Rouen , France

Rouen Cathedral Self Guided Audio Tour

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the secrets of Rouen Cathedral with this self-guided audio tour. Step inside one of Normandy’s most iconic Gothic masterpieces and uncover the fascinating stories hidden in its stone and glass.

You will explore the detailed carvings on the grand portals and the stunning stained-glass windows that have survived for centuries. Learn about the relics preserved within, the cathedral’s long and complex construction, and the genius of Gothic design—flying buttresses, ribbed vaults, and soaring arches that flood the interior with light.

This tour is packed with stories and insights that most visitors miss, bringing the cathedral’s art, history, and architecture vividly to life. Whether you are a casual visitor or a history enthusiast, this tour offers a deeper, more engaging way to experience Rouen Cathedral.

Available options

Rouen Cathedral Self Guided Audio Tour

What's included

100% Satisfaction Guarantee: If you don’t love the tour, write to us for a full refund.

Audio and written guide included

Offline access to the tour (no internet connection needed) once tour is downloaded

Images to identify stops and in app interactive map for navigation

1-year access on iOS & Android. Listen to the tour anytime, as many times as you like

Detailed itinerary

The tour begins outside Rouen Cathedral’s grand portals, where every sculpted figure tells a story—from biblical tales to local legends carved in stone. As you walk around, you’ll learn how Gothic innovations, like ribbed vaults and flying buttresses, gave the cathedral its soaring height and flood of light, transforming it into an architectural marvel.

Step inside to discover some of its unique quirks, from medieval inscriptions to centuries-old relics preserved with care. Marvel at the stained-glass windows, each one bursting with color and history, revealing stories of faith, power, and devotion.

By the end of the tour, you’ll leave with a deep appreciation for Rouen Cathedral’s artistry, history, and enduring charm an experience both inspiring and unforgettable.

What's not included

Any physical devices or headphones

Human tour guide at location

Available languages

Audio guide

DE RU PT EN IT PL FR NL ES

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This is a self-guided audio tour on the "Tourific self-guided tours" app. To activate the tour, check your email for instructions from Tourific or your booking platform sent right after booking. Can’t find it? Search for our company in your email inbox and spam folder. OR contact us via support.

Important notes

Know before you go :

•⁠ ⁠You will need to download the "Tourific self guided tours" app from the Google play store or App store

•⁠ ⁠Right after booking, you’ll receive an email from Tourific or the tour booking platform with instructions to access the tour.

•⁠ ⁠Having trouble finding the email? Just search for “Tourific” in your inbox or spam folder.

•⁠ ⁠For any issues - contact support@tourific.org

•⁠ ⁠The tour is valid for 1 year and can be listened to any number of times. So feel free to download tour and experience a few stops before going on the tour.

•⁠ ⁠Fully charge your phone and carry your headphones for the best experience

•⁠ ⁠The tour follows a set route that we recommend that you follow. Once the tour is downloaded, the introduction will guide you to your starting point

•⁠ ⁠Change of plans? Enjoy the tour on a different day or from home

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