For art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and romantics at heart, a day trip to Giverny is a must — and we’ll help you make the most of it.
The Home and Gardens of Claude Monet
Claude Monet moved to Giverny in 1883 and spent over 40 years cultivating not only his art but also the landscapes that inspired it. His pink-and-green house and magnificent gardens are now open to visitors from April through November.
The Clos Normand Garden
In front of the house, you’ll find a vivid explosion of colors: tulips in spring, roses in early summer, and sunflowers by August. Monet approached his garden like his paintings — as a composition — using light, symmetry, and seasonal contrast to create harmony.
Take your time walking the gravel paths under iron arches and blooming trellises. Each corner is designed like a living canvas.
The Japanese Water Garden
Cross under the road via a tunnel, and you’ll discover Monet’s most famous inspiration: the water lily pond and the Japanese bridge, draped in wisteria. It’s here that he painted his legendary Nymphéas series — a masterpiece collection now found in Paris at the Musée de l’Orangerie.
Reflections of willow trees ripple in the green waters, and dragonflies hover over lily pads. Bring your camera — or a sketchbook.
Inside Monet’s House
The house itself is a delight of color and light. You’ll walk through the iconic yellow dining room, Monet’s sky-blue tiled kitchen, and walls filled with his vast collection of Japanese prints.
Each room has been restored to match historical records and photographs — so as you wander, you’re truly stepping into the world of the artist.
Musée des Impressionnismes
Just a few steps from Monet’s house is the Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny, a modern museum with rotating exhibitions focused on Monet and his contemporaries. It’s a quieter, contemplative space and often overlooked by tourists.
Check the seasonal exhibition calendar — it’s worth timing your visit to coincide with a theme that interests you.
Where to Eat in Giverny
There are several charming cafés and restaurants in the village:
- Restaurant Baudy – a historic spot that once hosted Cézanne, Renoir, and Rodin. Dine in the lush garden when the weather is good.
- Le Jardin des Plumes – for a more refined Michelin-star experience with a Norman twist.
- La Capucine – a casual garden café perfect for coffee, pastries, or a light lunch.
Getting There from La Maison de Colette
- By car: approx. 50 minutes (45 km)
- Parking: Free and paid parking available near the village entrance
- On foot or by bike? We don’t recommend it – but it pairs beautifully with a scenic drive through the Norman hills and villages.
💡 Tip: Try to arrive early (before 10 AM) or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday tour groups.
When to Visit
- The gardens open from April 1st to November 1st
- Best bloom times: April–May (spring bulbs), June (roses), and late July–August (sunflowers & water lilies)
- Autumn offers a quieter visit with a golden glow in the trees and fewer crowds
Make It a Day to Remember
Why not bring along a picnic from the Gisors market or prepare lunch in our guest kitchen before heading out? Or combine your trip with a stop in nearby Vernon, where you can explore more Impressionist sites and stroll along the Seine.
Walk Through a Painting — Then Return to Peace
After a day immersed in the beauty that inspired Monet, you’ll return to the quiet of La Maison de Colette — perhaps with a few postcards, a sketch of your own, or a newfound appreciation for light and color.
Whether you’re chasing brushstrokes, flowers, or silence, Giverny is a place that lingers in your memory — and it’s right next door.
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