Giverny

The basics

The most popular way to visit the Monet House and Gardens is by taking a day trip to Giverny from Paris. Tours generally include visits to the artist's home and garden as well as to the Museum of Impressionism (Musee des Impressionnismes), dedicated to various forms of impressionist painting.

While taking a Giverny full-day trip from Paris is ideal if you want to immerse yourself in the artist's life, combination options are a good idea for those short on time. Some tours from Paris combine Giverny and Monet's house with a skip-the-line visit to the Palace of Versailles. Others take travelers to the town of Auvers-sur-Oise, the village in which Vincent van Gogh spent his final days.

Things to know before you go

• A Giverny tour is ideal for art enthusiasts, especially impressionism fans.

• The journey to Giverny, along the banks of the Seine River and through the sunflower fields of Normandy, is almost as good as the destination.

• There are no ATMs or currency exchange bureaus in the village, so be sure to bring cash.

• Although hotels are available, the village's small size means availability is limited, so most people visit on day trips from Paris. Make sure to book in advance if you plan on staying overnight.

• Giverny and Monet's Garden are partly accessible for wheelchair users although Monet's House is not.

How to get there

Giverny is about 45 miles (75 kilometers) from Paris by road. If you're coming by train, catch the SNCF from Paris's Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon on the Paris-Rouen-Le Havre line. From Vernon, you can catch a bus or taxi, or rent a bicycle, to get to the house and garden. The majority of guided tours from Paris include round-trip transportation.

When to get there

Note that Monet's house and the majority of Giverny's restaurants and guesthouses are closed between November and Easter weekend. Although Giverny is very busy in the summer months, large tour groups fail to make the hamlet any less beautiful. Arrive early for the best experience or buy timed Giverny tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

Claude Monet, Giverny's most famous resident

Claude Monet—known for La Grenouillère, the Water Lilies series, and Impressionism, soleil levant—lived in Giverny between 1883 and his death in 1926. He was also the founder of impressionism, with the movement's name deriving from one of his paintings. Fans of his work shouldn't miss the chance to visit his well-preserved house in Giverny.

Ways to explore

The most popular way to visit Monet’s House and Gardens is by taking a day trip to Giverny from Paris. Tours typically visit the Fondation Claude Monet—the artist’s home and garden—as well as the Museum of Impressionism (Musée des Impressionnismes). Combination tours are also a good idea for those short on time: Some itineraries pair Giverny with visits to the Palace of Versailles or Auvers-sur-Oise, the village in which Vincent van Gogh spent his final days. You’ll find art galleries, boutiques, a bakery, and other quaint stops in the town of Giverny.

Accessibility

Some attractions in Giverny are accessible, including Monet’s garden, although his house does not have step-free access.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Small handheld bag, camera, foldable umbrella

What to wear

Particularly if visiting Monet’s garden, be sure to wear weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes.

Not allowed

Suitcases or large bags, pets, art supplies

Amenities

Seasonal restaurant, restrooms and restaurant in the Museum of Impressionism

Address

Giverny is located in Normandy, roughly 52 miles (83 kilometers) northwest of Paris. Direct trains run between Paris and the nearby station of Vernon-Giverny, and driving is another option. Guided tours with transit offer an easy way to get there.

Driving

Driving between Paris and Giverny typically takes around 90 minutes. The most direct route is via the A13. Free parking lots are available in Giverny.

Public transportation

Direct trains run between Paris’ Gare Saint-Lazare and Vernon-Giverny, located 4 miles (6 kilometers) from the village. Buses (including the 10 and 208) and taxis run between the two.

Best times to visit

If you want to beat the crowds at the Fondation Claude Monet, arrive early in the morning, near the site’s opening time. Otherwise, opt for late afternoon.

Best days to visit

The Fondation Claude Monet and the Museum of Impressionism are open daily in season. Weekdays are usually less crowded and less hectic than weekends.

Best months to visit

Summer is the most popular time in Giverny, but spring and autumn offer pretty flowers and fewer crowds. Avoid November to March, when local attractions are closed for the season.

Special events

The Normandy Impressionist Festival is held in Giverny—and other locations across the region—in July and August in select years.