Depart Paris by SNCF train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Rouen-Rive-Droite (about 1h10); grab a coffee and pastry from Paul inside the station to enjoy on the ride.
Arrive at Rouen-Rive-Droite and walk toward the old town, passing the Aître Saint-Maclou; enjoy the medieval streets and early-morning light as the town wakes up.
Visit the exterior and square of Rouen Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame) to admire its Gothic façade and take photos of the towers illuminated in morning sun.
Stroll to Place du Vieux-Marché to see the spot where Joan of Arc was burned and pop into La Couronne, France’s oldest inn, for a quick look or a drink at the historic bar.
Stop for a mid-morning snack at Le Bistrot d'à Côté or enjoy hot chocolate and pastries at Café de l'Époque, relaxing while people-watching in the square.
Explore the half-timbered streets toward Rue du Gros-Horloge, then pause at the Gros-Horloge itself to admire the astronomical clock and learn about Rouen’s history.
Quick visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen (short highlights) to see works by Monet and other Impressionists if time allows; otherwise enjoy the museum building and small collection.
Return toward the station via the Seine banks, stopping for a light lunch or sandwich at Café des Arts before catching an early afternoon train back to Paris.
Have a relaxed light lunch at Café des Arts (if you didn’t earlier) or try a savory galette at Crêperie la Petite Bretagne while seated by the window watching the market scene.
Walk along the Seine riverside toward the historic quay, enjoying views of the timbered houses and stopping for a photo by the riverside benches.
Visit the charming courtyard and sculptures at Aître Saint-Maclou, taking time to read the carved motifs and imagine medieval Rouen life.
Pop into Musée Flaubert et d'Histoire de la Médecine for a brief look at the period rooms and quirky medical exhibits (short 30-40 minute visit).
Enjoy a coffee or a hot chocolate at La Walsheim on a side street, resting your feet and sampling a local pastry before heading back toward the station.
Leisurely stroll back through the pedestrianized Rue du Gros-Horloge one last time, picking up souvenirs at La Maison de l'Armateur or local specialty shops.
Arrive at Rouen-Rive-Droite station early to board your return train; if you have extra time, browse the station shop for snacks and Normandy cider to take home.
Enjoy an aperitif on the terrace of Le 6 Paulin near the cathedral, watching the late-afternoon light shift on Rouen Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame) and sampling a Normandy cider.
Wander through the illuminated timbered lanes toward Place du Vieux-Marché, pausing for photos as the historic façades glow and the square takes on a festive evening atmosphere.
Dine early at La Couronne if you want a historic setting (reservations recommended) or opt for regional comfort food at Brasserie Les Nymphéas for classic Norman dishes.
Take a leisurely post-dinner stroll along the Seine riverside to see reflections of the town lights, stopping at a riverside bench to relax and listen to the evening sounds of Rouen.
If time allows before your train, enjoy a final drink at Le Bastringue — a cozy bar with a local vibe — or pick up a packaged dessert from Pâtisserie Lecoq to enjoy on the platform.
Return to Rouen-Rive-Droite station with ample time to board your train back to Paris; browse the station kiosks for Normandy treats like camembert or calvados if you want souvenirs.