Gros-Horloge
EuropeCultureHistory

Rouen

Gothic cathedral, old clock, and Norman streets

Plan with AISee the 2 itinerariesPhoto: DXR, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Typical trip length7–14 days
On travli2 itineraries

About Rouen

Rouen stands as the capital of Normandy along the Seine river. Its historic core features half-timbered buildings and stone monuments. Key districts include the area around Rouen Cathedral, the pedestrian streets near the Gros-Horloge, and the market zone at Place du Vieux-Marché.

Travelers explore on foot to take in details at Aître Saint-Maclou and paintings in the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen. The city works well for a focused cultural trip or as a stop on a driving route through northern France.

Why travelers love it

Gros-HorlogeThe Gros-Horloge is a 14th-century astronomical clock tower in central Rouen.Rouen CathedralGothic cathedral in central Rouen known for Monet's paintings of its facade.Aître Saint-MaclouA 16th-century ossuary in Rouen with timber-framed cloisters carved with skulls and bones.Place du Vieux-MarchéHistoric market square in Rouen where Joan of Arc was executed in 1431.Musée des Beaux-Arts de RouenThe fine arts museum in Rouen holds European paintings and sculptures from the 15th to 20th centuries.

Top attractions

Gros-Horloge
MonumentGros-HorlogeRouen, France
Rouen Cathedral
CathedralRouen CathedralRouen, France
Place du Vieux-Marché
MarketPlace du Vieux-MarchéRouen, France
Aître Saint-Maclou
MonumentAître Saint-MaclouRouen, France
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen
MuseumMusée des Beaux-Arts de RouenRouen, France

2 Rouen itineraries

Paris, France
Paris, FranceFrance from Paris to the Dordogne in 14 Days14 days · By travli
Paris, France
Paris, FranceParis and Normandy by Car in 7 Days7 days · By travli

Rouen questions

How old is the Gros-Horloge?

The clock dates from 1389. The current facade was added in 1527.

Is Rouen Cathedral free to enter?

Yes, entry to the cathedral is free. Fees apply only for climbing the tower.

What happened at Place du Vieux-Marché?

Joan of Arc was burned at the stake here in 1431. A modern church now marks the exact spot.

Is Aître Saint-Maclou free to visit?

Entry is free. No tickets are required.

What are the opening hours of the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen?

Hours change with the season. Confirm current times on the museum website before visiting.