Giverny Cruise Port
Vernon Cruise Pier
Giverny, France Port
UN/LOCODE FRGIK Port of call Homeport
Giverny Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | France |
| UN/LOCODE | FRGIK |
| Contact | |
| Address | Quai Jacques-Chirac, 27200 Vernon, France |
| Port phone | +33 2 32 51 39 60 |
| Website | www.vernon27.fr |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 49.14440, 1.61750 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The Giverny experience begins in Vernon, where your ship docks approximately 5 km (3.1 miles) from Claude Monet's famous estate. A taxi from the Vernon pier to Giverny costs roughly €15.00–€20.00 (~$17.50–$23.00 USD) and takes 10 minutes, though most passengers utilize the €10.00 (~$11.50 USD) round-trip 'Petit Train' or shuttle bus. Located in the Normandy region of northern France, Giverny sits within the picturesque Seine Valley, just 75 km (46 miles) northwest of Paris and 60 km (37 miles) southeast of Rouen. You should recognize that this is a dedicated river cruise port of call, and while the distance is short, the walk from the Seine River pier to the village takes nearly an hour on a flat but largely unshaded path. Be aware that Giverny is a victim of its own beauty; during peak season, the narrow garden paths can feel more like a subway platform than a sanctuary. Success here rewards the early riser who departs the ship by 8:30 AM. It punishes those who arrive without pre-purchased tickets, as the 'on-the-day' queue often exceeds 90 minutes in the afternoon sun. One day here delivers a sensory immersion into Impressionism, provided you accept that you share the lilies with several thousand other admirers.
Giverny — Port Overview
History
Giverny’s transformation from an obscure agricultural hamlet to a global pilgrimage site began in April 1883. Claude Monet, looking through a train window, spotted the village and immediately moved his family into a rented farmhouse known as Le Pressoir. Over the next 43 years, Monet reshaped the local landscape, literally diverting a branch of the Epte River to create his famous water garden in 1893—a move that initially drew fierce opposition from local farmers who feared his 'exotic' plants would poison their cattle. This specific tension shaped the village's layout, as the water lily pond is actually separated from the main house by a road and a railway line (now a bypass). By the late 1880s, an American colony of artists, including Willard Metcalf and Theodore Robinson, settled here, turning Giverny into a hub of international Impressionism. During World War II, the house and gardens suffered neglect and shelling, but a massive restoration project in the 1970s, funded largely by American donors, restored the site to its 1926 appearance. Today, when you walk through the green-shuttered house, you are seeing the exact color palette Monet chose in the late 19th century, preserved as a living piece of art history that remains the village’s sole economic engine.
The Verdict
The clients who get the most from Giverny are those who arrive with a clear plan and the flexibility to adapt to the crowd levels. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. At Waterways Cruise, no two travelers want the same day ashore, and Giverny rewards those who look beyond the lily pond.
Things to Do & See in Giverny
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny | Museum | 99 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny, France | +33 2 32 51 94 65 | Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | mdig.fr | EUR €10.00 |
| The Water Lily Garden (Jardin d'Eau) | Natural Feature | 84 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny, France | +33 2 32 51 28 21 | Daily 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM | fondation-monet.com | EUR €11.00 |
| Claude Monet's House | Historical Site | 84 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny, France | +33 2 32 51 28 21 | Daily 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM | fondation-monet.com | EUR €11.00 |
| Giverny Cemetery (Claude Monet’s Grave) | Historical Site | Rue Claude Monet (West end), 27620 Giverny, France | Open 24 hours | Free | ||
| The Old Mill of Vernon (Le Vieux Moulin) | Landmark | Rue Pierre Maubert, 27200 Vernon, France | Exterior view only | vernon27.fr | Free |
Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny · Museum
EUR €10.00It is worth knowing that this museum is the perfect intellectual counterbalance to the purely sensory experience of Monet's gardens. Travelers often report that the rotating exhibitions, which often feature works by American Impressionists who lived in Giverny, provided a much deeper understanding of the village's global impact than the house tour alone. The architecture is deliberately low-profile, designed to blend into the slope of the hill, and the gardens here are organized by color in a way that pays homage to Monet's palette without mimicking it. Look for the 'wildflower meadow' section at the rear; most visitors stick to the formal beds near the entrance. The museum shop is excellent and carries many boutique items you won't find in the more commercial garden gift shops. If the crowds at the main house become overwhelming, retreat here; the galleries are spacious, climate-controlled, and offer a much-needed moment of quiet contemplation. It delivers a sophisticated, curated look at art history in a setting that feels respectful and unhurried.
