Le Havre Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Giverny, Rouen and Honfleur

If you’re considering a day trip from Le Havre that combines art, history, and charming seaside scenery, this private tour of Giverny, Rouen, and Honfleur might just be what you’re looking for. It’s designed for those who want a personalized experience that skips the crowds, with an expert guide leading the way. While it’s a pricier option at around $810 per person, many reviewers agree that the quality and flexibility make it worth every euro.

What we really like about this experience is how it offers the chance to see Monet’s iconic gardens and home, along with historic sites like Rouen Cathedral and Honfleur’s picturesque port—all in one day. Plus, the fact that it’s private means you can tailor the itinerary, spending more time at the spots that truly catch your interest. One potential downside? The price might seem steep for some, especially if you’re on a budget. But if you value comfort, expert guidance, and the ability to customize your day, this tour could be a real highlight of your trip. It suits travelers who appreciate art, history, or simply want a relaxed, personal way to explore Normandy’s most photogenic spots.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: You choose which two of the three highlights to visit, allowing for a tailored experience.
• In-depth visits: Walk in Monet’s footsteps and see his house, gardens, and art collection.
• Rich history: Explore Rouen’s Gothic cathedral and Joan of Arc’s story, plus Honfleur’s port and wooden church.
• Comfort and convenience: Includes pickup, private transport, and expert guide service.
• Great for art lovers and history buffs: Especially those interested in Monet or medieval France.
• Cost reflects quality: The price covers personalized service, private transport, and detailed guiding—worth it for many travelers.

Starting Point and Overall Structure

Your day begins promptly at 8:30 am, with a pickup at the cruise terminal in Le Havre. From there, you’ll hop into a private vehicle with your guide, ready for a full day of exploring Normandy’s highlights. The beauty of this tour is its flexibility: you can select any two of the three destinations—Giverny, Rouen, and Honfleur—depending on your interests and energy levels.

Most reviews emphasize the excellent guidance and personalized pace that this setup allows. The tour is designed to last about 8 hours, which sounds long but is packed with meaningful stops and thoughtful commentary.

Giverny: Monet’s Garden and Home

The first stop is about 1.5 hours away from Le Havre, giving you a chance to get immersed in Monet’s world. As many reviewers point out, visiting Monet’s house and gardens is a must-do for art lovers. The gardens are renowned for their water lily pond and Japanese bridge—famous scenes from Monet’s paintings—so you’ll want to bring your camera.

Walking through Monet’s gardens, you’ll see the very spots he painted, and it’s easy to imagine him at his easel, capturing the changing light here. Inside his former home, now a museum, you’ll find his collection of Japanese prints and personal touches that add context to his work. Reviewers mention that the gardens are especially beautiful when in full bloom and not overly crowded, making the experience even more special.

One guest shared: “It was so memorable to see Monet’s house & gardens,” emphasizing how impactful this visit is, especially with a guide who can point out details you might miss on your own.

Rouen: Medieval Charm and Joan of Arc

Next, your journey takes you to Rouen, a city steeped in medieval history. The highlight here is the Gothic Rouen Cathedral, which features the tallest spire in France. Monet painted this cathedral multiple times, attempting to capture its changing appearances at different times of day. Inside, the 13th-century stained glass windows offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship of the era.

Beyond the cathedral, you’ll see the Great Clock (Gros Horloge) and walk through the cobbled streets that tell stories of Joan of Arc, who was burned at the stake here in 1431. As one reviewer points out, learning about her heroic journey amid the charming streets adds depth to your visit. The guide’s commentary often brings the history alive, making you appreciate the importance of this city beyond its beauty.

Honfleur: Picturesque Port and Historic Church

The final stop is Honfleur, with a drive of about 30 minutes from Rouen. Here, the port’s colorful houses, bustling cafés, and the iconic St Catherine’s Church—the largest wooden church in France—offer a quintessential Normandy experience. The church’s construction after the Hundred Years’ War reflects Honfleur’s maritime heritage.

Up at the Côte de Grâce, you’ll get sweeping views over the port and the Normandy Bridge, a perfect spot for photos or a quiet moment of reflection. Monet and other Impressionists loved Honfleur’s scenery, and you’ll love the views that inspired their works.

One guest raved that Honfleur was “so pretty,” noting that the port and the wooden church are both “not to be missed.” The guide’s local insights, including suggestions for a good lunch spot, are often highlighted as a bonus.

While the sticker price might seem steep, many reviewers say the experience exceeds their expectations. The private nature means you’re not rushing through crowded sites or listening to a noisy guide; instead, you get a tailored, immersive experience. Plus, the transport is comfortable, and the guide’s knowledge appears to be a highlight—many comments praise their personalities, local expertise, and ability to adapt to the group’s pace.

The value lies in the convenience—door-to-door pickup, private vehicle, and the ability to customize—which can make a big difference, especially after a long cruise day. And, the fact that the gardens at Giverny are at their best from April to November is an important consideration for timing your visit.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for art enthusiasts eager to see Monet’s gardens and home firsthand, as well as history lovers interested in Medieval France and Joan of Arc. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate personalized attention and want to avoid the crowds typical of larger group tours. If you’re traveling with a group that values comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance, this private tour is likely to be a highlight.

This private tour from Le Havre offers a well-rounded glimpse into Normandy’s artistic and historical treasures. The ability to choose which two sites to visit makes it adaptable for different interests and energy levels, and the expert guides keep the experience engaging and informative. You’ll enjoy the relaxed pace, personalized service, and the chance to see Monet’s gardens, Rouen’s medieval streets, and Honfleur’s picturesque port—all in one seamless day.

While the price tag might seem high, many travelers find the quality, comfort, and flexibility justify the cost. It’s particularly suited for those with an appreciation for art, history, or beautiful scenery who value a private, customizable experience over crowded group tours. If you’re looking for a memorable, art-rich day in Normandy, this tour offers an excellent way to see it all without rushing.

How many destinations can I choose to visit?
You can select any two of the three main stops—Giverny, Rouen, and Honfleur—when booking this private tour.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a professional driver/guide, private vehicle transport, port pickup and drop-off, and a worry-free guarantee to ensure you return on time.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, which includes travel time and visits at each site.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but the guide can recommend good places to eat, especially in Honfleur.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the flexible pace and private setting make it manageable for most travelers, including those with children, especially if they’re interested in art and history.

What about timing and seasonality?
Giverny’s gardens are open from April 1st to November 1st, so plan your visit within this window for the best experience.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Reviews consistently highlight knowledgeable, personable guides who tailor the experience and share interesting stories, making the tours memorable.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes. You get to choose which two sites you prefer, and guides are often praised for their flexibility and local insights.

What if my ship is delayed or cancels?
The tour offers a full refund if canceled at least 6 days in advance. It also guarantees timely return to the port, or transportation to the next port if needed.

Embarking on this private Normandy tour from Le Havre promises a day filled with artful beauty, historical depth, and scenic charm—perfect for travelers seeking a personalized and enriching experience.