Normandy’s Capital - Rouen

Day 1 Early morning departure and travel to Portsmouth for the crossing to Caen. On arrival you will continue the journey to Rouen for a four night stay.

Day 2 Today travel to Honfleur, Normandy’s most charming port and a favourite with impressionist painters such as Monet. Utterly enchanting, the Vieux Bassin area is the heart of the port, characterised by its front-row homes, built by wealthy families of days gone by, overlooking the yachts in the harbour.

Day 3 A day at leisure. Rouen is situated on the banks of the River Seine and is Normandy’s vibrant, historic and cultural capital. Explore the medieval cobbled streets and admire the half-timbered houses and Gothic buildings. Visit Rouen Cathedral, a visitor’s favourite along with many fine museums to explore including the Gros Horloge (Great Clock) with the oldest mechanism of its kind in France.

Day 4 Today you will see the dramatic coastline to the north of Rouen, between Fécamp and Etretat. We have included a visit to the Palais Bénédictine (Benedictine Palace) for a guided tour and tasting of the now famous Bénédictine liqueur, made from a recipe handed down by generations of Benedictine monks. You will then continue to Etretat, best known for its magnificent and famous cliffs, which are one of Normandy’s most popular tourist attractions. Admire the three stunning arches and the pointed ‘needle’ carved out of beautiful white limestone before returning to the hotel.

Day 5 After breakfast depart the hotel and make the short journey to Lisieux, one of the oldest towns in Normandy and overlooked by the Bascilica Sainte-Thérèse. Early afternoon continue on to Caen for the return ferry to Portsmouth.

Ideally located along the banks of the Seine and with access to the city’s treasures and the lively pedestrian streets and historic centre. All bedrooms are en-suite with TV, hairdryer, WiFi and tea/coffee making facilities. Lift, bar and restaurant.

Single room supplement £142

Holiday Insurance £74