The capital of the Upper Normandy and the historical capital of northern France as a whole, Rouen has a lot to offer. Let’s take a look at some of the best bars between its streets…
With a huge selection of more than 300 beers (16 of which are on tap), this bar known to locals as “La Bab“, is a great place to knock back a few with friends. Complete with games, three floors and a dedicated sausage and cheese cellar, this is where to find local charm and quirk. Bartenders are always happy to give recommendations and suggestions, making the overall ambiance chilled, welcoming and enjoyable.
Located in a great area, and with a handy happy hour window of two hours (sadly, Fridays don’t count), this is yet another bar to go and discover some new, tasty beers. The feel of the place is relaxed, and it’s the general chatter and easy-going ambience that makes it such a pleasant place to spend an evening. Inside blends the traditional and the stylish, while the menu has oodles of hops and taps to taste.
Come here to enjoy a drink and live jazz music at the same time. Opened exclusively Friday and Saturday evenings, Le Chat Vert offers performances from local, national and international bands, ranging greatly in ages and style (but all within the Jazz genre, of course). The focus is on the music, but the beer and wine selection remains plentiful for an evening’s listening.
With a young clientèle, this trendy spot is a restaurant, bar, and nightclub rolled into one. It also has five floors, so there’s no need to bar hop. The multiple floors restrict sound, so it’s not too loud throughout the venue either, which makes for some great chatting areas for those who don’t want to dance.
This bar is every wine connoisseur’s dream. With a wine cellar boasting 500 different varieties available for tasting, Le Sens des Vins is a wonderful little find for spending an evening over a couple of glasses of top-quality vino, all with the aid of a knowledgeable staff. Either book a wine-tasting appointment, simply turn up and quiz the staff, or head to one of the different themed evenings that are hosted on a regular basis.
This bar is right at the heart of Rouen’s old town, and there is always something going on. The cocktails are tasty, the music is funky and the outdoor terrace makes for a wonderful place to relax on a warm Normandy evening. With oodles of events planned most weekends, as well as a festival in the vicinity during the summer months, L’Euro Café is chic and happening.
My Pub is an odd mixture of an Irish Pub-style venue, touristy drink dive and local favorite. It’s not quite the classy evening out location, but is a sure-fire spot for getting lose in Rouen, whether that means a cocktail or a frothy Belgian beer. Expect to find a diverse crowd of people always up for a chat.
