Gardens of Monet & Giverny and Vernon Old Mill – Private

A Private Day Trip Combining Art, Nature, and Medieval Normandy

This 7-hour private tour offers an intimate exploration of Claude Monet’s world, taking you through the lush gardens of Giverny, including the famous water lily pond and Japanese bridge that inspired many of his paintings. The journey continues to the medieval town of Vernon, where the Old Mill on the Seine and the Donjon Tower await, offering a glimpse into Normandy’s historic past.

Guided by an English-speaking expert, this tour is designed for those who cherish art, history, and picturesque scenery. With a small group of up to 6 people, it ensures a personalized experience. The tour departs from Paris with pickup included, and the entire experience is carefully curated for a relaxed, yet enriching day. The reviews give a high rating of 4.7, reflecting its quality and memorable moments, although the walking involved suggests comfortable shoes are a must.

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Key Points

• Private, exclusive experience with a maximum of 6 travelers
• 7-hour trip from Paris exploring Giverny and Vernon
• Visit Monet’s house and gardens, including the water lily pond and Japanese bridge
• Walk through the charming village of Giverny and see Monet’s final resting place
• Discover Vernon’s Old Mill, painted by Monet, and the medieval Donjon Tower
• Skip the line with a separate entrance and enjoy stunning photo stops

Exploring Monet’s Home and Gardens in Giverny

The tour begins at Giverny, where Monet’s house and gardens are the main attractions. Over 40 years, Monet called this place home, and today, visitors can walk through the iconic water lily pond, Japanese bridge, and vibrant flower beds arranged as Monet himself designed. These features served as the inspiration for many of his most famous paintings.

Inside Monet’s house, the guide points out the artists’ studio, dining room, kitchen, and a collection of Japanese prints that Monet cherished. The gardens are precisely maintained to match Monet’s original layout, providing a genuine view of his creative environment. The quiet village of Giverny complements this visit, with its narrow lanes, stone houses, and small ateliers, making for a peaceful stroll.

The Eglise Sainte-Radegonde is also visited, where Monet is buried alongside his family. The guide shares stories about Monet’s life, his artistic breakthroughs, and his personal passions, adding depth to the visual beauty of the gardens.

Visiting Vernon and Its Historic Landmarks

A short drive from Giverny leads to Vernon, a town along the Seine River. Here, you’ll see the Old Mill, a scene Monet famously painted outside Giverny, perched above the river. This spot highlights Monet’s ability to capture everyday scenes and transform them into timeless art.

Nearby stands the medieval Donjon Tower, constructed by King Philip II after Norman conquest in the early 13th century. The tower is a reminder of the area’s royal history and offers a striking contrast to the natural beauty of Monet’s gardens. The village of Vernon itself is full of quaint streets and historic architecture, perfect for quick photo stops and a sense of Normandy’s medieval past.

Logistics and Group Experience

This private tour includes pickup from Paris and ensures that the group remains small for a more tailored experience. The pickup process involves waiting in the reception of your hotel or in front of your listed address in Paris, making the start smooth and straightforward.

The transport is comfortable, and the guide leads the small group through each stop with insights and stories. The entire journey involves walking through gardens and villages, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a suitable option for those with mobility needs.

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Detailed Itinerary and Highlights

The itinerary is structured to maximize time at each location:
– Start in Paris with pickup and travel to Giverny
– Spend approximately 3 hours exploring Monet’s house and gardens
– Move on to Vernon for 30 minutes of sightseeing, including the Old Mill and Donjon Tower
– Return to Paris after a full day of art and history

This balanced schedule allows ample time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed, providing space for photos, walks, and the storytelling of your guide.

The Value of a Private, Customizable Tour

Being a private group, this experience offers flexibility and personalized attention. The skip-the-line entrance helps avoid long queues, especially during busy seasons. The cost reflects its premium nature, offering a curated experience that combines art, nature, and medieval history in one seamless day.

Since the tour reserves with pay-later policy, travelers can book confidently with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is suitable for adults, families with children over 1 year, and those comfortable with walking, though it’s not recommended for infants or those with insect allergies.

Who Will Benefit Most from This Tour

This exclusive experience is perfect for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and lovers of scenic countryside. It’s particularly appealing for those seeking a personalized, stress-free visit to Giverny and Vernon, away from crowded group tours. The small group size and private guide make it a memorable, educational, and relaxing day.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Art and History Day from Paris

This Gardens of Monet & Giverny and Vernon Old Mill private tour provides a comprehensive look at Monet’s inspiration and his environment, alongside the historical backdrop of Vernon. The beautiful gardens, historic landmarks, and personalized guided experience make it a strong choice for travelers looking for a deep, yet manageable, immersion into Normandy’s artistic and medieval past.

While the walking involved demands comfortable shoes, the skip-the-line access and private small-group setting ensure a smooth, intimate exploration. This tour suits those eager to connect with Monet’s legacy and Normandy’s history in a relaxed and engaging way, all departing from the heart of Paris.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup from Paris, transportation to Giverny and Vernon, guided visits to Monet’s house and gardens, Vernon’s Old Mill, and the Donjon Tower. It also features skip-the-line entrance and a small private group.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts 7 hours, starting in the morning and returning to Paris in the afternoon.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended due to walking through gardens and villages.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are pets allowed?
Only assistance dogs are permitted; pets are not allowed on the tour.

Is lunch included?
The data does not specify lunch; the tour focuses on sightseeing and walking.

What is the group size?
The tour is private, with a maximum of 6 people.

How do I meet the guide?
Guides pick up travelers from their hotel reception or front of address in Paris.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it is suitable for families with children over 1 year; infants under 1 year are not recommended.

Where does the tour go after Giverny?
The journey continues to Vernon, where you see the Old Mill and Donjon Tower before returning to Paris.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby