Private Shore Excursion from Rouen to Giverny – Monet’s House & Gardens
Embark on a vibrant half‑day private shore excursion from Rouen Cruise Port to the village of Giverny, where Claude Monet lived and created some of his most famous works. Visit his beautifully preserved house and the gardens that inspired the birth of Impressionism.
Pick up at your ship in Rouen Cruise Terminal
Your tour begins with pick up directly at your cruise ship in Rouen. Your English‑speaking driver/guide will be waiting outside the terminal with a sign bearing the lead passenger’s name. After a brief introduction and overview of the itinerary, settle into your air‑conditioned minivan and start the scenic 1.5‑hour drive to Giverny.
Arrive in Giverny and skip the line
On arrival in Giverny, one of France’s most famous artistic villages, your guide will escort you to the entrance of Monet’s estate. Entrance tickets are included, allowing you to skip the main ticket line and make the most of your visiting time. You then explore the house and gardens at your own pace, with information provided by your guide before entry and on-site panels.
Visit Monet’s house
Step into Claude Monet’s world as you visit his colorful home. Discover the “little blue sitting room” and the painter’s first studio on the ground floor, then continue upstairs to the private apartments. See Monet’s bedroom with period objects, Alice’s room, and Blanche’s room, adorned with reproductions of works by Monet’s friends such as Cézanne, Renoir, and others. Back downstairs, admire the bright yellow dining room, the traditional kitchen, and Monet’s renowned collection of Japanese prints.
Stroll the Clos Normand and water garden
Outside, wander through the Clos Normand flower garden in front of the house. Depending on the season, admire beds of daffodils, tulips, irises, poppies, peonies, and roses, carefully arranged by Monet to create ever‑changing color harmonies for his canvases. Walk along the central path lined with climbing plants and fruit trees for classic views of the house framed by flowers.
Then cross to the water garden, entirely created by Monet by diverting a small stream. Stroll around the lily pond, framed by willows, bamboo, and Japanese maples, and pause on the iconic Japanese bridge overlooking the water lilies that inspired his famous “Nymphéas” (Water Lilies) series. Today, a dedicated gardening team maintains these spaces to reflect Monet’s original vision.
Return to Rouen Cruise Port
After your visit, meet your driver at the agreed time and relax on the journey back to Rouen Cruise Port. You will be dropped off at your ship in time for departure. This private tour accommodates up to 8 guests per minivan and offers a comfortable, convenient way to experience Giverny during your call in Rouen.
