What are the best neighborhoods and places to stay in Rouen? Rouen is one of the prettiest cities in Normandy. Discover our selection of the best hotels and accommodations for staying in Rouen solo, as a couple, with family, or with a group of friends. Let’s go!
Our favorites in Rouen
- For couples: HĂ´tel Paulette Rouen center
- For families: Hôtel Littéraire Gustave Flaubert
- Hotel with private parking (additional cost): Radisson Blu Hotel
- Luxury hotel: HĂ´tel de Bourgtheroulde
- Apartment for 2, 3, or 4 people: Appartement Palais de Justice
- Apartment with parking: La Venelle Saint-Nicolas
- Budget studio: Quiet studio in the city center
Which district to stay in Rouen?
The historic center of Rouen is located on the right bank of the Seine, inside the boulevards (Boulevard des Belges, Boulevard de la Marne, Boulevard Verdun, Boulevard Gambetta).
Here are the 6 landmarks that form the heart of the historic center of Rouen:
- the Place du Vieux-Marché;
- the Palace of Justice;
- Rouen Cathedral;
- Saint-Maclou Church;
- Saint-Ouen Abbey;
- Rouen Museum of Fine Arts.
The most touristy part of Rouen lies between the Place du Vieux-Marché and Rouen Cathedral. It is here, between these two monuments, where the famous Gros Horloge of Rouen is located.
You can easily visit the historic center of Rouen on foot. Going from one end to the other will take you about 40 minutes of walking. However, the historic center’s corners have a different atmosphere. We will talk about this in more detail in this article.
Rouen Train Station is located to the north of the city center. To reach the center of Rouen, you can take the metro, buses 22, F7 or F2, or tram T4. The western part of the historic center of Rouen is better served than the eastern part.
The narrow streets, historical monuments, and half-timbered houses are located in the historic center of Rouen and, therefore, on the right bank. On the other hand, the architecture on the left bank is much more recent. Thus, to make the most of your stay in Rouen, the ideal is to stay on the right bank.
If you are looking for a cheap place to stay in Rouen, you can choose accommodation on the left bank. In this case, booking accommodation near one of these tram/metro stations: Joffre-Mutualité or Saint-Sever, will allow you to quickly reach the train station and the city center of Rouen. However, be aware that the left bank of Rouen does not have the charm of the right bank.
How to choose the best district to stay in Rouen?
To help you choose the best place, here is a description of the best districts and parts of the historic center of Rouen for a weekend of 2 or 3 days.
Place du Vieux-Marché
Staying near the Place du Vieux-Marché means staying in the heart of the historic center of Rouen.
Why choose the Place du Vieux-Marché for your stay in Rouen?
The Place du Vieux-Marché is surrounded by buildings with colorful and traditional facades. It is the most beautiful square in Rouen but also one of the oldest. You can literally walk on the ruins of the old church dating from the medieval period!
The Place du Vieux-MarchĂ© of Rouen is one of the most famous markets in France for its rich and sometimes dark history. Indeed, it was here in the Place du Vieux-MarchĂ© that Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431, during the Hundred Years’ War. The Joan of Arc Cross today marks the exact spot of her execution.
The central building of the square is the Church of Joan of Arc. Enter inside the church to discover the beauty of its roof, which is so modern and audacious.
You will find many restaurants, bars, and cafes all around the square and in the adjacent streets.
You can easily reach the Place du Vieux-Marché from Rouen Train Station by tram, bus, or metro. It is one of the best-served areas of Rouen.
Our favorite places to stay in Rouen near the Place du Vieux-Marché
A stone’s throw from the Place du Vieux-MarchĂ©, in a charming and quiet street in the city center, is the most beautiful hotel in Rouen: HĂ´tel de Bourgtheroulde. This 5-star hotel is simply magnificent. It is perfect for staying in Rouen as a couple.
If you are looking for a less expensive hotel, the best option near the Place du Vieux-Marché is the Hôtel Littéraire Gustave Flaubert. Here, you have rooms with a double bed or two single beds and triple rooms.
Among the best apartments near the Place du Vieux-MarchĂ© is this one-bedroom apartment, Place Henri. It is ideally located in Rouen for a weekend. And for a romantic weekend in Rouen, if you are looking for accommodation with parking, you can choose this apartment: Le Jacuzzi. You may have noticed, but there are many accommodations in Rouen with jacuzzis: it’s surprising!
If you go to Rouen with family or friends, here is a lovely apartment just a stone’s throw from the Place du Vieux-MarchĂ©: Loft Zen Rouen.
Rouen Cathedral
The Rouen Cathedral is the most impressive monument in the historic center of Rouen.
Why stay near the Rouen Cathedral?
The Rouen Cathedral is located a 10-minute walk from the Place du Vieux-MarchĂ©. Staying near the Rouen Cathedral lets you enjoy the city’s incredible architecture.
The cathedral’s facade is captivating! Here, and all around the Cathedral Square, one is immersed in Rouen’s unique atmosphere. The streets surrounding the cathedral are narrow, paved, and charming.
If you stay near the Rouen Cathedral, the only disadvantage is accessibility. Indeed, as the streets are narrow, no public transport services will take you right to the foot of the cathedral.
Thus, this part of the historic center is interesting for staying in Rouen if you do not have big luggage or if it is very light. Moving with heavy suitcases in the alleys of Rouen is not very simple and pleasant.
Good places to stay near the Rouen Cathedral
The best hotels are Hotel Cardinal (with a direct view of the cathedral) and Hotel Mercure, which is excellent for staying in Rouen as a family.
If you are looking for an apartment near the cathedral, here is a great place with free parking: La Venelle Saint-Nicolas.
Saint-Marc Square of Rouen
The Saint-Marc Square of Rouen is much less touristy than the Place du Vieux-Marché. It is located in a more popular part of the historic center of Rouen.
Why stay near Saint-Marc Square in Rouen?
As Saint-Marc Square is on the other side of the historic center, it is much quieter and less touristy. However, several exciting places are worth visiting near the square.
Among these must-see places are the magnificent Saint-Maclou Catholic Church and the Aître Saint-Maclou. These two sites are well worth a visit!
The Saint-Marc market enlivens the square every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (see the schedule here). It’s a friendly place to discover in Rouen with the family, especially on the weekend, the busiest time of the week.
Good places to stay near Saint-Marc Square in Rouen
There are few hotels in this part of the city of Rouen. Therefore, the best accommodations are apartments for rent. For example, this charming apartment is just steps away from Saint-Maclou Church.
Saint-Ouen Abbey
Little known by travelers, the Saint-Ouen Abbey is one of the most impressive monuments in Rouen.
Why stay near the Saint-Ouen Abbey of Rouen?
Founded around 750, Saint-Ouen Abbey was one of Normandy’s most powerful Benedictine monasteries. You must visit this incredible place steeped in history. The City Hall Park, located just behind the abbey, is also worth visiting.
Don’t miss the Rue Eau de Robec! It is a charming street that allows you to discover another face of Rouen. To learn more, read our article:Â What to do in Rouen in 1 or 2 days.
Saint-Ouen Abbey is very easily accessible by public transport. The F2, F7, 22, and 11 lines will take you directly to Rouen Station.
Our favorite places to stay near Saint-Ouen Abbey
You will not find many hotels in this part of the historic center of Rouen. The best accommodations to stay at are apartments for rent.
For a romantic stay in Rouen, you can opt for this studio, Studio Les Poutres, or this charming apartment: Fiquet de Normanville.
For a family stay, you have this 3-bedroom apartment: Armand. You will have a nice view of the city, but be aware there is no elevator.
Rouen Museum of Fine Arts
The Rouen Museum of Fine Arts is between the train station and the heart of the historic city center. This part of the town is very well served by public transport, and at the same time, it allows for a walking tour of Rouen.
Why stay near the Museum of Fine Arts?
The location is ideal for a weekend in Rouen. You will be just steps away from all the city’s must-see attractions while slightly set back. Less than a 10-minute walk from the Rouen Cathedral and the Place du Vieux-MarchĂ©!
The Rouen Museum of Fine Arts building is beautiful. You can visit it to discover its collection of impressionist works, notably paintings by Monet of the Rouen Cathedral.
Just opposite the museum is Square Charles Verdrelle, a nice place to relax and take a break. Staying in this part of Rouen allows you to feel like a local!
Our favorite places to stay near the Museum of Fine Arts of Rouen
The Radisson Blu Hotel is conveniently located and is one of our favorites. It is between the Rouen Train Station and the Museum of Fine Arts. Its location is perfect for visiting Rouen during the weekend. Private parking is available on-site (at an additional cost) if you come to Rouen by car.
To stay with your family in Rouen, you can choose this superb apartment between the Museum of Fine Arts and the Abbey Saint-Ouen of Rouen: Nuit Zen Rouen. It is spacious and comes with a free parking spot.
Staying in Rouen near the train station: good idea?
Generally, areas near train stations are not the most attractive. Moreover, there are few places to go out near the Rouen train station.
