Escape the bustling streets of Paris and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Giverny, the picturesque village that captivated Claude Monet for over four decades. Just a short journey from the City of Light, Giverny offers a breathtaking glimpse into the world that inspired some of the most iconic Impressionist masterpieces.
Our Giverny from Paris day trip excursion is designed to transport you effortlessly into the heart of Monet’s artistic paradise during 6 hours while making 3 stops:
- Paris
- Monet House & Garden
- Giverny village
Here’s what makes this journey truly special:
- Immersive experience: Walk through the very gardens that inspired Monet’s water lily series
- Hassle-free travel: Enjoy comfortable round-trip transportation from Paris in our air-conditioned vehicles
- Expert guidance: Benefit from our knowledgeable guides who bring Monet’s world to life
- Flexible itinerary: Explore at your own pace with time for the village, museums, and local cuisine
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat from urban life, our Giverny day trip promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired and refreshed.
Why choose Giverny for a day trip from Paris?
A glimpse into the history of Giverny
Nestled in the heart of Normandy, Giverny transformed from a quiet rural hamlet to a haven for artists, all thanks to one man: Claude Monet. In 1883, while passing through on a train, Monet caught a glimpse of this charming village and instantly fell in love.
He soon moved his family to Giverny, where he would spend the next 43 years of his life, creating some of his most celebrated works.
As Monet’s fame grew, so did Giverny’s reputation. The village became a magnet for artists from around the world, forming the “Giverny Colony”. This influx of creatives left an indelible mark on the village, infusing it with an artistic spirit that persists to this day.
The appeal of Monet’s Gardens
The gardens at Giverny are more than just a beautiful landscape; they are living works of art, meticulously designed and cultivated by Monet himself. These gardens served as both inspiration and subject for many of his paintings, most notably the famous Water Lilies series.
The gardens are divided into two distinct areas:
- The Clos Normand: A spectacular display of color and symmetry, featuring arches of climbing roses, beds of tulips, irises, and poppies, all arranged in a harmonious palette that changes with the seasons.
- The Water Garden: Inspired by Japanese gardens, this tranquil space is home to the iconic Japanese bridge, weeping willows, and of course, the water lilies that float serenely on the surface of the pond.
Visiting these gardens allows you to step directly into Monet’s paintings, experiencing firsthand the interplay of light, color, and reflection that so captivated the artist.
The charming village of Giverny
Beyond Monet’s estate, the village of Giverny itself is a delight to explore. With its quaint streets lined with ivy-covered cottages, charming cafes, and art galleries, Giverny maintains the same rustic charm that first drew Monet to its borders.
The village is also home to the Musée des Impressionnismes, which offers a deeper jump into the Impressionist movement and its lasting impact on the art world.
This combination of natural beauty, artistic heritage, and rural French charm makes Giverny an ideal destination for a day trip from Paris.
Getting from Paris to Giverny
Our organized tour
At Parisian Chauffeur, we pride ourselves on offering a seamless and comfortable journey from Paris to Giverny.
Our organized tours are designed to take the stress out of planning, allowing you to focus entirely on enjoying your day in Monet’s paradise and not stress about how to get to Giverny from Paris.
Guided tours from Paris to Giverny
Our full-day tours typically include:
- Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned vehicles (cars for 1-3 passengers, vans for 4-7 passengers) ensure a pleasant journey from your Paris accommodation to Giverny and back.
- Expert guide: Our knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary throughout the trip, enriching your understanding of Monet, Impressionism, and the history of Giverny.
- Skip-the-line tickets: Avoid long queues with our pre-arranged entrance to Monet’s House and Gardens.
- Flexible itinerary: While we ensure you see all the highlights, there’s also time built in for personal exploration and relaxation.
- Small group size: We keep our groups intimate to ensure a more personalized experience.
Our tours depart from central Paris in the morning (at a time you can decide) and returning in the late afternoon or early evening (depending of the time of departure), allowing for a full day of exploration in Giverny.
The tour does not include the entrance to Monet’s house-museum and gardens (from 75 euros and free for children under 3 years). Tickets can be purchased in advance here.
Best time to visit Giverny
To make the most of your day trip, it’s crucial to plan your visit during the optimal season and time of day. Here are some considerations:
- Season: Monet’s Gardens are open from April 1st to November 1st. Each season offers a unique palette:
- Spring (April-May): Witness the awakening of the garden with blooming tulips, wisteria, and irises.
- Summer (June-August): Experience the gardens in full bloom, including the famous water lilies.
- Fall (September-November): Enjoy the warm autumnal colors as the gardens prepare for winter.
- Time of day: To avoid crowds, aim to arrive early in the morning when the gardens open at 9:30 AM. The soft morning light also provides excellent conditions for photography.
- Day of the week: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. If possible, avoid French public holidays when visitor numbers can spike.
Remember, even on cloudy or rainy days, Giverny has its charm.
The diffused light can create a moody atmosphere reminiscent of Monet’s paintings, and you’ll likely encounter fewer crowds.
Exploring Monet’s Gardens: a must-see on your Giverny day trip
The Clos Normand (Flower Garden)
As you step into the Clos Normand, you’re immediately enveloped by an explosion of colors and scents. This flower garden, meticulously designed by Monet himself, is a testament to his artistic vision and his love for horticulture.
Key features of the Clos Normand include:
- The Grand Allée: A central path lined with nasturtiums and rose-covered arches, providing a stunning vista towards Monet’s pink house.
