What to do in Rouen with the family at the weekend?

Rouen, a thousand-year-old city in the heart of Normandy, is ideal for a family weekend. With its history, culture and leisure activities, there is something to delight young and old alike. Here is our selection of activities to help you make the most of the city with your children.

The Cité Immersive Viking is a unique cultural and educational experience in France, located in Rouen on the banks of the Seine. This immersive venue offers a journey through five themed rooms that trace five periods of the viking era in Normandy. Visitors are immersed in Scandinavian history, culture, crafts, science and mythology thanks to cutting-edge technology, monumental sets, 360° video projections and 3D spatialised sound, bringing to life the fascinating history of the vikings, the founders of Normandy. This total immersion includes the life of Rollo, the first viking to become Norman, and an exhibition of authentic viking artefacts from the 9th and 10th centuries. It is an experience suitable for all audiences, combining education and entertainment.

After your Viking adventure, set off to explore the medieval centre:

–Rouen Cathedral.

-The cobbled streets and half-timbered houses.

-The Place du Vieux-Marché, where Joan of Arc was tried.

Rouen offers fascinating museums for young and old alike:

–Museum of Fine Arts: children’s workshops and artistic discoveries.

–Historial Jeanne d’Arc: interactive tour and immersive projections.

–Natural History Museum: dinosaurs and educational activities.

To relax between visits:

–Jardin des Plantes: picnics and walks.

–Quays of the Seine: mini-cruises or walks along the waterfront.

–Parks and playgrounds: for children to burn off energy.

Be sure to try: Camembert cheese, andouille de Vire sausage, tarte Tatin… Many restaurants and crêperies offer children’s menus and family areas.