Rouen

Rouen, France

Normandy’s capital, Rouen has seen Roman, Constantine, Norman, English and French governance. Forever linked to Jeanne d’Arc’s martyrdom, Richard the Lion Heart and Impressionist, Claude Monet, Rouen devotes them ample tourist attention, including an economical city audio guide.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame’s 13th century construction ignited the city’s artistic and intellectual standing. Its final 1800’s iteration contains the tomb and actual heart of Richard the Lion Heart and trade chapels like the booksellers’.

After near destruction in World War II, the cathedral and city required massive rebuilding. Many buildings like Palais de Justice still bear deep pock marks, attracting tourists because of them.

Inspired by Rouen’s light and colors, Claude Monet created his renowned cathedral series here. “From Monet to Pixels” light show projects Monet-inspired images on the cathedral’s façade.

Place du Vieux Marché marketplace features pleasant, pedestrian-only streets. It was the site of Jeanne d’Arc’s burning at the stake. The stone firewall remains as grim reminder. The one-hand, Renaissance-era clock, Gros-Horloge is a popular photographic subject.

Museum of Secq Tournelles displays 14,000 ironwork exhibits. Musée des Beaux Arts exhibits extensive Impressionist collections including Monet, Manet and Delacroix. Musee de la Cramique offers incredible earthenware.

La Couronne, operating since 1345, is renowned as the dining destination for heads of state and celebrities.

Rue Martainville escaped bombing, preserving its colorful Maison a Colombage half-timbered houses, now bustling shops and restaurants. Rue Eau de Robec’s watermills reminisce of Rouen’s wool and textile heritage. Sainte Catherine Hill rewards hikers with panoramic city and river views.