Giverny Versailles Trianon Small Group from Paris by Minivan

Discover the Giverny Versailles Trianon Small Group from Paris for $329.69

This full-day tour offers a rich experience of France’s most iconic sites, with visits to Claude Monet’s house in Giverny and the Palace of Versailles, including the Grand Trianon, Small Trianon, and the Hamlet de la Reine. Designed for small groups of 2 to 7 people, the tour provides an intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides. It’s priced at $329.69 per person, with live guidance starting from 4 guests and guaranteed departures from 2 people. The entire journey lasts approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes, including travel, visits, and free time.

This trip is particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate art, history, and gardens, and who want to explore these highlights without the hassle of planning. The tour includes skip-the-line tickets for the Palace of Versailles, guided visits, and free time in Giverny for lunch and personal exploration, making it a well-rounded full-day adventure.

Key Points

• Small group size of 2-7 participants ensures a personalized experience
• Includes skip-the-line tickets to Versailles Palace and gardens
• Guided visits to the Big and Small Trianon and Hamlet de la Reine
• Visit to Claude Monet’s historic house and gardens in Giverny, with free time afterwards
• Total duration is approximately 11.5 hours, with travel, sightseeing, and leisure
• Live guidance and customization options available for an enriching day

From Paris to Claude Monet’s Giverny: Starting the Day

The tour begins at 8:00 am with a meeting at Opera Garnier or a hotel pick-up if the optional service is booked. The journey to Giverny takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, covering 70 km. During transit, the guide shares insights about French art and history, setting the tone for a culturally immersive day.

The first stop is Fondation Claude Monet, arriving around 9:15 am. Here, visitors explore Claude Monet’s historic house, walking through beautiful Norman gardens and viewing the water lilies that famously inspired Monet’s paintings. The admission ticket is included, allowing a relaxed exploration of Monet’s studio, garden, and water pond over 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Exploring Monet’s House and Gardens in Giverny

Claude Monet’s house in Giverny is a highlight, showcasing the enchanting scenes that fueled Monet’s Impressionist masterpieces. The flowered gardens, art galleries, and the iconic pond with water lilies are all part of the experience. The guided visit provides context about Monet’s life and work, making the gardens come alive for art enthusiasts and garden lovers alike.

After the house visit, travelers have about an hour of free time to stroll through the village of Giverny. This is an ideal moment for a casual walk among flowered houses, local cafes, and art galleries. A visit to the Giverny Museum of Impressionism is also recommended, which hosts a curated collection of Monet’s paintings and related works, enriching the visit further.

Lunch and Travel to Versailles

Following the morning exploration, the tour offers an hour for lunch in Giverny. This provides a chance to enjoy local cuisine and relax before the afternoon’s royal sights. The departure from Giverny to Versailles takes about 1 hour, during which the guide shares stories about Versailles’ history and its royal inhabitants.

The bus ride offers another opportunity to learn about French history and the significance of Versailles as a symbol of monarchical grandeur. The scenery along the way enhances the anticipation of the majestic afternoon ahead.

The Palace of Versailles: Opulence and Grandeur

Arriving at 2:00 pm, visitors enter the Palace of Versailles with skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide. The guided visit includes the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Apartments, and other highlights of this historically significant palace. The audio guide allows personalized exploration, with the flexibility to pause or linger at points of interest.

The Palace of Versailles is renowned for its timeless elegance and architectural opulence, making it a must-see for those interested in French history and royal life. The visit lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to admire the baroque design and magnificent interiors.

Discovering the Trianon Palaces and the Queen’s Hamlet

The tour continues with guided visits to the Grand Trianon and Small Trianon. At the Grand Trianon, visitors explore the neoclassical architecture and hear stories about its role as the private retreat of French royalty. The guided 45-minute tour walks through lavish rooms and beautiful gardens, emphasizing its prestige and historical significance.

Next, the focus shifts to the Small Trianon and the Hamlet de la Reine. The Small Trianon is known for its elegant architecture and connection to Marie Antoinette, offering insights into her life and tastes. The Hamlet de la Reine, a rustic village created as a pastoral retreat, provides a quaint and picturesque setting that is perfect for a leisurely walk. This guided 1-hour visit immerses visitors in an idyllic scene of rural charm.

Strolling Through the Versailles Gardens

By 5:30 pm, visitors enjoy free time in the Versailles gardens. This sprawling landscape features meticulously manicured lawns, ornate fountains, and scenic groves. It’s an ideal moment for photos, relaxation, or simply appreciating the landscape design.

The gardens are a key part of Versailles’ landscape artistry, offering hidden corners, statues, and fountains that showcase French craftsmanship. The optional walk here lasts approximately an hour, allowing a peaceful end to the royal visit before heading back to Paris.

Return to Paris and Drop-off

Departure from Versailles occurs around 6:30 pm, with the return trip taking 40 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic. The tour concludes with drop-off at Opera Garnier or a hotel if this option has been selected, bringing an end to an immersive day exploring art, history, and royal gardens.

The Experience’s Strengths and Limitations

The small group size ensures personalized attention and creates a more intimate atmosphere, which is a highlight according to numerous positive reviews praising knowledgeable guides like Ilya and Valentin. The skip-the-line tickets save time at Versailles, allowing for more sightseeing and exploration.

The tour offers a well-paced itinerary, balancing guided visits with free time in Giverny and Versailles. Guides are known for sharing interesting facts and making complex history engaging. The customization options and live guidance enhance the experience further.

A notable consideration is the full-day duration, which may be demanding for some. The included transportation by Mercedes minivan ensures comfort during the approximately 3-hour total travel time. This tour is best suited for those eager to see both Monet’s gardens and Versailles in one day without the hassle of individual planning.

The Sum Up: An Enriching Day Out for Art and History Lovers

This Giverny Versailles small group tour offers an immersive journey into French art, royal history, and landscape design. Visitors appreciate the guided visits, skip-the-line access, and personalized approach that small groups facilitate. With expert guides providing engaging commentary, the experience feels both educational and enjoyable.

While the long hours may be a challenge for some, the comprehensive itinerary makes it worthwhile for those wanting a full exposure to France’s most celebrated sites. Whether you are an art lover, history buff, or garden enthusiast, this tour delivers a memorable and well-organized day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transport included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transport by Mercedes minivan from Paris, with pickup options available.

What are the starting times and duration?
The tour departs at 8:00 am and lasts about 11 hours and 30 minutes, including travel, visits, and free time.

Are tickets to Versailles included?
Yes, skip-the-line tickets to the Palace and Gardens of Versailles are included, along with an audio guide.

Can the tour be customized?
Yes, the tour is offered as a customizable experience and can be tailored to your preferences.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is suitable for most travelers, including families, as the tour duration and pace are manageable for children aged 10 and up.

How do I cancel this tour?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.