Rouen is the capital of the French region of Upper Normandy and situated on the River Seine, approximately 90 minutes drive northwest (135 km) from the centre of Paris. The city has a population of 110,000 and its metropolitan area includes some 520,000 inhabitants. It is where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, but the main reason for visiting is its incredible cathedral that inspired Monet to paint over 30 canvases. Rouen was also the home of the author, Gustave Flaubert. (Rouen Wikitravel)