Wondering where to go next? Why don’t you fly to Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy? It’s an old city in French, commonly known as “the city with a hundred bells chiming in the air”. Others also call it “the city of a hundred spires”. It shouldn’t come as a surprise, as it boasts several stunning churches with Gothic style. Rouen is also filled with beautiful architecture that exudes the traditional charm of French culture. Whether you’re visiting one of its historical monuments or just getting lost in the bustling streets, every moment you spend there will leave a deep impression. That’s also where the best hotels in Rouen, France do wonders. There are plenty of well-situated hotels to book that can make your itinerary more convenient. Pick the best one and have a wonderful vacation in Rouen!
Where to Stay in Rouen, France
Even though it’s often overshadowed by Paris, the vibrant Rouen is full of old and new attractions that can give you an equally exciting journey. Depending on where you stay, some of the most-visited landmarks might be just a few blocks away. Like any other city, most of the top things to do in Rouen are in the city center. If you want to stay there, be ready for a lot of morning bells because Notre-Dame Cathedral and Gros-Horloge are a blink away.
Separated by the Seine river is the Saint-Clément neighborhood. The area is filled with offices and schools. It’s not as lively as the downtown area, as only a few restaurants, bars, and hotels are available. However, if you want to stay in a quieter area with easy access to the central, some of our recommended hotels are there.
In case you fancy the Seine river, some districts near the city center like Rue du Vieux Palais and Rue du Quebec can give you a clear view. The former is located in the southwest corner of the city where you’ll find many restaurants. Meanwhile, the latter is a small and quiet neighborhood with easy access to some awesome places like the Joan of Arc Historical. Of course, we’ve compiled some of the best hotels in both districts just for you.
Comfort Hotel Rouen Alba
11
If you prioritize a good location over luxury facilities, you might want to take a look at Comfort Hotel Rouen Alba. It’s located right across a public square and 3 blocks away from the Seine river. Top spots like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Joan of Arc Historial are just 5-minute away on foot.
This budget hotel has standard amenities like other best hotels in Rouen, France. They include free WiFi, cable TV, as well as a working desk. An electric kettle is available too, in case you need a cup of tea to kick off your day. The room is clean, but far from spacious. The same goes for the spotless private bathroom. A breakfast buffet and public parking are available for an additional fee. Keep in mind that there’s no lift in this hotel, so you’ll have to access your room by a staircase. But if it means more money to spend on shopping, it’s worth the sacrifice.
Aside from the attractions we mentioned before, we also highly recommend the Gros-Horloge which is just one song away from the hotel. It’s a 14th-century astronomical clock and one of the oldest in France. It’s very easy to find and typically has a bunch of travelers clustered around taking photos.
Campanile Rouen Mermoz
10
Make your vacation more memorable by staying in Campanile Rouen Mermoz. It’s situated 1.1mi (1.8km) away from the city center and is separated by the Seine river. The best part of this 3-star hotel is that it’s right next to Rouen Normandie Rugby. You can enjoy the exhilarating game for free from your bedroom window. So convenient!
For the facilities, this accommodation isn’t so much different from other best hotels in Rouen, France. Each room is equipped with an air conditioner, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, and a desk, as well as a private bathroom with a shower. If you like to read, you can spend a few hours sitting in a quiet library and read some great collections. For those looking to have their daily dose of caffeine, stop by the on-site coffee house where you’ll find many types of coffee.
Fancy a nice shopping spot? Don’t go back to your hotel room before you visit the Saint-Sever Shopping Center! From fashion boutiques to cosmetic shops, everything you need is less than 1mi (1.6km) away. The shopping mall has countless stores that you’ll probably spend more time in there than originally planned.
ibis Rouen Centre Champ de Mars
9
Looking for one of the best hotels in Rouen, France with easy access from the main roads? Look no more because there’s ibis Rouen Centre Champ de Mars. This hotel is only a 10-minute walk away from the downtown area. A lot of exciting stores are located near the area too. Behind the hotel is Jardins de Champe De Mars, a nice hill garden with a lovely fountain. It’s a great place where you can relax in the sunshine for a while.
Amenities included in this hotel are a 24-hour reception, an on-site bar, free WiFi, and luggage storage. Meanwhile, the air-conditioned room boasts a flat-screen TV, a wardrobe, a desk, and a sofa. The bathroom is all-white, complete with all the toiletries you’ll ever need including a hairdryer. Depending on which room you’re staying at, you’ll be able to have a view of the inner courtyard, the garden, or even the Seine river.
We highly recommend having your buffet breakfast in the hotel. Expect yummy dishes such as fruit salad, yogurts, and fresh orange juice every morning. The croissants and French madeleines baked on-site are also on offer. If you want to have your meal outside of the hotel, numerous restaurants are just one road away. Be ready to take your taste-buds on the ultimate culinary journey.
