From Paris: Auvers-sur-Oise & Giverny Excursion

From Paris: Auvers-sur-Oise & Giverny Excursion – A Deep Dive into Art’s Heart

Imagine stepping into the worlds of Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet in just a day, without the hassle of long queues or crowded tours. This full-day private excursion from Paris, priced at $293 per person, takes you from your hotel in the City of Light into the tranquil countryside of Ile-de-France. You’ll visit Van Gogh’s final residence in Auvers-sur-Oise, walk in his footsteps at key sites like the Auberge Ravoux and his grave, and then switch to Monet’s lush gardens and house in Giverny.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the luxury van transport—no cramped buses or waiting in line—and the intimate, private group experience that allows for more flexible and meaningful exploration. We especially loved how smoothly the day flows, with well-timed visits and plenty of time to absorb the art and scenery. Plus, the stories shared by the guides make the history come alive in a refreshingly personal way.

One element to consider is the full-day schedule—it’s quite packed, which might be tiring if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to spend extra time in each location. But if you’re eager to see two of the most iconic art sites in a single day, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits travelers who are passionate about art, history, and authentic sights, but who also value comfort and efficiency. If you’re short on time but want a rich, well-organized visit, this trip offers a well-balanced mix of education, scenery, and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share stories that bring Van Gogh and Monet’s worlds to life.
• Skip-the-Line Access: No waiting in queues for Giverny or Auvers-sur-Oise’s key sites.
• Luxury Transportation: Private van ensures comfort and a smooth journey between sites.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit Van Gogh’s last residence and Monet’s gardens, experiencing their favorite places.
• Flexible Schedule: Includes time for lunch, photos, and leisurely walks.
• Ideal for Art Lovers: Perfect for those eager to see iconic sites with in-depth context.

Exploring the Day in Detail

Starting the Journey: Hotel Pickup in Paris

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is an appreciated convenience. Being collected from your Paris accommodation means you avoid the chaos of public transport and start the day relaxed. The private van is comfortable and direct, setting a tone of personalized service that stands out from larger group tours.

Van Transit: The Comfort of Private Transport

In about an hour, your driver-guide will whisk you into the scenic countryside of Auvers-sur-Oise. This ride isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s a chance to settle in, chat with your guide, and get a preview of what’s ahead.

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Van Gogh’s Last Days in Auvers-sur-Oise

Once in Auvers-sur-Oise, you’ll visit Auberge de Ravoux—the inn where Vincent Van Gogh spent his final 70 days. You’ll see Room N°5, the space where he created some of his last works, and the table where he ate, giving you a tangible connection to his final days. The guide’s insights help you understand the emotional and artistic significance of this place.

Next, a visit to Van Gogh’s grave and the cimitero where his brother Théo is buried offers a poignant moment. The story shared here, about Van Gogh’s death and funeral, adds depth to your understanding of his tumultuous life.

The marvelous church in Auvers, which inspired many of Vincent’s paintings, is an essential stop. We loved how the guide explained Vincent’s fascination with local architecture and the way light played across the scene, making it more than just a pretty building.

Lunch in Auvers-sur-Oise

For lunch, you can opt for a local eatery or the historic Auberge Ravoux itself, where you can enjoy a classic charcuterie and cheese platter with a glass of wine—just like Van Gogh did. The relaxed pace here lets you soak in the village atmosphere and reflect on the morning’s sights before heading back into the van.

Transition to Monet’s Gardens in Giverny

After lunch, the journey continues to Giverny, where Monet’s house and gardens await. We loved the way the guide described Monet’s dedication—over 40 years shaping the Clos Normand, his Japanese-style water garden, and the Nymphéas that inspired his famous paintings.

The garden is a living, breathing masterpiece. The water lily ponds, with their floating blooms and winding paths, give you a real sense of Monet’s artistic process. This is a place where every corner reveals a new inspiration, and the guide’s commentary helps you appreciate the careful attention Monet paid to every detail.

Monet’s House and Gardens

Walking through Monet’s house, you’ll see the rooms where he lived and worked, with glimpses of original furniture and personal touches. The gardens are a highlight—vivid, lush, and ever-changing with the seasons. We loved the way the water garden in a Japanese style connected to Monet’s “Nymphéas” series, making it more than just a pretty park.

Impressionism Museum and Final Stroll

The tour includes a visit to the Impressionism Museum, where you’ll learn about the broader movement that Monet and Van Gogh helped shape. The museum’s garden, which reflects the seasons, offers a peaceful way to conclude your artistic exploration.

Return to Paris

The day wraps up with a 1.5-hour drive back to Paris, where your guide will drop you off at your hotel. Throughout the day, you get a well-paced, enriching experience that balances sightseeing, art appreciation, and personal reflection.

How This Tour Provides Genuine Value

The skip-the-line tickets are a big plus, saving hours of waiting—especially in peak seasons when lines at Giverny can be long. The private luxury van means you travel comfortably, with flexibility to adjust timing slightly if needed, which other larger tours often lack.

The expert guides are a highlight, sharing stories and insights that turn historical sites into vivid, personal experiences. The reviews praise guides like Andy, highlighting their helpfulness and humor, which makes the day both educational and enjoyable.

In terms of cost, at $293, the tour offers a comprehensive visit to two world-famous sites with personalized service and convenience. When you consider the cost of tickets, transportation, and the value of skipping lines, it’s a good deal for art enthusiasts or travelers wanting a hassle-free, in-depth experience.

Possible Downsides

The main consideration is the tight schedule—if you prefer a more relaxed visit or love lingering over each art piece, this may feel rushed. Also, the tour is not suitable for those outside of Paris wanting to be picked up elsewhere, or for travelers seeking an independent exploration rather than a guided experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for art lovers eager to see Van Gogh and Monet’s homes and gardens with a knowledgeable guide. It’s perfect if you value comfort and efficiency—getting the most out of your day without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Travelers who appreciate a personalized experience and are interested in art history will find this tour both inspiring and well-organized.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does this tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off at your Paris hotel, making it a hassle-free way to start and end your day.

Are tickets to Giverny and Auvers-sur-Oise included?
Absolutely. You’ll have skip-the-line tickets, so you avoid long waits at these popular sites.

How long is the travel time between sites?
The drive from Paris to Auvers-sur-Oise takes about an hour, with similar time to Giverny, ensuring you maximize your sightseeing rather than spend hours in transit.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the tour involves walking in the gardens and around the sites, the private van offers comfort, but you should be prepared for some uneven paths and walking at the sites.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes are recommended, especially for walking through gardens and outdoor areas, and don’t forget your camera.

Can I customize the timing or itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, guides are often flexible, but the schedule is generally fixed to maximize the day’s visits.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but the tour offers options to enjoy local cuisine or the historic Auberge Ravoux.

Final Thoughts

This From Paris: Auvers-sur-Oise & Giverny Excursion offers a thoughtful, well-organized way to see two of the most iconic art sites in France without the stress of self-planning. The private transport, skip-the-line tickets, and engaging guides combine to create a very good value for anyone who wants depth and comfort in their art adventures.

Whether you’re a dedicated art lover, a history enthusiast, or someone eager to experience Monet’s gardens in full bloom, this tour strikes a nice balance between educational value, authentic sites, and relaxed pacing. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate stories behind the paintings and want to visit these special places with a knowledgeable guide by their side.

This tour won’t suit travelers looking for a leisurely, unstructured day, nor those seeking to explore at their own pace independently. But if you’re after a comprehensive, engaging, and comfortable way to connect with the worlds of Van Gogh and Monet in a single day, this experience is likely to leave you inspired and grateful for the journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: