Rouen

The city of Rouen is in Normandy, about an hour and a half north west of Paris.  The city is old and has gorgeous half timbered houses very much in the Norman style of architecture.  The colours are really pretty.

The city is also the place Joan of Arc (Jeanne d'Arc) was burned at the stake.  The city (particularly the old part) is pretty much a homage to her.  Every street and major attraction is named around her.  There is a church and large modern monument on the place where she was killed.

There is also an old gothic style cathedral and some beautiful decorative arches and towers.  The city is pedestrian friendly and has a good park and ride and tram system.  There is also a large and quite nice centre commercial on the tram line if you want to do a spot of shopping.