Is Rouen a good day trip from Paris, and how do you get there by train?
The beautiful city of Rouen is a hidden treasure that is just a short train trip from the busy streets of Paris and is just waiting to be discovered. This historic city, which is tucked away along the banks of the Seine River, is rich in historic buildings, an active arts scene, and a wealth of tales just waiting to be discovered by brave tourists.
Discover the charm of Rouen and learn how simple it is to board a train and take a day trip to this charming location as we take you on a journey through paths of stone and magnificent monuments.
Taking the train from Paris to Rouen
Paris to Rouen by Train. Traveling through the charming French countryside, the train leaves Paris and offers passengers an amazing view of rolling hills, charming villages, and lots of greenery. Through the window, passengers are drawn into a peaceful and charming world by the beautiful scenery outside. As you see the environment transform from a busy downtown to a peaceful countryside, it’s easy to lose track of time.
Your step-by-step guide on Paris to Rouen by train
Go to Paris Saint Lazare Station
As soon as you enter the busy Paris Saint Lazare Station, you are enveloped by an abundance of sights and sounds. The station’s magnificent architecture, dating back to the 19th century, whispers of its rich past.
One of the primary centers for trains leaving for different destinations in France is Paris Saint Lazare Station, where you should begin your journey. You will likely have to take the Metro to get there, and Rouen Rive Droite is the station you will be going to.
Train Frequency and Timing
There are regular trains to Rouen during the day. For an early start, the first train leaves at 5:46 AM. You have a whole day in Rouen because the last train back to Paris departs at 21:01.
Choosing Your Train
Several trains, including express options, are available for this route. Train Nomad Express trains drastically cut down on travel time; it now takes about one hour and fifteen minutes to go to Rouen Rive Droite.
Purchasing Tickets
Tickets can be bought online or at the station. However, I suggest buying online ahead of time using Train Line or Omio to make sure you get the best price.
Navigating Saint Lazare Station
Although Saint Lazare is a huge station with numerous floors and 27 platforms, the trains to Rouen typically depart from Level 1.
Arrival at Rouen Rive Droite
Since the station is situated in the heart of the town, it is simple to visit the various attractions in Rouen, many of which are available on foot.
Alternative options for getting to Rouen from Paris
There are other ways to go to Rouen besides trains. Also, you can take a bus or rent a car and drive.
Paris to Rouen at a Glance
- Train: around 20€, 1 hour and 22 minutes (quickest)
- Bus: 1 hour, 35 minutes, cheapest ticket: 4€
- Car: 80 miles/130 km in 1 hour, 40 minutes (most flexible)
Paris to Rouen By Bus
Passengers are treated to a beautiful ride through the stunning French countryside as the bus leaves the busy city of Paris and heads towards the charming city of Rouen. The bus travels over calm roadways, passing through picturesque villages and rolling hills, giving passengers a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
The biggest tip I can give you for traveling to Rouen by bus is to consider the time of day and traffic patterns, as these will greatly impact the time it takes to get there.
Bus Companies
Several companies provide bus services between Paris and Rouen. FlixBus and BlaBlaBus are two well-liked choices; the latter is accessible on Omio. It is advisable to evaluate the schedules and prices offered by each company to choose which one best suits your needs and budget.
Departure Points in Paris
According to the bus company, departure locations can change. Bercy Seine Bus Station, Porte Maillot Coach Park, and Gallieni International Bus Station are among the frequently used departure points in Paris.
Journey Duration
Bus travel from Paris to Rouen normally takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the route used and the volume of traffic.
Ticket Booking
You can buy tickets at the bus station or online. Securing a seat needs reservations, particularly during periods of high travel demand.
Arrival in Rouen
Buses typically arrive at the Rouen Bus Station, which is close to the city center. From the bus terminal, many of the city’s attractions are accessible by foot or local public transportation.
Paris to Rouen By Car
Traveling by car from Paris to Rouen is an attractive way to see the stunning French country. As you leave the busy city behind, the beautiful towns and rolling landscape appear like scenes from a photograph. Smooth highways give way to winding country roads that take you past charming villages and lush scenery, making the drive itself an experience.
Route and Distance
The most popular route is the A13 freeway, which is a direct and effective method to travel the 80 miles (130 km) or so that separate Paris and Rouen.
Travel Time
The average travel time is 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the volume of traffic. I would advise leaving before or after rush hour because traffic can be particularly heavy on weekends and during peak hours. The traffic in Paris is terrible.
Tolls
The A13 is a freeway with tolls. Expect to pay a price for utilizing this road; the toll varies. Just make sure your debit or credit card is close at hand.
