If you like food, art and architecture you will feel right at home in Rouen. You can find this historical capital right in the heart of Upper Normandy. Being located on the banks of the beautiful Seine River, Rouen is an easy launch pad for exploring the French countryside, and picturesque areas like Connelles and Val-de-Reuil can be found just around the corner. Walking through Rouen is like walking through history. This is a city with an abundance of historic buildings, markets and shops.
With a history dating way back, “the city of a hundred spires” is an old settlement that saw its most prosperous days during the Middle Ages. This is not only where the famous author Gustave Flaubert lived, but also the city where Joan of Arc was convicted and burnt at the stake in 1431.
Rich in art and history, Rouen today has approximately 500,000 Rouennais living in the city and urban area. Because of all the students living here, the city remains lively both day and night. The countryside offers an even more relaxing atmosphere; Rouen and the surroundings are full of history and places to discover. With Paris only a 90 minute drive away, it's easy to come here for a short trip even if you chose the French capital as your main base.
If you choose to explore the surrounding areas, there are many daily excursions to go on. You can visit Monet’s home in Giverny, which is one example of a popular attraction outside the city. Another interesting site is Jumièges Abbey, the ruins of a Benedict monastery, that can be found in Jumièges.Read More
