A city where towering Gothic spires meet cobbled streets lined with vibrant cafes, Rouen is Normandy’s cultural gem. Just two hours from the Euro Tunnel and an easy hop from Paris, it’s the perfect base for a long weekend as a couple, solo, or with family and friends. The best places to stay in Rouen range from elegant old town boltholes to impressive spa hotels with crenelated rooftops and delicious traditional fare.

The magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral, a source of inspiration for Monet himself, sits at the heart of the charming old town. Amble along narrow streets lined with chic boutiques and restaurants, admire work by the likes of Pissarro and Renoir at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, or step back in time at the Eglise St-Maclou and the square where Jeanne d’Arc met her fate. The city’s restored Gothic Law Courts will fascinate architecture aficionados, who can also enjoy expert-led guided tours of the old town centre.

For sweeping city views and vistas of the Seine, clamber up the Colline Sainte-Catherine. Beyond Rouen’s marvellous medieval streets lies picturesque rural Normandy, perfect for tranquil walks, cycling excursions and horse riding adventures. Many of the best places to stay in Rouen are nestled within the impressive old town, but one of our favourites is hidden away in the countryside — the ideal bucolic escape.

The Best Places to Stay in Rouen

For an Intimate Bolthole

• Hotel le Cardinal is a 15-room B&B with stunning cathedral views. Some rooms have space for families, whilst others boast private balconies. Small, modern and good value — just moments from shops and restaurants.
• Une Chambre dans l'Atelier de R is a charming one-bedroom apartment in the heart of the old town. Pick this place for the simple, attractive interiors, the central location and the self-catering options. The host provides continental breakfasts on request. Lovely and affordable.

For a Superb Spa Hotel

• Spa Hotel de Bourgtheroulde promises a five-star stay in the heart of Rouen. Spacious contemporary rooms are tucked within a heritage building, along with a deluxe 700m square spa, indoor swimming pool and excellent brasserie. Treatments include regenerating plant scrubs and wonderful Ayurvedic massages. A superb city spa hotel.

For a Rural Escape

• Château Hotel de Belmesnil is a beautifully restored residence, only 20 minutes' drive from Rouen. With six hectares of gardens, elegant rooms and gorgeous reception rooms for romantic weddings or memorable parties, this is a very special rural escape. Romantic and relaxing.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, just under two hours' drive from Rouen, or to a smaller regional hub. You can also catch the Eurostar from London, via Paris, in around 4 hours. There are excellent bus and ferry routes into Normandy, too.
• Normandy is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the spring or summer for the best weather, with temperatures peaking at around 22°C in July and August — although this is the busiest time of year. Winters can be cool and windy.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Honfleur.
• Alternatively, expand your search to include all our recommendations for the best places to stay in Normandy.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.