From Paris: Day Trip to Giverny & Versailles with Lunch

Planning a day trip from Paris to see Giverny and Versailles? This tour from ParisCityVision offers a convenient way to tick both off your list without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets yourself. With a good mix of guided commentary, free time, and included lunch, it aims to give you a satisfying taste of two of France’s most celebrated sites.

What we like: the seamless transportation and the expert guides make this a hassle-free experience, especially if you’re short on time. Plus, the lunch in a charming setting really hits the spot after a busy morning. The downside? The itinerary is quite packed, and some reviews mention feeling rushed at Versailles, especially during peak times.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in a single day, appreciate guided insights, and don’t mind the crowds. It’s not ideal if you’re after a leisurely exploration or want to spend extensive time in either location. If that sounds like you, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Convenient all-in-one day trip with transport, entrance fees, and lunch included
• Expert guides provide helpful insights and keep the day engaging
• Time management can be tight, especially at Versailles and during peak visiting hours
• Giverny’s gardens are a highlight, especially for Monet lovers and garden enthusiasts
• Crowds at Versailles can be overwhelming, so plan for a busy experience
• Good value for the price, considering all included elements and the comfortable coach

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on this Tour

If you’re considering this trip, it helps to understand how your day will likely unfold. It’s a long day — around nine hours — but it’s designed to give you a solid overview of two major French landmarks. Here’s the journey from start to finish:

Departure from Paris and Transportation

The trip kicks off early in the morning, with transportation in a luxury, air-conditioned coach. This is a real plus, especially if you’re tired after a long flight or just want to avoid the stress of public transit or driving yourself. The bus is generally comfortable and spacious, with reviews praising the smooth ride and the driver’s skills navigating busy roads.

Most tours operate from a fixed meeting point, which may differ depending on the booking option you choose. Be sure to check your confirmation for clear directions. Keep in mind that the pick-up and drop-off at your hotel aren’t included, so you’ll need to account for getting to the meeting point.

Giverny — Monet’s Former Home and Gardens

The first stop is Giverny, the charming village in Normandy famous for being Claude Monet’s home and garden. Once there, you’ll have the choice between guided or audio-guided tours.

The highlight in Giverny is Monet’s house and the vibrant gardens, filled with the iconic water lilies, weeping willows, and colorful flowerbeds. Many reviews mention how stunning and inspiring the gardens are, especially for those who love impressionist art or simply enjoy beautiful outdoor spaces. One reviewer said, “Giverny exceeded our expectations. Simply stunning place!”

The gardens are the real star here, offering plenty of photo opportunities, and the house gives a glimpse into Monet’s life and creative environment. Arriving early helps you beat some of the crowds, though during peak times, it can get busy quickly.

Lunch — A Well-Paced Break

After exploring Giverny, you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch, often in a scenic countryside setting. The included meal is generally described as delicious and well-paced, giving you time to relax and chat with fellow travelers. Many travelers appreciate the chance to sit down in a charming restaurant, often with a local or farm-style vibe.

One review mentioned, “Lunch was a bonus — delicious and in a charming restaurant.” It’s a good way to recharge before heading to Versailles. Keep in mind, the menu might be somewhat standard, and special dietary requests aren’t always guaranteed, so if you have specific needs, it’s worth checking ahead.

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The Journey to Versailles — The Palace and Its Gardens

Post-lunch, it’s onward to Versailles, one of the most famous royal palaces in the world. The coach drops you off relatively close, and from there, you’ll explore the grandeur of the palace’s hallways, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Grands Appartements.

While the palace itself is breathtaking, many reviews note how crowded and busy it can be, especially during summer or peak days. You’ll get a glimpse of the opulence that surrounded Louis XIV — the gold, the grandeur, the scale.

The gardens are equally impressive, featuring geometrically designed flowerbeds, fountains, and sculptures. However, because of the popularity of Versailles, the gardens can be very crowded, and some reviews mention feeling rushed during their visit. One traveler said, “Versailles was interesting, but way too chaotic,” emphasizing how difficult it can be to enjoy the space fully when overwhelmed by visitors.

Optional Garden Access and Timing

It’s worth noting that entrance fees to the gardens aren’t included during Fountain Show and Musical Gardens days. If you’re visiting during these special events, your experience might differ, but on regular days, you’ll have access to the gardens included in your ticket.

The tour generally concludes around 6:00 pm, giving you a full day of sightseeing. However, some reviews suggest that the time inside Versailles could feel insufficient, especially if you wish to explore more leisurely or take additional photos.

