Private Trip Giverny Versailles Trianon from Paris

Discover the Charm of Giverny and Versailles with a Private Guided Tour

This private day trip from Paris offers an intimate exploration of two of France’s most iconic sights: Claude Monet’s house in Giverny and the Palace of Versailles. Priced at $626 per person, the tour lasts approximately 11.5 hours, making it a comprehensive experience designed for small groups of 2 to 7 people. Travel is in a luxurious Mercedes—either an E220 for smaller groups or a minivan for larger parties—ensuring comfortable transit between the stops.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate a well-curated itinerary with personalized attention. It includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, skip-the-line tickets, and insightful guides, making it a hassle-free way to cover two of France’s most celebrated cultural landmarks in one day. One notable feature is the free time in Giverny, allowing space for personal exploration and photography, though it’s worth noting that some visitors find the Versailles crowds can be substantial.

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Key Points

• Private group experience with 2-7 people ensures personalized attention
• Full-day itinerary covers Giverny, Versailles Palace, Trianon, and gardens
• Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off within Paris for convenience
• Skip-the-line tickets and audio guides enhance the visit to Versailles
• Guided visits to the Big Trianon, Small Trianon, and Hamlet de la Reine
• Approximate duration of 11.5 hours with flexible exploration time

From the Heart of Paris to Claude Monet’s Giverny

The day begins early with a hotel pick-up in Paris, from where a luxury Mercedes departs at 8:00 AM for the journey to Giverny, approximately 70 km away. The guide provides engaging commentary on French history and Impressionism, setting the scene for the morning visit.

Upon arrival around 9:15 AM, the focus is on Claude Monet’s house and gardens. Visitors walk through Monet’s historic home, stepping into his studio and marveling at the Norman flower gardens and the famous water lily pond. The free time in Giverny, lasting about an hour, allows for strolling through flowered houses, art galleries, and cafes. Many choose to visit the Museum of Impressionism Giverny, which houses Monet’s paintings and offers further insight into his work.

Exploring the Magnificence of Versailles Palace

Leaving Giverny around 1:00 PM, the tour proceeds to Versailles, a journey of about an hour. During the ride, the guide shares stories about Versailles’ history and its former residents, enriching the experience.

By 2:00 PM, the group visits the Palace of Versailles with skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide. The Hall of Mirrors and Royal Apartments are highlights, offering a glimpse into France’s royal past. Visitors are free to pause at any spot, forming their own impressions. The guided visit ensures a comprehensive understanding of the palace’s significance and architecture.

Discovering the Big and Small Trianon

At 3:45 PM, the tour shifts to the Big Trianon, a neoclassical masterpiece that served as a private retreat for French royalty. The guide walks you through its lavish rooms and grounds, sharing stories of its past occupants.

Next, at 4:30 PM, a guided visit to the Small Trianon and the Hamlet de la Reine follows. The Small Trianon, favored by Marie Antoinette, features elegant architecture and beautifully maintained gardens. The Hamlet de la Reine is a charming, rustic village designed as a pastoral escape, complete with cottages, a lake, and gardens—perfect for a leisurely walk.

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Leisure Time in the Versailles Gardens

By 5:30 PM, travelers enjoy free time for a walk through the Versailles Gardens. This landscape is a masterpiece of design, with meticulous lawns, ornate fountains, and enchanting groves. Photography opportunities abound, especially as the setting sun casts a warm glow over the grounds.

Return Journey to Paris

The group departs Versailles around 6:30 PM, with the drive back to Paris taking approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic. Arrival at the hotel is scheduled for 7:30 PM, concluding a full day of culture.

Logistics and Included Amenities

This private tour guarantees departures starting from 2 people, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included within Paris. Transportation is provided in a comfortable Mercedes E220 for smaller groups or a Mercedes minivan for larger groups, ensuring smooth travel throughout the day.

All fees and taxes are included in the $626 price, along with bottled water. The tour offers the flexibility of live-guided commentary, with an optional audio guide available for further enrichment. It’s designed to be accessible for most travelers, although children under 6 years are not recommended.

The Strengths of This Private Tour

Many reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guides, with Valentin and Olga singled out for their knowledgeable and engaging storytelling. The personalized attention makes the experience more enriching than self-guided visits, and the skip-the-line access saves valuable time.

The balance of structured guided visits and free time allows for both education and personal exploration. The lunch in Giverny is described as lovely, adding a relaxed element to the day. Visitors appreciate the timing and pacing of the tour, which ensures coverage of all major highlights without feeling rushed.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers a comprehensive view of Giverny and Versailles, some crowd congestion at Versailles can be notable, especially in peak seasons. The duration of 11.5 hours makes it a full day, so travelers should be prepared for a long, active experience. The tour is not suitable for children under 6, due to the walking involved and the nature of the sites.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private trip is perfect for art lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a stress-free, guided experience of these iconic locations. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for travelers who value comfort and tailored insights. It also suits those who prefer luxury transport and organized logistics over independent planning.

Final Thoughts on the Giverny and Versailles Private Tour

This well-organized tour from Clewel Travel delivers a rich day exploring Monet’s gardens and Versailles’ grandeur. The balanced itinerary, personalized guidance, and luxury transport make it a compelling choice for those seeking an efficient and enjoyable way to experience France’s artistic and royal heritage.

While the price reflects the private nature and inclusions like skip-the-line tickets, many reviewers find the experience worth the cost for the level of comfort and expert commentary provided. This tour offers a rewarding journey into France’s cultural history, perfect for those who want a hassle-free, personalized adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include transportation between sites?
Yes, transportation is by a luxurious Mercedes with hotel pick-up and drop-off included. The drive between Giverny and Versailles takes about one hour.

Are tickets to Versailles and Monet’s house included?
Yes, the tour includes skip-the-line tickets for both Versailles Palace and Claude Monet’s house and gardens.

Can I customize the tour or choose specific sites?
The itinerary is fixed, but the tour allows free exploration time and personalized commentary from guides, enhancing your experience.

What is the group size?
The tour is private, accommodating 2 to 7 people, ensuring an intimate setting with tailored attention.

Is lunch included in the price?
There is an optional guided lunch in Giverny, included in the live-guided with lunch option, offering a break and local cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 6 years, primarily due to the walking and site nature, which can be tiring for very young children.

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