Hotels in Rouen

Historically the capital of Normandy, Rouen has a turbulent, rich history, dating back to the Roman era. The largest city outside Paris had thriving trade and exported wine, wheat and textiles to its European neighbours. Its cloth trade in particular made it one of the wealthiest cities in France. It survived both occupation and several great fires and has had much restoration following allied bombing during World War II.

Inspiring countless artists, Rouen’s numerous architectural and artistic feats attract many visitors. The city’s industrial past has left its mark, as has its port – the biggest in France. At Kyriad Rouen Centre, visitors have a stunning view of the river Seine which gives the city its natural beauty. There is no shortage of entertainment and the city is ideal for shopping as well as exploring. Rouen has much to offer and with Kyriad Hotels, you won’t miss a thing. 

A two-night break
Rouen is the perfect destination for a short break. The gothic Rouen Cathedrale is a must-see – it has the highest spire in France and was almost destroyed during World War II. Then spend some time admiring the stained glass windows in the Saint-Ouen Bridge. Opposite the Abbey you can relax in the beautiful 19th century park – the Jardin de l’Hotel de Ville before taking in the view from the Pierre Corneille Bridge.

A week-long stay
A week is all the better for taking in the sights of this Normandy jewel. Take a look at the Jewish Monument before admiring the intricacies of the Gros-Horloge (Clock Tower), which also provides an amazing view of the city. Visit the Church of Saint Joan of Arc and complete your week with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts where you can admire the outstanding collection of fine art by masters such as Monet.

A family holiday
The Kids World centre is a great place for parents to relax and children to have fun if the whole family is visiting Rouen and it’s only a short walk away from the Kyriad Rouen Centre hotel. Why not take advantage of the river Seine and hire a boat for the day ? Learn about Joan of Arc, one of the city’s most famous characters – she is brought to life by the wax works of the Musee de Cire Jeanne d'Arc.

Transports
Rouen has its own airport but can also be reached from Paris – by car it’s only an hour away. It has good railway connections, including the high speed TGV connection from Lyon, Marseille or Charles de Gaulle airport. Rouen can easily be explored on foot but also by tram, train, bike or river ferry.

Gastronomy
Normandy has a rich and varied cuisine and is particularly famous for its cheeses, butter and wine. Rouen has a number of restaurants and bistros serving a mixture of traditional as well as international cuisine. Why not try a Medieval Banquet at La Brasserie Paul or another participating restaurant, followed by a guided tour of Joan of Arc’s footsteps?

Event
Although only every five years, the Armada represents another feather in Rouen’s cap. Ships, boats and other naval vessels gather along the banks of the Seine and each of the city’s districts is decorated in flags to represent the many nationalities the event attracts. Fireworks, concerts and a parade of sailors are just some of the highlights.

Interesting fact
The tomb of Richard the Lionheart, which contains only his heart, is buried in the Rouen Cathedral. Other famous tombs include that of the Duke of Bedford, John Plantagenet, who is thought to be Joan of Arc’s murderer.

Useful sites
http://www.rouentourisme.com
http://cyclic.rouen.fr/
http://www.tgv.co.uk/
http://www.brasserie-paul.com