Giverny & Auvers sur Oise Private Day Trip with Monet & Van Gogh Tour from Paris

Exploring the Artful Countryside: Monet & Van Gogh Tour from Paris

Imagine escaping the urban hustle of Paris and spending a day immersed in the worlds of Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh—two giants of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. This private day trip, priced at around $713 per person, offers a 9-hour journey through the scenic landscapes that inspired some of the most beloved paintings in art history. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour takes you beyond the city’s busy streets to the tranquil villages of Giverny and Auvers-sur-Oise.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to walk through Monet’s lush gardens—where every flower and pond seems to breathe life into his paintings—and then to wander the streets of Auvers-sur-Oise, where Van Gogh spent his final days. The tour’s skip-the-line tickets to each site mean you spend more time appreciating art and less time waiting. Plus, traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ensures you arrive relaxed and ready to explore.

One consideration: At around 9 hours, this is a full-day commitment, so it’s best suited for those willing to dedicate a day to art and scenery. Also, since it’s a private tour, the experience can be tailored, making it ideal for art enthusiasts, couples, or small groups looking for a personalized day out. If you’re passionate about Impressionism or Van Gogh’s intense, emotional works, this tour is a perfect match.

Key Points

• In-depth visits to Monet’s gardens and house, offering a genuine connection to his inspiration.
• Skip-the-line access allows you to avoid long waits and maximize your time at each location.
• Personalized guide provides tailored insights into Monet, Van Gogh, and the surrounding areas.
• Comfortable transportation ensures a relaxed journey through scenic French countryside.
• Authentic experience with visits to historic sites like the 12th-century church and Van Gogh’s last home.
• Ideal for art lovers craving a dedicated, insightful day outside Paris.

A Closer Look at the Monet & Van Gogh Private Day Trip

This tour stands out because it combines the world-famous with the lesser-known, offering a well-rounded, authentic experience. It’s designed for those who want more than just a quick glance at Monet’s gardens or Van Gogh’s village—this is about feeling connected to the places that shaped their art.

The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Day

Stop 1: Fondation Claude Monet
The journey begins with a visit to Claude Monet’s house and gardens, where you’ll see the very pond, water lilies, and flowerbeds that inspired masterpieces like Water Lilies and Impression, Sunrise. Our guide, often described as “knowledgeable and considerate,” helps decode Monet’s artistic process and reveals the garden’s design secrets. Travelers love seeing Monet’s home in person—many note that arriving early allows for a peaceful, crowd-free experience.

Stop 2: The Clos Normand
Next, you wander through Monet’s colorful garden, which he transformed from a simple orchard into a kaleidoscope of blooms—think Japanese cherry trees, tulips, roses, and nasturtiums. Reviews praise the explosion of colors every season offers, making each visit unique. The garden is a living tribute to Monet’s quest to capture changing light and atmosphere.

Stop 3: Eglise Sainte-Radegonde de Giverny
A quick stop at this 12th-century Romanesque church offers a glimpse into the local history and architecture. It’s also the resting place of Monet’s family, adding a touch of personal history. Travelers find this peaceful church a charming contrast to the lush gardens.

Stop 4: Van Gogh’s Last Days: Auvers-sur-Oise
In the afternoon, you arrive at Auvers-sur-Oise, a picturesque village that Van Gogh called home during his final 70 days. The church of Saint Auvers and the village’s quaint streets served as a backdrop for over 70 of his works. The Eglise Notre-Dame d’Auvers showcases Van Gogh’s love for this place, and many mention how moving it is to stand where he painted his last images.

Stop 5: Cimetiere Auvers sur Oise
A poignant moment comes with a visit to Van Gogh’s grave and his brother Theo’s tomb. It’s a quiet, reflective stop that many find deeply touching—an emotional reminder of the artist’s brief but impactful life.

Stop 6: Maison de Van Gogh (Auberge Ravoux)
The final stop is Van Gogh’s last home—the Auberge Ravoux—where the artist spent his final days. The house remains in a remarkably original state and exudes a historical charm that transports visitors back to Vincent’s time. Guests often enjoy the atmosphere in the café upstairs, feeling like they’re part of the same artistic community Van Gogh was.

The Transportation Experience

The air-conditioned minibus offers a smooth ride between sites, freeing you from the stress of city navigation. Pickup from your hotel or accommodation means you won’t need to worry about finding meeting points—a plus some reviewers especially appreciated. Since the group is private, the timing can be flexible, allowing you to spend more or less time at each stop based on your interests.

The Value of Skip-the-Line Access

With tickets that skip long queues, you’ll avoid wasting precious sightseeing time. For art lovers, this means more time absorbed in Monet’s gardens or Van Gogh’s surroundings, rather than waiting for entry. This added convenience is often highlighted as a significant plus in reviews, especially during busier months.

The Art & History Connection

Our guides are praised for their knowledgeable insights, making the art and history come alive. They offer context about Monet’s revolutionary approach to capturing light and Van Gogh’s emotional intensity, enriching your appreciation beyond just seeing the sights.

The Experience for Art Enthusiasts

Many reviews mention how touching it was to see Monet’s garden in person—it’s like stepping into his paintings. Likewise, walking Van Gogh’s streets gives a tangible sense of his last days, making the experience more personal. If you are an art lover or a curious traveler wanting an authentic, intimate experience, this tour delivers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a deep dive into Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art in a relaxed setting. It suits those who appreciate scenic countryside and are willing to spend a full day outside of Paris. The private aspect means your experience can be tailored to your pace and interests, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a personalized cultural journey.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, insightful, and beautifully curated art-focused day, then this tour offers genuine value. It’s especially recommended if you want to beat the crowds and enjoy more intimate, meaningful visits to Monet and Van Gogh’s beloved sites.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel, site visits, and breaks.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusive to your group, providing personalized attention and flexibility.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers transportation, skip-the-line tickets to Monet’s gardens, house, and Van Gogh’s sites, plus a professional guide.

Are there any meals included?
Lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something at the stops.

Where do I meet the guide?
Pickup is offered from your hotel or accommodation in Paris, making the start seamless.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

What if I have special dietary requirements?
Please advise at the time of booking; while lunch isn’t included, your guide can help recommend nearby options.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most stops involve walking on uneven surfaces; it’s best to check with your guide about specific needs.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 3 months ahead, as this popular tour tends to fill up early.

Final Thoughts

This private Giverny & Auvers sur Oise tour provides an excellent opportunity to connect with two of France’s most iconic artists in their natural and personal surroundings. The combination of Monet’s lush gardens and Van Gogh’s last village offers a well-rounded, immersive experience. The skip-the-line tickets and private transport make it both convenient and comfortable, whether you’re a dedicated art lover or simply looking for a meaningful day outside Paris.

The attentiveness of the guides, the quiet beauty of the countryside, and the chance to see the actual places that inspired Monet and Van Gogh make this tour stand out. Although it’s a full day, many reviewers feel the investment is justified given the depth and authenticity of the experience. If you’re seeking a peaceful, insightful, and visually stunning journey into the world of two legendary painters, this tour checks all the boxes.

Whether it’s your first time visiting Paris or a special trip focused on art, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Monet’s luminous gardens and Van Gogh’s poignant last days—an artistic adventure well worth the price.