The Real Deal with This Tour

Pros

Seamless transport and logistics make this a stress-free way to see both Giverny and Versailles. Most travelers appreciate the comfortable coach and the professional guides, who provide enough commentary to enrich your experience without overwhelming you.

Giverny’s gardens are often the highlight, with many visitors saying it’s more beautiful than expected. “Monet’s garden was absolutely stunning,” one review states. It’s a peaceful, colorful oasis worth seeing, especially early in the day before crowds arrive in full force.

The lunch is generally well-received, providing a genuine taste of local cuisine in a cozy setting. It’s a good mid-point break that lets you mingle with other travelers and recharge.

Cons

Time is the main issue. Because the day is tightly scheduled, you’ll have limited time at each site, which can feel rushed, especially at Versailles’ vast palace and gardens. Several reviews mention that more time would be appreciated, particularly in Versailles.

Crowds are another factor. Versailles, in particular, can get very busy, making it hard to fully enjoy the experience. Narrow pathways and long queues can detract from the majesty, and some travelers suggest visiting during off-peak times if possible.

Price-wise, at $196 per person, it’s a fair deal considering the included transportation, entrance fees, and lunch. But, if you’re someone who prefers deeper exploration or avoids crowds, this might not be your ideal choice.

Who It’s Best For

This tour suits travelers who want a structured, hassle-free day covering iconic sights without the stress of planning every detail. It’s great for first-time visitors wanting quick but meaningful exposure to Giverny and Versailles. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and don’t mind sharing the experience with other travelers, you’ll likely find this trip satisfying.

However, if you’re after a more relaxed, in-depth experience or wish to explore at your own pace, considering a private tour or independent visits might be better.

FAQs

Does the tour include hotel pick-up and drop-off?
No, the tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off. You’ll need to meet at a specified location, so plan accordingly.

Is the entrance to Giverny included?
Yes, your ticket covers entrance to Monet’s house and gardens, which is a real plus for convenience.

Are Versailles gardens included in the entrance fee?
Entrance fees to the gardens are not included during Fountain Show and Musical Gardens days, but typically included under the tour arrangements.

How long do we spend at each site?
The tour is designed to give you a taste rather than a deep dive; time can feel limited, especially at Versailles, which is massive.

What’s the lunch like?
Most reviews mention a delicious, well-paced meal in a charming setting. Dietary needs aren’t always specified, so bring any special requests in advance.

Is it family-friendly?
While not specifically tailored for children, families who enjoy sightseeing and don’t mind crowds might find it a good option.

How crowded does Versailles get?
Very crowded, especially during peak seasons, which can make the experience feel rushed and less relaxed.

Can I customize this tour?
This is a guided group experience, so customization isn’t typically available, but guides usually accommodate some solo exploration during free time.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Paris to Giverny and Versailles offers a practical, well-organized way to see two of France’s most treasured sites without the hassle of planning. The comfortable transport, insightful guides, and included lunch make it a good value, especially if your time in Paris is limited.

It’s perfect for first-timers who want to see the highlights and are comfortable with crowds and a packed schedule. If your goal is to enjoy a leisurely, in-depth exploration, you might want to consider other options. But for those seeking a taste of Monet’s gardens and royal splendor in a single day, this tour is a reliable choice that balances convenience with memorable sights.

Want to Know More?

Is the tour suitable during peak seasons?
Yes, but be prepared for larger crowds, especially at Versailles. Arrive early to beat some of the rush.

How long is the travel time?
The entire day lasts about nine hours, including transfers, sightseeing, and lunch. Expect a lot of time on the coach but with breaks in between.

What should I pack?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking quite a bit. Bring a camera, water, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen for outdoor parts.

Can I buy souvenirs at Giverny or Versailles?
Yes, both sites have shops. Expect to find Monet-themed souvenirs and royal memorabilia, but be prepared for some crowds there too.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. It’s a group experience with shared transport and guided commentary, making it easy to meet others.

What if I want more time at Versailles?
You might consider visiting independently or booking a longer or private tour, which offers more flexibility.

Will I have time for photos?
Yes, but during busy periods, you might find it tricky to get the perfect shot without people around. Early mornings are best for photos.

Are there any hidden costs?
The tour generally covers most expenses, but remember that extras like souvenirs or optional upgrades aren’t included.

If you’re eager to see Giverny’s gardens and the grandeur of Versailles in a single day without the fuss, this tour hits many marks. Be ready for busy spots, pack comfortable shoes, and keep your camera handy—you’re about to see some of France’s most beautiful sights, all arranged for you.

You can check availability for your dates here: