giverny tours from paris

The 7 Best Giverny & Monet’s Garden Tours From Paris [2024 Reviews]

If you’re in the picturesque capital of Paris, do yourself a favor and take a trip to the magical realm of Giverny and Monet’s Garden.

Picture this: a tranquil oasis nestled in the heart of the French countryside, where vibrant colors dance upon canvas and nature weaves its brushstrokes. To truly understand the genius of the great impressionist painter Claude Monet to its fullest, you have to take a guided tour.

You’ll not only witness the very landscapes and home that stirred his soul and sparked the strokes of artistic brilliance, unveiling the world through the eyes of a genius and beauty around every corner.

Immerse yourself in the delicate balance of light, color, and nature as expert guides unveil the secrets behind Monet’s masterpieces, as well as the artist, as a person.

Be sure to see our reviews of Day Trips to Normandy , Louvre Guided Tours and Paris Catacombs Tours .

Best Giverny & Monet’s Garden Tours

Quick answer: the 7 best rated tours of giverny & monet’s garden for 2024.

• Giverny and Versailles Palace Guided Day Trip From Paris
• Small-Group Giverny and Van Gogh’s Room in Auvers from Paris
• Gardens & House with Art Historian: Private Giverny Tour from Paris
• Guided Day Trip to Monet’s Garden in Giverny From Paris
• Giverny Monet’s House & Versailles Palace Private Day Trip from Paris
• Giverny Half-Day Trip small group from Paris with Monet’s Gardens & Gravesite
• Giverny’s House & Gardens plus Versailles Palace Day Trip with Lunch from Paris

Giverny & Monet’s Garden Tour Reviews

1. giverny and versailles palace guided day trip from paris.

• Duration:  10 hours
• Departure:  Main entrance of Architecture Museum in Place du Trocadero
• Departure Time: 8:00 AM
• Includes: Guide, Round-trip transportation from Paris by comfortable air-conditioned coach,  Skip-the-line entrance to the Château de Versailles and its gardens,  Entrance ticket to Monet’s house and gardens,  Headsets 

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the French capital and experience two of the most beautiful places in the world, with one of the most comprehensive tours available.

This guided tour of Monet’s Giverny estate and the opulent Palace of Versailles is the most convenient way to see these two powerful landmarks, complete with a skip-the-line entrance to the Château and its garden.

This day tour from Paris promises to whisk you away from the city streets into a world of elegance and natural splendor, where water lilies float and gold glitters.

Our adventure starts off with a rendezvous at the entrance of the Architecture museum, where a spacious coach awaits to bring us to the first stop on our artistic pilgrimage. The Monet Foundation is the first stop, which offers a glimpse into the world that inspired the great Claude Monet.

Stroll along the lily pad pond, where water lilies gracefully float, mirroring the artist’s masterpieces. It’s pretty cool the first time you’re here if you’ve seen his work, as you’ll instantly recognize the pond, green bridge, and even get to see the interior of his home.

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After a leisurely break in town consisting of a tasty local lunch, you’ll then hop back on the coach for a short cruise over to the Palace of Versailles, which is truly impressive.

The mere sight of this majestic marvel evokes a sense of awe and thanks to the skip the line tickets, you’ll get to head right in to see it all.

Follow your knowledgeable guide through the hallowed halls where history was shaped and lavish soirées took place, traversing the private royal chambers, allowing the opulence to envelop your senses.

Seeing the meticulously manicured gardens is truly serene and honestly one of my favorite parts of the tour, offering respite from the grandeur within.

The singing fountains had a big impact on me, and seeing just how enormous these gardens were really was hard to wrap my mind around! Take in the sights during a short tour, and then savor the freedom to wander at your leisure.

It will depend on the day, but towards the end of your tour you’ll either get to witness the mesmerizing Fountain Show or revel in the enchanting Musical Gardens, where harmonies intertwine with nature’s grand spectacle.

In my opinion, you can’t go without seeing either one of these amazing places, no matter what your interests or background are. Anyone from history and art buffs to children will fall in love with these special locations.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. small-group giverny and van gogh’s room in auvers from paris.

• Duration: 10 hours
• Departure:  6 Avenue de Wagram, 75008 Paris, outside the café La Flamme
• Includes:  Entrance to Monet’s Garden, tomb, Giverny, Van Gogh Room and tomb, Auvers-Sur-Oise village, transport, entrance fees

Prepare to be transported into the captivating realms of two artistic titans on this next tour: the Small-Group Giverny and Van Gogh’s Room in Auvers from Paris .

As you set off on a journey through time and emotion, you’ll get to dive into the unparalleled beauty of Claude Monet’s Clos Normand and Japanese Water gardens in Giverny. If you’re into art, history, or beautiful landscapes in any way, consider this tour a must-do!

You’ll first start off by meeting your guide and the rest of your group in central Paris, hopping on a comfortable coach and heading off to the countryside. Along the way, our guide filled us in with interesting anecdotes and facts about the environment and architecture we passed, which only added to the fun.

However, nothing compares to the ethereal landscapes you’re about to experience upon arrival to Monet’s abode!

It’s wild to step into the real-life scenes that inspired this artistic maestro, making it feel like you, yourself, have become a living brushstroke in one of his many Impressionist masterpieces!

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Check out the swaying willow trees, the iconic green bridge, the pond, and even head inside his home where you’ll get a rare glimpse into the world where the artist lived and worked.

Then, head on over to the charming town of Auvers-Sur-Oise, where you’ll learn all about the profound artistry and tormented soul that is Vincent Van Gogh.

The essence of the town and its surroundings served as a significant Van Gogh muse, inspiring a whopping 77 of his artworks! You’ll get to see the gothic splendor of the “Church of Auvers” which you may recognize from one of Van Gogh’s most famous classic post-impressionist oil paintings.

However, even if you don’t, it’s still quite the sight to see for anyone who appreciates magnificent architecture and history. See the artist’s final resting place and hear all about his life and art from your knowledgeable guide, creating a well-rounded experience that anyone is sure to appreciate.

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3. gardens & house with art historian: private giverny tour from paris.

• Duration:  5 hours
• Departure:  84 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny or hotel pickup available
• Departure Time: 8:00 AM or 1:30 PM
• Includes:  Private transportation, Air-conditioned vehicle, Skip the Line ticket to the house of Claude Monet, Licensed Professional and Passioned Art Historian Guide, VIP Services, All Fees and Taxes

Are you interested in seeing Giverny and Monet’s garden but don’t just want a run-of-the-mill experience? Perhaps you’re looking for a private, VIP experience where only you and your party are involved in the tour?

If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, one of the best options out there is the Gardens & House with Art Historian: Private Giverny Tour from Paris ! Large group tours definitely aren’t for everyone, as oftentimes there are just so many people, you just become another head in the crowd.

However, with this tour you’ll really get to have an intimate tour with a personalized itinerary based around exactly what you and your party are interested in, and nothing you aren’t.

Start off by being picked up at a central meeting point with comfortable, air-conditioned transportation with plenty of comfortable seating and prime viewing. Monet’s House is the first stop on your tour, which is honestly a site to see, both inside and out.

It’s very traditionally French, and is a great opportunity to gain some insight into how the artist’s daily life happened in the blue sitting room, dining room, studio, and more.

We can’t forget his fairytale-like garden, complete with the Japanese bridge and lily ponds which inspired one of his most famous artworks: the Nymphéas.

After seeing the Clos Normand – Foundation Claude Monet, you’ll have a lot of free time to explore the incredible village of Giverny. Giverny is one of the most charming places I’ve had the pleasure of seeing, complete with flowered homes, art galleries, quaint cafes, and the famously rose-hued Hotel Baudy!

If you were an American Impressionist back in the day, these were your stomping grounds.

4. Guided Day Trip to Monet’s Garden in Giverny From Paris

• Duration:  5 hours
• Departure:  Outside La Flamme in Paris
• Departure Time: 2:00 PM
• Includes:  Entry to gardens, Monet’s House, tour guide for garden, transport by minibus

If you’d like to escape from the business of Paris into a serene world of beauty and genius, look no further than the Guided Day Trip to Monet’s Garden in Giverny from Paris !

It’s also perfect if you don’t want to commit to a full-day tour, but are still very interested in experiencing the majesty of Mnoet’s Garden and the village of Giverny! If you’re looking for inspiration in your life, this is certainly one experience you want to sign up for.

Lasting 5 hours and starting in the morning, it’s perfect if you have dinner or other plans at night as you’ll be back well before then.

Start off the tour by meeting your guide and the rest of our party outside La Flamme cafe in Paris, which is located conveniently for the vast majority of travelers. Then head off in your air-conditioned vehicle until you arrive to the magical paradise that is Monet’s Garden and home.

As you enter Monet’s garden in Giverny, you’re transported into a pool of immense beauty, seeing the Japanese water gardens complete with the famous lily ponds and bridge depicted in the artist’s famous works.

No matter where you stroll here, you’ll smell the delicate fragrance of an array of gorgeous flowers, that make the experience just that much more fairytale-like.

Inside his home, you’ll get to see the intimate spaces where the artist lived and worked, and you’ll see how the rooms’ vibrant colors and furniture reflected Monet’s artistic aesthetic.

You’ll then head over to see the artist’s tomb, which offers a moment of reflection after seeing his amazing work and the place he spent so much of his life.

Located right near his beloved gardens, this tribute is a serene and tranquil place where many pay their respects to the man who forever changed the world with his revolutionary talent and techniques. If you’re a Monet fan or even just know of his name, this is one of the most immersive opportunities to learn more.

5. Giverny Monet’s House & Versailles Palace Private Day Trip from Paris

• Duration:  9 hours
• Departure:  Hotel pickup and drop-off available
• Includes: Private Tour Exclusive services Licensed Professional Driver Guide, Transport by air-conditioned minibus Skip-the-Line access & Priority admission, Guided visit: Monet’s house and gardens & Versailles’s palace and gardens

This next tour is one of the most complete of its kind out there, offering you a fantastically immersive experience you’re sure to love!

For me, both Monet’s house and the Palace of Versailles are must-see sites that will open your eyes to the artistry and grandeur throughout French history. The Giverny Monet’s House & Versailles Palace Private Day Trip from Paris is simply magical, offering a history lesson that you’ll never be able to find in a classroom.

One of the things I love about this tour is how organized it is, making sure that there’s more than enough time for everything. You’ll start out by being picked up at your hotel at 8:00 am, which means that you don’t have to deal with heading to a meet-up point or paying for extra transportation.

Your transport for the day is a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus that allows for enough legroom and unobstructed views of the French countryside.

Upon arrival at the charming Giverny, you’ll make your way over to the house and gardens of Claude Monet, which is a pilgrimage so many Impressionism fans make every day.

Wander at your leisure through the romantic water garden, where you’ll see the famous Japanese bridge, wisterias, water-lily pond, weeping willows, and irises that create a real-life work of art.

Head over to Monet’s home located right next to the garden, where you’ll get to tour through the drawing room, bedroom, study, and kitchen to see what family and art life was like for him.

Then, head over to the immense Palace of Versailles, which is an architectural marvel and one of the biggest castles in the world.

Standing as a testament to the French artistry of the 17th century, you’ll be blown away by the opulent Hall of Mirrors, Marie Antoinette’s apartments, gilded bronze sculptures, and so much more.

The grandeur isn’t contained just within the palace’s walls though, as you’ll see with the meticulously-designed gardens and the world’s largest open-air museum.

6. Giverny Half-Day Trip small group from Paris with Monet’s Gardens & Gravesite

• Duration:  4.5 hours
• Departure:  6 Av. de Wagram, 75008 Paris
• Departure Time: 8:00 AM or 2:00 PM
• Includes:  Small group tour, expert guide, chauffeur, transport by air-conditioned minivan, priority entrance to Claude Monet Estate

If you have a tight schedule but really want to see Monet’s gardens and Giverny, I can’t recommend any tour more than this one.

The Giverny Half-Day Trip Small Group from Paris with Monet’s Gardens & Gravesite  is easily one of the most breathtaking experiences one can have in France, and at an incredibly affordable cost.

Thanks to their great organization, professionalism, and vast knowledge, we were able to have an experience not many get the opportunity to.

Start out by meeting your guide in central Paris, where you and the rest of your small group will hop on an air-conditioned minivan and drive out to Giverny. Your tour will start sometime in the morning, so if you’re still feeling sleepy you can just sleep on the minivan.

The route is very smooth, so even if you don’t plan on getting some zzz’s you may drift off before arriving at the village (don’t worry, you won’t miss much).

Upon arrival to Giverny, you’ll benefit from having priority entrance so you’ll skip right past the long entrance queues and head straight to the magnificent gardens.

Here you’ll have at least 30 minutes to stroll around and explore the place that so obviously inspired hundreds of Monet’s works.

You’ll see that there are 2 different gardens at Monet’s home: the Clos Normand boasts literally hundreds of flowers, creating a symphony of beautiful colors. At Fondation Claude Monet, you’ll see the famous waterlily pond, bridge, and the home where the artist lived for over 4 decades and raised 8 children.

The gift shop is located inside the home, and is actually filled with some pretty cool, unique gifts, so don’t forget to stop here before you and your group head over to Monet’s final resting place.

I felt that this order of events was a great way to honor his life, ending with a visit to his tomb which is tucked away in a little countryside church’s graveyard. The guide did a great job of explaining facts about his art and life, offering interesting stories that I’d never heard before.

7. Giverny’s House & Gardens plus Versailles Palace Day Trip with Lunch from Paris

• Departure:  41 Av. de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris
• Departure Time:  8:15 AM
• Includes:  Guided tour in English inside Palace of Versailles, lunch with drinks, small-group tour, skip-the-line tickets

Prepare to set off on a wild journey that will start out in the enchanting gardens of the genius, Claude Monet, to the gilded palace of Versailles. If you have any interest at all in French culture, history, or art, this is a tour you simply can’t pass up.

The Giverny’s House & Gardens plus Versailles Palace Day Trip with Lunch from Paris Tour  allows you to dive headfirst into a day of artistic and historical exploration.

Start out by meeting your guide and the rest of your group at a location close to the Eiffel Tower, making it easy to find in the morning. You and your group will board an air-conditioned minibus around 8:00 am, and head out to the serene countryside.

Upon arrival in Giverny, you’ll make your way to the former home of the Impressionist maestro, Claude Monet. Take some time to explore the vibrant flowers, serene lily ponds, and take some photos on the iconic Japanese-style green bridge, feeling the spirit of Monet all around you.

 It really is as close as you could possibly get to stepping into one of Monet’s paintings.

After checking out his former home and gardens, you’ll then fuel up at the “Moulin de Fourges” restaurant, which is a 200-year-old mill tucked along the banks of the Epte River.

Then, make your way to Versailles: one of the most magnificent palaces in the world that once was home to the Sun King himself, Louis XIV.

Here, you’ll venture through a guided tour with an expert on the location, seeing King Louis XIV’s opulent suite, the Hall of Mirrors, and of course, the “A la Française” gardens!

Depending on the time of year, you’ll either get to enjoy a mesmerizing Musical Fountain Show, or have some extra time to walk around at your own leisure.

FAQs About Giverny Tours

How far is giverny from paris.

Giverny is located about 75 km (47 miles) northwest of Paris, in the Normandy region. It’s about an hour and a half drive by car or train.

How can I get to Giverny from Paris?

There are several ways to get to Giverny from Paris. You can drive, take a train or bus, or our recommended way is to take a guided tour. Driving gives you flexibility but you will need to rent a car and pay for gas, tolls and parking. Taking a train is cheaper and faster, but you will need to transfer at Vernon and take a shuttle bus or a taxi to Giverny.

Taking a bus is convenient and affordable, but it takes longer and has limited schedules. Joining a guided tour is the easiest and most comfortable option, as you will have transportation, tickets, and a guide included.

What are the opening hours of Monet’s house and gardens?

Monet’s house and gardens are open every day from March 22nd to November 1st. They are closed from November 2nd to March 21st.

How much does it cost to visit Monet’s house and gardens?

The entrance fee to Monet’s house and gardens is $13 for adults, $10 for students and seniors, and free for children under 7 years old.

What is the advantage of taking a guided tour of Giverny?

By taking a guided tour of Giverny you will learn about Monet’s life and art. You will also get the history and culture of the village. You will have a professional and friendly guide who will show you around Monet’s house and gardens, as well as other attractions in Giverny, such as the Impressionism Museum, the Church of Sainte-Radegonde, or the Hotel Baudy. You will also have priority access to skip the long lines at the entrance and save time.

How can I book a Giverny France tour?

Booking a Giverny France tour is easy, there are several websites like GetYourGuide.com or Viator.com you can buy tickets.

5 Reasons You Should Go To Giverny

Visit monet’s house and gardens.

The main attraction of Giverny is Monet’s house and gardens, where you can see the places that inspired some of his most famous paintings. You can explore his colorful and cozy home, where he lived and worked for 43 years. You can also admire his stunning gardens, full of flowers, trees, ponds, and bridges. Don’t miss the water lily pond, where he painted his iconic series of water lilies.

Learn about Monet’s life and art

A tour of Giverny will not only show you Monet’s house and gardens, but also teach you about his life and art. You will have a professional and passionate guide who will tell you stories and facts about Monet’s personal and professional life, his family, his friends, his travels, and his influences.

Enjoy the scenic countryside

Giverny is located in the heart of the Normandy countryside, surrounded by green hills, fields, forests, and rivers. A tour of Giverny will let you enjoy the scenic beauty of this region, as you drive or bike along the winding roads and paths. You will also have the chance to stop at some of the picturesque villages and towns along the way, such as Vernon, La Roche-Guyon, or Les Andelys.

Taste the local cuisine

A tour of Giverny will give you the opportunity to sample some of the delicious dishes and specialties of Normandy, such as cheese, cider, apple tart, crepes, or duck. You can also visit some of the charming cafes and restaurants in Giverny, such as Le Jardin des Plumes, La Musardière, or Le Coin des Artistes.

Combine it with other attractions

A tour of Giverny can also be combined with other attractions in Normandy or nearby regions. Visit the city of Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. Mont Saint-Michel is an amazing cathedral that is definitely worth a visit.  And of course the beautiful Loire Valley, where you can see some stunning castles and chateaus.

Tour Guides

The Giverny and Versailles Palace Guided Day Trip is our Editors Choice for the best Giverny tour from Paris

Krysha Thayer

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How to Get from Paris to Giverny

• See & Do
• Monet's Garden in Giverny
• Getting from Paris to Giverny

How to Get to Giverny from Paris to Visit Claude Monet's Garden

Planning visit Claude Monet's gardens in Giverny?  If so, you may be wondering: "What's the best way to get there from Paris?"

Ready to Book Your Trip to Giverny from Paris Now?

These are our 3 top choices for Giverny tours with transportation from Paris:

• Giverny: Monet's Garden Half-Day Tour - Highly-rated small-group guided tour
• Monet's Garden Bike Tour - Explore Giverny by bike, picnic by the Seine, and soak up the beauty of Monet's home and gardens
• Giverny & Versailles Day Tour with Lunch - Make the most of your time by visiting both sites in one day, plus a tasty French lunch by a picturesque windmill

If you love Monet's famous water lily paintings, a visit to his home in the small village of Giverny located in the Normandy countryside northwest of Paris may be one the top things to do during your time in the City of Light.

From the moment Monet's estate opens to the public in late March/early April  until it closes at the end of October or early November, the densely-planted gardens surrounding Monet's home and large lily pond produce a dazzling display of flowers. 

With around 100,000 perennials, another 100,000 or so annuals, and rhododendrons, roses, and other flowering bushes and trees, you'll see an incredible display of flowers whenever you visit.  And touring the house where Monet lived with his second wife and their eight children gives you fascinating glimpses of his comfortable furnishings, favorite art, and gorgeous French country kitchen.

Although Giverny lies 50 miles (80 km) from the center of Paris, you can travel there quickly and easily, making Monet's garden a perfect destination for a day trip - or longer.

We describe 6 different ways for you to get to Monet's garden in Giverny from Paris .  We point out the pros and cons of each option so that you can decide which one works best for you.

Here's what you'll find in this article:

• How to get to Giverny from Paris with a tour group
• How to get Giverny tickets & local guides on your own
• How to go from Paris to Giverny by train
• Can you bike to Giverny from Paris?
• How to get to Giverny from Paris with a ride share
• When to consider going to Giverny by car
• Should you go from Paris to Giverny by bus, Uber, or taxi?

Top photo: Monet's home and garden in Giverny, (c) Paris Discovery Guide

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1.  How to Get from Paris to Giverny with a Tour Group

The easiest, most convenient, and by far the most popular way to get to Giverny is to join a group tour that includes air-conditioned minivan or coach transportation from Paris.

All you have to do is show up at a designated meeting spot in Paris.  For the ultimate convenience, you can even choose a private tour where you'll be picked up at your Paris hotel or apartment.

Your tour organizer handles everything else, including transportation, your ticket to the house and gardens, and priority entry through a gate available only to tour groups.  The drive to and from Giverny typically takes a little more than an hour each way.

Although most tours of Giverny from Paris include information and insights from an expert guide, you'll typically explore Monet's house, gardens, and lily pond on your own, which allows you to decide how much time to spend in each area based on your interests.

If you want to make the most of your visit to Giverny while not spending (and perhaps wasting) time figuring out all the details, these transportation-included tours are the way to go.

Popular Half-Day Giverny Tours from Paris

Here are three of the most popular choices:

• Giverny: Monet's Garden Half-Day Tour - Small guided group tour (up to 8 participants) - You'll visit Monet's house, gardens, and pond, Giverny village, and a graveyard with Monet's tomb and a moving memorial to seven British RAF airmen after the D-Day landings.
• Half-Day Trip to Giverny from Paris - Large group tour to Monet's house, gardens, and pond.  After a brief overview of what you can see at the estate, you'll explore on your own.
• Private Tour of Monet's Gardens & House with an Art Historian - Private tour for 2-8 participants with pickup/dropoff at your Paris hotel with a professional licensed guide who is also a historian; per-person cost drops as group size increases.  You'll also explore the village of Giverny.

Top Tours to Giverny from Paris:

Best full-day giverny & versailles tours.

These tours combine a half-day visit to Monet's estate and gardens in Giverny with a half-day at the Palace of Versailles, where you'll see the Hall of Mirrors and the Royal Apartments.  Depending on which tour you choose, you'll also get to spend time in Versailles' gardens and perhaps see a Musical Fountains or Musical Gardens show.

Here are several popular choices:

• Giverny & Versailles Full-Day Trip - Medium-sized guided group tour (up to 8 participants) - You'll visit Monet's house, gardens, and pond in Giverny, and Versailles Palace and gardens which special Musical Fountains/Gardens show included if you choose a date when it's available.  Your guide will give you an interesting overview of both places during the drive, but you'll explore on your own.  You'll have time to get lunch on your own.  For a similar experience but with guided tours at both attractions included, take a look at the Giverny & Versailles Palace Guided Day Trip.
• Giverny & Versailles Day Tour with Lunch - Guided tour group (up to 14 participants) - You'll visit Monet's house and gardens in Giverny, and Versailles Palace and gardens which special Musical Fountains/Gardens show when available on your chosen date.  Includes a 3-course lunch with wine in a scenic mill house restaurant near Giverny.  For a similar experience with
• Giverny & Versailles Private Full-Day Trip - Private VIP tour of Giverny and Versailles (including the gardens, Grand and Petit Trianons, and Queen's Hamlet) for your family or friends group of up to 7 people, with pickup/dropoff at your Paris hotel or apartment. 

A Fun Giverny Tour by Bike

• Monet's Garden Bike Tour - This full-day excursion combines a 3 mile (5k) bike ride from the town of Vernon with a visit to Monet's estate.  Along the way, you'll stop at an outdoor market for food and enjoy a picnic in a park.  Later, you can explore the village of Giverny.  Includes transportation from Paris to Giverny and back to Paris.

Find more Giverny & Giverny-Versailles tours from Paris

Pros & Cons for Getting to Giverny With a Tour Group

Pros: 

• Easy & Convenient - The tour operator takes care of transportation, your tickets to Monet's estate and Versailles, if you choose a combo tour, any other tour inclusions (bikes, lunch, separate Versailles garden tickets, audioguides, etc.), and fast entry through the tour-only gate available only to tour groups.  All you have to do is show up at the meeting location - and if you choose one of the VIP tours with pickup/dropoff included, you don't even have to do that.
• Saves Time - One of the quickest ways to get to Giverny, plus the Giverny-Versailles full-day tours are ideal when you want to visit both but don't have much time in Paris.
• Cost - Wide range, which lets you find a tour to fit your budget.  The cheapest tour, which is the Half-Day Trip to Giverny from Paris tour's audioguide/tour-on-your-own option, costs only a little more than going on your own by train and taxi.

Cons: 

• Time Constraints - You will have only a specific amount of time at Giverny (and other activities, depending on which tour you choose).
• Cost - Higher (in most cases) than going by train or a rideshare.

Prefer to Go to Giverny on Your Own?

The rest of this article describes how to get from Paris to Giverny on your own by train (the most popular choice), bike, car, and a few other options.  Here are a couple of things you might want to know:

How to Get Admission Tickets for Monet's House & Gardens

The Monet Foundation, which operates Monet's estate, offers two options:

• At the entrance (you may have to wait in line for awhile): 11€
• Online in advance (dated, timed tickets - they cost 1€ more, but you'll usually save time by not having to wait in the ticket line) on the Foundation's website (in the "Practical Information" section - click the Admission link): 12€

Reduced rates are available for students, children under 7 (free), and people with disabilities.

Local Tour Guides for Monet's House & Gardens

Even though Giverny is easy to visit on your own, an experienced tour guide can provide information and insights to give you a deeper appreciation of what you're seeing.  Here are some local options:

Private Giverny Guides

In the Practical Information: Admission section on the Foundation's website , you'll find a link to a list of private guides based in Giverny.  The list indicates languages spoken and contact information so that you can get more details.

Group Tours 

Meet up with these local guides in Giverny village near Monet's estate:

• Monet's House & Gardens Guided Tour - Small group tour (up to 9 people), 1.5 hours, includes your priority entrance ticket.  What makes this tour unique is that it starts with Monet's water lily pond garden, where your guide will point out the different features of the garden and the flower species blooming in it.  You'll also visit Monet's house.  At the end, you can stay as long as you want to explore more on your own.
• Monet's House & Garden Skip-the-Line Tour - 2 hours, includes your priority entrance ticket.  Your guide will show you a bit of Giverny village, tell you about Monet's role in leading the Impressionist movement, and describe the other artists such as John Singer Sargent, Mary Cassatt, and Paul Cezanne who he inspired to form an artists' colony in Giverny.  You'll explore the gardens and pond, as well as his house.

2.  How to Get from Paris to Giverny by Train

The second most popular option for getting to Giverny from Paris is take a train in the SNCF network, the French national railway company (Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Français) for providing rail service across France. 

Giverny , a tiny village with barely more than 500 residents, does not have direct train service from Paris, but you can take a train from Paris's Gare Saint-Lazare (memorialized by Monet in his "Gare Saint-Lazare" series of a dozen oil paintings) to Vernon, a somewhat larger town located only 3 miles (5 km) from Giverny.  

To get to Giverny from the Vernon station, Gare de Vernon-Giverny, you have several options: a seasonal shuttle bus ( navette, in French), taxi, biking, or walking. 

The total time to get from Paris to Monet's estate at Giverny is about 1.5 hours, assuming you take the shuttle bus.

How to Get Your Train Tickets from Paris to Vernon

Here's how to get Vernon by train from Paris, and then to get to Giverny by shuttle bus, taxi, biking, or walking.

Trains to northwestern France including Normandy, where Vernon is located, depart from Gare Saint-Lazare (this is also where you can catch trains to Versailles and the Normandy D-Day beaches). 

Although Saint-Lazare is the second-busiest of Paris's seven big rail stations serving long-distance trains to other parts of France, commuters from nearby suburbs account for the vast majority of the station's almost half-million daily passengers.

You can either buy your train tickets from a ticket machine in Gare Saint-Lazare on the day you travel or in advance, or get them online in advance. 

Transit time varies based on time of day and type of train (several types serve this route), but typically is less than one hour.  Trains run every hour or two throughout much of the day.

How to Buy Your Giverny Tickets at the Station

Navigating around Gare Saint-Lazare can seem a little tricky at first because of the 3-level shopping center stretching across one side of the building - very convenient for the suburban commuters, but a bit confusing if you're familiar with the station.

But actually, all you need to do when buying your tickets to Vernon , whether you enter at street level or take the subway or RER to the station is to look for and then follow the "Grande Lignes" (long-distance trains). 

Once you reach the Grandes Lignes part of the departure concourse, you'll easily spot the ticket machines.  Ignore the ones labeled "Ile de France" and look for a machine for "Grandes Lignes."

Find details about getting your Vernon train tickets at Gare Saint-Lazare

Why to Keep Your Train Tickets Until After You Arrive

Important Tip:  Keep your ticket once you board the train at Gare Saint-Lazare because you'll need to show it to the conductor during your trip, and possibly insert it into a turnstile in order to exit the Vernon station.  

If you don't have your ticket when you exit, you'll most likely be fined.

How to Get from Vernon to Giverny

Once you get off the train at the Vernon station, Gare de Vernon-Giverny, you have four choices for traveling the 3 miles (8 km) to Giverny: a seasonal shuttle bus ( navette, in French), taxi, biking, or walking. 

Here's what you need to know about each option:

Shuttle Bus from Vernon to Giverny

A shuttle bus designed to look like a small train runs to and from Giverny during the months when Monet's house and gardens are open for touring - late March/early April through late October/early November.  The shuttle drops you off in the Giverny parking lot.  Currently, the fare is 5€ each way, and 10€ for a round-trip ticket.  You pay the driver directly, in cash, or with credit card inside the station (look for shuttle or Agence SNgo! signs).

The shuttle bus departs across from Gare de Vernon-Giverny about 20 minutes after the arrival of each train from Paris during hours when Monet's estate is open, and departs Giverny in time to arrive at the Vernon station about 20 minutes before trains depart for Paris.  The ride each way takes about 10-15 minutes.

Here are the current schedules to give you a sense of availability - but always confirm times with the Normandy transportation network in case of updates (on the home page, click Giverny Shuttle).

Taxi to Giverny

As you exit Gare de Vernon-Giverny, you'll probably see a couple of taxis waiting for passengers by the station.  One-way fares to Monet's estate are about 15€ - 20€ for up to 3 people.

The biggest advantage of taking a taxi to Giverny is that you can grab one as soon as you exit the station, rather than wait 15-20 minutes for the shuttle to depart.

If you're traveling with one or more other people, the taxi will cost you the same or less per person than the shuttle. 

However, getting back to the station by taxi is trickier.  Your best bet is to ask the driver for a phone number to call for pickup.  If that doesn't work out, you can always take the shuttle bus back to Vernon.

Walking to and from Giverny

The 3-mile (5 km) walk to Giverny will take you about an hour or a little less, depending on how fast you walk, and you'll most likely enjoy the scenery along the way - especially since much of the walk is along the Seine River.  You'll see plenty of signs from the station, so just follow the walking path. 

Walking can be a wonderful choice if you arrive on an early train, the weather is lovely, and you like to walk.  Plus, you'll save a few euros.  And you can always take the shuttle bus back if you don't want to walk both ways.

Biking to and from Giverny

When you get off the train from Paris and come out of the station, look for bike rental signs. 

One of best full-service places, with is highly rated, is the Givernon Rental Station at 39 Rue Emile Steiner, located about half a block from the train station.  The long row of bikes parked in front of the shop is easy to spot.  Your rental includes a helmet, lock, and, if you rent an electric bike (or scooter) for more than a day, a charger.  Rates are very reasonable, and you can reserve on their website.  

After your visit to Monet's house and gardens, you can explore Giverny, Vernon (which has some interesting attractions), and the surrounding areas using the good bike paths and enjoying the fairly flat terrain.

Pros & Cons for Getting to Giverny by Train

• Flexibility - You can spend as long as you exploring Monet's home and gardens, Giverny village (full of nice cafes, boutiques, artist studios), and even Vernon (attractions include a medieval castle, a 10th century romanesque/gothic church depicted in several of Monet's paintings, a small museum with some Impressionist paintings, including a couple by Monet, and picturesque half-timbered dwellings dating back to the Middle Ages).  With so much to do and see in the area, you may even want to stay overnight in one of the many small inns and B&Bs - which are much cheaper than most Paris hotels. 
• Cost - May be cheaper than a transportation-and-ticket-only tour, depending on when and where you buy your train tickets, and how you get to Giverny (more about that in a moment).
• Somewhat More Complicated than Going on a Tour from Paris - Although getting to Giverny from Paris and back is not particularly complicated, there are more steps involved than just joining a tour, particularly since you should book tickets to Monet's estate in advance during the busiest season (mid-May - early September).

3.  How to Get to Giverny from Paris with a Ride Share

A ride share - b asically, a car-pooling service where you catch a ride from Paris to Giverny in exchange for a few euros with someone who is driving on the same day/time you want to go - is an option you may not have considered.  

France's ride-share app, BlaBlaCar (which also operates in other European countries and UK) makes this easy. 

You simply go to the app, enter your departure point, your destination, and travel date.  A list pops up showing available offers from drivers who have room in their car one or more passengers.  If buses are available for your route (which they are not from Paris to Giverny), you'll see them too.  Click on the offer you like, and you'll see additional details, such as the meet-up location.

Paris to Giverny (or Vernon) is not a particularly popular route for non-tourists, but if the stars align and you see an offer, a ride share can be an interesting experience and will save you a few euros in transportation costs compared with going by train.  Unless you get very lucky, though, you'll probably need to take the train back to Paris.

And of course, similar to going by train, you'll need to get your own admission ticket to Monet's estate.

4.  Can You Go to Giverny from Paris by Bike?

Yes,  although not for a day trip. 

According to France Velo Tourism  (velo means "bicycle" in French), the go-to resource for traveling by bike in France, and whose excellent website you'll certainly want to consult, the fastest route (55 miles/88.5 km over mostly roads vs bike paths) will take you almost 7 hours each way. 

If you ride on bike paths 97% of the time, the route extends to 90 miles (145 km), which France Velo suggests staging over the course of 3 days. 

Probably neither option will appeal to you if you're the average Paris visitor who just wants to spend a few hours strolling around Giverny - but if you love long-distance biking and have time to make this trip, you'll certainly have some memorable experiences.

5.  When to Consider Going to Giverny by Car

Normally, as a Paris visitor, there's no point in being burdened with a car in Paris because a) driving in the city can be a nightmare if you're not used to it, and b) parking can cost more than dinner, and c) paying for petrol in Europe can quickly flatten your wallet.  Getting around Paris on the metro or walking or even the occasional taxi or Uber is much faster, cheaper, and easier. 

Even renting a car just to get from Paris to Giverny and back doesn't makes sense in terms of saving time or money, especially since the process of picking up/returning your rental car can be a hassle.  If your goal is private car transport, ask the concierge at your hotel to recommend a reliable chauffeured car service.

But if you are planning to make a trip outside the city to multiple destinations including Giverny, then renting a car can make a lot of sense. 

If you are considering doing this, here are a couple of tips:

First, instead of renting a car in Paris and having to battle city traffic on congested roads, consider picking up your rental in the nearby business district of La Défense, easily reached on Line 1 of the metro.  You'll find European, British, and even American car rental agencies such as Avis and Budget.  From La Défense, you'll have an easy drive to Giverny and beyond.

Second, consider spending the night at one of the wonderful hotels or apartments in Giverny (make sure you choose one with onsite parking) where both hotel rates and parking fees are significantly cheaper than in Paris.  This also gives you more time to explore Monet's charming home and magnificent gardens at your own pace.

6.  Why Getting to Giverny by Bus, Uber, or Taxi Is Not a Good Idea

Public bus service from Paris to Giverny (or Vernon) is not available.

Should you consider using a ride-share service such as Uber or a taxi for getting to Giverny from Paris?

No, not unless you don't mind paying as much as 200€ or even more Euros each way, finding an Uber or taxi willing to take you (at 50 miles/80 km, most will not), and risking getting stuck there if you can't find a ride service willing to take you back to Paris.

If you want to travel to Giverny by car, you're much better off finding a chauffeured car service to take you.   Ask your hotel concierge to make arrangements for you.  Most hotels have trusted car services that they're happy to recommend. 

You'll still have to pay a lot, but you'll be assured of not getting stuck in Giverny and scrambling to find overnight accommodations.

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Monet’s House, Giverny, & Versailles Fully Guided Day Trip from Paris

• Parisians love to escape the city! On this tour, our passionate English-speaking guide will take you to discover two of France’s most remarkable retreats. One, an opulent and luxurious palace built for royalty . The other, an artist’s home where the landscape will seem all too familiar.
• Meet in central Paris and take a private air-conditioned coach to Giverny . After visiting the enchanting house and gardens of Claude Monet , you will have time to enjoy a quaint lunch and discover the picturesque town at your leisure.
• Next, visit the Palace of Versailles where Skip-the-Line Access and an Official Palace guide ensures you a great experience. Listen to stories of Louis XVI, the Sun King, and Marie Antoinette while visiting their Royal Apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and more . Finally, end the day in the magnificent Gardens of Versailles and possibly see the Fountain Show.

Tour Description

What's included.

• Expert, English speaking tour guide
• Round trip transfer from Paris in a comfortable air-conditioned coach
• Entrance tickets and reservation fee for the Château de Versailles and Gardens
• Entrance fee to Monet's house and gardens
• Headsets when appropriate, so you can always hear your guide
• Food & Beverages

Sites Visited

• Palace of Versailles
• Gardens of the Palace of Versailles
• Monet’s house and gardens
• Giverny town

This tour combines trips to two of the most notable attractions within driving distance of Paris: Claude Monet’s estate at Giverny and the famously extravagant Palace of Versailles. Learn about two different chapters from French history – the Baroque-era excess of Versailles and the hugely influential Impressionist art movement.

In the morning, travel from Paris to the quaint country village of Giverny by air-conditioned coach. During the drive, which takes around an hour, your guide will provide an enlightening introduction to the day’s agenda. Your first stop is the Fondation Claude Monet, where you’ll be treated to an informative introduction to the estate where the Impressionist master Monet made his home.

After the orientation tour, you are free to explore at your leisure. Stroll around the lily pad-peppered ponds of the garden that were made famous by Monet’s own masterpieces. Admire the fabulous explosion of blooms which change depending on the season. Make your way around the artist’s ivy-clad house which has been restored to show how it would have appeared during the painter’s lifetime. You can also grab lunch in one of the town’s tranquil bars or restaurants, which exude provincial charm.

After lunch, we’ll regroup and make the short trip to Versailles on the outskirts of Paris. Upon arrival, an official Palace of Versailles tour guide will accompany you for your comprehensive two-hour guided tour of the Palace.

Enjoy skip-the-line access via our pre-booked group entrance to Versailles as your guide leads you around the labyrinthine interior, showing you the resplendent rooms where Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette threw lavish soirées for fellow aristocrats as well as the royals’ own private chambers. Marvel at the sheer array of magnificent art, which could rival even the finest museum collections. You’ll see the King and Queen’s apartments, the Chapel, the Coronation Room, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Salon of Abundance.

Just when you think that you have seen all that the Palace of Versailles has to offer, you’ll step out into its dazzling manicured gardens. The gardens measure more than 1,800 acres in size so we'll give you plenty of time to wander them at will. From April to October, you'll get to xperience the musical show inside the gardens of Versailles. (Tickets are included in tour price on show days). The Fountain Shows sees Versailles’ famous water features spray and spurt to life, while the Musical Gardens event allows you to enjoy the garden against a soundtrack of classical music. After ambling around the gardens at your preferred pace, hop back on board the return coach to Paris.

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Important Notes

• Please note that Paris will host the 2024 Olympics from July 26th to August 11th, followed by the Paralympics from August 28th to September 8th. This may have an impact on our travel plans. While we are committed to minimizing any sort of inconvenience, please be aware that unforeseen issues may arise. We will make every effort to navigate challenges and ensure a smooth experience for you.
• Tickets for the Musical Fountains Show or Musical Gardens are added automatically to the price when running. When not running a standard guided tour of the gardens is provided. Some parts of the palace may be temporarily closed for renovation. If this occurs, these areas will be substituted with other important rooms depending on the day of your visit.
• Due to increased security measures at many attractions some lines may form on tours with 'Skip the Line' access. Please note that Musical Gardens and Fountain show may be subject to last minute schedule changes that are not under our control.
• We strongly recommend all clients who are traveling with infants to bring their own infant or child seat. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure the safety of their child.

Cancelation Policy

This tour is subject to a 24-hour cancelation policy. If you wish to cancel or amend your booking, you can do so without charge by contacting us up to 24 hours in advance of your expected departure time.

You should expect to receive an email within minutes of booking with your confirmation voucher.

Currently we offer private tours in many destinations and can arrange many of our tours as private tours.  If you are interested in a private tour please refer to the private tours offered online. If the private tour you are interested in, is not listed, please contact our Customer Care team.

Our tours are very popular amongst visitors to Italy, Paris and London, so we suggest booking your place on them at your earliest convenience. If you are not ready to book yet and have some questions, we would be happy to help over the phone, via email and Live Chat. It is our mission to ensure that you get the most out of your visit!

• Book with Confidence: Free cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience begins (local time).
• Multilingual Customer Service: Talk to us, we are here to help.
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Half-Day Giverny Tour from Paris: Monet's House and Garden with Skip-the-Line Tickets

• Fondation Claude Monet
• Monet's Garden
• Vernon Train Station

• Walk alongside the green pastures of Giverny that inspired Monet
• Led by an art historian

• It is your first or tenth time in Paris, Giverny changes significantly with each passing week. 
• You are in France between April and October, when the gardens are open and full of color . 
• You love impressionism , you are a fan of gardening and horticulture , or you are just looking for an interesting and charming day trip to get out of the city. 
• Money Gardens and Home
• Giverny village

Transportation

Additional trip-planning resources.

• For more information on planning your travels to Paris, take a read through our Context Stories .
• If you are looking to learn more about impressionism before your visit, check out our online lecture on Impressionism in Normandy . 

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All day trip guided tour Giverny Monet's Gardens and Palace of Versailles from Paris with skip-the-line access (lunch and transportation included)

Guided tour

239,00 € / pers.

• Free time to visit the magnificent French gardens of Versailles is included
• 3-course lunch in a charming country restaurant
• Guided tour of the Royal Apartments of the Palace of Versailles with priority access
• Transportation from Paris by air-conditioned vehicle
• With this tour, explore Claude Monet's studio and the house he lived in for more than 40 years
• Free time to visit the somptuous Giverny gardens and free time in Monet's house.
• Services of a licensed guide

Ideal combo tour to visit two of the biggest attractions in the Paris region. You will enjoy a visit to Claude Monet's magnificent gardens in Giverny as well as the house of the master of Impressionism. After a traditional lunch, you will leave to visit the famous Palace of Versailles, which will take you back into the history of the Kings of France.

Set off at 8:15 am from our agency in Central Paris. The journey to Giverny by luxury air-conditioned coach will take approximately one hour and 30 minutes. Soak up the world of the painter, Claude Monet, famous for painting different corners of his garden, such as the "Water Lilies" or the "Japanese Bridge." The painter Claude Monet lived at Giverny with his wife and eight children for 43 years, from 1883 until his death in 1926. Passionate about gardening and nature's changing colors, he designed his flower and water gardens as if they were works of art. During your visit of Monet's garden at Giverny , admire the multicolored flower beds, the Clos Normand Flower Garden with its many Eastern plants, and the lush water garden, famous for its water lilies and Japanese bridge. 

Then take advantage of your free time to visit Claude Monet's pink-plastered house, where he lived and worked (guided tours of the interior are not permitted due to the lack of space). Explore the reading room, leading into the larder and the artist's studio. In addition to those of his private apartments, these rooms have been reconstructed with Monet's original furniture. Visit the bright yellow dining room, which has been reconstructed down to the very last detail, with earthenware dishes and a blue-tiled kitchen. In the dining room, marvel at one of the world's most important collections of Japanese prints. At the end of your visit, explore the village and treat yourself to some souvenir shopping in the gift and book shop, which was once used as a studio for Monet's Water Lilies; it offers a wide range of products inspired by the artist's work. After visiting Giverny, enjoy a tasty lunch at the Moulin de Fourges restaurant (or 2 steps away at the Bistrot du Moulin ) just ten minutes away, where you can sample local food with a twist.

Menu ( subject to modification) Starter: Fish terrine, sour farm cream and mixed green salad Main dish: Roasted chicken breast, mushroom cream and mashed potato with salted butter. Dessert: Norman apple tart, scoop of ice cream. Drinks: White and red Wine OR Cider of local production on demand + Still and sparkling water, Coffee or Tea Note : Alternative choices to food restrictions (vegetarian, gluten-free...) available on site.

In the afternoon, explore the Palace and Gardens of Versailles. Covering more than 721,000 square feet, the Palace has over 700 rooms. Follow your guide to the front of the line to see the most impressive rooms: the King's Apartments, with seven salons each dedicated to a different god, and the Queen's Apartments. Also visit the majestic Hall of Mirrors, a reception room in which to see and be seen, dreamt up by the famous architect, Jules Hardouin-Mansart. Almost 240 feet-long, it was designed to astonish visitors of the Sun King Louis XIV; it is lit by 17 windows and 350 mirrors, and overlooks the palace's splendid gardens, the second part of your visit. Enjoy the free time to visit the Gardens of Versailles and marvel at its many works of art, fountains, ponds, flower beds and groves of trees. 

Return to Paris scheduled for around 6:00 pm.

Please note:

• Flat shoes are strongly recommended (Versailles has parquet floors in its rooms and cobblestones in its courtyard)
• Strollers are not permitted inside the palace
• The skip-the-line access is subject to the Versailles Palace procedures: The Vigipirate plan, the security control or an unforeseen crowd can slow down the entrance
• On-site visit duration: 6h15
• Services of a tour guide 
• Transport to and from Paris by luxury air-conditioned coach
• Priority access ticket for the Palace of Versailles and its gardens 
• Entrance ticket with priority access at Giverny for Claude Monet's house and gardens
• Lunch at the Moulin de Fourges restaurant (or 2 steps away at the Bistrot du Moulin)
• Transfers to and from your accommodation

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1 adult x 239,00 €

Cancellation fees : Go to general terms and conditions of sale

Preparation of the tour

Address : Meet our representative with a ParisCityVision sign outside Café le Champ de Mars.

45 avenue de La Bourdonnais 75007 PARIS

Ecole Militaire

Organized by PARISCityVISION

Tour Code: GVA

+33 188 611 149 (8AM to 8PM Paris Time)

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Palace of Versailles Tour & Giverny in one day

with Fountain Show & Marie-Antoinette's private village

Small Group Tour

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• Description •
• Tour Highlights •

Two iconic homes & gardens in one day

Discover two of the most iconic homes and gardens in France on this small group day trip from Paris! In Versailles you’ll visit King Louis’ opulent Palace, see the Musical Fountain Show in the French Gardens, and explore the private Hamlet of Queen Marie-Antoinette. In Giverny you’ll discover for yourself the inspiration Claude Monet found in his flower filled Clos Normand garden, his Japanese styled Water garden and colorful home of more than 40 years.

Giverny and Versailles are less than a 1 hour drive west of Paris, so combining them both into a one day trip is easy and relaxed. This tour starts with the calm and almost otherworldly beauty of Claude Monet’s Home and Gardens in Giverny. Learn about the famous Impressionist artist and then enjoy free time to explore inside his vibrantly colored home, stroll along the charming paths of his flower garden, and admire the water garden with the lake full of his famous water lilies.

In the afternoon the guide will share the scandals surrounding the French Revolution and Marie-Antoinette during your visit to her private farm village (hamlet) and explore the famous French Gardens while the spectacular Musical Fountains Show is running. You’ll then have free time to explore the Palace itself seeing the stunning Hall of Mirrors and so much more at your leisure.

Only minutes from Paris!

Start your day of exploration with a short 45 minute drive through the countryside from Paris to Monet’s Home and Gardens in Giverny. You’ll love the calm and artistic aspects of the garden.

Inside the gardens our guide will share interesting stories about Claude Monet’s life and give details about some of the paintings inspired by his home and gardens in Giverny. Then you’ll enjoy 90 minutes of free time to explore the interior of Monet’s brightly colored home and stroll through his gardens at your leisure.

Inside his home, of more than 40 years, you’ll see his personal rooms as well as the artistic studio where he put the finishing touches on thousands of his works. There are also many pieces from other great artist friends, such as Renoir and Pissarro, and a large collection of Japanese block prints in blue to admire on the walls of Monet’s home.

Monet’s Gardens and Final Resting Place

Outside of the house you’ll marvel at the lovely gardens designed by Claude Monet himself. You’ll admire the thousands of beautiful flowers in the Clos Normand garden and you’ll feel as though you’re walking in one of Monet’s famous Nymphea paintings in his Japanese styled garden where the colorful water lilies fill the lake with delicate charm.

lived in them. As such this tour makes a special stop at the charming little church of Sainte Radegonde where Claude Monet worshipped on Sundays. There, hidden in the little graveyard, you’ll see the humble gravesite of Claude Monet and have a chance to pay your respects in person.

Afterwards you’ll have a 30 minute drive through the lush green countryside to the town of Versailles for a very different adventure in a gilded Palace with a stunning French Garden full of statues, perfectly trimmed hedges, and fountains that dance to music.

Versailles: the Magnificent

In Versailles you’ll have a 1 hour lunch break at a trendy French creperie near the Palace. They have dozens of great options for all types of diets and everything on their menu is very reasonably priced between 5€ and 15€. After lunch your guide will take you to Marie-Antoinette's Private Domaine and share her life story with you. Then you'll have free time to walk among the adorable thatched roof buildings and farm yard full of cute ducks, sheep, and donkeys.

Then you’ll tour the famous French Gardens together enjoying the Musical Fountain Show and perfectly trimmed topiaries. As you explore the French Gardens you’ll learn about what really happened during the French Revolution and why Marie-Antoinette lost her head to the guillotine.

Last but not least you’ll visit the Palace itself where you’ll be able to visit at your own pace with an audio-guide. The glittering gold and luxurious decorations are sure to impress you and you’ll marvel at the elegance in the famous Hall of Mirrors. At the end of your visit to the Palace you will be brought back to Paris in comfort in our luxury van.

Good to Know:

• This tour requires that all participants are able to walk well, even on hot summer days. If you have trouble walking or get faint in the hot sun then this is NOT a good tour for you.
• Due to the parking arrangement in Versailles it is REQUIRED to walk through the French gardens after having visited the Chateau of Versailles. It is not possible to skip them.
• This tour starts and finishes in Paris next to the Arc de Triomphe. The exact meeting point will be given in your confirmation email after booking.
• Food and drinks are not included in our tour price. There are many great options, all with very reasonable prices, for you to choose from at the creperie where we stop for lunch in Versailles. All dietary restrictions can be met for vegetarians and people who require gluten free food.
• There will be opportunities to go to the restroom, several times, during this tour.
• Gratuities aka "tips" are not included but welcomed by our guides.

Max. 8 pers. per tour

9hrs Back in Paris around 6:30PM

What's Included

• Transportation by luxury A/C minibus
• Friendly & Knowledgeable guide
• Versailles Palace ticketss
• Monet’s Home & Gardens tickets

All of our tours are commented in English

Dates & Times

April to October 8AM

Meeting point

12 Avenue des Ternes

Click here for picture Reservation required

For the Versailles + Giverny Day Trip from Paris you will meet with your driver-guide outside of 12 Avenue des Ternes in Paris.

Tour Highlights

Monet’s Home

For more than 40 years Claude Monet lived in and personalized every aspect of decoration in his home.

Monet’s flower garden

Wander through the flower garden that provided the inspiration for Monet’s most famous paintings.

The Japanese Footbridge

Cross the lovely green footbridge that is in so many paintings and admire the water lilies in the pond.

Monet’s Grave

Pay your respects to the man behind the paintings when your guide takes you to his humble grave.

The Palace of Versailles

Enjoy special skip the line entrance into the Palace of Versailles and free time inside with an audio-guide!

The Hall of Mirrors!

Walk through the Hall of Mirrors and see the extravagance of King Louis XIV.

Famous French Gardens

See the meticulously planned out French Gardens in Versailles.

Marie-Antoinette

Learn about France’s last queen and the scandals leading to the French Revolution.

Paris largest and most celebrated Church, built in a true Gothic fashion it has the most beautiful Rose windows and flying buttresses.

Once the Royal Palace, now the largest and most visited museum in the world. The Louvre is home to the mysterious Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and the famous glass Pyramid.

The Musée d’Orsay

Home to some of the most beautiful paintings in the world, the Musée d’Orsay has several works of Monet, Renoir and Van Gogh.

Rue Cler market

Parisians have been coming to rue Cler market street since 1826! Taste some of the best of Paris here when you stop for the 30 minute break.

Seine River banks

The banks of the Seine River, in Paris, are so enchanting that they have become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll ride along them and behold the beauty of the river life.

Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde is the place where Marie-Antoinette lost her head! Today is has a 2,000 year old Egyptian Obelisk at its center.

The Grand Palais

Constructed for the 1900 World’s Fair, the Grand Palais is a magnificent architectural feat with its glass, iron and steel beautifully combined.

Champs-Elysées

Known to many as « The most beautiful avenue in the world » you'll have a wonderful view all the way up this avenue to the famous Arc de Triomphe.

Invalides (Napoleon’s Tomb)

Les Invalides was once a hospital for wounded soldiers, and is currently a military museum that is home to the tomb of Napoléon Bonaparte.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you think Giverny is only good to visit in the springtime you are mistaken. Giverny is open from the end of March to the end of October and it’s absolutely beautiful throughout this entire time. The gardeners in Giverny do an amazing job caring for and changing out the different flowers from the Springtime all the way through the fall.

So, now when we answer your question it hopefully won’t be too much of a surprise when we believe that a nice sunny day in October is the best of all! There are still plenty of flowers in bloom but there are also fall colors in the trees and a lot less visitors than during the other months. Your taste might be different than our though so we suggest that you look for #giverny pictures on Instagram to get an idea of what Monet's gardens look like at different time of the year.

We allow you to cancel, for any reason, up to 24 hours before the start of your tour. It’s easy to cancel just send us an email then we’ll give you a full refund.

If you fail to email with your cancellation at least 24 hours before the tour starts then we will not be able to provide you with a refund.

Our small groups fill up very quickly. You should book your spots on this tour about 3 weeks before the date of the tour you want to take.

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BLUE FOX TRAVEL is a registered SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée - Limited Liability Company) at the Paris Chamber of Commerce under the number : 534 151 576 BLUE FOX TRAVEL is a registered French Travel Operator under the licence : IM075160040 BLUE FOX TRAVEL is a registered Public Service Vehicle Operator under the Licence : 2016/11/0007784 Because BLUE FOX TRAVEL is a registered French company, and all of our tours take place in France, only the French Law will apply in the case of any conflict. Last updated : January 2019. Valid until : the end of the world.

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BFT offers a 100% refund if a reservation is cancelled more than 24 hours before the scheduled start of the tour. The notification must be made by email. No refunds are given for ANY reason once within the 24 hrs prior to the scheduled tour. All of our tours run Rain or Shine. We do not issue refunds if you choose to skip your tour because the weather doesn’t suit you. You can always wait until the last minute to book your tour to ensure the weather suits you that day. BFT reserves the right to cancel any of its tours last minute in case of an Act of God or crazy act from a large group of people. Flooding, hail, dangerous weather conditions, riots, etc. In such instances full refunds will be given to anyone who had their tour cancelled.

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If the tour you took with us didn’t live up to what we promised you on our website and failed to meet your expectations, we will be heartbroken. We will also give you a 100% refund so long as you do all of these things: You remember that we we are in no way responsible for the weather and that our guides actually have to give 110% of themselves to you on days when the weather is not as nice in order to help you enjoy the tour. You participate in the entire tour from: being on time at the meeting point until the “goodbyes” at the very end of the tour. You can’t leave a tour half-way and ask for your money back. At the end of the tour you tell your guide, in person, that you were not satisfied with the tour you took. You provide your tour guide with the reasons you were not satisfied with the tour itself.

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All reservations made for children under the age of 18 years old must be made by an adult and we must be informed at the time of booking exactly how many children are in your party and their ages. This is vital information as it allows our guide to prepare the proper child sized equipments for the bike tours and the booster seats for all day trips/excursions that use one of our vans. All reservations made for a minor under the age of 18 years old must also include the reservation for an adult who will be 100% solely responsible for the safety and well being of the child while on the tour. Every child, under the age of 12 years old, partaking in a bicycle tour will be required to wear a helmet and a reflective vest as per French Law. The adult who accompanies the child agrees to the responsibility of choosing a properly sized helmet, adjusting the helmet, and keeping the helmet on the head of the child during the whole tour. Blue Fox Travel has helmets in multiple sizes for you to choose from at no cost. Don't forget: Children who will be riding in a baby/child seat, on a tandem attachment bike, or in a booster seat in one of our vans absolutely MUST have their seat reserved beforehand. We NEED to know exactly what your child will need before they show up. Please make it clear in the “Special Requirements” section of our booking form.

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Day Trip to Giverny from Paris: How to Easily Tour Monet’s Home & Gardens

Last Updated: May 5, 2023 //  by  Ashley Smith 10 Comments

This day trip to Giverny is another example of my biggest piece of French advice: one thing I always tell people to do when visiting Paris is… leave it. Just get out. *Gasp* 

Alright, alright, calm down. Paris is what it is (magic and romantic and crawling with delicious snails that actually aren’t anymore) but the France outside of Paris is, believe it or not, EVEN BETTER.

On the second of my two trips to France last year I toured all over:

• Paris and Versailles
• the Loire Valley
• Mont-St-Michel
• the D-Day sites of Normandy
• and every sickeningly lavish chateaux in between.

I did all of this with my friend and faithful travel companion who is, of all things, an art teacher. But while she can appreciate brushwork, composition, and whatever ”diptych“ is, I’m more into snooping around in the former homes of famous people, because I’m creepy like that.

This post was originally published in 2018 but has been updated for 2023.

Table of Contents

Why take a day trip to Giverny?

One such reason to leave Paris is for a day trip to Giverny, the tiny village that was once home to impressionist mastermind Claude Monet. Now replace “home” with “resting place” and that’s just one of the reasons to visit.

Besides getting to tour Monet’s personal home, on a Giverny day trip you also get the chance to walk all through his gardens, visit his studio, and circle his water lily pond. Like, the Water Lilies water lily pond. Even for someone on the Microsoft Paint level of the artistic ability spectrum, it’s a pretty impressive experience.

Is Giverny worth visiting?

If you’re a lover of art history, fine art, or even just flowers and gardening, then Giverny is absolutely worth visiting . The property, gardens, and lily pond are meticulously well-kept and the experience of visiting is a quality one.

You get to see so much on a visit to Giverny and every month it’s open offers something different in terms of blooms. You’ll also get to learn about Monet and his paintings and see how he lived.

How long do you need at Monet’s Giverny?

Three to four hours would be a good amount of time for a visit of Monet’s Giverny. Walking around the lily pond and through the gardens will take a good chunk of time. And the rest will be spent touring his home (which tends to get crowded and therefore slow moving) and studio and checking out the gift shop.

If you like floral day trips, definitely check out my post on a day trip to Keukenhof –the world famous tulip gardens outside Amsterdam.

The history of Monet and Giverny

Claude Monet was the founder of French impressionist painting and, by all accounts, the original hipster. Impressionism was the 19 th century art movement that emphasized light, movement, visible brush strokes, and blatant rule-breaking. Boy were those fancy pants art critics pissed at him.

He also, probably, played a major part in pairing a bushy beard with a beret—a style statement you still see so often in and around craft breweries and artisanal vegan donut/bicycle shops.

Looking for more interesting day trips from Paris? Check out these best Normandy tours from Paris for some unforgettable WWII history.

Giverny is an hour outside Paris in 21 st century time but much longer by 1800s standards. I’m just saying, he didn’t have that beard when he left.

Monet lived in Giverny for exactly half of his life, until his death in 1926. It was while he lived here that he painted his entire Water Lilies series, the works he’s most famous for, even long after he developed cataracts. I got lightheaded from standing up too fast yesterday and couldn’t work for a good 20 minutes. Just saying.

Giverny and Water Lilies

Water Lilies —you know what it looks like—is a series of around 250 oil paintings of the water lily pond behind his house at Giverny. Monet was big into doing series work—not unlike Kelsey Grammer or Mariska Hargitay—and has done many others including Haystacks , Rouen Cathedral , and Houses of Parliament .

Throughout his life and especially after moving to Giverny, Monet was obsessed with gardening, the same way I’m obsessed with not gardening (somebody feed me).

To help inspire his work, he diverted water from a nearby source and planted his own water lilies. Monet was also obsessed with perfection. (He once destroyed 15 of his Water Lilies in a perfectionist rage.)

And he was obsessed with natural light, painting as fiercely and frantically as possible to capture an exact moment before it passes which, as science has taught us, is impossible without Instagram.

While in Normandy you should definitely check out the best of Normandy’s D-Day sites . The experience is unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced on your travels, I promise.

Day trip to Giverny from Paris: How to get there

Ahh, so you’re visiting Paris. Now get out. Leaving the city and taking a day trip to Giverny is among the most popular things to do when visiting Paris, right up there with taking selfies in front of the Eiffel Tower and taking selfies in front of the Mona Lisa .

How long does it take to get to Giverny from Paris?

Giverny is just one hour northwest of Paris by car or 14 hours if you choose to walk because automobiles are so bourgeouis.

A day trip to Giverny is a great opportunity to get some background on, like, all the paintings you’ll see in the Paris museums . (probably my favorite thing about my line of work is being able to shout, “I’ve been there!” on an annoyingly regular basis)

Visit Giverny on a day tour from Paris

My recommendation—because it’s what I did—is to take your day trip to Giverny via an organized, guided tour. For the love of lilies, let someone else handle tickets and transportation so you don’t have to.

Plus, these tours usually come with skip-the-line abilities and, visiting Paris and Giverny in the summer , this is worth its weight in goldenrod. You also get private and direct transportation and knowledgeable tour guides who probably know their Phlomis purpurea from their  Phlomis italica . Maybe?

It is possible to get from Paris to Giverny independently—check this  and/or this page for logistics—but the trip will take much more than an hour, includes the cumbersome combination of metro ⇢ train ⇢ bus ⇢ feet, and the schedules of each of those are less ideal than planting tulips in the spring! Ha! Can you imagine!? Garden snobs, you know what I mean.

The Best Day tours to Giverny from Paris

Here are a few great guided tour options for your day trip to Giverny:

Versailles & Giverny Day Trip with Lunch from Paris

This uber-popular 9.5-hour tour includes a trip to the Palace of Versailles (another Paris must) as well as a day trip to Giverny, plus lunch.

Giverny & Monet’s Gardens Small-Group Half-Day Trip

This 5-hour tour is limited to just 8 people and is super informative. It includes visual aids (!!!) and even takes you to Monet’s burial site.

Monet's House & Gardens Self Guided Tour with Transport from Paris

This tour includes transportation, admission, and an audio guide but your time to explore is all your own. (And it costs less than transportation alone if you were to do this  without  a tour.)

Giverny & Monet's Garden by Train

Perhaps you'd like to visit Giverny the same way Monet did - by riding the rails. This tour includes skip-the-line admission into Monet's House and Gardens and round-trip transportation by train.

Other Giverny day trips from Paris

There are actually many more Paris tour combinations for Giverny and you can find those all here. Find one that fits you best!

When is the best time for a day trip to Giverny?

Because of the nature (heh) of this site, a day trip to Giverny can only be taken at certain times of the year. Monet’s house and gardens at Giverny are only open seven months of the year : late March – November 1st, because, duh, flowers. Besides, visiting a garden in the winter would be about as worthwhile as having vegan bacon with a side of O’Doul’s for lunch.

As for when exactly to go during that time… well, this place is so full of beautiful, colorful growing things that visiting any time during those seven months is going to be worthwhile.

When to go to Giverny to see water lilies

But let’s be real here; you came for the water lilies, didn’t you! Water lilies as a species bloom between May and September, however , both the Giverny website and our tour guide told us the lilies at Giverny don’t typically bloom until July and we might not get to see them.

Well, well, well, the pictures in this post were taken on my early June visit and clearly the nympheas showed up to play.

When to go to Giverny to see wisteria

If July is out of the question for your day trip to Giverny, my recommended backup plan would be to visit in May when Monet’s famous Japanese bridge is drenched in flowering purple wisteria. Look at this OMG

But, hell, maybe you hate both and actually get your jollies from holly-hocks or busy-lizzies. Worry not, there’s a Giverny flowering calendar for that.

What to see on a day trip to Giverny

A day trip to Giverny is all about Claude Monet. You’ll visit his house, his garden, his famous water lily pond. You’ll see his chickens, his cows, his jealousy-inducing collection of copper cookware. Wow, I am not sounding cool today.

Monet’s house and studio

Monet lived at his house in Giverny for 43 years, the size of which defies everything I thought I knew about painting as a lucrative career path. Monet lived here with his lady-friend Alice and their combined eight children. I think the mystery of his eventual madness has solved itself.

Here at his house you can tour his bedrooms, kitchen, studio, bathroom, and many other places in which he’d be totally uncomfortable entertaining visitors. And as large as the house is, it’s still tight and you will be bumper to bumper on Fanny Pack Ave.

Monet’s gardens

There are 100 varieties of flowers and trees in the garden of the man who was quoted as saying, “Apart from painting and gardening, I’m not good at anything.” So if his success at painting is any indicator, I think you know what you can expect in his anything-but-ho-hum garden.

During your day trip to Giverny you’re free to wander throughout his garden, on strictly marked paths of course, and take it all in through your nose. I mean it; smell all of them.

Be warned that the garden is almost overwhelming as it’s so full and tightly packed, and everything is taller and more feminine than you. Monet also said, “My garden is my most beautiful masterpiece.”

Monet’s pond

Monet’s pond is the highlight of his property and where you can find his famous water lilies—in bloom or otherwise. Now every time you see a Water Lilies painting you can shout, “I’ve been there!” but do so internally because museums.

You can circle the entire pond and walk across the Japanese bridge, see the little boat he used to paddle around in (before paddling around in little boats was cool, obvs) and, if you’re lucky, maybe even fall in because there is legit no barrier whatsoever.

What to bring on a day trip to Giverny

Allergy medicine.

Maybe your allergies are fine at home, but you probably don’t have 100 varieties of pollen-producing perennials surrounding your digs—some of them you’ve never been exposed to. Chances are you’re allergic to one of them because you are, in fact, of the human species.

Don’t forget the allergy medicine when you travel to a place literally to be surrounded by flowers. Wouldn’t sneezing and falling into a totally unbarricaded pond be the perfect allergy medicine commercial though?

Remember to opt for something that won’t put you to sleep. For me that means running as far away from Benadryl as possible and straight into the arms of Zyrtec . But damn, Benadryl certainly works. (Don’t forget to pack some tissues too.)

* I think legally I’m supposed to say here that I’m not a doctor? But you already knew that from earlier when I referred to Instagram as “science”. Wouldn’t conking out and falling into a totally unbarricaded pond be the perfect non-drowsy allergy medicine commercial though?

Guidebook(s)

I’m a stickler for two things: always eat where the line is longest, and always get the guidebook.

Guidebooks give great commentary, historical background, essential logistical, time, and cost information, and yeah, often even where to find the food source with the longest line, ergo, the best grub. I personally recommend:

• The Rough Guide to Brittany and Normandy – (Yes, Giverny is actually in Normandy.) Because what are we doing, class? Getting outta Paris! But since you will be in Paris…
• The Rough Guide to Paris – Or get one that has it all…
• Fodor’s Essential France – Covering it all (including Paris and a day trip to Giverny) and with a handy pull-out map. Wouldn’t falling into a pond while reading a handy pull-out map be just the funniest?
• Rick Steves France is a great option too.
• AND, I always recommend these pocket-sized customs and culture guides for all international trips. Check out Culture Smart France here. (And check out my full review of Culture Smart’s books if you want to learn more about them.)

Your day trip to Giverny and the water lily pond is a thing of rare beauty. A chance to photograph, blow up, frame, and brag about having a real (ehh, not real) Monet hanging up in your living room. Do not come to Giverny without a great camera.

A few more essentials

Here are a few more essentials you may want to bring on your day trip to Giverny:

• A decent pair of polarized sunglasses so you can see all the beauty
• Sunscreen since you’ll be visiting in the summer
• Perhaps a light, packable sun hat too
• Comfortable outdoor walking shoes – I swear by both Teva sandals and Chacos and that’s just about all I wear on trips like this. You can get them here on Zappos with free shipping and free returns.

Book to Read for Your Day trip to Giverny

Before I travel anywhere new, I always do my best to get my read on. This way, when I see something I’ve read about I can shout, “I just read about that!” because if the world doesn’t know how awesome you are, are you even awesome?

Along with guidebooks, this is a great way to be able to put everything you’ll see into perspective when you see it—historically, biographically, immediately. Here are my recommendations for books to read for your day trip to Giverny:

Mad Enchantment: Claude Monet and the Painting of the Water Lilies by Ross King

I talk about Ross King all. the. time. when it comes to reading before a trip to Europe. He specializes in writing actually entertaining biographies of European artists and their lives. He also covers what’s happening in that place at that time to give great context and you learn so much.

Everything I’ve written in this post about Monet and Giverny I learned from this book. Does that make me sound like I’m coming to terms with my adult-ness? Because I’m not.

The Judgment of Paris: The Revolutionary Decade That Gave the World Impressionism by Ross King

Alright, I haven’t read this one yet but it’s sitting on the bookshelf in front of me as we speak. This one goes beyond the work of Monet and covers the movement of Impressionism and its most popular characters as a whole. 

Dover Masterworks: Color Your Own Monet Paintings

Okay, so there’s not a whole lot of reading required here but I’m totally buying this.

Where to find Monet’s Water Lilies

Well, let me put it this way: I don’t think I’ve been to an art museum that hasn’t had one of Monet’s Water Lilies on display. This Water Lilies Wikipedia page does an okay job of listing where many of them can be found but chances are if you visit a fine art museum or a modern art museum or a western art museum you’ll fall into a water lily pond.

…but nowhere will you find an explanation for why I take photos of these every. single. time. I’m chocking it up to: “I’ve been there!”

More info for your day trip to Giverny

• Heading to Paris? Find great places to stay on Booking.com and Expedia .
• Driving to Giverny? Check out the best local rental car deals here.
• Keep yourself and your belongings saf e in Paris with  these must-pack safety items . 
• What else have I covered in France? See more posts here .

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 39 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

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Giverny Monet's Garden

By Givernet, Non-for-profit Organisation

DAYS AND TIME: Monet's gardens welcome visitors everyday including public holidays from 9.30 am to 6 pm -last admission 5:30pm- from March 29th through November 1st, 2024.

TICKET SALE: Advance tickets will remain highly recommended in 2024.

E-TICKETS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED IN 2024

Claude Monet Giverny Garden Photo by Ariane Cauderlier

Admission Tickets in 2024:

• The admission is time-based.
• No transaction fee for tickets collected in store; E-ticket or M-ticket transaction fee: €1.45
• Normal fare and seniors: 13.00 euros
• Children and students: 8.50 euros
• Disabled: 7.50 euros
• Children under 7: free of charge  
• 1.45 euros transaction fee
• Normal fare and seniors: 12.00 euros
• Children and students: 7.50 euros
• Disabled: 6.50 euros

Private Guided Tours

• Duration : around 1hr30
• Private tours are given in English, French, Spanish or German
• Guided tours 2024 fees are 220 euros for your party + admission ticket .

Note: Guided tours upon appointment only.

• Adults and seniors: 8.00 euros
• Disabled: 4.00 euros
• Children under 12 y.o.: 5.50 euros
• Students: 5.50 euros
• Write to : Fondation Claude Monet Rue Claude Monet 27620 Giverny France
• or fax : +33 (0) 232 51 91 32
• or email: [email protected]
• If you need a guide for your group Contact Giverny guides here

Visitor Information:

Further readings:.

Blogs, Photos and talks:

Hotel, Palace or Farm ? Do as Claude Monet : Select Giverny area for your next Stay in Paris !

The Two Gardens

There are two parts in Monet's garden: a flower garden called Clos Normand in front of the house and a Japanese inspired water garden on the other side of the road. The two parts of Monet's garden contrast and complement one another.

Claude Monet's Home and Garden in Giverny in Spring - Photo Ariane Cauderlier

The Clos Normand

When Monet and his family settled in Giverny in 1883 the  piece of land sloping gently down from the house to the road was planted with an orchard and enclosed by high stone walls.

A central alley bordered with pines separated it into two parts. Monet had the pines cut down, keeping only the two yews closest to the house to please Alice.

From this Clos Normand of about one hectare, Monet made a garden full of perspectives, symmetries and colours.

The land is divided into flowerbeds where flower clumps of different heights create volume. Fruit trees or ornamental trees dominate the climbing roses, the long -stemmed hollyhocks and the coloured banks of annuals. Monet mixed the simplest flowers (daisies and poppies) with the most rare varieties.

The central alley is covered over by iron arches on which climbing roses grow. Other rose trees cover the balustrade along the house. At the end of the summer nasturtiums invade the soil in the central alley.

Claude Monet did not like organized nor constrained gardens. He married flowers according to their colours and left them to grow rather freely.

With the passing years he developed a passion for botany, exchanging plants with his friends Clemenceau and Caillebotte.  Always on the look-out for rare varieties, he bought young plants at great expense. "All my money goes into my garden," he said. But also: "I am in raptures."

Giverny Claude Monet's Garden Main Alley late summer - Photo Ariane Cauderlier

Claude Monet Water Lily Pond  in Giverny - Photo Ariane Cauderlier

The water garden

In 1893, ten years after his arrival at Giverny, Monet bought the piece of land neighbouring his property on the other side of the railway. It was crossed by a small brook, the Ru, which is a diversion of the Epte, a tributary of the Seine River. With the support of the prefecture, Monet had the first small pond dug ; even though his peasant neighbours were opposed. They were afraid that his strange plants would poison the water.

Later on the pond would be enlarged to its present day size. The water garden is full of asymmetries and curves. It is inspired by the Japanese gardens that Monet knew from the prints he collected avidly.

In this water garden you will find the famous Japanese bridge covered with wisterias, other smaller bridges, weeping willows, a bamboo wood and above all the famous nympheas which bloom all summer long. The pond and the surrounding vegetation form an enclosure separated from the surrounding countryside.

Never before had a painter so shaped his subjects in nature before painting them. And so he created his works twice. Monet would find his inspiration in this water garden for more than twenty years. After the Japanese bridge series, he would devote himself to the giant decorations of the Orangerie.

Always looking for mist and transparencies, Monet would dedicate himself less to flowers than to reflections in water, a kind of inverted world transfigured by the liquid element.

Claude Monet Water Garden in Giverny, Autumn Reflections - Photo Ariane Cauderlier

Spring Morning Mist under the japanese bridge in Claude Monet's Garden Photo Ariane Cauderlier

The Japanese bridge

Monet had it built by a local craftsman. By the time the garden was restored the bridge was too damaged to be saved. It had to be rebuilt by a firm from Vernon. It is made of beech wood.

The wisterias have been planted by Monet.

500 000 visitors discover Monet's gardens each year during the seven months that it is open.

To prevent people from treading on the plants, and thus retain the garden's beauty, the inner alleys are closed to the public. Visitors walk on the side alleys and can walk all around the garden to admire all its perspectives.

To get to the water garden you go through an underground passage (at the time of Monet it was necessary to cross the railway and the road). You will step on the Japanese bridge and explore all the hidden recesses of the water garden.

Taking pictures is permitted in the garden, but only from the walkways. Picnics are forbidden. Dogs and other pets are not admitted.

Water Lilies in Claude Monet's Pond in Giverny - Photo Ariane Cauderlier

Claude Monet's Giverny property in Summer - Photo Ariane Cauderlier

Restoring Monet's house and garden

After Claude Monet's death in 1926, his son Michel inherited the house and garden of Giverny. He did not live there and it was Monet's step-daughter Blanche who took care of the property. Unfortunately after the Second World War the house and garden were neglected. In 1966 Michel Monet made the Academie des Beaux-Arts his heir.

In 1977 Gérald van der Kemp was appointed Curator  at Giverny. André Devillers, who had the opportunity to go with Georges Truffaut - a distinguished gardener often invited to Monet's table - helped him reconstruct the garden as it was by the time of the master. Many contemporaries of Monet testified also.

Almost ten years were necessary to restore the garden and the house their former magnificence. Not much was left. The greenhouse panes and the windows in the house were reduced to shards after the bombings. Floors and ceiling beams had rotted away,  a staircase had collapsed. Three trees were even growing in the big studio.  

The pond had to be dug again. In the Clos normand soil was removed to find the original ground level. Then the same flower species as those discovered by Monet in his time were planted.

The property has been open to the public since September 1980. 

Further reading:

Giverny Claude Monet's Yellow Dinning Room - Photo Ariane Cauderlier

• 631.600.1120

Private Giverny Tour

All Giverny tours take clients to see the gardens and last home of Claude Monet. Some even speak about why he created them. Our private Giverny tour is unique in that we plan a 90 minute drive through small roads that cross the country-side that he loved to paint to reach Giverny, during which we evoke the complicated and often cantankerous character of the artist, to bring him to life, and to show you many of the subjects that he depicted which still appear today as they did when he painted them . We also relate how he created his gardens, and how he made use of them.

We further trace the tortuous odyssey that led from a child in Paris, to a teenager in Le Havre endowed with a talent for drawing caricatures, to the pinnacle of success in what became known as the Impressionist movement, and presaged developments beyond Impressionism, such as sheer abstract art. This luxury private Giverny tour is as much a voyage into the mind and psychology of the artist as it is a visit to what he considered his finest work of art, his gardens, and his last home. We also detail some of the master’s technical innovations, which rendered his art unlike that of anyone else. We explain that in simple terms that are easy to grasp and comprehend.

Our private Giverny tour leaves the Normandy auto-route at Mantes la Jolie, and takes small roads that lead to Vétheuil, the village in which Monet lived the most bitter and impoverished years of his life with his first wife, where she died, and his mistress, who became his second wife. We will stop in front of their tiny house, which still stands. As we approach the village, we can stop at a site that Monet painted three times, a view of the Seine river with the village in the background, painted when spring was in full bloom. The view today is quite similar to the way it looked when he painted it, and the comparison of the actual with what he rendered is a unique way for you to enter the mind and soul of the artist. That he was able to celebrate the resurgence of life on canvas, even as his first wife expired, tells you a great deal about the man.

By the time you reach Giverny, you will have insights into what made Claude Monet the unique man and great artist that he became, which contributes substantially to your enjoyment in seeing his gardens and home. Our private Giverny tour is truly unique, and memorably enjoyable, but they require only half a day to perform.

Interested In Our Private Giverny Tour?

To complete a full day of touring, we can pair our tour of Giverny with a private tour of Van Gogh’s Auvers sur Oise, or either a half day tour of the Château and Park of Versailles, the Château and park at Chantilly, or of Notre Dame de Chartres Cathedral. For dyed-in-the-wool Impressionists, we can include Le Havre’s André Malraux Museum of Fine Arts where the extent of Monet’s debt to his mentor, Eugène Boudin, becomes crystal clear. Still other options include the Museum of Fine Arts in Rouen, the unrelated romantic ruins of the state-of-the-art 12th century castle built by Richard the Lion Heart, Château Gaillard, in Les Andelys, and the amazingly charming rustic Norman village, Lyons-la-Forêt. Alternatively, you might choose the dramatic cliffs and beach of Étretat, the resort that Monet often depicted in his works.

There are numerous attractive options for a leisurely lunch in the vicinity, some in the outdoors when the weather is fair, or inside in superb country inns for those days when it is not.

“Shahin, Just a quick note to let you know how much we enjoyed the tour of the Loire Valley [Custom Loire Valley Day Tour from Paris of 2 chateaux and 1 wine estate]. Let me start by saying the best part of the trip was meeting you and listening and learning about the history of France and specifically Chenonceaux. Your comments and guidance throughout the day made the experience far more than just a sight-seeing trip. Lunch was great and so were Amboise and the wine tasting. I can’t thank you enough for putting this tour together for us, we will enjoy the memories for years to come. Merci beaucoup,”

Stephen Kelly – San Francisco, CA

For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact us at our

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Full Day Private Tours

Tour prices.

Your price is determined by the number of persons in your party, as follows:

• 1 - 3 Persons: $1475 US
• 4 - 5 Persons: $1575 US
• 6 - 8 Persons: $1675 US

Our price includes our provision of our guide and an upscale vehicle for the number of hours required, plus fuel, tolls and parking fees. Snacks, drinks, meals, gratuities, and entry/tasting fees at places that charge them are not included in our tour fee.

10 best day trips from Paris

With the 2024 Summer Olympics about to turn Paris into one of the world's busiest destinations, the City of Light is getting ready to welcome all sorts of travelers. While Paris is a treasure trove of activities and sights, sometimes you need to escape the crowds for a moment or two of quiet.

Whether you're headed to Paris to cheer for the athletes or just to enjoy some Parisian people-watching, these day trips will offer you a delightful escape and a chance to savor the diverse beauty around the French capital. So, grab your sense of adventure (and maybe a baguette for the road) and check out the 10 best Paris day trips.

Distance from Paris: One hour and 30 minutes by bus or train.

Getting there: Hop on a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon-Giverny, followed by a short bus or bike ride.

What to do: Entering Monet's Garden in Giverny is like walking into a real-life painting. This is where the magic of Monet's art is on full display, with its lily ponds, weeping willows and vibrant flowerbeds. You can picture the artist himself, setting up his easel and capturing the tranquility. Spend your time wandering through the house and gardens, admiring the Japanese bridge and the riot of colors. It's a peaceful retreat that feels like stepping back into a simpler, more beautiful time. Book your tickets online for a reserved time slot in advance for 13 euros ($14) per adult.

Distance from Paris: 45 minutes by train.

Getting there: Take the RER C train to Versailles Chateau Rive Gauche or the L train to Versailles Rive Droite.

What to do: If there's one word to describe Versailles , it's opulent. The Palace of Versailles is a jaw-dropping testament to the grandeur of French royalty. From the glittering Hall of Mirrors to sprawling gardens that seem to extend forever, every inch of the palace is designed to impress. Don't miss the Petit Trianon, Marie Antoinette's private escape, where you can get a more intimate glimpse of royal life. Whether you're a history buff or just love beautiful places, Versailles is a must-see. Tickets to the palace cost 21 euros ($23) per adult; tickets to the Petit Trianon cost 12 euros ($13).

Distance from Paris: Two hours by train.

Getting there: Take a high-speed TGV train from Gare de l'Est to Strasbourg.

What to do: Strasbourg's Petite France neighborhood feels like a fairy tale. With its charming half-timbered houses, winding canals and cobblestone streets, it's an eye-catching melange of French and German influences. Spend your day exploring the quaint shops and cozy cafes, take a boat ride through the canals, and visit the majestic Strasbourg Cathedral. The whole area is a feast for the senses, making it a delightful day trip from Paris.

Distance from Paris: One hour and 30 minutes by train.

Getting there: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Rouen.

What to do: Rouen's Notre Dame Cathedral isn't just another church — it's the tallest cathedral in France and an awe-inspiring example of Gothic architecture. Inside, you'll find magnificent stained glass windows that cast colorful light across the stone floors. Take a leisurely stroll through the old town of Rouen , with its medieval buildings and vibrant markets. This city is rich in history and charm, plus its many cheese shops are a veritable edible tour through the region's famous fromages.

Getting there: Take a high-speed Thalys train from Gare du Nord to Brussels Midi station.

What to do: Why not hop over to another country while you're in Paris? Brussels is just a quick 1 1/2-hour train ride away, and it's packed with charm and character. Start at the Grande Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is jaw-droppingly beautiful with its ornate guild halls and town hall. Then, venture a few blocks west to snap a photo of the cheeky Manneken Pis statue.

Indulge your taste buds with some Belgian waffles, chocolates and maybe a few local beers — after all, when in Belgium. Art enthusiasts will love the Magritte Museum, which dives deep into the surreal world of Rene Magritte. Finish your day with a walk through the lush Parc du Cinquantenaire, or take a trip to the Atomium for a bit of futuristic flair. Brussels is an alluring alternative to Paris, thanks to its history, culture and delicious food. You might even want to make it more than just a day trip.

Distance from Paris: 30 minutes by train.

Getting there: Take a train from Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux.

What to do : Under an hour from Paris, Chateau de Chantilly is a royal retreat brimming with art, history and equestrian elegance. This year, it's extra special with the Paris Games Polo Challenge on Aug. 7, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the 1924 Olympic Polo Tournament. Hosted by the U.S. Polo Assn., this event will blend thrilling polo action with chic festivities. Explore the chateau's fine art in the Musee Conde, walk through Andre Le Notre's classical gardens and visit the Great Stables for an impressive horse show. Chantilly offers a delightful blend of cultural and sporting excitement.

Auvers-sur-Oise

Distance from Paris: One hour by train.

Getting there: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Auvers-sur-Oise.

What to do: Auvers-sur-Oise is a charming village that holds a special place in the hearts of art lovers. This is where Vincent van Gogh spent his final days, and visitors can visit the Auberge Ravoux — the inn where he lived and died. The picturesque village has winding streets and pastoral fields that inspired many of Van Gogh's masterpieces. Walk in the footsteps of the great artist and see the landscapes that captured his imagination.

Distance from Paris: Two hours and 15 minutes by train.

Getting there: Take a high-speed TGV train from Gare Montparnasse to Bordeaux.

What to do: Bordeaux is synonymous with wine, and there's no better place to immerse yourself in the world of viticulture. Start with a visit to the La Cite du Vin cultural center and wine museum ( tickets from $24 per adult), where you'll learn about the history and craft of winemaking. Then, indulge in a tasting session at the center's tasting room or at Le Bar a Vin near the city's glorious Place de la Comedie to sample some of the region's best wines. If you're lucky enough to be in town during the Bordeaux Wine Festival , you're in for a treat — this celebration of wine with tastings and activities (June 27-30, 2024) is a feast for the senses.

Distance: 45 minutes by train.

Getting there: Take a high-speed TGV train from Gare de l'Est to Reims.

What to do: Reims is the Champagne region's epicenter, bubbling with history and nuance. Start your adventure at the magnificent Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned for centuries. The gothic architecture and stunning stained-glass windows are a sight to behold. Next, dive into the world of Champagne on a tour and taste it at one of the renowned Champagne houses such as Ruinart or Taittinger. Check out the historic cellars, learn about the intricate process of Champagne making and, of course, sample some of the sparkling wines. Finish your day by walking through the charming streets of the city center, perhaps to the Romanesque (and UNESCO-listed) Basilica of St. Remi for a last dose of history.

Disneyland Paris

Getting there: Hop on the RER A train from central Paris to Marne-la-Vallee/Chessy station.

What to do: Need a little magic in your life? Disneyland Paris is the ultimate day trip for families, Disney fans, or anyone eager to sprinkle some fairy dust on their adventure. As soon as you step off the train, you'll be greeted by the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle. Cue the gasps and Instagram posts.

Get your adrenaline fix on Space Mountain, channel your inner pirate on Pirates of the Caribbean, or dance along with Mickey and friends in one of the enchanting parades. Don't forget to check out Walt Disney Studios Park for a backstage pass to movie magic and a chance to meet your favorite Pixar characters. With thrilling rides, delightful shows and enough churros to fill Cinderella's coach, Disneyland Paris promises a day of fun and wonder that's just a hop, skip and train ride away from the city.

Whether you're a history buff, art lover, wine enthusiast, foodie, architecture aficionado or just someone who needs a break from busy Paris during the Olympics, these day trips offer a variety of experiences for francophiles and first-timers alike.

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Paris in the Fall: Weather, What to Do and How to Dress

Thinking about taking a trip to paris in the fall.

Fall is a fabulous season to be in the City of Lights. By the time the leaves start to change color, the summer crowds have thinned. As well as relative peace, autumn in Paris also brings pleasant temperatures so you can comfortably enjoy all there is to see and do. 

Depending on when you visit, the weather in Paris in autumn may be summery, wintry, or somewhere in-between. Early fall can be warm to hot, while late autumn might be quite chilly with darker evenings. 

If you feel like visiting the capital of France in autumn, this guide will walk you through all you need to know before you go. Covered here is the weather, things to do and what to wear in fall in Paris. Read on so you can plan your cozy Parisian adventure!

Planning a trip? Use  my favorite resources:

• Accommodations:  booking.com
• Travel Insurance:  SafetyWing
• Tours & Excursions:  Viator
• Flights:  Skyscanner
• City Pass:  Go City
• eSim:   Airalo

Fall Weather in Paris

As such a transietn season, the autumn weather in Paris can vary considerably. To help you time your trip just right, here’s an outline of what to expect weather-wise in September, October and November. 

Paris Weather in September

• Average temperature: 13°C (or 55°F) to 22°C (72°F)
• Days of precipitation: 7

Along with July and August, September is one of the driest months in Paris. You can expect around seven days of rain, on average, which is less than a quarter of the time. 

September temperatures in Paris are warm, or even hot, with the mercury climbing up to around 22°C (or 72°F). Even lows are in the region of 13°C (or 55°F). This is comparable to late May or early June averages. 

Overall, in Paris in September, the weather is still often like it is in late summer, especially at the start of the month. 

Paris Weather in October

• Average temperature: 10°C (or 50°F) to 17°C (63°F)
• Days of precipitation: 8

October is very slightly wetter than September, with about one extra day of rain during the month. This is pretty average for Paris, all year round.  

In October, the temperature does begin to drop. However, even lows are around 10°C (or 50°F), with highs reaching about 17°C (63°F). So, in general, you can expect no extreme highs or lows in the middle of fall. 

Personally, I visited Paris solo in October to celebrate my birthday a few years ago and loved being there that time of year! 

Paris Weather in November

• Average temperature: 6°C (or 43°F) to 11°C (52°F)
• Days of precipitation: 9

It gets colder, wetter and darker during November in France. You can expect rain on around a third of the days, and average lows are now around 6°C (or 43°F). Daytime highs may reach 11°C (52°F), which isn’t warm, but is still fairly mild. 

In case you’re wondering, seeing snow in Paris in November isn’t very likely at all. Even in winter, it’s not very common. 

Top Reasons to Visit Paris in Fall

If you’re pondering whether Paris in autumn is for you, here are some compelling reasons to plan a fall visit. 

Fewer Crowds

After the midsummer madness, Paris becomes a lot calmer and more peaceful in fall. Less tourists means you can get around quicker, without the stress of working your way through a throng of people. 

Mild Temperatures

Though the average temperature in Paris during autumn drops between the start and the end of the season, in general the weather is cooler than in summer and warmer than in winter. This can make exploring far more pleasant than when you’re trying to beat the summer heat or avoid the winter chill. 

Lower prices

The cost of flights, accommodation and other services may be more affordable in fall. Competition pushes summer rates up, so by planning your visit for autumn, you should be able to take advantage of cheaper prices. 

Unique Festivals

While France doesn’t celebrate all of the same seasonal holidays as we do in the U.S. (like Halloween and Thanksgiving), the city has its own autumnal events. Visiting in the fall gives you a chance to join in on Paris’ fall events. 

 10 BestThings to Do in Paris in the Fall

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Paris in the fall, here are the top 10:

1. Attend the Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre

In early to mid October, the Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre (Grape Harvest Festival of Montmartre) takes place in the artsy Parisian hilltop district. It’s very popular, and celebrates the annual grape harvest. For five days, it’s all about wine in the 18th arrondissement. 

I actually ran into this festival, unplanned, when I visited in October a few years ago. You have the option of purchasing a souvenir glass, that you can then take around to the various stalls and pay for the wine tastings you’d like to experience.

There are also food stalls selling seasonal dishes like roasted chestnuts and aligot – a cheesy potato dish. There’s music, and lots of people of course. If you can stand the crowds, you’ll really enjoy this as it’s such a fun and lively environment! 

2. Book a Weekend Getaway to the Loire Valley  

Only a couple hours away from Paris by train, you’ll find the alluring Loire Valley. Dotted with stunning chateaus, and with a wine scene of its own, this makes the perfect little getaway from the bustle of Paris for a couple days. 

Not only will you see beautiful fall foliage there this time of year, but September into October also marks grape harvest season in the Loire Valley. While I myself visited in February, I recommend adapting my Loire Valley itinerary and visiting in fall months if you have the chance. 

3. Swoon Over the Fall Colors

If you’re headed to any city during fall, then one of the top things to do is to seek out the colorful display of autumn leaves. And picturesque Paris is of course no exception!

Some of the best places in Paris to take in fall colors are Jardin du Luxembourg, Place Dauphine and Jardin des Tuileries. The leaves tend to be at their best in October, changing color from the beginning of the month, with some falling to the ground by the end. 

You can even book this fall photo shoot in Jardin du Luxembourg for a special souvenir! As someone who has booked several photo shoots while traveling (including in Paris), I can attest to how much fun it is!

Book a Fall Photo Shoot in Paris

3. Experience a Halloween Festival at Disneyland Paris

Find yourself in Paris during spooky season and don’t want to miss out on the typical festivities? Then make your way to Disneyland Paris ! Disney villain characters will be in the spotlight, Halloween decorations will surround you and exclusive Halloween souvenirs will be available. 

To get to Disneyland Paris, you can book a private transfer , take the RER A train or take a taxi or rideshare. If you take the train, be sure to book your tickets mindfully. You’ll need a specific, separate ticket for this journey that is different from a standard metro ticket that gets your around Paris. 

Secure Your Disneyland Paris Pass

4. Attend Salon du Chocolat

Every year, at the end of October into early November, Paris hosts a chocolate trade show. This brings together pastry chefs, chocolatiers, chocolate sculptors and more from around the world! 

In addition to having the chance to sample various sweet treats, you can enjoy various shows, competitions and exhibits. 

Tickets are available for the general public, and you can get them on the official website . 

5. Explore the Museums

Whether it’s still too hot out in September, or far too chilly in November, you have the perfect excuse to explore Paris’s incredible museums and art galleries. When planning your itinerary, remember that some Paris museums close on Mondays and Tuesdays so check schedules in advance.

A Paris Museum Pass can save you money, and can also save you time where skip-the-line entry is included. It lasts for 2, 3 or 6 days, and covers more than 50 Paris museums and attractions. 

Other than the world-famous Louvre, museums to visit include Musée de L’Orangerie, where you can see Monet’s Waterlilies; the nearby Musee d’Orsay, home of impressionism; Musée Rodin, which has lovely gardens for fall leaf-peeping; Musée de Cluny, where the medieval The Lady and the Unicorn tapestry is; and the modern art and architecture of the Pompidou Centre. 

The Paris Museum Pass includes entry to all of these. 

Click here to buy your Paris Museum Pass

6. Visit the Palace of Versailles

If you’d like to see fall in France beyond the city, then why not head to the Palace of Versailles? When you have a Paris Museum Pass, entry is included. It’s a popular place to go all year round, but the Queen’s Hamlet and other gardens are particularly beautiful in fall. 

The huge site is a former royal residence, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yearly visitor numbers can easily rival those of the Eiffel Tower.

You can get to Versailles Château Rive Gauche train station via a 40 to 50 minute trip from Paris, and trains depart from a number of stations in the city. The palace is only 10 minutes’ on foot from the station.

Or to have it all taken care of, why not book an organized day trip from Paris to Versailles?

Book a Guided Versailles Tour with RT Transportation

7. Take a Food Tour

Taking a food tour in Paris is among the most memorable experiences you can have in the city. As well as delving into the foodie scene, you can discover districts and architecture you probably wouldn’t have seen otherwise. 

Expect to sample freshly made macarons, croissants, and crepes, plus French cheese and wine – as well as some less predictable treats!  All while getting to know your local guides and fellow travelers. 

During Paris foodie tours you’ll also learn when and where to buy the best goods, plus which restaurants to dine at. 

The Le Marais food tour I took was one of the highlights of my stay, and I’m happy to highly recommend it.

Book the best Le Marais food tour

8. Go to Giverny

If seeing Monet’s Waterlilies at the Musée de L’Orangerie isn’t enough, take a day trip to Giverny. There are lots of tours to choose from, usually lasting for half a day. Full day trips may also visit other places, such as Versailles. 

You can see Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny. Including the iconic waterlily pond, and of course the fall colors. 

Vernon is the closest train station to Giverny, so it’s easier to take an organized tour for this destination. While you can of course visit Giverny year-round, it’s one of those places that is especially beautiful in the fall.   

Book this Small-Group, Half-Day Tour of Giverny 

9. Join a Baking Class

Pastries are a delicious part of Paris life, and croissants are at the forefront. Join a cooking class in Paris and you can learn to bake these yummy breakfast treats yourself. Taking a local-led baking class is also a unique way to immerse yourself in city life. 

Plus, what turns on those cozy fall vibes faster than baking sweet treats?

The Paris pastry class I took was so good – as were the snacks I got to eat as a result! Remember to bring along a hair tie if you need one, which is something I completely forgot about.

Book a Croissant Baking Class in Paris

10. Discover the Champagne Region

Any fan of French fizz cannot pass up the chance to visit the vineyards where the world’s most famous sparkling wine is made! You can visit renowned champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon, Mercier, Nicolas Feuillatte and more. 

It makes a very relaxing change from city life, and the fact that hotel pick-up and drop-off is included with organized tours makes things super simple. Some day trips may also take in  a French town, such as Reims or Epernay, or include a gastronomic feast, like a Michelin-starred meal. 

Champagne tours from Paris might also include an overnight stay in some cases, if you’re looking for more of a getaway. 

Book the Best Small-Group Champagne Tour from Paris

What to Wear in Paris in the Fall

The weather during autumn in France varies a lot from the beginning to the end of the season. At the start of September, it’s likely to still feel like summer. By the end of November, though, it may seem much more wintry, with colder temperatures, shorter days and a little more rain. 

When packing for Paris in the fall, it’s best to prepare for shifting weather. As it’s hard to predict how warm or cold it will be, plenty of thin to medium layers are ideal. You can also plan what to wear according to the specific month of your visit, rather than the fact that it’s fall in general. 

Pack plenty of layers and you can adjust your clothing to suit the temperature. Think t-shirts with thin sweaters you can wear over them. 

Also bring a jacket that’s suitable for September, October or November conditions, depending on your timings. This is the exact jacket I wore in October in Paris, and also during the rest of the winter months in other European cities. It kept me warm and comfortable!

Accessories

At the start of fall, sunglasses and a cap will probably be more appropriate than winter accessories. By late November, though, you may need warm socks plus a scarf, hat, and gloves to ward off the cold.

City breaks usually mean spending a lot of time on your feet! Sneakers or walking shoes are good for fall. For early September, you might also like to pack a pair of sandals. Waterproof footwear is always a good idea if you’ll be walking a lot, and hiking boots might be a better choice by late fall.   

The best kind of bag to carry on a daily basis is a theft-proof cross-body bag . This offers some protection against thieves, while safely storing all your essentials. While Paris is pretty safe overall, theft does happen, particularly in crowded places. 

What to Pack for Paris in the Fall | The Shortlist

• Waterproof jacket
• T-shirts and thin sweaters
• Theft-proof cross-body bag
• Sneakers or walking shoes or boots
• Sunglasses and cap for early fall… 
• …or hat, scarf, gloves, and warm socks for late fall

Where to Stay During Fall in Paris

Some popular areas of Paris to stay include the first, sixth or seventh arrondissements.

The first is the royal center of the city and home to the Louvre, while the sixth is on the Left Bank and where you’ll find the Jardin du Luxembourg. The seventh, also on the Left Bank, is arguably the city’s most prestigious district, and the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, and Musée Rodin are located here. 

Even for first-timers, I’d also recommend Montmartre. This artsy neighborhood with charming cobbled streets offers fast public transport links to the city center, and is my personal favorite area to stay. You can also walk to the main attractions in as little as half an hour. 

I like the space and freedom of staying in apartments best, and recommend booking through VRBO . Here are three of my Paris favorites:

• Character-packed apartment for up to 2 in Haussmann building
• Bright, modern apartment sleeping up to 3 below the Sacre-Couer
• Apartment for up to 4 with outdoor terrace close to Lamarck metro

Whether you prefer hotels or apartments, you can also find lots of highly appealing Paris properties at booking.com

Top Tips for Visiting Paris in the Fall

If you’re headed to Paris in autumn, here are some insider tips to help you on your way. 

Wear comfortable shoes

Any Paris itinerary is likely to include lots of walking, so make sure your feet stay comfortable all day long.

Take a walking tour

Fall is a lovely time to take a walking tour of Paris . In October in particular, you can look out for colorful fall leaves while exploring the city on foot. 

Savor cafe culture

Whether you need a cool drink on a hot and sunny September day or feel like a chocolat chaud later in fall, the cafes in Paris are some of the best in the world.

There’s some debate about which establishment offers the best hot chocolate in Paris. My personal favorite? Carette, and the Place des Vosges location is picture perfect. 

Book ahead for dining out

If you want to dine somewhere special in Paris, you’ll still need to book a table, even outside of summer. As a foodie hotspot, the most popular places get booked up months in advance, especially if they have Michelin stars. 

Go to the Montmartre grape harvest festival

If you’ll be in the city in mid October when it’s happening, don’t miss this wine festival! It’s very popular, and free to attend (although you’d pay for food and drink). 

Paris in the Fall FAQ

As you prepare for your trip, you might be wondering:

Is Paris nice to visit in the fall?

The lovely parks and gardens of Paris can look even prettier in fall, as the leaves change color. In early autumn, the city is often blessed with sunny days. Later in the season, cooler weather gives you the perfect excuse to stop for a coffee or hot chocolate in a Paris cafe. 

What are the fall months in Paris?

Like the rest of Europe and North America, fall spans September, October and November, according to the meteorological calendar. Astronomical autumn, though, is from around 22nd September to 21st December. This date varies slightly each year.

Is October a good time to go to Paris?

October is the best month to see fall leaves in Paris. Though the weather’s colder than in summer, it’s not yet too chilly, either. The leaves usually start changing color in early October, and begin falling from the trees by the beginning of November. This makes October the perfect time to see fall colors in Paris!

What is the cheapest time to go to Paris?

The least costly time to visit Paris is in winter, except for the Christmas season – so early December, January and February. But between April and May, and from October to November, Paris offers mild weather and fewer crowds, plus cheaper prices than in summer. 

Paris in the Fall | Final Thoughts

Whatever time of year you go, Paris is a wonderful place to be. Which is why I’ve been so many times!

The fall leaves are at their finest in October, if that’s your thing. At this time of year you can also pay less for your trip, navigate fewer crowds and enjoy fairly mild weather throughout autumn. 

As fall weather in Paris can be shifty, it’s best to plan your packing list and activities according to the month, rather than the season as a whole. Paris in September is a lot warmer than Paris in November! Whenever you go, I’m sure you’ll have a lovely visit to this special city.

The post Paris in the Fall: Weather, What to Do and How to Dress first appeared on Globe Gazers .