Giverny & Versailles Private Day Tour with Lunch from Paris

Experience the Best of Giverny and Versailles in One Day from Paris

This private day tour from Paris offers an efficient way to explore two of France’s most iconic sights: Claude Monet’s gardens in Giverny and the Palace of Versailles. For $2,882.44 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance tickets, guided visits, and a delicious three-course lunch. Departing early at 8:15 am from a central Paris hotel, the tour spans approximately 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day packed with highlights.

We like how this tour combines two vastly different but equally impressive locations, allowing not just sightseeing but also a deeper understanding of French artistry and monarchy. An especially strong feature is the private minibus with a passionate guide, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to large group excursions. The lunch stop at Moulin de Fourges adds a relaxing break, giving travelers a taste of local countryside charm. Keep in mind, the physical pace demands moderate fitness, and crowds at high season can lead to some waiting times.

Key Points

• All-inclusive: Entrance tickets, guided tours, and lunch are included.
• Visit Monet’s Gardens: Explore the Clos Normand and the Water Garden with Japanese Bridge.
• Tour Monet’s House: Spend free time discovering his home and workspace.
• Charming countryside lunch: Dine at the historic Moulin de Fourges restaurant.
• Versailles highlights: Tour the Royal Apartments and Hall of Mirrors with a guide.
• Self-paced gardens: Enjoy time exploring the expansive Versailles gardens at your leisure.

From Paris to Giverny: Discover Monet’s Inspiration

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Paris, with transportation in an air-conditioned minivan designed for groups of up to 8 people. After about an hour’s drive, the journey takes you to Giverny, the village where Claude Monet lived for 43 years. Your guide leads you through the Clos Normand and the Water Garden, which remain as vibrant and picturesque as when Monet painted them.

The gardens are the stars of this stop, with their oriental plants, Japanese Bridge, and water lilies providing countless photo opportunities. The admission tickets are pre-paid, ensuring quick access and avoiding long queues. The guide shares interesting details about Monet’s life and how the gardens fueled his artistic creativity, making this visit both visually stunning and informative.

Exploring Monet’s Former Home and Artistic Space

Following the gardens, you get 30 minutes of free time to explore Monet’s house on your own. This allows you to see the interior rooms where Monet worked and lived, offering a glimpse into his daily routine. The house’s rooms are filled with personal belongings, providing an intimate look at the artist’s environment, which contributed greatly to his masterpieces. This stop is highly praised for its well-organized layout and the passion of the guides, who help bring Monet’s story to life.

Enjoying a Countryside Lunch at Moulin de Fourges

Next, the tour takes you for a 1 hour 30 minutes stop at the Moulin de Fourges, a historic restaurant in the French countryside. The three-course lunch features traditional dishes, giving you a taste of regional cuisine in a charming setting. This break not only replenishes energy but also offers a relaxed atmosphere away from the crowds.

The lunch is often highlighted as a high point of the day, with many praising the quality of the food and the atmosphere of the restaurant. Vegetarian options are available if requested, making this stop accessible for different dietary needs. The leisurely pace allows for conversation and enjoyment before heading back on the bus for the next leg of the journey.

The Majesty of Versailles: The Royal Palace and Its Gardens

After lunch, the tour moves on to Versailles, one of the most famous royal residences in the world. The 45-minute guided visit begins with the Royal Apartments, where the guide explains the history and significance of each room. You’ll see the suite of Louis XIV and the Dauphin and Dauphine’s apartments.

The highlight remains the Hall of Mirrors, a grandiose gallery renowned for its ornate chandeliers and historical significance. The admission tickets are included, allowing you to skip the lines and focus on the rich decor and artistic masterpieces within. The guide’s engaging narration helps bring the French monarchy’s history to life during this visit.

Exploring the Versailles Gardens

Following the palace tour, you have 45 minutes to explore the Versailles gardens at your own pace. The expansive grounds feature meticulously maintained paths, fountains, and sculptures. If visiting during peak season, there may be Musical Fountains or Musical Gardens, which add an extra layer of spectacle. This time flexibility is appreciated for those wishing to sit and take in the scenery or snap photos of the iconic landscapes.

Comfortable Return and Hotel Drop-Off

At the end of the day, the private minivan returns you to your Paris hotel or private residence. The pickup is flexible within central Paris, with specific meeting points provided. The entire experience balances guided commentary and free time, providing a comprehensive yet relaxed day of sightseeing.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour starts promptly at 8:15 am, with a confirmation provided at booking. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as walking is involved at each site. The tour is suitable for those who appreciate art, history, and beautiful scenery but may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges due to the amount of walking, especially in gardens and palace interiors.

During high season, crowds can cause some queuing, particularly in the morning hours. The tour’s small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention from guides. Vegetarian options are available, and dietary needs should be communicated at booking.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private full-day experience appeals to visitors eager to see both Monet’s gardens and Versailles without the hassle of coordinating transport or tickets. It’s perfect for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and those looking for a comprehensive day trip from Paris. The balance of guided visits and free time makes it suitable for those who want depth without feeling overwhelmed.

Final Thoughts on the Giverny & Versailles Tour

This tour offers great value for an all-included experience, especially given the quality of the guides and the delicious lunch. The private transportation and skip-the-line tickets help maximize your time, making it an efficient way to explore two major French landmarks in a single day.

While the pace can be busy and crowds are sometimes unavoidable, the passionate guides and careful organization ensure a rewarding visit. It’s particularly suited for those who want an immersive, well-organized day with knowledgeable narration, comfort, and convenience.

If you’re someone who values convenience and depth, this tour provides a rich glimpse into France’s artistic and royal heritage without sacrificing comfort or detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Guided visits of Giverny’s gardens and Monet’s house, entrance tickets, a 3-course lunch at Moulin de Fourges, and a guided tour of Versailles’ Royal Apartments and Hall of Mirrors.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:15 am and returning to Paris at the end of the day.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included within central Paris; specific locations are provided upon booking.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegetarian options are available if requested at booking, and specific dietary needs should be communicated in advance.

What is the physical demand of the tour?
A moderate physical fitness level is recommended as walking and standing are involved at all stops.

Can I visit the gardens at Versailles independently?
Yes, the gardens are included for self-guided exploration after the guided palace tour.

What if I want to cancel?
Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund.

Who leads the tour?
A qualified, passionate guide who shares detailed stories and insights about each site.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, but travelers should be comfortable walking and standing for extended periods, and children should be prepared for the pace.

How crowded are the sites?
During high season, notable sites like Versailles can experience significant crowds, especially in the morning, so late afternoon visits are recommended if possible.