Full Day Giverny Monet’s Gardens & Palace of Versailles

Discover the Full Day Tour from Paris to Giverny and Versailles

This full-day tour from Paris combines visits to Claude Monet’s Gardens in Giverny with the Palace of Versailles, offering an enriching experience in just about 10 hours. Priced at $330.53 per person, it’s designed for those who want a comprehensive look at two of France’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning individual tickets or transportation. The tour departs from 45 Av. de la Bourdonnais at 8:15 am, with most bookings made 94 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its all-inclusive access: entrance tickets to Monet’s home and gardens, the Versailles passport ticket, and lunch at a local bistro. Plus, it features a mobile audio commentary available in 10 languages, allowing you to learn as you go. While the tour is not guided at the sites, the comfortable, air-conditioned transport and well-paced schedule make it a reliable choice for a full day of exploration.

Highlights of Giverny’s Monet Gardens and Home

The first stop on this trip is Giverny, where you explore Claude Monet’s house and gardens. The entrance ticket included in the tour grants access to the very place that inspired Monet’s masterpieces, especially the famous water lily pond and the lush gardens. This immersive experience lets you walk through the gardens that Monet himself cultivated, giving a tangible connection to his art.

The self-guided nature of the visit means you can take your time to absorb the beauty of the gardens at your own pace. Although it can be crowded, the experience of standing where Monet worked remains a highlight. You can also see the artist’s home, which offers a glimpse into his living environment and the creative space that fueled his painting.

Exploring the Opulence of the Palace of Versailles

After Giverny, the tour continues to Versailles, the grand symbol of royal opulence. The Versailles passport ticket included in your package grants access to the palace’s grand halls, including the famed Hall of Mirrors and the royal apartments. The opulent decor, combined with the vast, meticulously maintained gardens, creates a striking contrast to the rustic charm of Monet’s gardens.

The palace can be challenging to navigate for those with reduced mobility, and strollers are not permitted inside, so plan accordingly. Visitors are welcome to take photographs without flash to capture the grandeur. The extensive gardens are ideal for leisurely walks, though they can be crowded during peak times, especially at Versailles.

Practical Details: Lunch, Transportation, and Group Size

The tour provides a lunch at Le Bistrot du Moulin, located near Moulin de Fourges, offering a chance to rest and enjoy regional fare. The transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long journey between sites more relaxing. The group size is capped at 49 travelers, maintaining a balance between social atmosphere and comfort.

Since guided tours at Monet’s house and Versailles are not included, visitors should be prepared to explore independently at each site, with the audio app offering commentary in 10 languages for additional insight. Note that most travelers find the timing well-paced, although the crowds at Versailles can be quite large during peak times.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

While the tour offers a comfortable experience overall, it may be difficult for those with reduced mobility due to the size and layout of the Versailles palace. Participants should be aware that strollers are not allowed at Versailles, and high heels are discouraged to protect the historic flooring. The gardens and palace grounds are best enjoyed with comfortable footwear.

The Self-Guided Nature and Flexibility of the Tour

A key feature of this experience is the self-guided format, which receives positive remarks for its flexibility. The driver and guide are praised for their excellent service, ensuring smooth progress throughout the day. Travelers appreciate the timing, which allows ample exploration time at both Giverny and Versailles. Although this is not a guided tour with personal guides at each site, the audio commentary enhances the experience.

Cost, Booking, and Cancellation Policies

At $330.53 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package with tickets, transport, and lunch included. It is designed for those seeking a hassle-free day trip without additional expenses. Since most bookings are made 94 days in advance, early reservation is advisable to secure a spot.

This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed, but in case of bad weather, you will be offered a different date or full refund. The tour requires a minimum number of travelers to proceed, which is standard for group excursions.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This full-day excursion is ideal for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and those interested in royal architecture. The combination of Monet’s peaceful gardens and the grandeur of Versailles offers a rich contrast, suited for visitors who enjoy self-guided exploration with informative support. The lunch and comfortable transport make it convenient for those seeking a relaxed, full-day experience without the stress of individual planning.

Final Thoughts on the Giverny and Versailles Tour

This tour provides an excellent balance of cultural highlights in a manageable day from Paris. The tickets, lunch, and audio guide are strong value points, especially for travelers looking for a self-paced experience. While it’s not guided at each site, the driver and guide are praised for their service quality.

The crowds, especially at Versailles, can be a challenge, but the timing and organization help mitigate this. The tour is best suited for those comfortable exploring independently and eager to see Monet’s gardens and the palace of Versailles in one seamless day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, lunch at Le Bistrot du Moulin near Moulin de Fourges is included.

Are tickets to Monet’s gardens and Versailles provided?
Yes, entrance tickets to Claude Monet’s house and gardens and the Versailles passport are included.

Can I take photos inside Versailles?
Yes, photography without flash is permitted inside the palace.

Is this tour guided at each site?
No, guiding at Monet’s house and Versailles is self-guided. An audio commentary is available in 10 languages.

What should I know about mobility and strollers?
Strollers are not allowed at Versailles, and the palace may be difficult to navigate for those with mobility challenges.

How long is the entire tour?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 10 hours.

What if the weather turns bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While most travelers can participate, reduced mobility and stroller restrictions mean it’s better suited for older children and adults.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 94 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of Monet’s gardens, Versailles’ grandeur, included tickets, lunch, and audio guide in 10 languages makes it a practical and enriching day trip from Paris.