Small Group Guided Tour of the Secret History of Rouen

Rouen , France

Small Group Guided Tour of the Secret History of Rouen

Active

(69 reviews)

2h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Guided Tour Rouen (guided tour Rouen). +33688488732 (WhatsApp).
I speak English, French and Spanish.
My name is Ludovic, I have lived in Rouen for 30 years and I suggest you discover Rouen and some of its secrets.
I like to meet people and welcome each guest as if they were a friend.

Between a humorous show and a picturesque walk, dressed as a sailor, I take you on my imaginary boat to make you discover Rouen my way: historical anecdotes, unusual streets...
Board my boat "La Royale", destination Rouen and its history!
I will share my knowledge of Rouen, my gastronomic tips as well as many unusual stories about the city and some of its iconic characters like Joan of Arc and the Vikings.
I have lived in Rouen for more than 30 years and my passion for its history and my sense of relationship will make you live a unique experience that will make you appreciate my beautiful city!

Available options

Small Group Guided Tour of the Secret History of Rouen

What's included

A tasting of a local specialty

Detailed itinerary

Description of the facade and its history

The Saint-Ouen abbey in Rouen is one of the main monuments of the city of Rouen; its abbey church is a completed example of Gothic architecture in Normandy. The abbey is the subject of a classification as historical monuments by the list of 1840

L'aître Saint-Maclou is a former mass grave dating from the 16th century, located at 186, rue de Martainville in Rouen, France. It is one of the rare examples of such an ossuary surviving in Europe. The Saint-Maclou is the subject of a classification as historical monuments by the list of 1862

The Gros-Horloge is one of the emblematic monuments of the city of Rouen. The building, attached to a belfry, consists of a Renaissance arch spanning the rue du Gros-Horloge surmounted by an astronomical clock from the 14th century.

It was on this square, in the middle of the Hundred Years' War that Joan of Arc was burnt alive on May 30, 1431. The place, as Joan of Arc could see it, did not resemble what it was. is today. The square was smaller and its space was occupied by the Saint-Sauveur church, the Saint-Michel church and by a large market hall. It was also the usual place of executions. A large cross was erected on the site of the pyre.

In the middle of the square, the remains of the old Saint-Sauveur church have been unearthed. It is in this modest parish church that Pierre Corneille was baptized, his birthplace, rue de la Pie, now transformed into a museum located nearby.

Today it is a lively square, around which are restaurants and bars

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

38 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

31 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Dressed as a sailor, I will be waiting for you next to the Irish bar O'Kallaghan's.

About Rouen

Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy, is a city rich in medieval and Viking heritage. Known for its stunning Gothic cathedral, half-timbered houses, and the dramatic story of Joan of Arc, Rouen offers a deep dive into France's past with its well-preserved architecture and vibrant cultural scene.

Top Attractions

Rouen Cathedral

The iconic Rouen Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and was famously painted by Monet. It's a symbol of the city's religious and historical significance.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €5.50 for tower access

Place du Vieux-Marché

This historic square is where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. It's a vibrant area with cafes, shops, and the striking Joan of Arc Church.

Historical/Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Historial Jeanne d'Arc

A multimedia museum dedicated to Joan of Arc, offering an immersive experience of her trial and execution in Rouen.

Historical/Museum 1 hour €7.50

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen

One of France's oldest fine arts museums, housing an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 15th to the 20th centuries.

Museum/Art 1-2 hours €7

Rouen Castle and Museum of Antiquities

The ruins of the medieval castle of Rouen, now home to a museum showcasing Gallo-Roman and Viking artifacts found in the region.

Historical/Museum 1 hour €4.50

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moules à la Crème Normande

Mussels cooked in a creamy Normandy sauce made with cream, shallots, and sometimes apple cider.

Main Course Contains seafood and dairy.

Tarte Normande

A traditional apple tart with a custard filling, often topped with caramelized apples and cream.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Canard à la Rouennaise

Duck cooked in a rich sauce with apples, cider, and sometimes Calvados (apple brandy).

Main Course Contains meat and alcohol.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding Normandy countryside Kayaking on the Seine River Picnicking in the Jardin des Plantes Wine tasting at local vineyards Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events Boat tours on the Seine River Beachcombing in nearby coastal towns

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. The city is bustling with visitors, and all attractions are open.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, German
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rouen is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings
• Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Rouen Vallée de Seine Airport • 10 km from city center
Paris Beauvais-Tillé Airport • 130 km from Rouen

By train

Rouen Rive Droite, Rouen Orléans

By bus

Rouen Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: G7, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Vieux-Marché Saint-Sever Cathédrale Jardin des Plantes

Day trips

Étretat

40 km from Rouen • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its stunning white cliffs and beautiful beaches. Perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing by the sea.

Le Havre

50 km from Rouen • Full day

A port city with a rich history and modern architecture. Known for its UNESCO-listed city center and maritime heritage.

Honfleur

50 km from Rouen • Full day

A picturesque fishing town with a charming old harbor and colorful houses. Known for its artistic heritage and maritime history.

Festivals

Rouen Armada • Every 5 years (next in 2023) Fête de la Musique • June 21st annually Rouen Christmas Market • December annually

Pro tips

Visit the Rouen Cathedral at different times of the day to see how the light changes its appearance
Explore the underground cellars of Rouen for a unique and fascinating experience
Try local specialties like duck dishes, apple-based desserts, and Normandy cider
Use the Rouen City Pass for discounts on attractions and public transport
Combine a visit to Rouen with day trips to nearby coastal towns like Étretat and Honfleur