The lush gardens and waterlily ponds of Claude Monet’s home in Giverny, France, are a living masterpiece just waiting to be explored. Only an hour outside of Paris, the gardens at Giverny offer a perfect escape into nature and a chance to walk in the footsteps of the famous Impressionist painter. As you stroll the flower-lined paths and wooden bridges arching over the ponds, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into one of Monet’s iconic paintings. A day trip to Giverny from Paris is a must for any art lover or garden enthusiast visiting the City of Light.
A day trip from Paris to Claude Monet’s garden in Giverny is a perfect escape from the city bustle. The picturesque village of Giverny, Monet’s flower garden and the lily pond is a must-see for any impressionist art fan visiting Paris. After all, it’s only a 45-minute train ride from the west of Paris. With its colourful blooms and peaceful atmosphere, Monet’s garden is an ideal day trip near Paris and a wonderful way to experience the French countryside.
Getting to Giverny from Paris
To visit Monet’s famous gardens in Giverny, you’ll first need to make your way from Paris to the small village, located about 45 miles northwest of the city. The easiest way to get there is by train. Take a train from Paris Gare Saint-Lazare station to Vernon, which takes around 45 minutes. Then from Vernon station, board the shuttle bus to Giverny, which takes another 15 minutes. Finally, the bus drops you off right near Monet’s house and gardens.
If you prefer driving, you can rent a car in Paris and take the A13 highway west to Giverny, which should take around an hour with regular traffic. There is ample parking near the gardens for a small fee. Although it takes longer to drive, the scenic route through the countryside and charming villages makes for a lovely road trip.
Exploring Monet’s House and Gardens
Monet’s home for the last 43 years is now open to visitors and has been meticulously restored to how it looked when he lived there. You can also see the studio where he painted his famous water lilies series. But the real highlight is the spectacular gardens that inspired many of his masterpieces.
The Japanese bridge covered in wisteria, the water lily pond with its dreamy water lilies and reflections, and the colourful flower gardens are even more magical in person. The gardens are stunning during the spring and summer, but they are open from April to October and worth visiting any time of year.
Other Things to See and Do in Giverny
While Monet’s gardens are the main attraction, there are a few other things to experience in Giverny. The Museum of Impressionism features temporary exhibits of impressionist art. alternatively, you can go hiking or biking along the trails around the village, including the GR trail that runs right by Monet’s gardens.
For dining, there are a handful of restaurants, cafes, and bakeries in Giverny to choose from. Two famous ones are Le Jardin des Plumes and Le Moulin de Fourge. But many feature classic French cuisine made from locally-sourced ingredients. So there’s plenty to choose from and you can bring your own food for a picnic. If staying overnight, Giverny has some charming bed and breakfasts, or you can visit nearby Vernon, about 2 miles away.
Tips for Your Trip to Giverny
- The best time to visit Giverny is spring, from April to May, and summer, June through August, when the gardens bloom.
- Be sure to buy tickets to Monet’s Gardens in advance on their website to avoid waiting in long queues.
- You’ll want to allocate at least half a day to fully explore the gardens leisurely, especially if it’s a nice day. Take your time wandering the paths to find the best photo angles and soak in the beauty that inspired Monet’s masterful paintings.
DIY Travel Cost for A Day Trip to Giverny
Expense Cost Range
Round-trip Train Ticket (per person) €20 – €40
Round-trip Bus Ticket (per person) €15 – €30
Fuel and Tolls (Car, round trip) €30 – €50
Entrance to Monet’s Garden and House
Adults €12,50 – €21
Child (from 7 years old) €6,50
Entrance to Musée des Impressionnismes €8 – €11
Lunch in Giverny (per person) €15 – €30
Souvenirs/Extras €10 – €20
A day trip from Paris to Monet’s gardens in Giverny is a perfect way to gain insight into the master Impressionist’s artistic inspiration and life’s work. Giverny’s gardens offer a unique glimpse into the life and art of Claude Monet. For instance, the colourful gardens, serene ponds, and pathways lead you through a living masterpiece. It also offers a peaceful escape into nature, leaving you feeling like you’ve stepped into one of Monet’s iconic paintings. Monet’s Gardens should be at the top of your list for day trips from Paris because it is accessible. Spend an afternoon wandering this horticultural haven’s flower-lined paths and wooden footbridges. Therefore, leaving you with memories of natural beauty that will last as long as Monet’s timeless art. All things considered, this is worth the trip.
If you like this post and would like alternatives for day trips from Paris, learn more from these posts:
The Ultimate Day Trip to Versailles
A Day Trip to Château de Fontainebleau
Five Reasons Why Chartres is Worth Visiting
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