Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen travel guide

Rouen Cathedral, officially known as Cathédrale Primatiale Notre-Dame de l'Assomption de Rouen, is a marvel of Gothic architecture. Its roots date back to the 4th century when a small church was established on the site.

Over the centuries, the cathedral underwent repeated destruction and subsequent rebuilding, most notably by the Vikings in the 9th century and during the Hundred Years' War in the 15th century. After each devastation, the cathedral rose again, each time more magnificent than before.

The most significant phase of construction occurred in the 12th and 13th centuries, when the cathedral acquired its current Gothic design. The famous Tour de Beurre (Butter Tower) was added in the 16th century, financed by donations from wealthy patrons who were then granted indulgences to eat butter during Lent. The cathedral also houses the tomb of Richard the Lionheart, containing his heart.

Rouen Cathedral has survived multiple fires and even World War II bombings, but each time it has been lovingly restored, preserving its place as an iconic symbol of French heritage and faith.

Located in Rouen, the iconic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Rouen or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in France.

Rouen is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Rouen offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable place du Vieux-Marché, Le Gros-Horloge, Botanical Garden, Rouen Museum of Fine Arts - Meeting of Metropolitan Museums (RMM), and Historial Jeanne d’Arc.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Rouen has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Rouen - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in France!

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen is located in Rouen, France, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Caen – Carpiquet Airport is approximately 72.02 miles (115.87 km) away from Rouen. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen is located.

If you’re already in Rouen, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the Catholic cathedral. The exact address of the attraction is Pl. De la Cathédrale, 76000 Rouen, France, France.

You can also rent a car and drive to Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen and other top attractions in Rouen at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen!

Discover the enchanting beauty of Rouen and top attractions like Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Rouen, France, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind Catholic cathedral in France.

The best time to explore Rouen Cathedral largely depends on the type of experience you're seeking. For comfortable touring weather, late spring and early autumn are ideal as the climate is milder and crowd levels are typically lower. During these seasons, you can appreciate the architectural grandeur and intricate details of the cathedral at a leisurely pace. However, for an exceptional experience, consider visiting in June. This is when Rouen's famous 'Fete du Du Bellay' takes place, a vibrant festival that brings the city streets to life in celebration of its rich history and heritage. This event also coincides with the longest days of the year, providing ample daylight for exploration. If you're interested in viewing the cathedral's stunning light show, 'Cathedrale de Lumiere,' plan your visit for summer, as the show runs from June to September. Regardless of when you choose to visit, arriving early in the day ensures a more peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive. Remember to check the cathedral's official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Discovering France's captivating landscapes and the iconic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 8 reputable rental car companies near Caen – Carpiquet Airport and the city of Rouen, making transportation seamless and efficient.

France's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Rouen and beyond.

For budget-conscious travelers, Hertz currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 20.99 EUR per day or 146.96 EUR per week. Conveniently located at 24 Rue De La Gare, 14000 in Caen, this rental option ensures you can explore France's wonders without breaking the bank.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Rouen by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Rouen.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen below.

Rouen offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Rouen, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely place du Vieux-Marché, Le Gros-Horloge, and Botanical Garden.

Place du Vieux-Marché is a bucket-list square and top attraction in Rouen, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4 out of 5 stars in 5,924 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of place du Vieux-Marché is Pl. Du Vieux Marché, 76000 Rouen, France.

Another appreciated attraction in Rouen is Le Gros-Horloge. This is just like place du Vieux-Marché, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 5,666 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this tower is Rue du Gros Horloge, 76000 Rouen, France.

Botanical Garden is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Rouen. This park and top attraction in Rouen has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,460 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Botanical Garden creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of 114B Av. Des Martyrs de la Résistance, 76100 Rouen, France.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Rouen below.