99 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny, France ·+33 2 32 51 94 65 ·Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM ·www.mdig.fr
The Water Lily Garden (Jardin d'Eau) · Natural Feature
EUR €11.00This is the 'sacred ground' of the Seine River valley. The walking loop around the pond is approximately 400 meters, but it can take an hour when you stop to admire the reflections that Monet immortalized in his 'Nymphéas' series. The garden was created by diverting the Epte River, and the resulting ecosystem is a carefully managed balance of exotic wisteria and native water plants. No one tells you that the garden is actually located on the other side of a road and former railway line from the house; the tunnel makes the transition seamless, but it is a distinct zone. Visitors should walk the full perimeter to see the bridge from the 'back' side, which is often less crowded and offers a better angle for catching the reflections on the water. The timing most guides quote—30 minutes—is wrong; if you want to feel the atmosphere that inspired the Orangerie murals, you need at least 60 minutes here. It is a living painting, and the way the light filters through the bamboo groves at the edge of the pond is a moment of pure Normandy magic. It delivers exactly the serenity you came for, provided you time your entry to avoid the mid-morning tour bus surge.
84 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny, France ·+33 2 32 51 28 21 ·Daily 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM ·fondation-monet.com
Claude Monet's House · Historical Site
EUR €11.00Walking into Monet's house is like stepping inside one of his paintings. The color schemes are vibrant and unconventional for the era—the iconic yellow dining room and the blue-tiled kitchen were designed by Monet himself to maximize the play of light. Waterways Cruise clients who have visited consistently report that the view from Monet's bedroom window, looking out over the Clos Normand garden, is the highlight of the interior tour. You are seeing the same rows of nasturtiums and roses that he saw every morning for four decades. You will find that the kitchen at the end of the house is often the most crowded spot because everyone stops to admire the copper pots; keep moving to the exit if it feels too tight. The house is not a traditional museum; there are no labels on the walls, and the furniture is arranged as if the family just stepped out for a walk. It delivers an intimate, domestic look at the life of a genius, far removed from the formal galleries of Paris. Despite the crowds, the sense of the man's personality—his obsession with color and his love for his family—is palpable in every room.
84 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny, France ·+33 2 32 51 28 21 ·Daily 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM ·fondation-monet.com
Giverny Cemetery (Claude Monet’s Grave) · Historical Site
FreeAccording to the Giverny Tourist Office, only about 15% of visitors make the trek to the far end of the village to visit Monet's final resting place. This is a mistake. The grave is a large, multi-generational family plot covered in a riot of flowers—fitting for the man who lived for them. It is located just to the right of the entrance to the Church of Sainte-Radegonde. The walk from the museum takes about 12 minutes at a moderate pace. The church itself dates back to the 11th century and is worth a five-minute peek for its Romanesque simplicity. Visiting the grave provides a necessary sense of closure to the Giverny experience; after seeing the vibrant life of his house and gardens, this quiet corner of the Seine River valley offers a moment of genuine reflection. You won't find tour groups here. You'll find a peaceful, rural silence that reminds you that before Giverny was an international attraction, it was a simple farming village. It delivers a profound, human connection to the artist that you simply cannot get in the crowded gardens.
Rue Claude Monet (West end), 27620 Giverny, France ·Open 24 hours
The Old Mill of Vernon (Le Vieux Moulin) · Landmark
FreeVisitor feedback is consistent that this is the best photo in the region. The Old Mill is a half-timbered structure dating from the 16th century, precariously perched on the original stone piers of a defunct medieval bridge. It once served as a toll house and a corn mill. While everyone focuses on Giverny, this landmark on the Seine River is the true icon of Vernon. It is worth noting that most passengers only see it from the window of their shuttle bus—don't be one of them. Take the five-minute walk from your ship to the riverside park. The mill is famously featured in several of Monet's paintings of the Vernon waterfront. The park around it is peaceful and offers great views of the Tourelles Castle across the road. It delivers a quintessential 'Old France' visual that serves as the perfect bookend to your day. Standing by the water, you can feel the power of the river that has defined this town since the Viking era.
Rue Pierre Maubert, 27200 Vernon, France ·Exterior view only ·www.vernon27.fr
Eating & Drinking in Giverny
Normandy is the land of butter, cream, and apples. In Giverny and Vernon, the culinary identity is defined by these three pillars. You won't find many vineyards here; this is cider country. Look for 'Cidre de Normandie' on every menu, specifically the 'Brut' (dry) variety. The regional specialty is 'Sole Normande,' which is sole served in a rich cream and mushroom sauce, though most day-trippers will find the 'Galettes' (savory buckwheat crepes) more practical for a quick lunch. For a true local experience, visit the Vernon market (Saturdays) to find 'Neufchâtel' cheese, which is heart-shaped and famously soft. One honest note: tourists expect to find 'Monet-themed' food everywhere, but beyond the specific green-and-yellow cakes in some gift shops, the locals eat traditional Norman fare that hasn't changed much since Monet's day. The genuine version of Giverny cuisine is found in the simple, slow-cooked stews and fresh river fish found in the smaller bistros of Vernon, rather than the high-turnover cafes immediately adjacent to the gardens.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Les Nymphéas | 109 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny, France | +33 2 32 21 20 31 | Daily 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Seasonal) | restaurantlesnympheas.fr | €25.00–€35.00 (~$29.00–$40.00 USD) |
| L'Ancien Prieuré | 2 Rue de l'Ancien Prieuré, 27620 Giverny, France | +33 2 32 51 03 51 | Wednesday to Sunday 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM | ancienprieure-giverny.com | €40.00–€60.00 (~$46.00–$69.00 USD) |
| La Capucine Giverny | 80 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny, France | +33 2 32 51 54 97 | Daily 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM | lacapucinegiverny.com | €6.00–€10.00 (~$7.00–$11.50 USD) |
Les Nymphéas
€25.00–€35.00 (~$29.00–$40.00 USD)This restaurant is housed in a former farmhouse with a beautiful flower-filled courtyard. The menu is intentionally simple and reflects the seasonal produce of Normandy. Order the herb omelet—it’s a nod to Monet’s own favorite lunches. The service is accustomed to cruise passenger schedules and is remarkably efficient. One honest limitation: it can be very loud during the 1:00 PM lunch rush.
109 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny, France ·+33 2 32 21 20 31 ·Daily 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Seasonal)
L'Ancien Prieuré
€40.00–€60.00 (~$46.00–$69.00 USD)Located in a stunning 17th-century building, this is the best food in Giverny. The chef focuses on 'cuisine du terroir'—local ingredients treated with modern techniques. The slow-cooked lamb is a revelation. It is worth the short walk to escape the frantic energy of the main street. Note that you must book ahead; they do not take many walk-ins.
2 Rue de l'Ancien Prieuré, 27620 Giverny, France ·+33 2 32 51 03 51 ·Wednesday to Sunday 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
La Capucine Giverny
€6.00–€10.00 (~$7.00–$11.50 USD)This is the perfect place for a mid-afternoon break. It’s a self-service garden bistro with a bohemian feel. Order a bottle of the local dry cider and find a table under the apple trees. It’s exactly where the locals come to decompress after the village quietens down in the late afternoon. The vibe is unpretentious and the garden is lovely.
