Giverny is a charming spot for wandering on foot. The village’s cozy streets, lush gardens, and Monet’s iconic water lily ponds provide an authentic setting for exploring on foot. What makes walking tours here stand out is how they blend history, art, and nature, often with a local guide who brings the story alive. Whether you’re an art lover eager to see Monet’s home or a traveler who just wants to soak up the atmosphere at your own pace, Giverny’s walking tours cater to a variety of interests. I especially like the Giverny Village Walking Tour & Skip-the-Line to Monet Garden because it combines a guided village walk with the convenience of bypassing long lines at Monet’s house.
Giverny offers a mix of guided and private walking tours that highlight everything from Monet’s inspiring gardens to the quaint streets where the artist and his friends once gathered. Each tour provides a unique way to experience Giverny’s beauty—whether through expert narration, exclusive access, or personalized attention. Below, I’ve broken down the top four options so you can choose the best fit for your trip.
1. Giverny Village Walking Tour & Skip-the-Line to Monet Garden
At number 1, this tour offers a guided stroll through Giverny village, led by a local expert who shares fascinating details about the area’s past and Monet’s life. After the walk, you get skip-the-line access to Monet’s house and gardens, allowing you to explore at your own pace—without wasting time waiting in queues. The tour lasts about 1 to 2 hours and is priced at $64 per person, making it a good balance of depth and value.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of a guided introduction to Giverny’s charm and the flexibility to wander Monet’s gardens without a rush. You’ll see the famous Japanese bridge, water lily pond, and flower gardens, with ample opportunity for photos and reflection. The guide’s insights help you understand how Monet’s surroundings influenced his work, making the visit more meaningful. With over 580 reviews averaging 4.2/5, many travelers appreciate the well-organized experience and informative commentary, though some note the crowds during peak times.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a guided overview of Giverny village plus private time in Monet’s gardens with priority access.
2. Giverny Monet House and Gardens Skip the line Walking tour
Coming in at number 2, this option focuses on walking through Monet’s house and gardens with skip-the-line entry, lasting approximately 2 hours for $63.86. It begins with a charming tour of Giverny village, where you’ll learn about Monet’s life in the area, followed by a quick bypass of the long lines at the house itself. The tour caps at 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.
What makes this tour special is its emphasis on immediate access, so you can spend more time marveling at the gardens—full of vibrant flowers, water lilies, and the iconic Japanese bridge—without feeling rushed. The guide shares stories of Monet’s daily life and his artistic evolution, making it a compelling option for those interested in art history. Reviews highlight the beauty of Monet’s house and garden, with many mentioning the guide’s engaging storytelling. The price for the experience reflects its value, considering the skip-the-line shortcut and personalized group size.
Bottom Line: Perfect for art enthusiasts and those eager to skip the crowds, especially if you appreciate a small-group setting.
3. Giverny Private Guided Walking Tour
Ranked at number 3, this private tour offers an exclusive two-hour exploration of Giverny with your own guide. Costing $351 per group (up to 15 people), it’s designed for travelers who want a deeply personalized experience. The guide will take you through Monet’s house, gardens, and the village, sharing detailed insights into Impressionism and Monet’s revolutionary use of light and color.
What makes this tour unique is the customized approach. You can focus on your specific interests, whether that’s Monet’s techniques, the history of the village, or the landscape itself. The guide’s passion and deep knowledge make the visit more engaging, especially for those who want a richer understanding of Monet’s artistic legacy. With a perfect 5/5 rating based on two reviews, this option appeals to travelers who value exclusivity and tailored storytelling.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups or couples seeking an immersive, private experience with a flexible itinerary.
4. Giverny: Monet’s House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour
Finally, at number 4, this private two-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at Monet’s home and gardens, priced at $313.58 per person. The experience begins with meeting your guide at Monet’s estate, where you’ll explore the house, gardens, and water lily ponds that inspired countless masterpieces. The focus is on an intimate, in-depth visit, with plenty of time to absorb the atmosphere and ask questions.
The guide shares stories behind Monet’s paintings, his life in Giverny, and the significance of the gardens in his work. Reviewers describe the experience as “wonderful,” praising the guide’s storytelling and the chance to see Monet’s world up close. This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a private, detailed visit with a focus on Monet’s personal environment.
Bottom Line: Excellent for art lovers who want an exclusive, private look at Monet’s house and gardens with personalized attention.
$313.58 per person
How to Choose
When selecting a walking tour in Giverny, consider your budget, interest level, and preferred experience. If you want a well-rounded introduction with some free time, the Giverny Village Walking Tour & Skip-the-Line to Monet Garden offers great value. For a more art-focused experience with priority access, the Giverny Monet House and Gardens Skip the line Walking tour is excellent. If privacy or a tailored experience appeals to you, then the private tours provide that special touch.
Think about how much time you want to spend—the private tours are longer and more intimate, but at a higher cost. Consider your physical activity level; all tours involve walking, but private options may offer more flexibility and personal focus. Booking early is recommended, as Monet’s house can get busy, especially in peak seasons from April to October.
Final Thoughts
Giverny’s walking tours offer a rich variety of ways to experience Monet’s world. For a quick, affordable guided overview, the Village Walk & Skip-the-Line is a great pick. Art lovers who want a more immersive or private look at Monet’s home will find the private tours—the private guided experience or the private house and gardens tour—worth the investment.
No matter which tour you choose, Giverny’s enchanting gardens and the stories behind Monet’s paintings make it a destination worth visiting. To avoid missing out, be sure to book ahead and pick a time that aligns with your travel plans. Whether you prefer a group adventure or a private retreat, Giverny’s walking tours will bring you closer to one of the most inspiring landscapes in the world.