Monet’s Garden in Giverny is a must-see for art lovers, garden enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a serene escape from the city. Just a short journey from Paris, Giverny offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the landscapes that inspired Claude Monet’s iconic works. There are several convenient ways to reach this picturesque village, each suited to different travel preferences.
For those seeking an all-inclusive experience, joining a tour group provides a stress-free way to enjoy Monet’s Garden, complete with guided insights and easy transportation. Alternatively, the train offers a quick, budget-friendly route to the nearby town of Vernon, where shuttles, taxis, and bike rentals make it easy to complete the journey to Giverny. For travelers who prefer more flexibility, driving from Paris to Giverny allows you to explore at your own pace, with scenic Normandy views along the way and convenient parking options in the village.
In this guide, we’ll explore each option in detail, helping you choose the best way to visit Monet’s Garden and make your trip to Giverny as memorable as possible.
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Toggle1. Paris to Giverny with a Tour Group

Why Choose a Tour Group to Visit Giverny?
Joining a tour group from Paris to Giverny is an excellent choice for travelers who want a stress-free trip. Tours offer transportation, skip-the-line access, and expert guides, allowing you to relax and fully enjoy the experience. This option is perfect for visitors with limited time, those who prefer not to navigate public transit, or anyone seeking insightful commentary on Monet’s life and legacy.
Types of Tours from Paris to Giverny
There are several types of group tours available, depending on your interests and schedule:
1. Half-Day Small Group Tour – 5 Hours – €110
This half-day small group tour is a great choice for travelers who want a more intimate, guided experience of Monet’s garden. With a small group size, it allows for a personalized, immersive visit with expert commentary on Monet’s life and legacy.
- Small Group Size: Limited to 8 people, this tour offers a more intimate experience, making it easy to interact with the guide and ask questions.
- Skip-the-Line Access: Enjoy immediate entry to Monet’s house and gardens, giving you more time to explore.
- Comfortable Transport: Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned van for a smooth and scenic ride from Paris to Giverny.
- Flexible Booking Options: Take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the “Book Now, Pay Later” option, offering peace of mind when planning.
- Insightful Guide: Learn about Monet, the Impressionist movement, and the significance of the gardens from an experienced guide.
This tour combines convenience, comfort, and a highly informative experience, making it ideal for art lovers and those seeking a peaceful, enriching escape.
2. Half-Day Large Group Tour – 5.5 Hours – €75
The large group half-day tour is a budget-friendly choice that includes transportation, entry fees, and a self-guided audio tour, allowing you to enjoy Giverny at your own pace.
- Affordable Price: At €75, this tour offers exceptional value, covering round-trip transportation and entry fees.
- Skip-the-Line Access: Bypass the lines to enter Monet’s estate and make the most of your visit.
- Comfortable Coach Transport: Travel from Paris to Giverny in an air-conditioned coach, enjoying the scenic countryside views along the way.
- Self-Guided Audio Tour: Explore Monet’s house and gardens with a self-guided audio app, which provides insights into his life and works.
- Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure gives you flexibility in case of last-minute changes.
Ideal for solo travelers, families, or anyone looking for a cost-effective way to visit Giverny, this tour offers everything you need for a memorable experience.
3. Private Tour with Art Historian – 5 Hours – €385
- Private and Personalized: Enjoy the tour with just your group, allowing for a customized pace and the flexibility to focus on areas of interest.
- Expert Art Historian Guide: An art historian shares in-depth insights into Monet’s life, work, and the Impressionist movement, offering a richer understanding of the gardens and his art.
- Luxury Transportation: Travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience.
- Skip-the-Line Access: Bypass waiting lines to enter Monet’s estate, making the most of your time.
- Scenic Stroll Through Giverny Village: After exploring the gardens, take a relaxing walk through the charming streets of Giverny, discovering art galleries, cafes, and local landmarks.
This VIP experience is ideal for art enthusiasts or those looking for a peaceful, customized tour with expert guidance.
4. Full-Day Giverny and Versailles Combo Tour – 11 Hours – €140
- Two Iconic Sites in One Day: Visit both Monet’s garden and the Palace of Versailles, making it a highly efficient day trip.
- Skip-the-Line Access: Fast-track entry at both sites ensures you have plenty of time to enjoy each location.
- Expert Guide: A knowledgeable guide provides insights into Monet’s life as well as the history of the French monarchy at Versailles.
- Free Time to Explore: After the guided portions, enjoy free time to wander the gardens at both Giverny and Versailles, explore the village of Giverny, and enjoy the picturesque Versailles grounds.
- Comfortable Transport: Travel in an air-conditioned coach with a central departure point in Paris, making it easy to access and enjoy the day trip.
This combo tour is perfect for those with a full day to spare who want a deeper dive into French art, culture, and history, with the convenience of guided access to both sites.
Read the complete article on The 6 Best Giverny Tours From Paris and find your ideal tour!
What to Expect on a Giverny Tour

