Paris: Giverny & Versailles Small Group or Private Tour

Experience the elegance of French royalty and the delicate beauty of Impressionist art with a full-day tour to Versailles and Giverny. For around $262 per person, you’ll spend about nine hours exploring the majestic Versailles Palace and its lush gardens, and then retreat to the quaint village of Giverny, home to Claude Monet’s house and vibrant water gardens. Led by a knowledgeable guide, often praised for their insight and warmth, this tour provides a great way to combine history, art, and scenery in one memorable day.

Two features we particularly enjoy are the guided tours of Versailles’s Hall of Mirrors and Gardens, giving you a sense of the grandeur that defined the Sun King’s court, and the chance to stroll through Monet’s enchanting water gardens, which are a painter’s paradise. The included lunch at a countryside restaurant adds a touch of genuine rural France, far from tourist traps.

One potential consideration is the long day’s duration — nine hours can be tiring, especially if you’re not accustomed to a lot of walking or if the weather turns warm. Also, while the tour is flexible with optional pickup, the small group or private options mean you’ll want to book ahead, especially in peak seasons.

This experience suits travelers who love art, history, or gardens, and who appreciate a small, intimate group setting. If you’re looking for a guided day that balances sightseeing with comfort, and value with authenticity, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Visit Versailles with a guided tour of the Sun King’s royal palace and the stunning gardens designed by Le Nôtre.
• Explore Monet’s house and water gardens in Giverny, famous for the water lilies and picturesque bridges.
• Enjoy a relaxing lunch in a charming rural restaurant, adding a taste of authentic countryside cuisine.
• Small-group or private options ensure a personalized experience, with the benefit of a multilingual guide.
• All entrance tickets and guided tours are included, making for a stress-free day.
• Ideal for art lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a well-rounded glimpse of French culture outside Paris.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day of Royal Grandeur and Artistic Inspiration

When we first look at this tour, what sticks out is the opportunity to see two very different sides of France in one day. Versailles offers a glimpse into the opulence of 17th-century royal life—imposing architecture, lavish halls, and perfectly manicured gardens. Meanwhile, Giverny whispers of Impressionist creativity, with Monet’s house and gardens serving as a living canvas of vibrant flowers, water lilies, and peaceful ponds.

The tour’s price point of $262 might seem steep, but it covers a lot: transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, and a delicious countryside lunch. Compared to the hassle of navigating public transit or waiting in long lines, the value really adds up. Plus, the small-group or private setup means you’ll enjoy a more relaxed, personalized experience—something we always appreciate when visiting such popular sites.

Itinerary Breakdown: From Palace to Painting

Morning at Versailles begins with an easy pickup and a short drive from Paris. Once there, you’ll bypass the long lines with skip-the-ticket-line access, thanks to your guide. The guided visit of the Palace’s State Apartments and Hall of Mirrors is the highlight—imagine walking through the very rooms where history was made and where kings hosted foreign dignitaries. The guide will share stories about Louis XIV and the palace’s architectural marvels, making the experience more meaningful.

After the palace tour, you’ll stroll through the French gardens designed by Le Nôtre, admired for their symmetry, fountains, and sculptures. Depending on the day, you might see the fountains in full display or enjoy a quieter walk, but the gardens alone are worth the visit for their formal beauty and the sense of harmony they evoke.

Midday, the group heads out for lunch at the Moulin de Fourges, a charming countryside restaurant that promises hearty, authentic French fare. Guests often praise the location, describing it as “absolutely beautiful,” and the food as “delicious and filling,” adding a genuine rural flavor to the day.

Afternoon in Giverny involves a short drive through Normandy’s rolling countryside. Monet’s house and gardens are the true star here. You can expect to see the famous water lilies, the Japanese bridge, and vibrant flowerbeds that inspired countless masterpieces. The guided tour inside the house reveals Monet’s personal collections, studio, and the lush surroundings that fueled his artistic vision.

Multiple reviewers mention that the gardens are breathtaking and that Monet’s house is a “living museum,” where every corner offers a picture-perfect view. We loved the way the gardens are maintained as they were when Monet lived there, giving visitors an authentic taste of the artist’s environment.

How the Tour Feels in Practice

The group size is limited, making it easier to hear the guide and ask questions. Some reviews mention guides like Camille and Julian, who are praised for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness. One reviewer even noted how their guide “arranged for a wheelchair on the spot” when a group member needed assistance, highlighting the tour’s caring approach.

Timing-wise, the nine-hour stretch means you’ll get plenty of time at each site, though it’s worth noting that some travelers felt they had just enough time at Versailles, especially on fountain-show days when the gardens are more spectacular but may be crowded.

Transportation is comfortable and private if you opt for the private tour, or shared with a small group if you choose that option. Pickup details are flexible, although the public group option does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at a designated spot in Paris.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Many guests remark that the lunch at Moulin de Fourges was a highlight—not just for the food but for the setting. The restaurant’s picturesque terrace and scenic views offer a true taste of countryside France, far from the bustle of Paris. This quiet stop allows travelers to relax and recharge before heading to Giverny.

At Giverny, it’s less about crowds and more about the serene beauty of Monet’s gardens, which seem to change with every visit. Whether it’s the lush greenery, the delicate water lilies, or the quaint Japanese-style bridge, you leave with a renewed appreciation for nature’s artistry.

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Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll walk quite a bit at both Versailles and Giverny.
• Bring sunglasses and sun protection if visiting in summer.
• The long day means staying hydrated; consider carrying a water bottle.
• Check the garden schedules—fountain shows, if available, can enhance the experience but may require extra time or tickets.
• If mobility is an issue, consider the private tour, which can provide more tailored assistance.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of royal history, art, and scenic beauty. Art lovers will revel in Monet’s gardens, while history buffs will appreciate Versailles’s stunning architecture and rich past. It’s also a good fit for those who prefer a small, guided experience rather than navigating on their own, and who value convenience and the depth of knowledge that guides provide.

While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, it’s well suited for most able-bodied travelers interested in a well-organized, meaningful day-trip from Paris. If you’re short on time but want an all-in-one experience that captures the essence of France’s artistic and regal heritage, this is a strong choice.

The Sum Up

In the end, this tour offers a comprehensive way to see two iconic sites—Versailles and Giverny—in one day. With expert guides enhancing the experience, you’ll gain insights into French history, art, and landscapes that are hard to get on your own. The inclusion of lunch and entrance fees adds convenience and value, turning a potentially complicated day into a relaxed, enriching adventure.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a manageable, guided excursion that balances art, history, and scenery without rushing. If you’re someone who appreciates expert storytelling, beautiful gardens, and a touch of royal grandeur, you’ll find this tour well worth the effort.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
For the private tour option, yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included. The small group option does not include pickup, so you’ll need to meet at a designated point in Paris.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately nine hours, including travel time, site visits, and lunch.

Can I choose a private or small-group experience?
Yes, both options are available. Private tours accommodate up to 7 people and offer more personalized attention, while small-group tours are limited to 15 people.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking quite a bit. Sunglasses and sun protection are also recommended, especially in summer.

Are there any restrictions?
This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Pets, smoking, and large luggage are not allowed on the tour.

What’s included in the price?
Your tour includes guide services, entrance tickets, Monet’s house and gardens tour, lunch at Moulin de Fourges, and an audio-guided visit of Versailles’s State Apartments and Hall of Mirrors.

This tour balances the grandeur of French royalty with the delicate artistry of Monet’s gardens, providing a memorable day that combines history, art, and genuine countryside charm. Whether you’re an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a beautiful escape from Paris, it’s a well-rounded experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: