Rouen in 2 Days: Gothic Churches, Old Streets and Art

Destination: Rouen, FranceCreated by: Moo_The_TrotterLast updated: 8th October 2026
Rouen is a walkable weekend for Gothic architecture, half-timbered streets and painting. Explore the cathedral and Saint-Maclou quarter, then connect Joan of Arc’s story with the city’s art collections.
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Day 1 — Cathedral & Saint-Maclou
Image of Cathédrale Notre-Dame

Cathédrale Notre-Dame

Place of Worship, History Landmark
Begin with the cathedral facade that Monet painted in changing light, then step inside to see the scale of the nave. The streets around the west front make a natural starting point for the old town.
Image of Gros-Horloge

Gros-Horloge

Monument
Walk west along Rue du Gros-Horloge to the astronomical clock arch. Enjoy the clock from the street, or visit the interior for a closer look at its workings and views over the rooftops.
Image of Palais de Justice

Palais de Justice

Public, Core Attraction
Turn north to see the elaborate Gothic law courts from Rue aux Juifs. This is an exterior stop on the walking route; the carved stonework and visible wartime scars reward a closer look.
Image of Église Saint-Maclou

Église Saint-Maclou

Place of Worship, History Landmark
Return east through the old streets to Saint-Maclou, surrounded by half-timbered houses. The ornate Gothic porch is the standout feature; Rue Martainville leads on to the next courtyard.

Plague cemetery

Historic Site
This is Aître Saint-Maclou, the former cemetery enclosed by timber galleries. Look for carved bones and skulls on the woodwork; the peaceful courtyard now sits alongside galleries and creative workshops.
Day 2 — Joan of Arc & Art
Image of Joan of Arc Historical Exhibition

Joan of Arc Historical Exhibition

Museum, History Museum
Start the day at the Historial Jeanne d’Arc in the archbishop’s palace. Its multimedia route explains her trial and later rehabilitation before you visit the square associated with her execution.

Place du Vieux Marché

Square, Core Attraction
Walk west to the old market square, lined with timber-framed buildings and places for lunch. The memorial and neighbouring church mark the area where Joan of Arc was executed.
Image of Église Sainte-Jeanne-d'Arc

Église Sainte-Jeanne-d'Arc

Place of Worship, History Landmark
Step into the striking modern church beside the market. Its sweeping roof is a sharp contrast to the old town, while the interior preserves stained glass from the former Saint-Vincent church.
Image of Musée des beaux-arts de Rouen

Musée des beaux-arts de Rouen

Museum, Art Museum
Spend the afternoon with Rouen’s fine-art collection, particularly its Impressionist paintings. If you prefer decorative objects to painting, swap this visit for nearby Le Secq des Tournelles in Optional extras.
Image of Abbatiale Saint-Ouen

Abbatiale Saint-Ouen

Place of Worship, History Landmark
Finish by the great abbey church and the town-hall gardens behind it. The scale of the Gothic building is impressive even from outside, and the gardens offer a quieter end to the walk.
Optional extras
Image of Jardin des Plantes de Rouen

Jardin des Plantes de Rouen

Garden, Botanical Garden
Choose the botanical gardens for a greener afternoon across the Seine. This is a separate outing from the old-town loop, best used in place of a museum rather than squeezed between central sights.
Image of Musée Le Secq des Tournelles

Musée Le Secq des Tournelles

Museum
This former church houses an unusual collection of wrought iron, from shop signs to locks and tools. It is close to the Fine Arts Museum and makes a good alternative for anyone drawn to design and craftsmanship.
Image of Tour Jeanne d'Arc

Tour Jeanne d'Arc

Castle, History Landmark
Detour north of the museums to the surviving keep of Rouen’s medieval castle. Joan of Arc was brought here during her trial; the tower where she was imprisoned no longer survives.