Top 5 Rouen Car Tours: See Normandy at Your Own Speed

Rouen, a city that is packed with history and gorgeous architecture, actually makes a superb base for some fantastic driving tours. Exploring Normandy by car? It gives you the freedom to explore those quaint villages, dramatic coastlines, and the memorials from World War II at a pace that actually suits you. So, that being said, let’s explore five amazing car tours that you could start right from Rouen. Basically, they show you some really unforgettable corners of Normandy. Read our full review: Rouen car tours Full Review and Details

1. The Historic Abbeys Route

The Historic Abbeys Route really shows off the spiritual and architectural grandeur of Normandy. So, just think about starting in Rouen, then go alongside the Seine, visiting a series of abbeys that stand as monuments to centuries of faith and art. Basically, that Saint-Georges de Boscherville Abbey, just a short drive from Rouen, it’s almost known for its beautifully maintained gardens and just a simply gorgeous Romanesque church. It truly offers you a tranquil beginning to your scenic drive.

Further down the road, the Jumièges Abbey’s ruins basically convey the power of the Middle Ages, that is despite being partially destroyed. Apparently, these majestic ruins, set along the Seine’s curve, really invite contemplation and exploration. Like your trip goes on, that being said, you should head over to Saint-Wandrille Abbey, which is still home to a community of Benedictine monks. There you might be able to attend a service, explore their grounds, or, in fact, purchase items made by the monks themselves. It really adds, like, a really nice cultural touch to your tour.

Things to Consider: It is recommended to actually check the opening times for each abbey before you go there. Some abbeys could be closed to visitors on certain days or could just have limited access due to religious services or just private events. If you want to fully take in the experience, think about budgeting a minimum of a half-day to actually explore this route, providing ample time for each spot. So, consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the Seine River in order to fully appreciate the gorgeous views. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Historic Abbeys Route tours)

2. The D-Day Landing Beaches

This trip to the D-Day Landing Beaches from Rouen is a powerful and basically sobering journey into a critical moment in history. So, set off early to actually maximize your time, like first stopping at the Mémorial de Caen. It basically offers an intensive overview of World War II, so too it’s actually giving context for what you’re about to witness on the coast. Honestly, moving to the coast, like, begin at Omaha Beach, where just thousands of Allied soldiers displayed incredible bravery in the face of almost insurmountable odds.

Arromanches-les-Bains basically has the remains of the artificial harbor that was, in fact, essential for sustaining the Allied offensive, still quite visible. As a matter of fact, the Arromanches 360 circular cinema actually shows just absolutely moving footage that almost brings the past to life. Then Pointe du Hoc, that’s where you’re able to witness the sheer cliffs that US Rangers did climb so valiantly, just displaying, you know, bomb craters dotting the landscape as quiet reminders of the battle.

Things to Consider: To have a complete understanding, actually think about hiring a local guide who provides really crucial context and private stories from the time. That’s because, while some sites are complimentary, other locations like the Mémorial de Caen do actually charge for admission. As I was saying, plan your trip so you are able to allow a complete day to explore these very historic sites thoroughly. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (D-Day Landing Beaches tours)

3. The Honfleur and the Normandy Coast Tour

Actually escaping to the charming port city of Honfleur, paired with a driving tour along the Normandy coast, truly makes for an just idyllic day from Rouen. So, begin driving towards the coast, basically drinking in views of the countryside before you reach Honfleur. Honestly, that harbor town actually captures you right away with its super picturesque waterfront. Actually, that’s where buildings are featured and they seem like they came straight out of an impressionist painting.

Just be sure to stroll along the Quai Sainte-Catherine. Basically, it gives views of the colorful houses reflected on the water. That is so you may want to visit the Église Sainte-Catherine. So, like a wooden church built by shipbuilders. That’s unlike any other. Next, head up the coast toward Trouville-sur-Mer and Deauville. Arguably, they are actually a bit elegant seaside resorts just a little further down. So, take a relaxing walk down the boardwalk in Deauville. Check out the famous beach umbrellas and also the casino.

Things to Consider: The parking in Honfleur truly does get tough, most likely in peak season. Try to get there early in order to secure a spot or possibly just use the parking lots a little further away from the harbor. If you appreciate art, in fact, visit the Eugène Boudin Museum in Honfleur, just showing many works by Boudin and other artists who are just drawn to the town. To experience the most of this tour, allocate, like, a complete day. Then savor, not only a leisurely lunch of local seafood in Honfleur, but also the sunset views on the coast. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Honfleur Normandy Coast tours)

4. The Pays d’Auge Cider Route

The Pays d’Auge Cider Route presents that truly delectable trip through Normandy’s orchard region. This, too, combines tastings with very stunning countryside. Start from Rouen and proceed toward the heart of Pays d’Auge. Very quickly, that area’s really known for, not only its cider production, but, indeed, Calvados and pommeau.

Basically, farms are featured on the Cider Route and provide you with samples. So, learn about the way they’re produced. And even sample regional cheeses. Basically, which goes nicely with your cider. Also, you’re able to tour charming villages such as Beuvron-en-Auge. With its half-timbered homes and flower-filled squares. Basically, it makes one of France’s “Plus Beaux Villages.” Another thing to check out is a Calvados distillery to actually learn how apple brandy’s been made. Then obviously get some samples.

Things to Consider: If you are planning to, not only fully take in all of the cider and Calvados tastings, but also have a driver who abstains or participate in, maybe, a structured tour so that you can drive. Just before your visit, check with the distilleries and cider producers to make sure that they’re going to be available. Very specifically those at certain times of the year. Take your time on this trip to take pleasure in both the landscapes as well as the farm-fresh cuisine. Very specifically local restaurants along your path. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Pays d’Auge Cider Route tours)

5. The Claude Monet’s Giverny Tour

Actually taking a trip to Giverny will put you straight into the world of Claude Monet. Which really offers a glimpse into the muse. This, very obviously, inspires a number of his very celebrated Impressionist paintings. Begin by taking a short drive to Giverny. Which just makes it almost feel like Monet’s home and gardens really await.

Actually walking through the gardens, that includes the famous water lily pond in order to, basically, truly envision the inspiration from these works. Really check out Monet’s house. And then check out the interior that really shows off his life as well as his love for Japanese prints. The Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny, quite nearby, adds much more information and also provides the backdrop and that impact for the Impressionist movement.

Things to Consider: Reserve tickets for both Monet’s home and gardens. To avoid very long lines. Most especially throughout peak season. Getting there either earlier in the day, or afterwards, could also assist you to bypass crowds. If you appreciate photography, then it’s great, in fact. Because the light around early morning or the late afternoon is most suited to actually capturing your experience. Enable yourself a full day. Thus permitting plenty of time. Which is really critical for touring the home. Really spending time in the gardens. Finally savoring your meal inside the village connected with Giverny. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Claude Monets Giverny Tours)

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