80 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny, France ·+33 2 32 51 54 97 ·Daily 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Getting There & Around
Once you arrive in Giverny from the Seine River pier, the village is entirely walkable. The primary navigation challenge is the 5 km (3.1 miles) gap between Vernon and Giverny. It is a good idea to rent an e-bike from 'L'Arrivée de Giverny' near the Vernon station for approximately €25.00 (~$29.00 USD) for a half-day; it allows you to bypass the shuttle queues and enjoy the flat 'Voie Verte' path at your own pace. Uber does not operate reliably in this rural area; do not count on it for your return. Taxis must be called by phone, as they do not cruise for fares in Giverny. If you use the 'Petit Train' shuttle, keep your ticket safe for the return journey, as they are checked strictly. One navigation tip: most visitors follow the main road, but you can use the quieter path along the old railway line to enter the village from the rear, avoiding the primary bus drop-off congestion.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Giverny
Claude Monet's House and Gardens
9:00 AM (120 min)
The primary reason for your visit. Start in the water garden (Jardin d'Eau) to see the Japanese bridge and lilies before the heat and crowds peak. Then, cross back to the Clos Normand for the flower beds and house. The house contains Monet's collection of Japanese woodblock prints which are spectacular.
- 10-minute shuttle from Vernon Cruise Pier. (€10.00 (~$11.50 USD) round trip)
- Entry: €11.00 ($12.65)
- Skip the main gift shop inside the house; there is a much larger, less crowded boutique in the former Water Lily Studio (Atelier des Nymphéas) at the garden exit.
Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny
11:15 AM (60 min)
This museum focuses on the history of the Giverny artist colony and the broader Impressionist movement. It is often much quieter than Monet's house and provides the necessary context to understand what you just saw in the gardens. The garden here is a contemporary masterpiece and free to enter.
- 5-minute walk from Monet's House exit. (Free)
- Entry: €10.00 ($11.50)
- The museum's garden features a 'color room' layout that most people skip; it is actually better for close-up flower photography than Monet's crowded paths.
Lunch Recommendation
Restaurant Baudy
While Les Nymphéas is closer to the garden entrance, Baudy offers genuine historical pedigree. You are eating in the exact room where the Giverny artist colony was born.
Order: Canard aux cerises (Duck with cherries), Tarte Tatin (Traditional apple tart)
81 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny, France
Cost: €35.00–€45.00 (~$40.00–$52.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Giverny
Claude Monet's House and Gardens
9:00 AM (150 min)
Spend the extra time here exploring the upper floor of the house and the kitchen, which features stunning blue Rouen tiles. Walk through the orchards at the back of the garden which most 4-hour visitors skip.
- Shuttle from Vernon Pier. (€10.00 (~$11.50 USD))
- Entry: €11.00 ($12.65)
- Arrive 15 minutes before opening even with a ticket to be first onto the Japanese Bridge for a clean photo.
Restaurant Baudy
12:00 PM (90 min)
Formerly the Hotel Baudy, this was the base for American painters like Sargent and Metcalf. The dining room feels frozen in 1890. Behind the restaurant is an original artist's studio you can visit.
- 5-minute walk. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Ask to see the rose garden and the studio at the back; it’s one of the most evocative spots in the village.
Church of Sainte-Radegonde and Giverny Cemetery
2:00 PM (45 min)
This 11th-century church is where Monet's family is buried. His grave is a simple flower-covered plot on the right side of the church. It is a poignant, quiet place far from the garden crowds.
- 10-minute walk west along Rue Claude Monet. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Look for the British Lancaster bomber crew memorial in the cemetery; it’s a surprising piece of WWII history in this art-focused village.
Vernon Town Exploration (The Old Mill)
3:30 PM (60 min)
Visit the iconic Old Mill (Vieux Moulin) suspended over the Seine River. It is the last of several mills that once lined the bridge and is one of the most photographed buildings in Normandy.
- Shuttle back to Vernon. (Included in round trip)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Walk to the center of the bridge for the best angle of the mill and the Tourelles Castle.
