Explore the best of Giverny, France with our travel guide. Discover Monet's gardens, must-see attractions, local dining, and tips for making the most of your visit to this charming Normandy village.
Nestled in the heart of Normandy, Giverny is a picturesque village that captivates visitors with its rich artistic heritage and serene natural beauty. Best known as the home of Claude Monet, the father of Impressionism, Giverny offers a tranquil escape filled with enchanting gardens, historic landmarks, and a sense of timeless charm. Whether you’re an art lover, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, this guide will help you discover the best of Giverny, from its iconic attractions to hidden gems.
Best Time to Visit Giverny
The best time to visit Giverny is between late April and October, when Claude Monet's gardens are in full bloom. May and June offer the most vibrant colors, while September and October bring a calmer atmosphere with autumn hues. For fewer crowds, consider visiting in early May or late September.
Why visit during spring and summer? This period showcases the gardens' vivid colors, including Monet’s iconic water lilies in full bloom. The pleasant weather also allows for leisurely outdoor exploration. Spring offers blooming tulips, irises, and peonies, while summer highlights water lilies and wisteria.
Tips:
Avoid peak times (weekends and French holidays) to experience a more serene visit.
Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best light for photography and fewer crowds.
Getting to Giverny and Getting Around Giverny
Getting to Giverny
From Paris:Â Giverny is a 1.5-hour drive from Paris. Alternatively, you can take a train from Paris's Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon-Giverny, which takes about 45 minutes. From Vernon, a shuttle bus (or taxi) will take you to Giverny, just 15 minutes away.
By car: If you're driving, the journey from Paris takes around 1.5 hours, and there is ample parking available near Monet’s house and gardens.
By bike:Â If you enjoy cycling, renting a bike in Vernon and riding the scenic 5-kilometer path to Giverny is a peaceful and enjoyable option.
Getting Around Giverny:Â Giverny is small and best explored on foot or by bike. Most attractions are within walking distance, and a stroll through the village allows you to appreciate the charming architecture and lush gardens.
Tips:
Shuttle services from Vernon-Giverny run frequently, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Walking shoes:Â Wear comfortable shoes, as much of the terrain in and around the gardens can be uneven or gravelly.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Giverny
Top Attractions in Giverny
Giverny’s biggest draw is Claude Monet's former home and gardens, but there are several other must-see attractions that add to the village’s charm.
Monet's House and Gardens
Why Visit? Experience the iconic water garden with its Japanese bridge, lily ponds, and the vibrant flower garden known as the Clos Normand. Monet’s home is preserved as it was during his lifetime, providing insight into the artist’s world.
Tips:Â Buy tickets online to skip the queue. Mornings are best to avoid crowds.
Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny (Museum of Impressionism Giverny)
Why Visit? Dedicated to the Impressionist movement, this museum showcases works from Monet and his contemporaries, exploring how the movement developed in the region.
Tips: Check their website for temporary exhibitions that complement the permanent collection.
Église Sainte-Radegonde
Why Visit? A quaint 12th-century church where Claude Monet and his family are buried. It offers a peaceful spot for reflection.
Tips:Â Combine a visit here with a stroll around the village to explore local architecture.
Hôtel Baudy
Why Visit? Once a meeting place for American Impressionists and artists visiting Monet, the café still captures the spirit of that era. Visit the café or take a look at the atelier in the back garden.
Tips:Â Enjoy a lunch or coffee while soaking in the artistic history of the place.
The Old Mill of Vernon
Why Visit? Though technically in Vernon, this iconic old mill perched on the banks of the Seine River is a beautiful sight to visit before or after exploring Giverny. It offers a picturesque view that echoes the serenity and inspiration of the region's artistic legacy.
Tips:Â The best way to enjoy the mill is during a scenic walk along the Seine or from the nearby footbridge.
Musée de Mécanique Naturelle (Museum of Mechanical Naturalism)
Why Visit? This quirky and lesser-known museum showcases an array of historic agricultural machines and industrial tools. It provides a fascinating contrast to the art-focused attractions and offers a glimpse into the technological history of the region.
Tips:Â It's a short visit but an interesting one for anyone fascinated by mechanical innovations and history.
Le Chemin du Roy (The King's Road)
Why Visit? This ancient road, once used by royalty and traders, takes you on a scenic journey through Giverny’s countryside, allowing you to enjoy the landscape that inspired Monet and other Impressionists.
Tips:Â Ideal for those who enjoy walking or cycling, the route offers stunning views and a peaceful experience away from the busier tourist spots.
The Wildflower Meadow
Why Visit? Just a short walk from Monet’s gardens is a natural wildflower meadow, designed to reflect Monet’s love for the untamed beauty of nature. This tranquil spot is perfect for relaxing, walking, or enjoying a quiet picnic surrounded by native flowers.
Tips:Â Visit in late spring or summer to see the meadow at its most colorful.
Top Activities to do in Giverny
Photography in Monet’s Gardens:
Why Do It? Capture the essence of the beautiful landscapes that inspired Monet’s works, from the vibrant flower beds to the serene water lily pond.
Tips:Â Early morning light provides the best conditions for photographs, especially with fewer crowds.
Cycling around the Seine Valley:
Why Do It? Explore the picturesque countryside of the Seine Valley, with easy cycling paths leading to surrounding villages and scenic spots.
Tips:Â Rent a bike in Vernon and ride along the bike-friendly paths to Giverny and beyond.
Art Classes and Workshops:
Why Do It? Immerse yourself in the artistic heritage of Giverny by joining a local art class or workshop, often hosted in nearby studios.
Tips:Â Check for seasonal workshops that coincide with your visit.
Picnic by the Seine River:
Why Do It? Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely meal by the Seine, surrounded by the calming natural beauty that inspired many Impressionist artists.
Tips:Â Stop by local shops or markets in Vernon to gather fresh picnic supplies.
Where to Eat in Giverny
Why Eat Here? Located just steps away from Monet’s gardens, this restaurant offers traditional French cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
Tips:Â Make a reservation, as it can fill up quickly during peak season.
Hôtel Baudy Café
Why Eat Here? Experience a bit of artistic history while enjoying classic French dishes in a cozy garden setting.
Tips:Â Visit during the afternoon for a quiet coffee and dessert.
Why Eat Here? Set in a charming old house, this restaurant offers fine dining with a menu that highlights local seasonal ingredients.
Tips:Â Book ahead, especially in the summer.
Where to Stay in Giverny
Why Stay Here? A boutique hotel with art-deco touches, beautiful gardens, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Tips:Â Opt for a garden view room for a more peaceful experience.
Why Stay Here? Just a 20-minute drive from Giverny, this luxurious hotel is set in a beautifully restored 18th-century manor. Surrounded by expansive gardens and a peaceful countryside, Domaine de Primard offers refined elegance and comfort, making it a perfect retreat after exploring Monet’s village. The hotel also features a gourmet restaurant, a spa, and a heated outdoor pool, ensuring a serene and rejuvenating stay.
Tips:Â Book a garden room for a stunning view of the landscaped grounds. Don't miss the organic farm-to-table dining experience at their restaurant, which focuses on local seasonal ingredients.
Why Stay Here? Set in a restored 13th-century house, this guesthouse offers a unique blend of history and comfort, with spacious rooms and beautiful views.
Tips:Â Enjoy the local wines served by the hosts.
Travel Tips for Visiting Giverny
Book in Advance: Tickets to Monet’s Gardens can sell out, especially in peak season. Booking online ensures entry and reduces waiting time.
Visit Early or Late in the Day:Â The gardens are busiest between 10 am and 3 pm. Plan to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Stay Overnight:Â Most tourists visit Giverny as a day trip, so staying overnight allows you to experience the village in a quieter, more relaxed way.
Combine with a Trip to Vernon:Â Spend some time in Vernon to explore its medieval architecture and charming town center.
Bring a Camera or Sketchbook:Â The village and surrounding landscape provide endless inspiration for photography or sketching, so be sure to bring creative tools with you.
Giverny is not just a visit to Monet’s gardens; it’s a journey through the heart of Impressionist history, surrounded by the natural beauty that inspired one of the world’s greatest artists.
