However long you've got, here's how to make the most of the Armada 2027 — the ships, the city, and the best of Normandy beyond it.
Coming in from Paris just for the day? Easy — Rouen is about 1h25 by train. Aim for an early start and focus on the quays.
Arrive by 9–10am, before the crowds. Start at one end and work along the fleet, climbing aboard the tall ships that take your eye. See the fleet guide.
Grab something at the global food village on the quays, or duck into the half-timbered old town. Ideas on the where to eat page.
See the cathedral and Gros-Horloge, then catch a Seine cruise to see the ships from the water before your train home.
If you can push your train back, the nightly fireworks over the Seine are worth it. See what's on.
Two or three nights lets you enjoy the Armada without rushing — and actually see Rouen. Book a room early; rooms sell out and prices climb. Start with where to stay.
Check in, then spend the afternoon and evening on the fleet and at the concerts. Finish with the fireworks.
Morning guided walking tour of the old town, afternoon out to Giverny or Honfleur.
If it's the closing Sunday, find a spot for the Grande Parade before heading home.
The best of both worlds: dip into the Armada across several days and tour Normandy properly. Base yourself in or near Rouen and branch out. A local concierge can build the whole thing for you.
Ships, concerts, food village and fireworks — at your own pace, weekdays to dodge the crowds.
Monet's garden plus the Jumièges abbey loop.
The cliffs of Étretat and a clifftop walk.
The painters' harbour and the UNESCO city at the river's mouth.
A relaxed self-drive through apple country, then back to wave the fleet out to sea.
Send your dates and we'll come back with a plan built around your group — including where to stay and the best-value tours and day trips.