Explore Normandy’s Artistic and Historic Heart with a Private Paris Day Trip

This private tour from Paris offers a full-day journey through the enchanting towns of Giverny and Rouen, with an emphasis on art, history, and exquisite dining. Priced at $696 per person, the trip includes hotel pickup, luxury Mercedes transport, and guidance from an English-speaking expert.

Traveling in a Mercedes E220 business-class car or minivan, visitors enjoy a relaxed pace with thoughtfully curated stops. The highlights include a visit to Claude Monet’s house and gardens, a guided walk in Rouen, and a Michelin-starred lunch at La Couronne. This tour is perfect for those seeking a comfortable, private experience that combines cultural exploration with culinary delights, although it’s best suited for individuals aged 6 and above due to physical requirements.

Key Points

Private, guided day trip from Paris to Normandy’s Rouen and Giverny in a luxury Mercedes vehicle
Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience and ease of planning
Visits to Claude Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny, with free time to explore
A three-course meal at La Couronne, a Michelin restaurant operating since 1345
Walking tours in Rouen, featuring the Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Market, and Gros-Horloge
Approximate total duration of 12 hours, with comfortable pacing and guaranteed departures

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Luxury Transportation in a Mercedes E220 or Minivan

Travelers enjoy private transportation in a Mercedes E220 business-class car or minivan, offering comfort and quiet throughout the day. The vehicle is equipped with bottled water for freshness, and the journey between sites is approximately 1.5 hours from Paris to Giverny and another hour from Giverny to Rouen.

This level of comfort makes a significant difference in keeping the trip enjoyable and stress-free. The hotel pickup ensures a seamless start, with the guide welcoming guests and providing general information about French history and Impressionism during the drive.

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Monet’s House and Gardens in Giverny

The first major stop is Claude Monet’s historic house in Giverny, where the guide walks visitors through Monet’s studio and gardens. The flowered Norman gardens and the iconic water lilies in the pond are highlights that bring Monet’s paintings to life.

Guests have free time for wandering the village afterward, admiring flowered houses, art galleries, and cafes. Many choose to visit the Museum of Impressionism Giverny, which hosts a fine collection of Monet’s works and related art, adding context to the visit and enriching the experience.

Gourmet Lunch at La Couronne Since 1345

After exploring Giverny, the tour continues with a departure for Rouen, arriving around 1:00 pm for a Michelin-starred lunch at La Couronne, one of France’s oldest restaurants, dating back to 1345. Known for its classic French cuisine, La Couronne offers a three-course meal, blending tradition with quality.

The restaurant’s history includes a reputation for welcoming celebrities and artists over centuries, making the meal itself a part of the cultural experience. Guests enjoy their meal in a historic setting, enhancing the overall luxury feel of the day.

Walking Tour of Rouen’s Gothic Landmarks

Post-lunch, the guided walking tour of Rouen begins, lasting about 1 hour. The guide leads visitors through the city of a hundred bell-towers, highlighting the Notre Dame Cathedral, famously painted by Monet, and the Old Market area, known as the place of Joan d’Arc’s execution.

Other notable sites include the Church of Joan d’Arc and the Palace of Justice, along with the Gros-Horloge, an old medieval clock on a pedestrian street. The guided tour offers rich historical insights, making it easy to appreciate Rouen’s architectural and cultural importance.

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Free Time in Rouen for Personal Exploration

Following the guided walk, guests are given free time to explore Rouen further at their own pace. This period allows for visiting additional sites, shopping, or simply enjoying a coffee in a local café. The city’s charming streets and historic ambiance provide plenty of opportunities for personal discovery.

This flexible window is ideal for those who want to linger in Rouen or revisit favorite spots before heading back to Paris.

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Scenic Return Journey and Evening Arrival in Paris

The return trip departs Rouen at 5:30 pm, with an estimated 2.5-hour drive back to Paris. The coach arrives around 8:00 pm, concluding the tour with drop-off at your hotel. The comfortable vehicle and scenic drive make the return pleasant, wrapping up a long but fulfilling day.

This schedule offers ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, balancing sightseeing, dining, and relaxation.

Honest Evaluation: Strengths and Considerations

The main strengths of this tour are the luxury transport, the expert guidance, and the culinary experience at La Couronne. The visits to Monet’s house and the walking tour of Rouen provide a well-rounded cultural overview.

One consideration is the 12-hour duration, which involves some travel time and walking. The trip’s physical requirements mean it’s not suitable for children under 6 or wheelchair users. Also, meals and drinks outside the included lunch are not covered, so additional spending is expected if you wish to explore local cafes or purchase souvenirs.

Ideal Audience for This Normandy Day Trip

This private tour suits travelers who value comfort, cultural richness, and gourmet dining in a manageable day format. Perfect for art lovers, history enthusiasts, or those wanting a full Normandy experience without the hassle of self-driving. It’s especially appealing to those who appreciate guidance and luxury transport in a personalized setting.

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Private Rouen Giverny Trip from Paris with Michelin Lunch

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $696 per person, covering transportation, guided tours, and lunch.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, from departure in the morning to evening return.

What meals are included?
A three-course lunch is included at Michelin-starred La Couronne in Rouen. Other meals and drinks are not covered.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 6 years or wheelchair users due to physical requirements.

What transportation is used?
Travel is in a luxury Mercedes E220 business-class vehicle or minivan, equipped for comfort.

Are audio guides provided?
Yes, audio guides in English are included, along with a live tour guide.

Will I have time for shopping or additional sightseeing?
Yes, the free time in Rouen offers opportunities for personal exploration and shopping.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Highlights include Monet’s garden and house, the Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, Michelin lunch, and Rouen’s medieval landmarks.

This Private Rouen Giverny Tour combines art, history, and gastronomy in a way that makes for an enriching day outside Paris. With luxury transportation, expert guidance, and memorable sights, it offers a satisfying experience for those seeking a well-organized, comfortable escape into Normandy’s cultural landscape.