Location & Transportation
Rouen has 2 cruise terminals: one located to the west and one to the southwest of the city center. The terminals are conveniently close – the historic center is just a 10-minute taxi ride or a pleasant 25-minute walk away.
Exciting news for cruise travelers: Rouen will soon extend its quays along the Seine to welcome cruise ships up to 250 meters in length. This development means even larger vessels can dock, allowing you an easy stroll into a city where history meets modern vibrancy, with plenty of nature, restaurants, bars, terraces, and cultural attractions to explore.
Nearby Lodging
Rouen offers a variety of lodging options for different budgets. Whether you prefer a charming guesthouse in the heart of the Old Town or a modern hotel with contemporary comforts, there are plenty of choices right near the center.
Sightseeing
Strolling through Rouen’s historic center is like walking through a living museum. Some must-see sights include:
- Notre Dame Cathedral: A stunning example of Gothic architecture.
- St Ouen Abbey and Saint Maclou Church: Beautiful churches that echo the city’s medieval past.
- Gros Horloge: A Renaissance clock tower that stands as one of Rouen's iconic landmarks.
- Saint Maclou Ossuary and Palais de Justice: For a deeper dive into the city's rich history.
- A peaceful walk along the Seine to appreciate how the river has shaped Rouen over the centuries.
Tours & Excursions
There are plenty of enjoyable ways to experience Rouen:
- Historical Tours: Hop on a charming horse-drawn carriage or take a ride on the tourist 'little train' for a fun overview of the city.
- Metrobus and Bicycle Rentals: The Metrobus system makes it easy to zip around Rouen, or you can rent a bicycle from Rouen Cycles on rue St-Eloi to see the sites at your own pace.
- Visit to the Manoir de Villers: Discover a centuries-old manor house that offers a guided tour of its beautiful park and historic interiors. Open from April 1st to October 31st—with specific hours on Saturdays (2:30–5:30 pm) and Sundays/holidays (3:00–6:30 pm)—it's the perfect excursion to dive into the local countryside life (7€/person, 3€/child under 14 and for the disabled).
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
Rouen is a treasure trove for antiques enthusiasts. The Old Town (Vieux Rouen) is famous for its more than 80 antique vendors lined up along:
- rue Eau-de-Robec
- Place Barthélémy
- rue Damiette
- rue St-Romain
As you wander these charming streets, you’ll also encounter shops featuring local crafts and specialties from the Normandy region—renowned for its rich butter and cream sauces, delicious cider and Calvados, and fine seafood from nearby coastal towns like Dieppe.
Dining
Rouen’s culinary scene beautifully complements its historical charm. There’s no shortage of places to sample local Norman flavors:
- Try canard Rouennaise, a local duck dish cooked in its own juices with a touch of Calvados.
- Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional dishes at bistros and restaurants dotted around the city center.
- Many dining spots offer riverside views, so you can savor your meal while watching the Seine flow by.
Culture & Local Events
Rouen is steeped in tradition and vibrant local culture. The city hosts many cultural events throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something interesting to experience:
- Seasonal local markets and fairs highlight regional foods, crafts, and historical re-enactments.
- Art exhibitions, music festivals, and street performances are regular delights that echo the city’s rich Norman heritage.
- Locals also celebrate traditional events, so be sure to check out what’s on during your visit.
Safety & Awareness
- Stay mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- In case of any emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance.