DISCOVER MONET'S IMPRESSIONIST PARADISE
Immerse yourself in the world of Impressionism with Bellidays' exclusive private tour to Giverny, the enchanting Norman village where Claude Monet lived and created his most iconic masterpieces. Your certified bilingual driver-guide will escort you through Monet's legendary gardens and the charming village that inspired an entire artistic movement.
From the vibrant colors of the flower gardens to the serene beauty of the water lily pond with its famous Japanese bridge, Giverny offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Impressionist art. This intimate village on the Seine continues to captivate artists and art lovers from around the world.
Important Departure Information
- Day Trips: Available from Normandy locations (Honfleur, Rouen, Bayeux, Caen, etc.) - Perfect for half-day or full-day excursions
- From Paris: Giverny visits are included as part of multi-day Normandy tours only (2-day, 5-day itineraries)
- Not Available: Day trip from Paris with return same day
Tour Highlights:
Monet's House & Studios
Visit Claude Monet's beautifully restored pink house where he lived from 1883 to 1926. Explore his bright yellow dining room, blue-tiled kitchen, and collection of Japanese prints. See the studios where he painted his famous Water Lilies series and other Impressionist masterpieces.
The Clos Normand Garden
Wander through Monet's meticulously designed flower garden, the Clos Normand, bursting with seasonal blooms. From April tulips to September dahlias, the garden showcases Monet's mastery of color composition in three dimensions. See nasturtiums, roses, irises, and countless species arranged in the same vibrant palette as his paintings.
Water Garden & Japanese Bridge
Cross the iconic green Japanese bridge draped with wisteria and stand before the water lily pond that inspired Monet's most celebrated works. Watch the play of light on water, observe weeping willows reflected in the pond, and understand how this serene setting became the subject of nearly 250 oil paintings.
Musée des Impressionnismes
Discover the Museum of Impressionisms Giverny, dedicated to the history and impact of Impressionist art. Rotating exhibitions showcase works by Monet and his contemporaries who were drawn to Giverny's unique light and landscape. The museum's garden itself is a masterpiece of color and design.
Giverny Village & Art Galleries
Stroll through the charming village streets lined with art galleries, artist studios, and traditional Norman houses. Visit the Church of Sainte-Radegonde where Monet and his family attended services. Browse local artisan shops and discover contemporary artists who continue Giverny's creative legacy.
Gourmet Norman Cuisine
Enjoy lunch at one of Giverny's excellent restaurants serving authentic Norman specialties. Savor dishes prepared with local ingredients: cream sauces, apple tarts, cider, and Calvados. Dine with garden views in settings that maintain the village's artistic atmosphere.
What Makes This Tour Special:
- Skip-the-Line Access: We arrange priority entry to minimize waiting time, especially during peak spring/summer season
- Expert Art Commentary: Your guide shares insights into Monet's life, techniques, and the Impressionist movement
- Seasonal Beauty: Each season offers different flowers and atmospheres - spring tulips, summer roses, autumn dahlias
- Photography Opportunities: Capture the same views that inspired Monet's masterpieces
- Flexible Pacing: Spend as much time as you wish in the gardens and village - this is your private tour
- Combined Itineraries: Easily combine with Rouen Cathedral, Vernon, or other nearby Normandy attractions
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (April-May)
Tulips, wisteria on the Japanese bridge, apple blossoms, fresh green foliage. Peak blooming season with vibrant colors.
Summer (June-August)
Water lilies in full bloom, roses, nasturtiums, lavender. Long daylight hours and lush garden growth. Peak tourist season.
Autumn (September-October)
Dahlias, autumn foliage, golden light. Fewer crowds, warm colors, and the gardens Monet loved in his later years.
Winter (November-March)
Gardens closed to the public. However, the village and Museum of Impressionisms remain open for off-season visits.
Sample Half-Day Itinerary (4-5 hours from Normandy)
Perfect for guests staying in Honfleur, Rouen, Vernon, or other Normandy locations
Departure from Your Hotel
Your private driver-guide picks you up at your Normandy accommodation in luxury Mercedes vehicle. Scenic drive through the Seine Valley.
Monet's House & Clos Normand Garden
Begin with the Clos Normand, Monet's spectacular flower garden. Your guide explains the garden's design, seasonal blooms, and Monet's horticultural passion. Visit the pink house with its famous rooms and Japanese print collection.
Water Garden & Japanese Bridge
Cross the road to the famous Water Garden. Stand on the Japanese bridge, observe the water lilies, weeping willows, and bamboo grove. Understand how this setting inspired nearly 250 paintings. Perfect photography opportunities.
Giverny Village Exploration
Stroll through the charming village streets. Visit art galleries, artisan shops, and the Church of Sainte-Radegonde. Browse for souvenirs and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that continues to attract artists worldwide.
Return to Your Hotel
Comfortable return drive to your Normandy accommodation with time for questions and reflections on the experience.
Sample Full-Day Itinerary (7-8 hours from Normandy)
Includes lunch and optional combination with Rouen or Vernon
Departure & Scenic Drive
Pickup from your hotel with introduction to the day's itinerary. Drive through the beautiful Norman countryside and Seine Valley with commentary on the region's history and artistic heritage.
Complete Giverny Experience
Extended time to explore Monet's House, both gardens (Clos Normand and Water Garden), and the Musée des Impressionnismes. Your guide provides in-depth commentary on Monet's life, artistic techniques, and the Impressionist movement. Plenty of time for photography and personal reflection.
Gourmet Norman Lunch
Savor traditional Norman cuisine at a carefully selected restaurant in Giverny or nearby Vernon. Enjoy local specialties with garden views and authentic regional atmosphere.
Optional Add-On Activities
Choose from several options:
- Rouen Cathedral: Visit the Gothic masterpiece that Monet painted in his famous series (30 minutes from Giverny)
- Vernon Old Town: Explore this medieval town with half-timbered houses and the Old Mill on the Seine
- La Roche-Guyon: Visit this Renaissance château built into chalk cliffs overlooking the Seine
- Extended Giverny Time: Return to the gardens for different afternoon light or additional museum time
Return to Hotel
Relaxing return journey to your accommodation with final opportunities for questions and travel recommendations.
Important Notes
- Gardens are closed from November to March - visit planning accordingly
- Skip-the-line access can be arranged but advance booking is essential during April-October
- Photography is allowed in the gardens but not inside Monet's house
- Comfortable walking shoes recommended - gardens have gravel paths
- All itineraries are completely flexible and can be customized to your interests
What Our Guests Say About Giverny Tours:
A Dream Come True for Art Lovers
Margaret T. - Boston, USA - May 2024
As a lifelong admirer of Monet's work, visiting Giverny was at the top of my bucket list. Belinda made it absolutely magical. Her deep knowledge of Impressionism and Monet's life brought every corner of the gardens to life. We visited in late April when the wisteria was blooming on the Japanese bridge - the exact scene from so many paintings! She knew the best times to visit different sections to avoid crowds and get the best light for photos. The lunch recommendation at Les Nymphéas was perfect. Worth every penny for art enthusiasts.
Perfect Day in the Gardens
Sophie M. - London, UK - June 2024
We combined Giverny with Rouen Cathedral in a full-day tour from our Honfleur hotel. Belinda's expertise in art history was impressive - she connected Monet's cathedral paintings in Rouen with his garden work in Giverny beautifully. The gardens in June were absolutely stunning with roses and water lilies in full bloom. She gave us plenty of time to wander on our own while being available for questions. The Mercedes was immaculate and comfortable. Highly recommend the full-day option to really savor the experience without rushing.
Exceeded All Expectations
Robert & Linda K. - Melbourne, Australia - September 2024
Our visit to Giverny was the highlight of our Normandy stay. We went in September and the dahlias were spectacular - Belinda explained these were Monet's favorite autumn flowers. She secured early entry tickets so we had the water garden almost to ourselves for the first hour. Her photography tips were invaluable - she showed us exactly where Monet set up his easel for famous paintings. The Museum of Impressionisms was a wonderful addition we wouldn't have known about. Professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about sharing this special place.
Personal and Unforgettable
Carlos D. - Madrid, Spain - May 2024
Belinda conducted our tour in perfect Spanish, which my parents greatly appreciated. She tailored the pace to accommodate my mother's mobility limitations, finding benches throughout the gardens for rest stops with beautiful views. Her stories about Monet's family life and daily routines in the house made it feel so personal and real. We learned about his Japanese print collection, his famous yellow dining room, and how he designed the water garden himself. The spring tulips were breathtaking. A deeply enriching cultural experience delivered with warmth and expertise.
Why Choose Bellidays for Giverny:
- 17+ years expertise in Normandy art and history
- Art history knowledge bringing Impressionism to life
- Skip-the-line access arrangements during peak season
- Multilingual certified guide (English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese)
- Flexible itineraries adapted to your interests and pace
- Luxury Mercedes transportation with comfort and style
- Photography guidance for the best Monet-inspired shots
- Small group guarantee - your private experience
GIVERNY IN IMAGES
Experience the beauty of Monet's gardens through the seasons
DISCOVER MORE
OTHER NORMANDY TOURS
Explore more of Normandy's treasures with our private guided tours
Honfleur Private Tour
Discover the enchanting harbor town that inspired the Impressionists. Picturesque Vieux Bassin, charming streets, and artistic heritage.
Rouen Private Tour
Explore Normandy's historic capital. Gothic cathedral that Monet painted 30 times, Joan of Arc history, and medieval charm.
Étretat Private Tour
Experience the spectacular white chalk cliffs and natural arches that inspired Monet. Breathtaking coastal scenery of the Alabaster Coast.