Upper Normandy Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Upper Normandy, France. Plan your trip now and explore this beautiful region of Europe.


Upper Normandy is a picturesque region located in the northern part of France, famous for its cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and stunning natural landscapes. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Upper Normandy and explore the best attractions, activities, and local culture this region has to offer.

Introduction to Upper Normandy

Upper Normandy is one of the five administrative regions of Normandy, in northern France. Its capital is Rouen, a beautiful medieval town that has been the seat of the Dukes of Normandy, which later became the Kings of England. The region covers an area of 12,300 square kilometers and offers visitors a wide range of tourist attractions, including historic landmarks, museums, outdoor activities, and delicious cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Upper Normandy

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Upper Normandy boasts of numerous museums that highlight its rich culture and heritage. A visit to the following museums should be on your itinerary:

  • Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen: This fine arts museum houses an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, including works by Monet, Degas, and Renoir.
  • Musée Maritime Fluvial et Portuaire de Rouen: Located on the banks of the Seine, this museum showcases the history of maritime transport in Rouen and Normandy.
  • Musée Victor Hugo: Dedicated to the French poet and writer Victor Hugo, who spent his childhood in Besançon, this museum retraces the life and literary works of the author.
  • Château de Gaillon: This stunning Renaissance castle is one of the finest examples of the French art of the early 16th century.

Natural Attractions of Upper Normandy: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Upper Normandy is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, ranging from white cliffs to lush green meadows. Some of the must-visit outdoor attractions include:

  • Falaise d’Etretat: This natural landmark features two dramatic cliffs that rise up from the sea and offer breathtaking views of the coastline.
  • Parc Naturel Régional des Boucles de la Seine Normande: This regional park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including otters, peregrine falcons, and beavers.
  • Jardins d’Angelique: Located in the village of Giverny, this beautiful garden was immortalized by the famous Impressionist painter, Claude Monet.
  • Le Bois des Moutiers: Designed by famous British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, this woodland garden features rare trees and shrubs that bloom throughout the year.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Upper Normandy

Upper Normandy boasts several hiking trails, exploring which will give you an opportunity to experience the beauty of the region up close. Some of the most popular hiking and cycling routes include:

  • The Avenue Verte: A 45 km trail that connects the towns of Forges-les-Eaux and Dieppe, following the old railway line.
  • The Seine Valley: Cycle along the Seine riverbanks, through small villages, and across stunning countryside with some challenging hills.

Best Things to Do in Upper Normandy: Activities and Tours

Upper Normandy offers a variety of activities, tours, and experiences that cater to different interests. Here are some of the best things to do in the region:

  • Ghost Tour of Rouen: Take a night stroll through the historic streets of Rouen and discover the city’s dark and intriguing past.
  • Cheese Tasting Tour: Learn about the local cheese-making traditions by visiting a cheese farm and taste some of the best cheeses of the region.
  • Seine Riverboat Cruise: Enjoy a leisurely cruise down the Seine River and soak in the beauty of this serene waterway.

Week-Long Itinerary for Upper Normandy

Here’s a week-long itinerary that will help you explore the best of Upper Normandy:

  • Day 1-2: Spend your first two days in Rouen, visiting the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Château de Gaillon.
  • Day 3: Explore the scenic village of Giverny and visit the Jardins d’Angelique.
  • Day 4-5: Hike or bike along the Avenue Verte and also tour the parks of the region
  • Day 6: Take a cheese tasting tour and visit the Musée Maritime Fluvial et Portuaire de Rouen.
  • Day 7: Enjoy a Seine Riverboat cruise and visit the Falaise d’Etretat.

Food and Drink Scene of Upper Normandy

Upper Normandy is known for its mouth-watering cuisine and delicious local produce. Here’s a list of must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Normandy Oysters: These are considered some of the best in the world and are definitely worth trying.
  • Camembert Cheese: This rich and creamy cheese is a staple of French cuisine and is produced in Upper Normandy.
  • Andouille de Vire: A smoked sausage made from pig intestines, flavored with garlic and spices.
  • Mackerel with cider: This dish is a combination of mackerel fillets, cream, and apple cider.

Local Beverages

  • Calvados: An apple brandy that is distilled from cider and aged in oak barrels. It is a popular after-dinner drink in the region.
  • Pommeau de Normandie: A mix of apple juice and Calvados, this drink is served as an aperitif before meals.

