Giverny is a must-see for art lovers and anyone craving a peaceful stroll through gardens that inspired Monet’s most famous paintings. While the village itself charms visitors with its quaint streets and ties to Impressionism, the real highlight is Monet’s house and gardens. We especially like tours that combine a personal touch with efficiency, like the Giverny Monet House and Gardens Skip the line Walking tour, which lets you bypass long lines and enjoy a small-group experience. This tour offers a perfect blend of culture, art, and beautiful scenery, making it ideal for those short on time but eager for a deep experience.
In this guide, we’ll review three top tours: a skip-the-line walking experience, a full-day trip from Paris with shopping, and a private shore excursion from Honfleur. Each caters to different interests, budgets, and schedules, helping you find the best Giverny experience to match your trip plans.
1. Giverny Monet House and Gardens Skip the line Walking tour
At number one, this skip-the-line walking tour offers an immersive, small-group visit to Monet’s home and gardens, capped at just 15 people. The tour begins with a stroll through Giverny’s charming village, where Monet lived from 1883 until his death in 1926. Your knowledgeable guide shares stories about Monet’s life and work, setting the perfect backdrop for your visit.
The main attraction is Monet’s house, which you’ll access through a special entrance to avoid the typical long lines. Inside, you’ll see his collection of furniture and personal touches, offering insight into his daily life. Outside, wander through the famous Japanese-style gardens and lily ponds that feature prominently in his paintings. From April to October, the gardens bloom with roses and irises, providing great photo opportunities.
Guests appreciate the detailed commentary and the intimate group size, which makes for a personal experience. The tour takes about two hours, making it a manageable option for a quick yet meaningful visit. Although the Monet paintings are in museums elsewhere, seeing his gardens and house in person remains a highlight.
Bottom Line: For art lovers who want a well-paced, personal tour that saves time and offers rich storytelling, this experience hits the spot.
2. From Paris: McArthurGlen Center & Monet’s Giverny House Visit
This full-day trip from Paris offers both a visit to Giverny and a shopping experience at the McArthurGlen Paris-Giverny outlet. For about $29, you’ll travel in a luxury air-conditioned bus, giving you the freedom to explore Giverny at your own pace. The tour covers Monet’s house, gardens, and the picturesque village, making it ideal for those who prefer flexibility over guided commentary.
The main appeal here is the combination of art and shopping. After visiting Monet’s gardens, you can browse the outlet shops for designer brands and souvenirs. The trip lasts roughly 10 to 11.5 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers with full days available and a desire for a mix of cultural and retail experiences.
Guests who choose this tour tend to value the convenience of round-trip transportation from Paris and the chance to explore Giverny without a rigid schedule. There’s no guided tour inside Monet’s house, so this is more suited for independent explorers who enjoy wandering and discovering on their own.
Bottom Line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a flexible Giverny experience combined with shopping and the comfort of a guided bus trip from Paris.
3. Honfleur: Giverny Gardens & Honfleur Private Shore Excursion
Number three on our list is a private shore excursion from Honfleur, which offers the ultimate personalized experience. This 8-hour tour features a private driver/guide who customizes the itinerary to match your interests, whether that’s more time in Monet’s gardens, exploring Honfleur’s artistic harbor, or relaxing at your own pace.
Starting from Honfleur’s cruise port, your guide will take you through the scenic drive to Giverny, where you’ll visit Monet’s house and gardens with minimal hassle. Afterward, enjoy a guided tour of Honfleur, known for its picturesque port, historic townhouses, and lively art scene. The small group of up to 8 people ensures a relaxed atmosphere, and the private aspect means you can spend more time in places that catch your eye.
Guests value the seamless pick-up and drop-off at their ship, plus the flexibility to tailor the day to their interests. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a more intimate, personalized experience and those with limited time in the region. The tour’s reviews highlight the quality of the private guide and the convenience of the private vehicle.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a customized, private day trip that combines art, culture, and personal comfort.
How to Choose Your Giverny Tour
When deciding which Giverny experience fits your trip, consider your budget, how much time you have, and what you most want to see. The skip-the-line tour is best for those short on time but craving a deep, guided visit. If you prefer a flexible schedule and are interested in shopping, the full-day Paris trip with outlet offers a great balance. For a more personalized, private experience, the Honfleur shore excursion is hard to beat, especially if you want to avoid large groups and customize your day.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons in spring and summer. Think about your pace—if walking or visiting at your own speed matters, private or flexible tours will serve you better. For art and garden lovers, any of these options will deepen your appreciation of Monet’s world.
Giverny offers a range of tours suited to different styles and schedules, from time-efficient guided walks to private, customized experiences. Whether you’re after a quick but enriching visit or a relaxed day with plenty of personal attention, these options ensure you’ll enjoy Monet’s gardens and the charming village in a way that fits your trip best. For a memorable experience, consider booking early, so you don’t miss out on the ideal tour for your interests.