Tourist Info

Highlights

Rouen : The Heart of Normandy

As the historic soul of Normandy, Rouen stands as one of France’s most captivating river cities, gracefully curving along the Seine.

Traces of life here date back to antiquity, but it was the Romans who first truly settled “Rotomagus.” In the 10th century, the city became the capital of the Duchy of Normandy under Rollo the Viking. Throughout the Middle Ages, Rouen flourished, though it faced dark chapters, most notably in 1431 with the trial and execution of Joan of Arc in the Old Market Square. The city’s power grew through its textile industry and its strategic position as a gateway to Paris. Despite the heavy scars of World War II, the “City of a Hundred Spires” was painstakingly restored, blending its medieval bones with a vibrant, modern energy.

To plan your journey through our streets and the wider region, you will find a wealth of inspiration regarding local delicacies, hidden lodgings, and cultural events on the Rouen Tourisme and Normandy Tourism websites.

Among the unmissable landmarks is the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, a Gothic masterpiece whose cast-iron spire dominates the skyline and famously inspired Claude Monet’s series of paintings. Just a short walk away, the remarkably well-preserved Old Rouen district is home to the Gros-Horloge: a stunning 14th-century astronomical clock that arches over a lively, cobbled pedestrian street lined with timber-framed houses.
For art and history lovers, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen houses one of France’s finest collections outside of Paris, including several of Monet’s canvases depicting the cathedral.

But Rouen isn’t just a museum city; to see it at its most relaxed, head down to the Quais de Seine. The riverbanks, once industrial, have been transformed into a vast promenade where you can wander past old cranes and trendy hangouts. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or a glass of local cider while watching the barges head towards. From the lively atmosphere of the Place du Vieux-Marché to the impressive silhouette of the Gustave Flaubert lift-bridge, the city offers the perfect mix of historic charm and easy-going river life.

Eating and drinking in Rouen

With the conference venue and local hotels situated close to the city centre, there is a wide range of bars, traditional Norman bistros, restaurants and terraces within walking distance, to cater for all tastes and budgets. Many of these can be found around the Place du Vieux-Marché, the rue Eau-de-Robec, the Place de la Pucelle and the Quais de Seine.

Rouen is also the only French city to hold the UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy label, making it a truly exceptional destination for food lovers. Local specialities to look out for include the famous canard à la rouennaise, fresh Norman cheeses, cider and Calvados.

You can find information on a variety of places to eat and drink on the Rouen Tourisme website.

Entertainment in Rouen

For those looking to enjoy an entertaining evening away from the usual bars and restaurants, Rouen has plenty to offer. Just five minutes from the city centre, Rouen Espace Loisirs is a large multi-activity complex featuring a bowling alley, indoor go-karting, laser tag and karaoke, perfect for a lively evening with friends.
Closer to the historic centre, the city also offers cruises on the Seine.

You can also find information on a multitude of places to visit on the Normandie Lovers website, the Rouen Tourisme website, and the Normandie Tourisme website.

Location

Université de Rouen – Campus Santé

22 Bd Gambetta, 76000 Rouen