Getting back to the ship
To guarantee a safe return to your ship in Vernon before a standard 5:00 PM 'all-aboard', you should depart Giverny village no later than 4:15 PM. The shuttle buses run every 20-30 minutes, but they can fill up quickly during peak departure. A taxi back to the pier takes 10 minutes and costs roughly €18.00 (~$20.50 USD). If you are running late, contact the port agent number provided on your ship's daily program; the Seine River locks are strictly timed, and ships rarely hold for more than 15 minutes. Passengers who miss the ship in Vernon will likely need to take a train from Vernon-Giverny station to Rouen or Paris to rejoin the vessel, a costly and stressful process involving a €40–€60 (~$46–$69 USD) train and taxi combination. The boarding process at Vernon pier is generally fast, but the gangway is often shared with other ships, so checking your vessel's name carefully is advised.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Giverny
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: April through October
12°C–25°C (54°F–77°F). Rain is common in April and May. July and August are dry and can be humid.
What to wear: Dress in layers. A light, waterproof jacket is essential for Normandy’s unpredictable showers. Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes; the gravel in the gardens and the uneven stone in the village make sandals or heels impractical. Bring a wide-brimmed hat as the water lily pond area has very little shade during peak sun hours.
Weather risks: Early morning fog on the Seine River can occasionally delay ship docking in Vernon. Extreme summer heat can make the unshaded walk between Vernon and Giverny dangerous for seniors.
The garden's appearance changes monthly; tulips define April, while dahlias and water lilies dominate August.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (April–May) | Cool and frequently damp with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F). Tulips and daffodils are in full bloom. | Wet gravel paths in the gardens become muddy and slippery. The underground tunnel connecting the house to the water garden can have slick steps. | Monet's Garden paths and the pedestrian tunnel under the D5 road. | Wear waterproof footwear with good traction. Visit the water pond first, as it is more exposed to the wind and rain than the sheltered house. |
| Summer (June–August) | Warm to hot, occasionally reaching 30°C (86°F), with high humidity and intense sun. Lilies are in peak bloom. | Dehydration on the exposed walking path from Vernon. The greenhouse-like heat inside Monet’s house, which lacks air conditioning. | The upper floor of Monet's house and the 5 km pedestrian path from Vernon. | Carry a full water bottle; there are no fountains on the 5 km path. If visiting the house, do so early before the interior temperatures rise. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
In Normandy, the greeting is paramount. Always enter a shop or cafe with a clear 'Bonjour, Madame' or 'Bonjour, Monsieur.' This is not a mere formality; it is the signal that you are a respectful guest. Failing to do so is the most common mistake cruise passengers make and often results in perceived 'curt' service. When dining, meals are meant to be enjoyed slowly. If you are in a rush to catch your shuttle, inform the waiter at the start of the meal; they will not naturally rush your courses. Photography is strictly prohibited inside Monet's house to protect the woodblock prints and ensure guest flow—trying to sneak a photo will result in a firm public reprimand from the staff. Tipping is inclusive (service compris), but rounding up to the nearest €5.00 for a good lunch or giving €2.00 per person to a specialized guide is appreciated. Locals do not queue as strictly as Americans might expect; be assertive but polite when waiting for your turn in the narrow garden paths.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Spending the first hour in the main garden instead of the lily pond. |
Walking the 5 km from Vernon to Giverny in the summer heat. |
Failing to pre-book tickets for Monet's House. |
Leaving Vernon without seeing the Old Mill. |
Practical tips
Cards are accepted almost everywhere in Giverny, including the garden entrance and most restaurants. However, small bakeries and the 'Petit Train' shuttle often require cash for purchases under €10.00 (~$11.50 USD). Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up is a kind gesture. Five essential words: 'Bonjour' (Hello), 'Merci' (Thank you), 'Pardon' (Excuse me), 'S’il vous plaît' (Please), and 'L'addition' (The bill). Scams are rare here, but be wary of 'unlicensed' taxi drivers offering rides at the Vernon station; always use the official queue. The dress code for the Church of Sainte-Radegonde is modest—shoulders should be covered. Peak queue times between 10:30 AM and 12:30 PM may be experienced, and visiting the Giverny Cemetery or the Museum gardens instead of the main Monet house during this window is suggested. Always keep your ship’s emergency card with you, as the local staff at the garden entrance may need to contact your vessel if you have a medical issue on site.
