If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into an impressionist painting, Giverny is your ticket. This picture-perfect village is where Claude Monet built the world-famous gardens that inspired his water lily masterpieces, and it’s an easy, inspiring day trip from Paris.
Instead of fighting city crowds, spend a day exploring Monet’s home, the lush Japanese bridge, and the peaceful Normandy countryside. Let’s plan the ultimate nerdy art-and-nature getaway.
How to Get from Paris to Giverny
Getting there is simpler than you might think:
- By Train: Take the [SNCF train](https://www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/train/timetable/paris/ Vernon-Giverny) from Paris Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon-Giverny (about 45–50 minutes), then hop the local shuttle bus or rent a bike for the final 5 km.
- By Car: Driving takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, with easy parking at Giverny’s village center.
- By Tour: If you prefer stress-free organization, check GetYourGuide Giverny tours or Viator’s options for pre-packaged experiences.
? Pro nerd tip: combine your ticket with the Impressionism Museum to skip lines and get a deeper dive into Monet’s world.
Visiting Monet’s House and Gardens
Monet’s home is the highlight of Giverny — think bright pink walls, colorful interiors, and a studio where he created his garden series. You’ll find:
- The Clos Normand: An explosion of flowers with perfectly arranged color beds
- The Water Garden: Complete with famous green bridge and the water lilies Monet painted again and again
- The Studio: Preserved with authentic sketches, prints, and personal objects
Grab tickets from the Fondation Claude Monet website to guarantee entry. And yes, early morning slots are far less crowded.
Explore the Village of Giverny
Don’t rush straight back to Paris after the house. Wander through Giverny’s charming village:
- Musée des Impressionnismes: Great complement to Monet’s work
- Rue Claude Monet: Cafés, small shops, and flower-laden streets
- Ancien Hôtel Baudy: Former artist hangout that is now a restaurant
Pack a picnic if you like, or settle down for lunch at Le Jardin des Plumes, a Michelin-starred spot blending modern French cuisine with a garden view (see their website).
When to Visit
The gardens are open from April to November, and peak bloom usually hits late May through early July.
Weekends get crowded, especially during high bloom. If you can, plan for a Tuesday or Wednesday when crowds are lighter, and the gardens are calm enough to channel your inner Monet.
Final Thoughts
If you love art, flowers, or simply quiet country charm, Giverny is a day trip that hits every note. The village practically feels like an impressionist painting come to life — a refreshing contrast to Paris’ busy streets.
So take the train, grab your camera, and follow Paris to Giverny for a perfect day of inspiration and beauty.
