxury amenities, some with views over the city skyline. Guests will also find the Spa du Drap d’Or, a pool with a counter-current swimming system, several restaurants, and a bar. 

• Radisson Blu (4 star): Located just beside the Donjon de Rouen, the Radisson Blu is a modern accommodation option in the heart of Rouen. Guests will find comfortable amenities, including continental breakfast. The hotel's 93 rooms are modern and efficiently designed with desks, comfortable beds, flatscreen TVs, and sleek bathrooms. Guests can enjoy lunch, dinner, and drinks at the onsite Le Jehanne Restaurant.

• Hotel Litteraire Gustave Flaubert (4 star): Named for the famous French author Gustave Flaubert, Hotel Litteraire Gustave Flaubert is a boutique hotel tucked near the Vieux-Marché. Guests will find cozy rooms in this 4-star hotel with welcome gifts, including delicious Rouen apple sugars. Each room is named for a character in one of Gustave Flaubert's novels, of which you’ll find on your bedside table should you decide to do some light reading. A delicious breakfast, fitness room, library, bar, coworking space, shop, and cultural tours are also on offer. 

• Le Cardinal (3 star): The only hotel in Rouen that has views of the famous cathedral, Le Cardinal offers charming rooms for guests to find a quiet respite in. A delicious local breakfast, balcony rooms, and a friendly resident cat, Grisette, are all awaiting your arrival.

• Hotel Paulette (3 star): Also located near the cathedral, Hotel Paulette is a boutique, art-deco property in the center of Rouen. You’ll find just 22 rooms with Bohemian yet refined furnishings and excellent soundproofing so you can enjoy staying in the city center without sacrificing peace and quiet. Amenities include toiletries, continental breakfast, and air conditioning.

Best Time to Visit Rouen

Rouen is a four-season destination, meaning that it is warm in summer and cold in the winter with distinctive transitions in spring and fall. The summer months naturally bring an influx of visitors while fall, winter, and spring are much more quiet. Still, summer sees the least amount of rain in the region if you’re trying to avoid precipitation and long daylight hours.

Festivals in Rouen

• Normandy Impressionist Festival: A festival that takes place across France, including spots around Normandy and Giverny, and celebrates France’s Impressionist painters, Rouen holds several festival highlights. See magnificent light displays at the Rouen Cathedral and explore Impressionist artwork and special exhibits at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen.

• Viva Cité: Viva Cité is a street art festival held every year in May. Performances take place across the city, including music, dance, and theater, alongside vibrant art installations.

• Fêtes Jeanne d’Arc: Held on the last Sunday in May, the Fetes Jeanne d’Arc pays homage to the famous patron saint through parades and cultural performances. Medieval markets, a food court, and Medieval encampments are spread out across the city for two days in May. Visitors will also find street theater, music, walking tours, and escape games.

• Bastille Day Fireworks: Bastille Day is France’s national holiday celebrating the fall of the Bastille in 1789. Held every year on July 14th, Rouen celebrates with a fantastic fireworks display over the Seine.

• Big Bang Festival: Held at the Opera Rouen, the Big Bang Festival is a celebration of world music that is specifically geared towards young audiences.

• Rouen Christmas Market: The Christmas markets of Europe are famous for their charming stalls and steaming vats of mulled wine. Rouen is no different! The city center comes alive with twinkling lights, the smell of fresh baked gingerbread, and orchestral performances. Special illuminations are also set up throughout town, including colorful garlands.