Mercure Rouen Centre Cathédrale
8
Mercure Rouen Centre Cathédrale is located in central Rouen. It’s a very good place to stay because of the outstanding location. In less than 1.8mi (3km) radius, you can easily walk to top spots in the city like The Place du Vieux Marché and the Gros Horloge. If you want to take the train, Rouen Train Station is just a 5-minute walk away.
Like other hotels in Rouen, this accommodation offers air-conditioned rooms, each with a private bathroom, an electric kettle, and free WiFi access. We like how the room is bright and airy, as it helps us to rest more comfortably. Kids will be glad because it also features satellite TV with children’s television networks. If you have any questions regarding the luggage storage or anything else, the 24-hour front desk will be happy to help you out.
We recommend starting your morning by having a full breakfast served in the comfort of your room. Later in the day, you can have some fun by joining the walking and bike tour that the hotel provides. Too tiring? Maybe you’ll like spending some time reading books from your favorite author in the on-site library. You can enjoy some off-site activities too, such as live music, stand-up comedy, and bowling.
Les Initiés
7
There are plenty of best hotels in Rouen, France. However, none can make us feel like we’re staying at our own home, except for Les Initiés. It doesn’t offer many amenities, but that’s the funny part. Everything feels alright even without the fancy spa area or the 24-hour front desk. It still offers free WiFi access though, so don’t worry. Sometimes all you need is just a comfy and well-set hotel to stay at, and this is the one. However, you should note that no pet is allowed in this property.
The room is ample and has a minimalist design with neutral colors. Some even have a courthouse view from the window. The bed and bathroom are both satisfying too. A continental breakfast is served every morning except on Sunday, where you need to reserve beforehand. The on-site bar and brasserie restaurant are also equally great. There, you can enjoy regional cuisine while admiring the view of the Palais de Justice.
Located right at the city center, a must-see landmark that’s walkable from the hotel is Musee Secq des Tournelles. It’s a one-of-a-kind museum in a lovely church full of metal works and tools. Inside, you can witness how the past generations used the tools to lock doors, perform surgery, and others. Since it’s free, you have fewer reasons not to go there.
Alive Hotel de Quebec
6
Set on the quiet street, Alive Hotel de Quebec is located near Rouen’s downtown area. It’s very near to the Seine river, the Joan of Arc Historical, as well as Rouen High Court. If you need public transportation, there are two metro stations that you can go to in a glimpse of an eye.
Similar to some of the best hotels in Rouen, France, the room features free WiFi access, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, and a balcony on selected rooms. Private parking is available in this hotel for a surcharge.
You can start your day by having a special breakfast on your bed. Then, you can visit the top attractions in town. With no 24-hour front desk to recommend you where to go, it’s an opportunity for you to have an adventure and freely explore the narrow streets around the city. Don’t worry because even if you’re lost, the friendly locals will be more than willing to help you out. Who knows, maybe you’ll find some of Rouen’s hidden gems.
Holiday Inn Express – Rouen Center – Rive Gauche
5
Holiday Inn Express – Rouen Center – Rive Gauche offers nothing fancy, but we’re pleased with this hotel. From the location to the facilities, we have zero complaints. It’s set in the Saint-Clément neighborhood right below the city center. When you have something urgent to buy, rest assured because you’ll discover various shopping stores along the hotel street.
As expected from a well-known brand, the amenities are of an excellent standard. The room is very neat and the generous number of power sockets is a plus. The bed isn’t lacking in size and comfort as well. There’s no bathtub in the bathroom. However, the complete toiletries and the great shower make up for it. If you’re going to book the double room, we suggest booking the one with a balcony. Therefore, you’ll be able to breathe some fresh air in the morning before getting ready for your day.
In addition to the shopping stores around the accommodation, you should also take some time to visit Rouen Botanical Garden. It’s a huge park where there are plenty of plants and flowers. There’s also a fun playground for the kids (and grown-ups). As it might get a bit too hot, an ice cream shop is available to help you cool down. What’s better is that you can enter the botanical garden for free. Now, that’s what we call awesome!
Novotel Suites Rouen Normandie
4
You might want to consider staying in this hotel if you’re looking for a grand stay near the downtown area. It’s located on the banks of the Seine river and just 10 minutes away from the city center. Like other best hotels in Rouen, France, this hotel offers free WiFi access, a 24-hour front desk, cleaning services, as well as private parking.
Novotel Suites Rouen Normandie features air-conditioned modular suites. Each of them features a huge living room with a flat-screen TV, where you can access English and American channels. You can practice your cooking skill in the kitchenette, where there’s a microwave, a mini-fridge, as well as tea and coffee makers. The bedroom is capacious, enough for you and your friends to chill together without feeling too hot. Meanwhile, the bathroom is top-notch, complete with all the toiletries needed.