Cruise Lines Visiting Giverny
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FAQ — Giverny
Can I see Monet's water lilies blooming in April?
No, you cannot see the water lilies in bloom during April. Keep in mind that the lilies typically begin blooming in late June and peak throughout July and August. In April, you will see tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in the Clos Normand garden. The water garden is still beautiful in spring for its weeping willows and wisteria, but the iconic floating blossoms require summer heat.
Is there a direct train from Paris to Giverny?
There is no direct train to Giverny. You must take a train from Paris Gare Saint-Lazare to the Vernon-Giverny station, which takes about 45 to 55 minutes and costs approximately €16.00 (~$18.50 USD). From Vernon station, you then take a 10-minute shuttle bus or the 'Petit Train' for an additional €10.00 (~$11.50 USD) round trip. For cruise passengers already docked in Vernon, this transport is much simpler, as you are already on the correct side of the Seine River.
Are umbrellas allowed in Monet's Garden?
Yes, umbrellas are allowed and often necessary in Normandy. However, be aware that the paths in the Clos Normand are extremely narrow—less than 1.2 meters (4 feet) in some sections. Using a large golf umbrella will make it difficult for others to pass and may result in you being asked to close it in congested areas. A compact travel umbrella or a high-quality raincoat is a much better choice for navigating the garden loops while keeping your hands free for photography.
Can I bring my own lunch into the gardens?
No, picnicking is strictly prohibited inside the Fondation Claude Monet gardens and house. There are no lockers on-site to store food, so leave your lunch on the ship. There is a designated picnic area near the main parking lot in Giverny, approximately 400 meters from the garden entrance. A lunch reservation at a local bistro like Restaurant Baudy to ensure you have a guaranteed seat during the busy midday period can be arranged in advance.
How far is the walk from the Vernon train station to the shuttle?
The walk is negligible. The shuttle buses and the 'Petit Train' depart from the parking area immediately in front of the Vernon-Giverny station exit. If you are arriving from the cruise pier, the walk to the shuttle pickup is approximately 10 minutes (800 meters) through the Vernon town center. This route is well-marked with green lines on the sidewalk specifically for Giverny visitors.
Is the upper floor of Monet's house worth the climb?
If you have the mobility, yes. The upper floor contains Monet's bedroom and his wife Alice’s bedroom, both of which offer the best views over the gardens. It also houses many of the family's personal items and part of his Japanese print collection. However, the staircase is very narrow and steep. If you have knee issues, skip the upstairs; the ground floor's yellow dining room and blue kitchen are the most architecturally significant rooms and are easier to access.
Does Giverny have a public pharmacy?
No, there is no pharmacy in the village of Giverny. The closest pharmacy is Pharmacie de Vernonnet, located just across the bridge in Vernon, which is a 5-minute taxi or 10-minute shuttle ride away. If you require medication, ensure you purchase it in Vernon before heading to Giverny. Most pharmacies in France are closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly if your port call falls on a weekend.
Is the Musée des Impressionnismes included in the Monet ticket?
No, they are two separate entities with separate entrance fees. A combined ticket is sometimes available at the tourist office for approximately €20.00 (~$23.00 USD), but most visitors buy them individually. Monet’s House is €11.00 (~$12.65 USD) and the Museum is €10.00 (~$11.50 USD). If you only have 4 hours, it is a good idea to prioritiz the gardens, as the Museum requires at least 60 to 90 minutes to appreciate fully.
Can I take a taxi directly from the ship to Giverny?
Yes, and for a group of four, it is often more cost-effective than the shuttle. A taxi costs roughly €18.00 (~$20.50 USD) for the trip. The challenge is that taxis do not always wait at the pier. You may need to walk 10 minutes to the Vernon train station or have your ship's reception call a local taxi for you 20 minutes before you disembark. This saves you waiting for the scheduled shuttle departures.
What is the best month for photography in Giverny?
May and June are widely considered the best months. In May, the wisteria on the Japanese bridge is in peak bloom, and the garden is a lush, vibrant green. By June, the first water lilies appear. You will find that the morning light before 10:30 AM provides the softest shadows for the water garden.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.