We are planning a day trip from Paris to Rouen on the train. I am not sure what area the train stops in Rouen. We are interested in seeing the old city and historical sites. How do we proceed to get to this area from the train station. Will we need to take buses or taxis? Thanks for any help.
Posted by
Florida (previously California)
3702 posts
The train station is about a 15 minute walk from the Cathedral, if that is one of your interests. Just Google map it. You walk down Rue de Jeanne d'Arc and then turn left on Rue de Gros Horologe. It is very easy. It was pouring rain on the day that I did it and it was lovely; I detoured from the directions above to . Rouen has number of streets streets that are pedestrian-only and many signs and markers helping you get around.
Posted by
Kingsburg, California, USA
137 posts
Sondra,
Inside the Rouen Cathedral is the grave of Richard I, the Lionhearted. The grave contains his heart. The rest of his body is buried in other places of Normandy. A side trip to the top of the Gros Horloge which is a Medieval clock over 600 years old. Joan of Arc was executed by the English in Rouen in 1431. The site of her execution is Vieux Marche which is 2 blocks west of Rue Jeanne d'Arc. Rue Gros Horloge and side streets are lined with shops, restaurants and take-away eateries. A few more blocks to the Seine and there is a bridge, Pont Boieldieu, lined with busts of famed world explorers.
Enjoy your trip.
Posted by
Chicago
8063 posts
The historic center of Rouen is tiny -- all of the major tourist spots are an easy stroll in a few minutes of each other. The train station is just outside this area and the walk to the center takes you through the very characteristic half timbered buildings the town is known for. It is an easy stroll. Rouen is a great day trip from Paris. Do check on openings though. The day we went several of the sites we wanted to see -- most of the historic churches -- were closed (although they were scheduled to be open -they just were closed anyway) Monday is usually a bad day to visit small towns but Rouen is a city -- but I'd still avoid Mondays as that tends to be a day when things close in France that are near tourist sites.
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
If you can, use at least an audio tour (RS may have one) or self-guide for the Cathedral.
Posted by
Atlanta
4856 posts
Sondra, Walking to the old / historical area from the train station is certainly doable. The do have a metro that goes from the train station to that area if you need to conserve time and or effort. TC
Posted by
Charlotte, NC, USA
380 posts
A friend and I did a day trip to Rouen from Paris in November and really enjoyed it. I recommend making your first stop the tourist office right across from the cathedral. You can get audio guides there for a few euros.