Most tours to Giverny include the following:
- Comfortable Transport: Tours typically provide round-trip transportation from central Paris in a comfortable coach, minibus, or van. Departure points are often conveniently located near major landmarks or metro stations.
- Skip-the-Line Access: One of the major benefits of a group tour is priority access to Monet’s Garden, meaning you can avoid long lines, especially in peak season.
- Guided Commentary: Your guide will share fascinating insights about Monet’s life, the creation of his gardens, and the artistic inspiration behind his famous Water Lilies series. Many guides are art historians or locals with a passion for Monet and Impressionism, bringing an added layer of depth to your visit.
- Free Time to Explore: While guided tours provide structure, they also offer free time to explore the gardens, take photos, or visit the gift shop at your own pace.
Pros and Cons of a Tour Group Experience
Pros:
- Convenience: No need to plan transportation, buy tickets, or navigate directions.
- Expert Guidance: Learn in-depth details about Monet’s life and art from an experienced guide.
- Skip-the-Line Access: Avoid the long entrance lines during peak season.
Cons:
- Less Flexibility: Tours follow a set schedule, which may limit your time for independent exploration.
- Higher Cost: While convenient, tours can be more expensive than self-guided trips.
Taking a tour from Paris to Giverny is a fantastic way to explore this iconic site with ease and expert guidance. With transportation, entry, and insightful commentary all arranged for you, joining a group tour is a stress-free and enriching way to experience the world of Monet.
2. Paris to Giverny by Train
Monet’s Garden in Giverny is a must-visit for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, located just a short journey from Paris. Though this charming village with only about 500 residents does not have its own train station, getting there by train from Paris is the most popular, efficient, and budget-friendly option.
Getting to Vernon from Paris by Train
Giverny is accessible by taking a train to Gare de Vernon-Giverny in the town of Vernon, located just 5 km (about 3 miles) from Giverny. The trains to Vernon depart from Gare Saint-Lazare in Paris, an iconic station famously painted by Monet himself.
Buying Train Tickets
- Where to Buy: You can purchase tickets online in advance on the SNCF website, the app, or at the station on the day of your trip. Buying tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Ticket Machines: At Gare Saint-Lazare, look for the ticket machines labeled “Grandes Lignes” for long-distance journeys. Avoid the “Ile-de-France” machines, which are for regional travel within Paris and its suburbs.
- Price: Ticket prices vary depending on the time of booking, but expect to pay around 10–15 € for a one-way ticket.
Train Journey Details
- Travel Time: The train ride from Paris to Vernon typically takes 50-65 minutes, making it a quick and convenient journey.
- Frequency: Trains run regularly throughout the day, with departures approximately every 1–2 hours. Check the schedule in advance to plan your timing.
Tip: Hold onto your ticket after boarding, as you’ll need it for inspection during the journey and possibly to exit the station in Vernon. Not having your ticket may result in a fine.
Arriving in Vernon: Getting from Vernon to Giverny
Once you arrive at Gare de Vernon-Giverny, you’re just a short distance away from Monet’s Garden. Here are your options to reach Giverny:
Option 1: Shuttle Bus (Most Convenient)

- Seasonal Service: A shuttle bus, or navette, operates from April to November and connects Vernon station directly to Giverny.
- Travel Time: The shuttle ride takes approximately 15 minutes.
- Cost: A round-trip ticket typically costs around 10 €.
Giverny Shuttle Schedule (Vernon -> Giverny)
Giverny Shuttle Schedule (Giverny-> Vernon)
- Where to Buy Tickets: Tickets can be purchased on the bus or online.
- For more information, visit the official shuttle website here.