- Flowerbeds: Carefully arranged plots featuring a rotating array of flowers such as irises, poppies, peonies, and dahlias.
- The Green Garden: A more intimate space with fruit trees and ornamental cherries.
As you wander through the paths, imagine Monet himself tending to these flowers, finding inspiration in their vibrant hues and delicate forms for his paintings.
The Japanese Bridge and Water Garden
Crossing over to the Water Garden, you’ll find yourself in a tranquil oasis that seems to have sprung directly from Monet’s canvases. This garden, inspired by Japanese aesthetics, is where Monet painted his famous Water Lilies series.
Highlights of the Water Garden include:
- The Japanese Bridge: The iconic green bridge covered in wisteria, instantly recognizable from Monet’s paintings.
- The pond: Home to the famous water lilies, as well as weeping willows and other aquatic plants.
- Bamboo grove: Adding to the Japanese ambiance of the garden.
Take your time here, observing how the light plays on the water’s surface and how the reflections create ever-changing compositions, just as Monet did in his countless studies of this scene.
Visiting Monet’s house
After exploring the gardens, step into Monet’s private world by visiting his house. Preserved to appear as it did during Monet’s time, the house offers intimate insights into the artist’s daily life and creative process.
Notable rooms include:
- The yellow dining room: With its vibrant yellow walls and blue Rouen dishes, this room exemplifies Monet’s bold use of color.
- The blue kitchen: Featuring gleaming copper pots and blue tiles, this room is a work of art in itself.
- Monet’s first studio: Now serving as a gift shop, but still retaining the atmosphere where Monet created many of his masterpieces.
- The bedrooms: Including Monet’s bedroom with its view over the garden, and Alice’s bedroom adorned with Japanese prints.
As you move through these spaces, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the domestic life that supported Monet’s artistic endeavors.
Other attractions in Giverny
Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny
To complement your visit to Monet’s home and gardens, a trip to the Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny is highly recommended.
This modern museum, opened in 2009, offers a broader perspective on Impressionism and its lasting influence on art.
The museum features:
- Rotating exhibitions focusing on various aspects of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism
- A beautiful garden inspired by Impressionist paintings
- A comprehensive bookshop and gift store
Allow at least an hour to explore the museum and its grounds.
The church of Sainte-Radegonde
For a glimpse into the village’s history predating Monet, visit the Church of Sainte-Radegonde. This charming 11th-century Romanesque church is where Monet’s funeral was held in 1926.
Points of interest:
- The church’s simple yet elegant architecture
- Monet’s grave in the church cemetery
- Beautiful views of the surrounding countryside
Strolling through Giverny village
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the picturesque streets of Giverny itself. The village retains much of its 19th-century charm, with ivy-covered cottages, quaint cafes, and art galleries.
Highlights of a village stroll include:
- Rue Claude Monet: The main street, lined with shops, galleries, and cafes
- Former residences of American Impressionists: Many buildings bear plaques indicating their former artistic inhabitants
- Local artisan shops: Offering unique souvenirs and artwork inspired by Monet and Impressionism
Practical tips for a day trip from Paris to Giverny
What to pack for your Giverny day trip
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day in Giverny, consider packing the following items:
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be on your feet most of the day)
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers are best, as Normandy weather can be changeable)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Water bottle (stay hydrated as you explore)
- Camera (to capture the stunning scenery)
- Small backpack or day bag for your essentials
Dining in Giverny
While our tour doesn’t include meals, Giverny offers several charming options for lunch or a quick bite. Here are some recommendations:
- Restaurant Les Nymphéas: Located near Monet’s gardens, offering traditional French cuisine.
- La Table de l’Impressionniste: A gourmet restaurant with a beautiful terrace.
- Au Coin du Pain’tre: A casual bakery perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Local specialties to try:
- Normandy apple cider
- Camembert cheese
- Tarte Tatin (upside-down apple tart)
Accessibility and amenities
While Giverny is generally accessible, it’s important to note that some areas may pose challenges for visitors with mobility issues:
- Monet’s house has stairs and no elevator
- The gardens have gravel paths which may be difficult for wheelchairs
- The Japanese bridge has steps
Public restrooms are available at the entrance to Monet’s property and in the village center.
Frequently asked questions about a Paris to Giverny day trip
How long does it take to get from Paris to Giverny?
The journey from Paris to Giverny typically takes about 1.5 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions.
Can you visit Giverny in the winter?
Monet’s House and Gardens are closed from November to March. However, the village itself and the Musée des Impressionnismes are open year-round, with reduced hours in winter.
Giverny is a small village in France with less than 500 inhabitants located about 75 km northwest of the French capital. The fame of this place is due to the house and gardens of Claude Monet, the famous French impressionist painter who lived here and inspired many of his works.
A day trip from Paris to Giverny offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of Claude Monet and experience the beauty that inspired his iconic Impressionist masterpieces.
From the vibrant colors of the Clos Normand to the serene reflections of the Water Garden, Giverny captivates visitors with its timeless charm.
Our carefully curated tour ensures you make the most of your day, providing comfortable transportation, expert guidance, and ample time to explore at your own pace.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the city, Giverny promises an unforgettable experience.
We invite you to join us on this journey through art and nature. Book your Giverny day trip with Parisian Chauffeur and create your own impressions of this enchanting village that continues to inspire visitors from around the world.
