How to get to Giverny from Paris is simpler than you might think. Dreaming of Monet’s water lilies and a peaceful escape from Paris? if so Just 75 km (about 47 miles) from the capital lies **Giverny**, a charming French village made famous by Claude Monet. Known for its vibrant gardens, lily ponds, and the artist’s historic home, it’s one of the most enchanting day trips from Paris.
But Giverny is more than Monet. Once you’ve strolled through his gardens, you can wander the **Musée des Impressionnismes**, explore the cobbled streets, or relax in cafés where the pace of life feels worlds away from Paris. Add in views of the Seine and country paths, and you’ll quickly see why Monet chose to spend four decades here.
Why Visit Giverny?
Stepping into Giverny feels like stepping inside a painting. For 40 years, Monet cultivated his gardens and found endless inspiration in the landscapes around him. As a result, you can still see:
- The Artist’s House & Studio – Preserved as Monet left it, filled with his colors and charm.
- The Clos Normand Garden – Bursting with flowers that change with the seasons.
- The Water Garden – With its Japanese bridge and water lilies, it’s like walking through one of his canvases.
- Musée des Impressionnismes – A small but rich collection tracing Giverny’s role in the Impressionist movement.
- Cafés & Local Dining – Normandy-inspired cuisine served in rustic village restaurants.
How to Get to Giverny by Train
Wondering how to get to Giverny from Paris by public transport? Fortunately, the simplest way is by train from Paris Saint-Lazare to Vernon–Giverny (45 min–1 hr, \~€10–€15 one way).
From Vernon (5 km away), you can take:
- Shuttle bus (20 min, \~€5–€10)
- Bike rental (25 min, \~€15–€20/day, beautiful country roads)
- Taxi (10 min, \~€15–€20 each way)
During spring and summer, trains and shuttles book up fast. Buy tickets in advance.
Guided Tours to Giverny
For those who want everything arranged, guided tours are a stress-free option. Typically these usually include transport from Paris, timed entry tickets, and expert commentary about Monet and the Impressionists.
At Astra Via Tours, our Giverny experience is designed as a 7-hour private day trip
- Pick-up from your Paris accommodation by driver and guide
- Direct transfer to Giverny (no trains, no transfers, no hassle)
- Fully guided visit of Monet’s house and gardens with context about his life here
- Free time to stroll the village, visit the Impressionist museum, or enjoy a leisurely lunch
- Return transfer back to Paris in comfort
As a result, this itinerary gives you ample time not just to see the gardens but to soak in the village and its tranquil countryside — the very landscapes that inspired Monet’s masterpieces.
Best Time to Visit Giverny
The gardens are open from late March through early November, each season offering something different:
Spring (Apr–May): Fresh blooms, lighter crowds.
Summer (Jun–Jul): Water lilies at their most spectacular.
Autumn (Sep–Oct): Warm golden colors, quieter atmosphere.
Pro tip: Arrive early in the morning for softer light and fewer crowds.
The Experience Itself
Visiting Giverny isn’t just a sightseeing trip — it’s stepping into the world that shaped Monet’s genius. Whether you wander the lily ponds, admire his bright yellow dining room, or pause with a glass of wine in the village, it’s a day that lingers in memory.
At Astra Via Tours, we also offer private day trips to Champagne and multi-day escapes to Bordeaux and the Loire Valley — perfect for travelers who want to discover France’s beauty beyond Paris.
With these tips, you now know exactly how to get to Giverny from Paris and make the most of your visit to Monet’s gardens.