Crit’Air Emissions Sticker
Many French cities employ the Crit’Air system to reduce pollution. Every car must have an emissions tag on it that states how much of an influence it has on the environment.
This should be covered if you’re renting a car, but it’s still a good idea to double-verify. You must have the Crit’Air emissions sticker to enter Rouen. It’s not costly; I believe ours, for a three-year-old Citroen, only came to 3.76€.
Parking in Rouen
Parking is difficult in Rouen. The owner of the property we were staying in promised me that parking on the streets on Sundays when we arrived was free when I drove to Rouen.
However, because there are so many one-way streets and walking zones, driving in the center is terrible. To ensure you can go right to the parking lot, I advise you to find out where you’re going to park before you arrive. Here are some parking lots you can try:
- Parking de la Pucelle: I parked here, and the Place Jeanne d’Arc and the old Jeanne d’Arc Church are both nearby. The fact that they have CCTV made our three-night stay with our car safe. I suggest parking here for convenience, affordability, and security as it wasn’t too costly.
- Parking Vieux-Marché – Cathédrale: This underground parking lot is easily accessible next to the Rouen Cathedral and the Old Market, making it the perfect choice for visitors to the city’s main sights.
- Parking Palais de Justice: This parking lot is easily accessible near the Palais de Justice and other governmental buildings, providing easy access to the northern section of the city center.
- Parking Théâtre des Arts: This parking lot is a fantastic option for people who are going to events at the Théâtre des Arts and the Rouen Opera House or who want to explore the surrounding food and retail options.
Why Taking a Rouen Day Trip from Paris is Worth It
Proximity and Accessibility: The train ride from Paris to Rouen, which is 80 miles/130 kilometers away, takes slightly more than an hour. Rouen Rive Droite is a convenient day trip destination from Paris Saint Lazare because of the regular rail service and direct route.
Rich Historical Significance: Rouen enjoys a rich past. It is renowned for its Gothic-style buildings, including the well-known Rouen Cathedral. It’s worth visiting the Grand Horlage Clock. It is significant as the location of Joan of Arc’s trial and killing. The historic half-timbered homes are also very beautiful. You’ll be pulling out your camera at every opportunity.
Compact City Centre: Many of Rouen’s streets are pedestrianized, making it an extremely walkable city. It’s simple to navigate, and you can see all the main attractions in a single day, such as the Gros Horloge, the medieval district, and other museums.
Culinary Experience: With more than 650 restaurants to choose from, Rouen has been recognized with the UNESCO Award for Food. With so many different dining options available, what’s not to enjoy about this city? You can also savor the delicious French camembert and sample some of the region’s delectable delicacies.
Artistic Heritage: The artistic legacy of the city, which impressionist painters shaped, is an additional draw. The French artist Claude Monet painted around thirty pictures of the Rouen Cathedral between 1892 and 1894 as a result of his obsession with the building.
Less Crowded: Rouen is often less busy than Paris, providing visitors with a more laid-back atmosphere to enjoy their day away from the bustle of a large city.
FAQS: Getting to Rouen from Paris by train
Which Paris train station goes to Rouen?
Gare Saint-Lazare is the main train station to take into consideration when traveling from Paris to Rouen. For those wishing to see the old town, this busy station is a good option as it provides regular and direct trains to Rouen. As a significant center for regional and local rail services, Gare Saint-Lazare is one of Paris’ busiest train stations.
How much is a train ticket from Paris to Rouen?
The type of train, the time of purchase, and the class of travel can all affect the price of a train ticket from Paris to Rouen. A typical one-way ticket costs between €10 and €30. To ensure the greatest price and availability, it is advised to purchase your ticket in advance.
Is one day enough for Rouen?
A single day is insufficient to see everything Rouen has to offer. I’d advise staying for three days to ensure you have time to see everything and take advantage of Rouen’s fantastic restaurant scene.
How long is the train ride from Paris to Rouen, France?
Train travel from Paris to Rouen offers an adventure that lasts approximately one hour and ten minutes, making it a convenient day trip or weekend vacation.
Final thoughts on getting to Rouen from Paris
Rouen is a must-see destination if you have time for a day trip from Paris. Taking the train from Paris to Rouen is a simple, affordable, and fast option.
I would stay over if I had the opportunity because Rouen is a really beautiful city. You get the impression that you have entered into a different era of history as the streets drive you forward in time.
As you can see, I had a great time in Rouen and am anxious to go back and explore more. This place was far too much for three days. I should make the trip back because I didn’t even scratch the restaurants.
Hopefully, you can now see that France offers many more wonderful cities to visit, all of which are accessible by rail in less than an hour, in addition to Paris.