25 Apr, 2025
There’s something magical about standing in the same gardens that inspired some of the world’s most beloved paintings. My recent half-day trip from Paris to Claude Monet’s home in Giverny was nothing short of enchanting, and I’m excited to share this experience with you.
Getting There
My journey began in Paris, where I boarded an air-conditioned coach for the approximately one-hour drive to the countryside. During the journey, our guide provided fascinating background information about Monet and what we could expect from our visit.
Tip: Visit the House First!
One crucial piece of advice: head to Monet’s house first! (Even though I know you are itching to see the water lilies). The line for the house can get quite long, and I was grateful I prioritised this. Many visitors make the mistake of exploring the gardens first and become so captivated by their beauty that they run short on time for the house. Trust me, both deserve your full attention.
Monet’s Home
The artist’s house offers a fascinating glimpse into his daily life. The house has been meticulously maintained to appear as it would have during Monet’s lifetime. Inside, I discovered not only examples of his own artwork but also his impressive collection of Japanese prints, which heavily influenced his artistic vision. The vibrant yellow dining room and blue kitchen are particularly striking, showcasing Monet’s bold approach to colour even in his living spaces.
The Gardens: Beyond the Water Lilies
While everyone comes to see the famous water lily pond and Japanese bridge from his paintings, I was stunned by how much more the gardens offered. The grounds are divided into two main sections: the flower garden near the house and the water garden across the road.
The flower garden absolutely overwhelmed my senses. I felt almost swallowed by green, pink, white and yellows as I wandered through meticulously planned yet seemingly wild arrangements of flowers. Cheerful bees hummed around blooms that cascaded from every direction—climbing roses and countless other varieties created living artworks of colour.
When I finally made my way to the water garden, seeing the iconic Japanese bridge and water lilies was incredible – it was like walking into one of Monet’s canvases. I understood immediately why he spent so long painting this scene in different lights and seasons.
A Taste of the French Countryside
After my visit to Monet’s sanctuary, I ventured through the village of Giverny itself. The charm of this rural French town perfectly complements the artistic legacy it houses. I found a beautiful restaurant with outdoor seating, where I treated myself to a quintessential French experience – a cheese platter paired with a glass of local wine.
A great stop: The Gift Shop
I don’t like spending much money on souvenirs, asmI find most gift shops overpriced and filled with uninspired merchandise. However, the shop at Giverny completely won me over, and I spent a lot of time in there flipping through books. There is every type of Monet merch you can imagine. I left with a beautiful colouring book, some unique crayons, and a tote bag featuring Monet’s artwork.
Final Thoughts
A half day trip from Paris provided enough time to experience the magic of Giverny, though some people may prefer an entire day there. The gardens change with the seasons, meaning each visit offers something new to discover. For anyone with even a passing interest in art, nature, or simply beautiful experiences, Monet’s Giverny deserves a place on your Paris itinerary.
Katrina’s Compass Rating:
9/10