A weekend away in Paris is popular for a reason – from freshly baked croissants to sparkling views from the Eiffel Tower at night, there‘s plenty here in the way of romance, culture, art, history and gastronomy.
But Paris has its drawbacks.
It’s expensive, for one. It’s also sometimes overdone, busy, overcrowded and full of tourists getting snaps in front of the Louvre, dressed in berets a la Emily in Paris.
But if you’re seeking the perks of France – namely good food, lots to see and do and the beauty of a quaint French town – there are lots of alternatives.
Rouen, the capital of the northern region of Normandy, is one such beautiful alternative – and it has none of the exhorbitant prices and hoards of tourists of Paris. With hotel rooms starting from just £38 a night, it certainly beats Paris’ average, where you can easily spend £120 for a basic room.
Just a 90 minute train ride or two-hour drive from the capital, Rouen has everything you need for a picturesque weekend away.
It’s a walkable city, meaning there’s no need to spend time (or money) on a crammed metro, and it’s got just as much history and culture to offer.
Dating back to the medieval period and tied up with the tale of Joan of Arc, the sightseeing in Rouen is great for any history buffs – or, indeed, anyone just keen for a bit of a meander through ancient cobbled streets.
One of the city’s most beautiful spots in Rouen is the Gros Horloge, its huge clock, a gem of architecture
It’s a walkable city, meaning there’s no need to spend time on a crammed metro, and it’s got just as much history and culture to offer (Pictured: Writer Erin Waks in Rouen)
Writer Victor Hugo famously described Rouen as ‘the city of a hundred spires’ and it’s easy to see why, even on a short stroll through the centre.
There’s lots to do here – the city has its very own Notre-Dame Cathedral, Musée des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museum) and exhibition of Joan of Arc, bringing her story to life.
One of the city’s most beautiful spots is the Gros Horloge, its huge clock, a gem of architecture.
The belfry (clock tower) of the Gros Horloge housed one of the oldest clock mechanisms in Europe, which was in operation from the 14th century until 1928.
Another iconic symbol of Paris is the River Seine – and you can enjoy the same thing in Rouen. Rouen is located on the banks of the same river.
There are lots of viewpoints from which to enjoy the landscape – such as from the top of the city’s watchtower.
What else do we think of when pondering a French getaway? Food, perhaps? Wine?
Normandy, like many other parts of France, is known for its gastronomy. It’s always a good idea to hunt for local specialties, though, to truly get the most of French cuisine.
The city comes alive around Christmas, with activities and great food to explore
Another iconic symbol of Paris is the River Seine – and you can enjoy the same thing in Rouen. Rouen is located on the banks of the same river
Here, that means cheeses including Camembert, apples and cider, and seafood.
Rouen’s most famous dish is Canard à la Rouennaise, a rich duck dish cooked in sauces – and you can give it a try at lots of local restaurants.
Of course, local beverages are popular too, including apple juice, cider, pommeau, and Calvados. You might also find regional beers.
Food markets – as well as others selling a range of produce – line the city’s cobbled streets in Rouen.
On weekends, head to Place Saint-Marc, where you can explore a flea market alongside the regular stalls.
Or, you can visit the historic Place du Vieux Marché.
The Saveurs market on Saturday mornings, along Rue Eugène Boudin, is perfect for discovering local delicacies.
And a trip to France is incomplete without a stop at a traditional bakery.
Rouen is great for any history buffs – or, indeed, anyone just keen for a bit of a meander through ancient cobbled streets
Normandy, like many other parts of France, is known for its gastronomy. It’s always a good idea to hunt for local specialties
In Rouen, look for local bakeries selling apple-based products, as they tend to be particularly good in this region. They won’t break the bank either – some start from just €2 (£1.75), and you might find them for less in small, local establishments.
For example, a tarte aux pommes (apple tart) might be a delicious sweet breakfast treat.
Apple sugars and shortbread cookies are also popular in this part of the country.
Naturally, you won’t be hard pressed to find a decent croissant here, either – this is France, after all.
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