Rouen Cathedral 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 the dynamic Rouen, the popular Rouen Cathedral 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 through 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 this popular landmark in Rouen and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable place du Vieux-Marché, Le Gros-Horloge, St Joan of Arc's Church, Rouen Museum of Fine Arts - Meeting of Metropolitan Museums (RMM), and Square Verdrel.

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!

Rouen Cathedral is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Rouen, France. If you're flying in, Caen – Carpiquet Airport is approximately 72 miles (115.9 km) away from Rouen. From there, you can easily reach Rouen Cathedral by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Rouen, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Rouen Cathedral, which is located 0.1 miles (0.1 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Rouen Cathedral, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Pl. De la Cathédrale, 76000 Rouen, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Rouen Cathedral!

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Rouen Cathedral and other top attractions in Rouen than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Rouen include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Rouen Cathedral's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Rouen Cathedral and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of 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.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Rouen Cathedral and France's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Caen – Carpiquet Airport and the city of Rouen, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in France 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.

Conveniently explore Rouen Cathedral and plenty more captivating attractions in Rouen by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Rouen Cathedral and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Rouen has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Rouen Cathedral below.

Aside from Rouen Cathedral, Rouen is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. 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 St Joan of Arc's Church.

Place du Vieux-Marché is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Rouen, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,100 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. Like place du Vieux-Marché, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 5,600 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Rue du Gros Horloge, 76000 Rouen, France.

St Joan of Arc's Church is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Rouen. This church and top attraction in Rouen has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,300 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Pl. Du Vieux Marché, 76000 Rouen, France.

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