The ibis Styles Rouen Centre Cathédrale puts you in the centre of Rouen, the old capital of Normandy, where the Gothic cathedral that Monet painted dozens of times rises above streets of half-timbered houses. It is a mid-priced, modern chain hotel, and it fills a gap that the rest of this guide leaves open: a city-centre address on the eastern side of the region, convenient for travellers who arrive by train from Paris or who want to split a Normandy trip between the Seine valley and the coast. Rouen is the city of Joan of Arc, of the Gros-Horloge astronomical clock, of the Palais de Justice and of a lively market square, and the centre is compact enough to see on foot. Staying here means you can walk to the cathedral, the old town and the riverbank, eat out in the evening without taking a taxi and return to a simple, comfortable room.
Location and getting around
The hotel stands in the central area close to the cathedral, so most of the main sights are within a ten to fifteen minute walk. The railway station is on the northern side of the centre, about a mile away, and there are bus and metro links for those who prefer not to walk with luggage.
Trains to Paris Saint-Lazare take roughly an hour and a half, and Rouen is also a good starting point for Giverny, Étretat and Honfleur by car or on organised excursions. Check the exact walking times when you book, since they depend on your route.
The rooms and the feel
Ibis Styles hotels are known for bright, colourful decoration and compact, practical rooms, with air conditioning, a private bathroom and Wi-Fi as standard in most properties of the brand, although you should confirm the details for this hotel. Breakfast is normally available as a buffet at an extra charge, and there are bakeries and cafes nearby if you prefer to eat out. Parking, where available, is likely to be paid and limited, because street spaces in the old town are scarce and some streets are pedestrian only.
Who it suits
Couples, solo travellers, small families and groups who want a central, reasonably priced base for a city break and for day trips. It is a good choice for visitors with an interest in Joan of Arc, Impressionist art or Gothic architecture. It is less suitable for guests who want a spa, a garden or a country-house atmosphere, in which case the manor and chateau hotels in this guide are better, and for those who plan to focus on the D-Day beaches, which are a long drive to the west.
Booking tips
Rouen is busiest in summer and on weekends with events and festivals, and rates rise accordingly, while winter weekdays are cheaper. If you plan to drive in Normandy, ask about parking before you reserve, or consider hiring a car on the day you leave the city. Book a flexible rate if your plans depend on the weather, and ask about luggage storage if you arrive early by train. Sunday mornings are quiet in the centre, so check restaurant opening days when you plan your meals.
Why stay here
- ✓Rouen city-centre location
- ✓Walk to the cathedral and old town
- ✓Compact, colourful rooms
- ✓Buffet breakfast (extra charge)
- ✓Air conditioning and Wi-Fi (check when you book)
- ✓Luggage storage (ask when booking)
- ✓Near bakeries, cafes and restaurants
- ✓Bus and metro links nearby
Good questions
Is it close to Rouen Cathedral?+
Yes, it is in the central area near the cathedral, and the main sights of the old town are within a short walk.
Is it a good base for D-Day sites?+
Not really. Rouen suits the Seine valley, Giverny and city sights. The landing beaches are a long drive west, and Bayeux is the better base for them.
Does it have parking?+
Parking is likely to be paid and limited, so ask before you book. Many visitors reach Rouen by train and leave the car at home.
