What to do in Rouen

Activities, attractions and tours

A cobblestone street with historic buildings and an archway.
A cobblestone street lined with historic buildings, a cathedral in the distance, and a motorcycle parked on the side.
A cathedral interior with high arched windows, stone columns, and wooden pews.
A cobblestone street with outdoor seating and illuminated storefronts.
A street sign for 'Bar Brasserie' and a building with a red awning.

Things to do


  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Rouen Cathedral

Visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen (Rouen Cathedral) to marvel at its Gothic grandeur, admire magnificent sculptures and stained-glass windows and visit the vaults of famous kings. The beautiful cathedral dates back to the 12th century and stands on the site of a former 4th-century church. French impressionist Claude Monet immortalized the Gothic cathedral in his famous Rouen Cathedral Series.
Learn more
A historic cathedral with twin spires and intricate stonework.

2. Tour Jeanne d'Arc

A visit to the Tour Jeanne d’Arc (Joan of Arc Tower) is a journey through centuries of Rouen and Normandy history. Learn about the trials and imprisonment of French heroine Joan of Arc, and the tower’s involvement in World War II. The Tour Jeanne d’Arc is the former keep and the last remaining part of Rouen Castle, built in 1204 by King Philippe Auguste of France.
Learn more
A cobblestone street lined with parked cars and historic buildings, including a tower with a conical roof.

3. Gros Horloge

Gros Horloge is an antique clock and major landmark of Rouen, which adorns an archway on the picturesque Rue de Gros Horloge. Admire the clock’s lavish astronomical design and gilded art work. Wander along Rue de Gros Horloge to spot historic buildings, visit major city attractions, enjoy some shopping and relax at one of many cafés.
Learn more
Ornate architectural details with a prominent clock and decorative carvings.

4. Musée des Beaux-Arts

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen (Museum of Fine Arts) has one of France’s finest collections of impressionist art in addition to extensive displays of drawing, landscapes, portraits and sculptures. Admire the work of revered artists such as Anton van Dyck, Claude Monet and Peter Paul Rubens. The Musée des Beaux-Arts dates back to the end of the 1700s, when a public collection first started to be formed.
Learn more
A museum exhibit with illuminated artwork and furniture.

5. Saint-Ouen Church

In a city blessed with architectural masterpieces, the Église Saint-Ouen (Saint-Ouen Church) stands out as one of Rouen’s finest. Admire the Gothic façade, intricate stained-glass windows and magnificent organ. The Église Saint-Ouen started life as an abbey of the Benedictine Order and has architectural features that date back to the 1300s. It was here in 1431 that officials condemned Joan of Arc to be burned at the stake if she did not renounce. Compare this site to depictions you’ve seen in film and television versions of the story.
Learn more
A cathedral interior with tall columns, stained glass windows, and ornate woodwork.

6. Rue Eau de Robec

Rouen’s compact old town is easy to explore on foot and one of its highlights is the charming Rue Eau de Robec. This picturesque street is known for its charming, old-world atmosphere, which it gains from its tall, timber-framed Norman buildings. Wander along the pedestrianized section of the road to enjoy a quiet stroll through the historic heart of the city, where there has been minimal tourism development. The street has a museum, a children’s carousel and several restaurants.
Learn more
A narrow street lined with colorful half-timbered buildings, a café, and hanging flower baskets.

What to do in Rouen


Stay near popular Rouen attractions

Where to stay in Rouen

Find the best Rouen areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Rouen
Learn more about Rouen

Rouen City Centre

Historical sites, museums and art galleries are just a few things travellers like about Rouen City Centre. Sights like Rue Eau de Robec and Musée des Beaux-Arts are spots to explore, and you can get around the greater Rouen area at Palais de Justice Tram Station.

Quartier Vieux Marché-Cathédrale

Historical sites, museums and art galleries are just a few things travellers like about Quartier Vieux Marché-Cathédrale. Sights like Gros Horloge and Musée des Beaux-Arts are spots to explore, and you can get around the greater Rouen area at Palais de Justice Tram Station.

Centre Ville Rive Gauche

Shopping, restaurants and historical sites highlight some of the notable features of Centre Ville Rive Gauche. Make a stop by Saint Sever while you're exploring.

Quartier Saint-Marc - Croix de Pierre - Saint-Nicaise

Historical sites, bars and river views are just a few things travellers enjoy about Quartier Saint-Marc - Croix de Pierre - Saint-Nicaise. Check out Rue Eau de Robec or Aitre St. Maclou while you're exploring the area.

Quartier Pasteur

River views, historical sites and coffee shops are just a few things travellers enjoy about Quartier Pasteur. Check out Flaubert Museum and the History of Medicine or Kindarena while you're exploring the area.

Frequently asked questions

Is Rouen worth visiting?
Renowned for its walking trails and views, finding fun things to do in Rouen is simple. Don't forget to add Rouen Cathedral to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Rouen?
Joan of Arc Historial and Normandie Karting are two awesome places to begin your sightseeing adventures. Remember to explore the dining and shopping options in Rouen while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Rouen?
You can't go home without visiting Rouen Cathedral, rated the top tourist attraction in Rouen.
Is three days enough to stay in Rouen?
Three days will give you enough time to tick off the leading city attractions, like Rouen Cathedral, Joan of Arc Historial and Rouen Opera House. The average stay in Rouen is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your getaway, Vernon isn't far away.
Is Rouen a walkable city?
That comes down to what you want to see and do in Rouen. Several key sights, like Rouen Cathedral and Joan of Arc Historial, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Rouen's best neighbourhoods, Rouen City Centre is 0.48 kilometres away from downtown, while Quartier Vieux Marché-Cathédrale is 0.16 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Rouen with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Rouen with kids.
What to do in Rouen for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of Mother Nature, there are lots of things to do in Rouen for adults including Rouen Expo Park and Rue du Gros-Horloge.
Are there free things to do in Rouen?
In Rouen, Rouen Cathedral is a popular spot for anyone planning to enjoy the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Rouen.