Nevertheless, you may opt for this area if you are in Rouen for one night and coming from Paris by train.
Where to stay in Rouen near the train station
The Best Western Plus Hotel is the best hotel near the Rouen Train Station. Located opposite the station, this hotel is very convenient if you arrive in Rouen by train late in the evening.
Areas to avoid in Rouen
The historic center of Rouen is located on the right bank of the Seine. If you want to discover the half-timbered houses, the narrow streets, and the charm of Rouen, favor accommodations on the right bank of the Seine.
The left bank can be considered if you are familiar with the city and looking for cheaper accommodations in Rouen. Otherwise, the neighborhoods on the left bank are less attractive and should be avoided if it’s your first trip to Rouen.
The quays of the Seine, which run along the historic center of Rouen, are not very interesting. They are pretty noisy and not as pleasant for a stroll as the streets heading towards the historic center. Therefore, accommodations located on the quays of the Seine in Rouen are also to be avoided.
The best hotels and apartments for a romantic stay in Rouen
Discover our selection of the best accommodations to stay in Rouen for a city visit or a romantic getaway in Normandy.
HĂ´tel de Bourgtheroulde: a 5-star hotel ideal for a memorable romantic stay in Rouen! The hotel’s location is perfect for visiting Rouen; it is just a few steps from the Place du Vieux MarchĂ©. On-site, besides the spacious and comfortable rooms, you will find a sauna, a swimming pool, a steam room, and a range of treatments. Moreover, private parking is available on-site, which is a big plus for Rouen.
L’Espace PrivĂ© Rouen: if you are looking for accommodation with a spa bath, this studio might please you. The apartment is located less than a 10-minute walk from Rouen Cathedral.
L’Echiquier de Normandie: a cozy apartment with an exceptional view in the heart of Rouen! It is a perfect place for cheap romantic accommodations in Rouen.
Good places to stay in Rouen with family
Discover the best accommodations to stay in Rouen with family.
Mercure Rouen Centre Cathédrale: a safe bet for a romantic stay in Rouen. Ideally located, this hotel offers modern and comfortable rooms. In addition, parking is available on-site, which is convenient because parking in Rouen is not always easy.
Le Vieux CarrĂ©: situated in the heart of the historic center of Rouen, this hotel offers triple rooms that are ideal for a family stay. You’ll be able to tour Rouen on foot.
Le bourdon de la Cathédrale: a 43m2 apartment that can accommodate up to 4 people! Located in the heart of the historic center of Rouen, this apartment is excellent for visiting Rouen with the family. The decor combines modern and ancient elements.
Where to stay in Rouen on a budget
Here are some great places to stay in Rouen with more affordable rates.
ibis Rouen Centre Champ de Mars: among the hotels, this ibis offers rather affordable rates for Rouen. It is more outlying than other accommodations that we have mentioned above. However, it is still only a 15-minute walk from Rouen Cathedral.
Le Mimosa: this apartment is located in the eastern part of the historical center of Rouen. It is undoubtedly more outlying, but it allows one to discover Rouen like a true local!
FAQ
The Place du Vieux-Marché and the Cathedral quarters are the most touristy areas.
Look at the apartments and hotels on the left bank to find cheap accommodation in Rouen. Try to stay close to the metro/tram, as it is the easiest way to get to the right bank and the historic center of Rouen from the left bank.
If you stay near the Place du Vieux-MarchĂ© and Rouen Cathedral, you will be in the heart of the city’s historic center. However, if you want more tranquility and authenticity, you can lodge near Saint Marc Square, Abbey Saint Ouen, or the Museum of Fine Arts.
If you arrive in Rouen by train, the most practical thing is to stay on the routes served by public transport leading to the station. Therefore, stay near the Museum of Fine Arts, Abbey Saint-Ouen, and Place du Vieux-Marché.
| ? Apartment: La Venelle Saint-Nicolas | ? Romantic: HĂ´tel Paulette |
| ? Luxury Hotel: Hôtel de Bourgtheroulde | ? Family: Hôtel Littéraire Gustave Flaubert |
The best places and districts to stay in Rouen are located in the historic center. The most touristy areas in the city are between Place du Vieux-MarchĂ© and Rouen Cathedral. Here, you will stay right in the heart of the city! You can also move further away to see Rouen from a different angle. For example, you can choose accommodations near Abbey Saint-Ouen or Saint Marc Square. Otherwise, you can conveniently stay near Rouen’s Train Station if you’re arriving by train or near the Museum of Fine Arts of Rouen.
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