Giverny Monet’s House and Gardens plus Shopping Session Day Trip

Exploring Giverny and its famous Monet gardens becomes effortless with this full-day trip from Paris priced at just $29.44 per person. Departing from a central Paris location near the Eiffel Tower, the tour spans approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, combining cultural sightseeing with retail therapy at a nearby designer outlet. The package includes round-trip transportation, tickets to Monet’s house and gardens, and exclusive shopping discounts, making it a convenient way to enjoy two popular activities in one day.

A key advantage of this tour is the self-guided exploration of Monet’s house and gardens, allowing visitors to enjoy these stunning sights at their own pace and beat the crowds. Although some reviews mention mixed experiences, the trip’s combination of artistic discovery and shopping makes it a good fit for those seeking a relaxed, well-organized day outside Paris. Note, food and drinks are not included, but a scenic lunch option awaits at a historic mill restaurant.

Key Points

• Includes transportation from Paris: luxury, air-conditioned vehicle for a stress-free journey.
• Self-guided visit to Monet’s house and gardens: explore independently with tickets included.
• Visit Monet’s famous water lily series and see his studio, home, and Japanese bridge.
• Includes a stop at Monet’s grave and the Romanesque church of Sainte Radegonde.
• Enjoy lunch at Le Moulin de Fourges, a 200-year-old waterside mill restaurant.
• Shop at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, with discounts on over 80 brands and special offers.

The Easy Departure from Paris Near the Eiffel Tower

The tour begins at Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel, located at 18 Avenue De Suffren, with a start time of 9:30 am. From there, guests board a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle for the 1.5-hour scenic drive to Giverny. This organized transport removes the hassle of navigating public transit or car rentals, ensuring a comfortable start to the day.

The small group size—maximum of 10 travelers—promises a more personalized experience, although reviews suggest some inconsistency in crowd control. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making it straightforward to plan the rest of your day in Paris.

Discover Monet’s House and Gardens Through Self-Guided Exploration

Upon arrival in Giverny, tickets are included for entry to the Fondation Claude Monet. Visitors are free to explore Monet’s house, his studio, and the Japanese bridge over the lily pond at their own pace. These sights inspired some of Monet’s most celebrated paintings, notably his water lilies series.

The tour emphasizes independent exploration, meaning the guide does not accompany visitors into Monet’s house. This arrangement allows for a flexible visit, but some reviews mention limited time and missed points of interest. The grounds and house are open to enjoy without rushing, and you can take your time photographing the gardens and architecture.

Visiting Monet’s Final Resting Place and the Village Church

A notable aspect of this tour is the visit to Monet’s grave in the churchyard of Sainte Radegonde. This peaceful spot offers a moment of reflection after exploring his home and gardens. Nearby, the Romanesque church adds to the charm of the village landscape.

An additional stop includes a free drink at a local coffee shop, providing a brief chance to relax before continuing the journey. These quiet moments add depth to the visit, giving travelers a taste of rural Giverny life.

Lunch at Le Moulin de Fourges in a Historic Mill

The tour includes a one-hour lunch at Le Moulin de Fourges, a 200-year-old waterside mill restaurant. This setting offers a scenic, historic atmosphere to enjoy a meal after the morning sightseeing. The restaurant’s location within a centuries-old mill building makes for a memorable dining experience, complementing the artistic atmosphere of the day.

While specific menu details are not provided, the stop at this charming waterside eatery is consistently praised for its ambiance and value. The lunch included in the tour helps create a relaxed pace, allowing travelers to unwind before the afternoon shopping session.

Shopping at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Near Paris

The latter part of the day is dedicated to shopping at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, located near Paris in Neumunster. This premium outlet center features over 80 sought-after brands, with discounted prices and special offers, including a Fashion Passport offering -10% on some brands and -5% discounts in restaurants.

Visitors have approximately 4 hours at the outlet, giving ample time to browse the aisles, find designer pieces at outlet prices, and take advantage of sale events. The shopping stop is a key highlight for those wanting to combine culture with retail therapy.

What’s Included in the Tour Package

This tour covers a self-guided visit to Giverny’s gardens and Monet’s house, tickets included, plus transportation from Paris in a luxury vehicle. Also included are exclusive shopping offers, and the lunch at Le Moulin de Fourges.

The package offers value for money, especially considering the convenience of transportation and the tickets. However, food and drinks outside of the provided lunch are not included, so plan accordingly if you wish to eat or drink elsewhere.

Considerations Based on Reviews

While most aspects of the tour are straightforward, some reviews highlight disappointments. Notably, there are complaints about crowd management, with some reporting larger groups than promised—up to 40 instead of 10—leading to a less personal experience. Plus, time constraints and missed points of interest have been noted, especially for those expecting a guided tour into Monet’s house.

The self-guided nature allows flexibility but requires independent pacing. The lunch experience at Le Moulin de Fourges is generally appreciated, with some reviews describing it as a lovely setting. Still, travelers should be aware that some aspects of the experience may vary depending on group size and day-to-day organization.

The Budget-Friendly Appeal of This Day Trip

At $29.44 per person, this tour offers excellent value for those looking for a comprehensive day out combining art, scenery, and shopping. The inclusion of tickets, transportation, and discounts makes it an appealing choice for budget-conscious visitors wanting a streamlined experience.

However, if you prefer more guided commentary or more time inside Monet’s house, this tour’s self-guided approach might feel limiting. Nonetheless, it remains a practical way to visit Giverny and enjoy outlet shopping without the hassle of planning multiple arrangements.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This trip suits art enthusiasts eager to see Monet’s gardens and home without the stress of independent travel. It also appeals to shoppers looking for discounted designer brands in a relaxed setting. The small group format favors those who appreciate a more personal experience, although some reviews suggest variability in execution.

It benefits travelers willing to explore independently and who don’t mind shorter visits or crowds. If you prefer a guided, detailed tour, this might not meet your expectations, but if you value convenience and a balanced day, it offers a solid experience.

Final Thoughts on the Giverny Monet and Shopping Day Trip

This full-day trip from Paris effectively combines the beauty of Monet’s gardens with a shopping stop at McArthurGlen, offering good value and convenience for many visitors. The self-guided exploration allows flexibility, though it may lead to some dissatisfaction if points of interest are skipped or groups are large.

The lunch at Le Moulin de Fourges adds a charming touch, making the overall experience more enjoyable. Despite some mixed reviews regarding crowd control and time management, most find the trip worthwhile for its ease and access to two popular destinations.

Ideal for art lovers and bargain hunters, this tour provides a well-organized day out of Paris, with tickets and transportation taken care of. It offers a simple, cost-effective way to enjoy Giverny’s artistic landscape and indulge in designer shopping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation in a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle from Paris is included.

Do I need to guide me during the visit to Monet’s house?
No, tickets grant access for self-guided exploration of Monet’s house and gardens.

How long do I have at the Giverny gardens?
The visit to Monet’s house and grounds lasts approximately 20 to 45 minutes, depending on individual pace.

Are meals included?
Lunch at Le Moulin de Fourges is included, but food and drinks outside this meal are not covered.

Can I shop at the outlet without a guide?
Yes, you are free to browse the over 80 brands at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet during your 4-hour shopping time.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and any personal essentials for exploring Monet’s gardens and shopping.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Moderate physical activity is required, especially for walking through gardens and exploring villages, so some mobility limitations may need consideration.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is approximately $29.44 per person, making it budget-friendly for a full-day experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 34 days in advance, indicating good availability if booked early.

What if I need to cancel?
Enjoy the benefit of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.