Guide to the
Monet Gardens at Giverny

The Inspiration for the
Master of Impressionism

Claude Monet's gardens are both legendary and magical. Many of his most famous watercolor paintings were inspired by the lily pond and the flowers surrounding it. In fact, Monet had the pond built according to his specific design, including the famous Japanese bridge.

If you have children, a visit to Monet's gardens is an idyllic way to spend the afternoon.

They can explore the gardens, the pond and even a tunnel! Plus there are gift stores with wonderful Monet-inspired momentos.

The Monet gardens are a riot of color, texture and variety. A team of gardeners work year-round to keep the grounds maintained to the standard that Monet kept during his lifetime.

The Pink House where Monet lived for forty years is also open to visitors, be sure to see the yellow dining room and blue kitchen. It's definitely a not-to-miss destination during your Paris trip in spring, summer or fall.

Giverny & Monet's Magical Garden

A Paris Insiders Guide favourite

No need to worry about how to get to Giverny.

On this small group tour, you will be picked up and delivered back to your Paris hotel in an 8-passenger air-conditioned van.

You start the afternoon by driving through the Normandy countryside to the charming village of Giverny where the tour of Monet's gardens begins. It was in Giverny that Monet created the place of his dreams where he could paint, garden and live in an natural and peaceful environment.

Wander through the exquisite gardens and view the water-lily pond and the famous Japanese bridge, which are central to his Impresssionist masterpieces. Inside the big pink house, admire the yellow dining room and dazzling blue kitchen. Claude Monet lived with his family in Giverny from 1883 until his death in 1926.

• Giverny & Monet's Garden Tour – Information & Booking »

Giverny & the splendor of Versailles

Two Amazing experiences in one day!

We've discovered a tour that combines two popular sites – the Monet gardens at Giverny and the palace of Versailles – in one easy day.

First stop is Giverny to see the gardens that inspired Claude Monet to to paint some of the world's greatest Impressionist masterpieces.

Next, stop for lunch at a charming restaurant on the banks of the Epte River before you're driven to the world's most opulent palace ever built, the Chateau de Versailles. You'll explore French royal history at the opulent Grand Apartments, the dazzling chandelier-lit Hall of Mirrors and the Queen's Apartments.

Along the way your expert guide will bring the past alive with illuminating details of courtly life in the palace.

Entrance fees are included in the cost of the tour. No need to worry about how to get there – you'll be picked up and returned to your Paris hotel.

• Versailles and Giverny Day Trip – Information & Booking »

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