Rouen

Day 1: Historical Wonders of Rouen

• Morning Activity: Private Custom Walking Guided Tour in Rouen

  • Description: Discover Rouen through the eyes of a local guide. Customize your tour or let your guide show you the city's hidden gems.
  • Duration: 3-4 hours
  • Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and ask your guide for local dining recommendations.
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• Lunch Suggestion: La Petite Auberge

  • Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Norman dishes like duck confit or coq au vin.
  • Tip: Try the local cider!

• Afternoon Activity: Rouen Cathedral

  • Description: Visit the stunning Gothic architecture of Rouen Cathedral, famously painted by Monet.
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Tip: Best visited in the late afternoon for beautiful light filtering through the stained glass.

• Evening Activity: Dinner at La Couronne

  • Description: Dine at France's oldest inn, serving classic French cuisine.
  • Tip: Reservations are recommended.

Day 2: Artistic Inspirations

• Morning Activity: Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen

  • Description: Explore an impressive collection of paintings, including works by Monet and Renoir.
  • Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Tip: Check for any temporary exhibitions before your visit.

• Lunch Suggestion: Café de la Paix

  • Cuisine: A local café known for its pastries and light lunches.
  • Tip: Don't miss the café's famous apple tart.

• Afternoon Activity: Historic Center of Rouen

  • Description: Stroll through the historic streets, admiring half-timbered houses and the Place du Vieux Marché.
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Tip: Look for the Jeanne d'Arc Church, a modern homage to the historical figure.

• Evening Activity: Evening at the Joan of Arc Museum

  • Description: Discover the life and legacy of Joan of Arc through interactive exhibits.
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Tip: Engage with guides for deeper insights into her story.

Day 3: Day Trip to Mont Saint Michel

• Full-Day Trip: A Day in Mont Saint Michel

  • Description: Discover the iconic island and its abbey, exploring the medieval village and stunning views.
  • Duration: Full day (approx. 8 hours)
  • Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes; the island has steep paths.
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• Lunch Suggestion: Le Mouton Blanc

  • Cuisine: Enjoy local specialties with a view of the abbey.

• Evening Activity: Return to Rouen

  • Description: Relax in your accommodation or take a leisurely evening stroll along the Seine.

Day 4: Normandy’s WWII Heritage

• Morning Activity: Private Tour: D-Day Beaches from Rouen

  • Description: Explore the historical D-Day sites, including American cemeteries and memorials.
  • Duration: 8 hours
  • Tip: Bring a camera for the breathtaking coastal views.
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• Lunch Suggestion: Le 6 Juin

  • Cuisine: A bistro near Omaha Beach serving hearty meals.

• Evening Activity: Dinner in Rouen at Brasserie Paul

  • Description: Enjoy a relaxed dinner in a traditional brasserie atmosphere.
  • Tip: Try the seafood platter for a local treat.

Day 5: Cultural Exploration

• Morning Activity: Visit the Church of Saint-Maclou

  • Description: Discover this stunning example of Flamboyant Gothic architecture.
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Tip: Check for any concerts or events during your visit.

• Lunch Suggestion: Les Petits Parapluies

  • Cuisine: A charming place offering locally inspired dishes.

• Afternoon Activity: Explore the Rue Saint-Romain

  • Description: Wander this historic street filled with boutiques and artisanal shops.
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Tip: Look for unique souvenirs and local crafts.

• Evening Activity: Attend a performance at the Rouen Opera House

  • Description: Experience the local art scene through opera or ballet.
  • Tip: Book tickets in advance for popular performances.

Day 6: Off the Beaten Path

• Morning Activity: Visit the Museum of Antiquities

  • Description: Explore artifacts from Rouen's history, offering insights into its ancient past.
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Tip: Guided tours are available for a deeper understanding.

• Lunch Suggestion: Le Bistrot des Arts

  • Cuisine: A cozy bistro offering a variety of traditional French dishes.

• Afternoon Activity: Walk along the Seine

  • Description: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbanks, taking in the views and the atmosphere.
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Tip: Bring a book or journal to relax by the water.

• Evening Activity: Dinner at La Pomme de Pain

  • Description: A casual dining spot known for its crepes and galettes.
  • Tip: Try the savory buckwheat galettes.

Day 7: Culinary Delights and Relaxation

• Morning Activity: Visit a Local Market

  • Description: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Rouen’s market, sampling local goods.
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Tip: Go early for the best selection of fresh produce.

• Lunch Suggestion: Le Jardin des Plumes

  • Cuisine: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite local cuisine.

• Afternoon Activity: Relax at Parc de la Préfecture

  • Description: Spend your final afternoon unwinding in this beautiful park.
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Tip: Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the scenery.

• Evening Activity: Farewell Dinner at La Table de l’Eure

  • Description: Celebrate your trip with a gourmet dinner featuring seasonal ingredients.
  • Tip: Make reservations to ensure a spot.

Summary

This 7-day itinerary in Rouen, France, offers a perfect balance of history, art, culinary delights, and cultural experiences. From guided tours of historical sites to day trips to Mont Saint Michel and the D-Day beaches, each day is designed to immerse you in the rich tapestry of Normandy's heritage, while also allowing time to relax and explore the charming streets of Rouen. Enjoy your journey through this captivating region of France!