Giverny Monet’s Garden & Auvers-sur-Oise with Van Gogh House Full Day From Paris

This full-day tour from Paris offers a special glimpse into the lives and works of two towering figures of French art: Claude Monet and Vincent Van Gogh. For $254.89 per person, the experience lasts approximately 10 hours, transporting you from the bustling city to the peaceful countryside of Giverny and Auvers-sur-Oise. The tour is designed for small groups, capped at 8 people, ensuring an intimate atmosphere that allows more personal engagement and detailed storytelling from the guide.

This journey includes visits to Monet’s home and flower gardens, where the Japanese Water Garden and Clos Normand Garden are highlights. You’ll also explore Van Gogh’s boarding house, Auberge Ravoux, and follow his artists’ trail through Auvers-sur-Oise, including stops at The Church in Auvers and Wheat Field with Crows. The tour features all entrance fees and return transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, making it a convenient and comfortable way to explore these inspiring sites.

While the tour is praised for the knowledgeable guides and rich storytelling, some reviewers note the crowd levels at Giverny can be high, especially later in the day, and suggest an early start is best to avoid the busiest moments. The tour does not include meals, so planning for a quick snack or lunch break at Auvers-sur-Oise is recommended.

Key Points

• Small group size of 8 travelers maximizes comfort and personalized attention.
• The tour costs $254.89 and lasts around 10 hours, departing from Paris.
• Visit Monet’s gardens and house, including the Japanese Water Garden and Clos Normand.
• Explore Van Gogh’s final days at his boarding house and walk along his artists’ trail.
• All entrance fees are included, with transportation in an air-conditioned minivan.
• The tour ends back at the meeting point in Paris, with the rest of the day free.

Giverny: Monet’s Gardens and His Home

Starting early from Paris, the tour travels approximately an hour to Giverny, where Monet’s house and gardens await. The foundation’s admission is included, allowing visitors to see the water lilies pond and cross the Japanese-style bridge, iconic features captured in Monet’s paintings. You also wander through the flower garden filled with hundreds of blooming flowers, showcasing the vibrant colors Monet loved to paint.

A significant part of the visit is the time spent inside Monet’s house, where he lived for over 40 years, raised his children, and completed some of his most famous works. The experience provides a rare look at Monet’s personal space and his connection to the gardens that inspired his art.

The garden’s early-morning visit helps avoid the larger crowds, although it can still feel busy later in the day. The tour includes admission tickets and guidance that share anecdotes about Monet’s life and artistic process, making this a compelling stop for art lovers.

The final stop at Monet’s grave in the churchyard of Église Sainte-Radegonde offers a quiet moment to reflect on his legacy. This free visit is a short walk from the gardens and provides a peaceful conclusion to the Giverny portion of the tour.

Free Time in Auvers-sur-Oise for Lunch and Exploration

After touring Giverny, the group enjoys approximately one hour in Auvers-sur-Oise. This tranquil town features boulangeries with fresh baked goods and several local restaurants serving regional cuisine at reasonable prices. Guests have the flexibility to choose where to eat, depending on their preferences and appetite.

This break is a valuable chance to stretch, grab a bite, or simply absorb the charming atmosphere of the village that Van Gogh himself visited. The quiet pace allows for a relaxed experience before heading to Van Gogh’s final residence.

Vincent Van Gogh’s Last Days at Auberge Ravoux

The tour then moves to Auvers-sur-Oise’s Maison de Van Gogh, where guides explain how Vincent Van Gogh lived and painted during his final months. The Auberge Ravoux, Van Gogh’s boarding house, is included in the visit, giving insight into his challenging life and prolific output despite hardships.

The artists’ trail leads visitors through sites that inspired Van Gogh’s last paintings, including the Stairs in Auvers, the Wheat Field with Crows, and the Church in Auvers. These stops are carefully selected for their connection to Van Gogh’s intense creativity and expression.

The walk along the trail is about an hour, offering time to connect Van Gogh’s art with the actual landscape that fueled his work. The humble gravesite of Van Gogh, covered in ivy, is another poignant stop, where visitors can pay respects to the artist who created over 80 works in just two months.

The Guide’s Expertise and Storytelling Style

Throughout the tour, the guide’s storytelling elevates the experience. Reviews highlight guides such as Brie and Valeria as exceptionally knowledgeable, sharing interesting facts that go beyond typical guidebook content. Their passion for art and history, combined with their ability to connect with the group, enhances the entire journey.

The small group size fosters an engaging environment where questions are welcome, and personal interactions are meaningful. Guests consistently praise the friendly, personable approach and the depth of art history insights offered during the visits.

Transportation: Comfort and Convenience

Transportation between locations is provided in an air-conditioned minivan, eliminating the hassle of navigating public transport or driving yourself. Departure is from Café des Dames in Paris at 8:00 am, with the return scheduled back at the starting point at the end of the day.

The logistics are designed for ease, allowing travelers to relax and focus on the sights. The early start is advantageous for avoiding crowds at Giverny, and the 10-hour schedule ensures ample time at each site.

The Overall Experience: Art, Nature, and Personal Stories

This tour stands out for combining art exploration with scenic countryside visits in a relaxed, intimate setting. The guided storytelling about Monet and Van Gogh’s lives and artistic journeys enriches the visits beyond mere sightseeing.

While some reviews note crowds at Giverny and the lack of included meals, these are balanced by the expert guidance, well-organized itinerary, and the small group size that fosters a friendly atmosphere.

Most participants find this tour worth the price, especially given the comprehensive access to Monet’s gardens and Van Gogh’s final home, alongside the personalized attention from guides.

Giverny & Auvers-sur-Oise: A Day of Artistic Inspiration

This tour offers a full immersion into the worlds of Monet and Van Gogh, two of the most influential artists in history. The early morning start allows visitors to enjoy the gardens and sites at a less crowded, more peaceful time, while the guided commentary makes the experience educational and engaging.

Guests seeking a personalized, small-group experience that balances art, history, and beautiful scenery will find this tour especially rewarding. It is an excellent way to see the places that inspired masterpieces and to connect more deeply with these artists’ personal stories.

While it may be a costlier option compared to self-guided visits, the convenience, expert guidance, and intimate setting provide clear value for art lovers and curious travelers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
All entrance fees, return transportation, and the guide are included in the $254.89 price.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to Paris in the late afternoon.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour begins at Café des Dames, 8 Av. de Villiers, 75017 Paris.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 7 years; the tour is suitable for most travelers with adequate mobility.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended. The tour operates in all weather conditions.

Are meals included?
No, food is not included. Guests can purchase meals or snacks during the hour-long stop in Auvers-sur-Oise.

How many people are in each group?
The small-group size limits to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What makes this tour special?
The expert guides share unheard anecdotes and provide insightful commentary on Monet’s and Van Gogh’s artistic lives and personalities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the air-conditioned minivan provides a comfortable ride between sites, making the long day manageable.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially for those interested in Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and the personal stories of Monet and Van Gogh.