Where to Stay in Upper Normandy: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Upper Normandy offers an array of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some top picks include:

  • Hôtel de Bourgtheroulde, Autograph Collection: A 5-star hotel in Rouen that combines historic architecture with modern amenities.
  • Hotel Le Flormandie: Situated in the village of Etretat, this 4-star hotel offers stunning sea views and easy access to the Falaise d’Etretat.
  • L’Escapade: A budget-friendly guesthouse located in Giverny, close to the Jardins d’Angelique.

What to Buy in Upper Normandy: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to take a piece of Upper Normandy home with you as a souvenir, here’s a list of local products that you should try:

  • Camembert cheese: This delicious cheese is a perfect gift for cheese lovers.
  • Apple Cider: A delicious and refreshing beverage, especially in summer.
  • Calvados: This apple brandy makes another great souvenir to take home.
  • Lace or Needlework: Upper Normandy is known for its intricate lacework, making it a perfect souvenir for art collectors.

Local Culture and Customs of Upper Normandy

Upper Normandy has a unique culture shaped by its history, traditions, and geography. Here are a few customs that you might observe during your visit:

  • The locals often greet one another with a simple “bonjour” or “bonsoir.”
  • Normandy is known for its strong cider and calvados, which are definitely worth trying.
  • The cuisine of Upper Normandy is heavily influenced by seafood, with seafood dishes such as mussels, oysters, lobster, scallops, and sea bass being popular choices.

Best Time to Visit Upper Normandy

The best time to visit Upper Normandy is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, you can consider visiting during the shoulder months of May and September, when the weather is still pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Upper Normandy

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and sample the famous cheese and cider of the region
  • Visit the historic landmarks and museums to learn about the region’s fascinating history and culture
  • Take a hike or bike ride to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region.

Don’t:

  • Forget to bring suitable clothes and footwear for hiking or biking.
  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions, such as always greeting someone when you enter a room.
  • Visit during holidays, as many places and activities may be closed.

Safety and Health

Safety in Upper Normandy

Upper Normandy is a safe region to explore, but like any other tourist destination, a few precautions are necessary. Here are some safety tips for travelers:

  • Always lock your car and keep valuables out of sight.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
  • Ask the locals for advice on the safety of outdoor activities before heading out

Health in Upper Normandy

Upper Normandy has modern healthcare facilities and services, but it is always recommended to have travel health insurance when traveling abroad. Also, it is advised to have a basic medical kit for emergency situations.

Getting to Upper Normandy: Transportation Options and Logistics

Upper Normandy can be reached by various transportation modes such as air, train, and road.

Airports Near Upper Normandy

The nearest airports to Upper Normandy are:

  • Rouen Airport (URO): 10 km north of the city center of Rouen, with flights from various European cities.
  • Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): One of the biggest airports in France, located 130 km from Rouen. The airport offers international and domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Upper Normandy

The main bus station in Rouen is the Rouen Bus Station that connects to other cities of France and Europe.

Other Options

Upper Normandy is also easily accessible by train and car. There are trains from Paris to Rouen with a duration of 1h 30m and with a frequency of every 10 to 15 minutes.

How to Get Around in Upper Normandy

The best way to explore Upper Normandy is by car, which offers the flexibility to explore the region’s scenic drives and countryside. Alternatively, you can take public transport, such as buses and trains, which are reliable and efficient, especially when traveling between major cities such as Rouen, Dieppe, and Le Havre.

Where to Go Next from Upper Normandy: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Upper Normandy is surrounded by other beautiful regions that are worth exploring, including:

  • Lower Normandy: famous for its stunning beaches and historic landmarks
  • Paris: the city of light is only a two-hour drive from Upper Normandy
  • Brussels: the Belgian capital is a three-hour journey from Upper Normandy.

Conclusion

Upper Normandy is a charming region that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you want to explore its cultural attractions, indulge in its cuisine, or go on an outdoor adventure, this region offers something for everyone. Plan your visit to Upper Normandy now and experience its unique charm for yourself.

The white cliffs of the Alabaster Coast in Étretat The white cliffs of the Alabaster Coast in Étretat Abbey of Jumièges Abbey of Jumièges


    Dieppe
    Giverny
    Étretat
    Évreux