Why Rouen is the Perfect Base for Your Normandy Holiday

Choosing a central location is the secret to a successful, stress-free trip. Ideally situated along the River Seine, Rouen connects you to sandy beaches or the refreshing shade of lush forests in under an hour by car or train.

Best Things to Do in Normandy from Your Rouen Base

Every morning brings a new adventure. Here is a glimpse of what awaits you on your day trips:

1. Soak up the Gentle Medieval Charm of Rouen

Take the time to experience Rouen before venturing further afield. Stroll down the Rue du Gros-Horloge, admire the intricate details of Notre-Dame Cathedral (immortalised by Claude Monet), and lose yourself in the cobbled streets of the Antiquaires district. Food lovers will want to stop by one of the bistros on the Place du Vieux-Marché to sample local cheeses or a tangy traditional apple tart.

To make sure you don’t miss any of the city’s hidden gems, we also recommend checking out our Travel Guide: Things to Do in Rouen and Beyond.

2. Follow the River Seine and Its Historic Abbeys (30 mins away)

The perfect itinerary for a day out in nature… Heading west out of the city, the Seine twists and turns through the Boucles to the Seine Normande Regional Natural Park. Visit Jumièges Abbey, described by Victor Hugo as the “most beautiful ruin in France”, or Saint-Wandrille Abbey, where the monks break their silence to brew their own artisanal craft beer.

3. Enjoy a Breath of Fresh Sea Air on the Normandy Coast (55 mins away)

The sea is less than an hour from your accommodation! Take the motorway towards the Côte Fleurie and cross the impressive Normandy Bridge to reach the old harbour (Vieux-Bassin) of Honfleur. With its narrow slate-fronted houses and art galleries, its charm works instantly.

(And if you are happy to drive just a little further, the iconic cliffs of Étretat and their spectacular sea arches carved by the ocean are only 1 hour and 15 minutes away).

4. Walk in Monet’s Footsteps in Giverny (50 mins away)

Head south for a complete immersion into Impressionism. The village of Giverny welcomes you with Claude Monet’s colourful house. Stroll around his world-famous water lily pond and Japanese bridge – a true explosion of colour and serenity.

5. Step Back in Time at Lyons-la-Forêt (40 mins away)

Nestled in the heart of Europe’s largest beech forest, east of Rouen, Lyons-la-Forêt is officially listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France. With its 17th and 18th-century half-timbered houses, traditional timber covered market, and quaint, flower-filled tea rooms, it is the perfect bucolic getaway to unwind.

Your Cosy Haven in Rouen: Appart’Hôtel Rouen Flaubert

After a long day exploring Normandy’s scenic routes or photographing its cliffs, you will love returning to the comfort and peace of an accommodation designed with you in mind, by Terres de France.

Located on the Rive Gauche (Left Bank), just a stone’s throw from the redeveloped Seine quays and the historic centre, our Appart’Hôtel Terres de France Rouen Flaubert combines the flexibility of a self-catering apartment with the convenience of quality hotel services.

Why You Will Love Staying with Us:

• A Warm, Personal Welcome: Laurent and his team will be delighted to share their favourite local restaurants and hidden spots across Normandy.

• The Freedom of a Real Home: From cosy studios to family apartments, all our accommodations feature a fully equipped kitchenette. Perfect for cooking fresh produce bought from Rouen’s local markets!

• Greener Tourism: true to the eco-friendly commitments of the Terres de France group, we do everything we can to ensure your stay respects our beautiful Normandy environment.

We look forward to welcoming you soon to Appart’Hôtel Terres de France Rouen Flaubert!