If you need a quick workout, feel free to hit the fitness center. Afterward, you can enjoy a fabulous breakfast in your room. During your free time, you can spoil yourself with a variety of massages too. Not enough? Every Thursday the hotel offers a 10-minute seated amma massage for maximum relaxation in the hotel.
Le Vieux Carré
3
Among the best hotels in Rouen, France, Le Vieux Carré is one of our favorites. This hotel isn’t the grandest, but it’s certainly one of, if not the prettiest. Once you find yourself inside the hotel, you’ll see the common living room which has exposed beams and wooden furniture. There, you can chill in the armchairs by the fireplace. A 24-hour front desk is available, and in case you’re a heavy sleeper, you can request a personal wake-up service.
The room features colorful decorations, a private bathroom with bathtub, a flat-screen TV, free WiFi, and views of the courtyard garden depending on the room location. Speaking of the courtyard, you can have your meals there. It’s connected to the bright tea room, where daily continental breakfast and lunch are served. Sitting in the courtyard feels very peaceful, especially when accompanied by some gourmet cakes and a cup of tea.
This refreshing hotel is located in central Rouen’s pedestrian area. Around the property, you can easily spot a bunch of fashion outlets from big brands as well as cozy cafés and bars. In less than a 10-minute walk, you’re able to visit Rouen’s Gothic Cathedral and Joan of Arc Historical. With its great ambiance and brilliant location, we can see ourselves returning in the near future.
Best Western Hôtel Littéraire Gustave Flaubert
2
Next on the list of the best hotels in Rouen, France, we present you Best Western Hôtel Littéraire Gustave Flaubert. As the name suggests, this property offers accommodation with a literary theme honoring the French novelist Gustave Flaubert. It’s set in the Rue du Vieux Palais area, the southwest corner of the city center, and near the Seine river. Right across the hotel, you can make yourself full by visiting several French and international restaurants.
The room features complete amenities, including a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, an air conditioner, and an iPod docking station. The room doesn’t have any exaggerated designs. Everything is simple and clean, just how we like it. Although there’s no bathtub in the bathroom, you can still have a proper shower. Other facilities include a cocktail lounge, a 24-hour front desk, a fitness center, and a public parking area. You can also have private parking with just a simple reservation.
While you’re there, you should check out the Notre Dame Cathedral. It’s only a 10-minute walk from the hotel. The magnificent gothic structure is viewed as the city’s most important architectural landmark by some. Once you arrive at the cathedral, you’ll be amazed by hundreds of carved statues that adorn the exterior of the church. This can easily be the highlight of your trip.
Hotel de Bourgtheroulde, Autograph Collection
1
Spend your time staying in this lavish accommodation and get treated like a VIP. This boutique hotel is located right at the heart of Rouen’s historic center. It creatively combines historic architecture with modern interior, resulting in an outstanding design. During your stay, maximize the free access to the fitness and spa center which includes a sauna, a hammam, a jacuzzi, a steam room, and a wide variety of spa treatments. Make sure you don’t miss the chance to go to the hypnotic indoor pool. It’s so beautiful, and you’ll very much enjoy every second you spend.
With a wonderful touch of luxury, Hotel de Bourgtheroulde will ensure nothing but satisfaction. The room is equipped with an air conditioner, free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, a coffee machine, and a minibar. The soft bed along with the silent-and-dark room guarantee a soundless sleep. Meanwhile, the ceramic bathroom is fabulous. We love the large bathtub and appreciate how the hotel puts a pot of flowers on the sink to enliven the bathroom.
This 5-star hotel provides a great restaurant too. It serves delectable traditional cuisine as well as special diet menus by request. Aside from that, you’re also invited to pop a bottle of champagne and enjoy it in the bar. If you want something more recreational, you can go to Gros-Horloge, Le Bûcher de Jeanne d’Arc, or Musee des Beaux-Arts de Rouen, which all just steps away from the hotel. We can’t name a better accommodation that’s capable of giving you high-quality me time and easy access to the top attractions. Among the best hotels in Rouen, France, this is THE best there is.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Rouen, France:
- La Petite Auberge – This restaurant serves a wide variety of European cuisines with incredible quality. We highly recommend booking a table before going there because it’s usually fully reserved.
- Payiz – A lovely restaurant that’s popular among the locals. It offers top-notch Lebanese dishes as well as vegan-friendly menus.
- Gill – Experience sublime European food with a great service here. We recommend having the tuna tartare as it will spoil your taste buds.
Recommended Activities In Rouen, France:
- Eglise Sainte-Jeanne-d’Arc – A Catholic church beautifully laid out in the middle of Rouen. It’s built to symbolize the search for absolute geometrical purity.
- Musee des Beaux-Arts de Rouen – See some great paintings and mind-blowing pieces of art displayed in this museum. Best of all, it’s free.
- Welcome to Rouen: Private Walking Tour with a Local – Through this private tour, you’ll experience Rouen like the locals. The guide will also give some traveling tips so you’ll be more confident in exploring the city on your own.