This shuttle service is well-timed with the train arrivals from Paris, making it a smooth and popular option for travelers.
Option 2: Taxi
- Availability: Taxis are available at Vernon station, though booking in advance during high season is recommended to avoid waiting.
- Travel Time: About 10–15 minutes to Giverny.
- Cost: Expect to pay around 15–20 € for the trip.
Taxis are a good alternative if you’re traveling with a group or if the shuttle is fully booked.
Option 3: Bike Rental (Scenic Option)
- Rental Availability: Bikes can be rented from shops near the station in Vernon.
- Travel Time: Cycling takes about 20–25 minutes, following a scenic path along the Seine and through the countryside.
- Cost: Bike rentals cost around 15 € for the day.
This is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the picturesque landscapes at a leisurely pace.
Option 4: Walking
- Distance and Time: If you’re up for a walk, it’s about a 5 km (3-mile) journey from Vernon to Giverny, which takes about an hour.
Walking offers a tranquil experience through the countryside but may be best for those with extra time and energy.
Total Travel Time from Paris to Giverny
The entire trip from Paris to Monet’s Garden, including train and shuttle, typically takes around 1.5 hours. Starting early in the morning is a great way to make the most of your visit, especially in the busy season.
Additional Tips for Your Trip
- Navigating Gare Saint-Lazare: The station can feel large and busy due to its shopping center and multiple levels. Look for signs directing you to “Grandes Lignes” (long-distance trains) to find your platform.
- Return Trip: Plan your return journey in advance, as trains back to Paris from Vernon also fill up quickly in the afternoon, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October is ideal, as the gardens are in full bloom. Arriving early or late in the day helps avoid crowds.
Pros and Cons of taking the train from Paris to Giverny

Pros
Fast and Convenient
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- The train ride from Gare Saint-Lazare in Paris to Vernon-Giverny station is direct and takes about 45 minutes, making it one of the quickest ways to reach Giverny.
Affordable
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- Train tickets are typically around €10–15 one-way, making it a budget-friendly option for most travelers. Purchasing tickets in advance may offer additional savings.
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Scenic Route
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- The train passes through beautiful Norman landscapes, so you’ll get a glimpse of the countryside en route to Vernon.
Frequent Departures
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- Trains to Vernon run regularly throughout the day, usually every 1–2 hours, so you have flexibility in planning your trip and return.
Eco-Friendly
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- Trains are one of the most sustainable ways to travel, so taking the train to Giverny is a good choice for environmentally conscious travelers.
Multiple Transfer Options in Vernon
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- Once at the Vernon station, there are several easy ways to reach Giverny, including a seasonal shuttle bus, taxi, bike rental, or even walking for those who enjoy a longer stroll.
Cons
Transfer Needed from Vernon to Giverny
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- There is no direct train service to Giverny itself, so you’ll need to take a shuttle, taxi, or bike for the final 5 km from Vernon to Monet’s Garden. This can add time and an extra step to the journey.
Seasonal Shuttle Bus
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- The shuttle bus from Vernon to Giverny only operates from April to October, so if you’re visiting outside this period, your transfer options will be limited to taxis or bike rentals.
Potential Crowds in High Season
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- During peak season (spring and summer), trains to Vernon can get crowded with tourists. Booking tickets in advance and taking an early train can help, but trains may still be busy.
Possible Delays or Strikes
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- While generally reliable, trains in France occasionally experience delays or service disruptions, particularly during strike periods, which could impact travel plans.
Need to Retain Train Tickets
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- You must keep your ticket for the duration of the trip, as it may be needed to exit the station at Vernon. Losing it could result in a fine or inconvenience.
3. Paris to Giverny by Car
Driving from Paris to Giverny offers a flexible and scenic way to reach Monet’s iconic gardens, ideal for travelers who prefer the freedom to stop along the way or explore nearby attractions like Château de La Roche-Guyon.
Directions and Route from Paris to Giverny
For a straightforward route to Giverny, follow these directions:
- Highway A13 (Autoroute de Normandie): Depart Paris via the A13, heading west towards Rouen. This well-maintained highway offers beautiful countryside views and is generally free-flowing, especially outside peak travel times.
- Exit 14: Bonnières-sur-Seine/Giverny: Take Exit 14 onto D201, which will lead you directly to Giverny in about 15 minutes.
- Distance: Approximately 75 km (46 miles).
- Drive Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes without traffic—allow extra time if you’re traveling during peak season or rush hours.
Tip: Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to check real-time traffic conditions and avoid congestion.
Parking in Giverny
Giverny is a small village with designated parking areas for visitors:
- Free Parking: There’s free parking available at the entrance to Giverny, just a few minutes’ walk from Monet’s Garden and the Musée des Impressionnismes.
- Capacity: The parking area can fill up quickly during peak season (April to October), so arriving early in the morning is recommended for the best spots.
Practical Tips for Driving to Giverny
- Tolls: The A13 highway has tolls. Expect to pay around €2.50 one-way, and it’s best to have cash or a credit card handy for quick payment.
- Fuel: Make sure you have enough fuel before heading into the countryside, as gas stations can be scarce near Giverny.
- Timing: To avoid traffic, steer clear of rush hours around Paris (7-9 am and 5-7 pm).
When to Drive for the Best Experience
- Early Morning: Departing early allows you to bypass traffic and arrive before the crowds—a great tip for peak season.
- Season: Spring and summer are ideal for seeing the gardens in bloom but also attract the most visitors. Fall offers a quieter experience and beautiful autumn scenery.