We recently revisited Giverny, the enchanting town where Claude Monet spent the last decades of his life, and it was everything we imagined and more. As a place rich in both history and beauty, it holds a special charm for anyone who appreciates art.

Our visit, in particular, took place in July, when the gardens are in full bloom, making it the perfect time to see Monet's famous waterlily pond.

Claude Monet's Legacy in Giverny

Monet first arrived in Giverny in 1883, and the story goes that he found the town while traveling by train. Captivated by its beauty, he rented a home, which he later purchased in 1890. Over the years, he expanded and transformed the house to suit his needs, ultimately creating the 40-meter long space we see today. The iconic colors of the house—pink and green—were handpicked by Monet, as were the interior tones.

We had the chance to see the house where Monet lived with his second wife, Alice, and her six children, as well as his two sons. It must have been quite lively with so many people in one space! Monet spent the last years of his life in this home, and it's clear that it was both his retreat and his inspiration.

Exploring the House and Gardens

Our experience at Giverny was immersive. The house retains much of the original furniture and decor, giving us a glimpse of the artist's world. We explored rooms like his bedroom—where he passed away—and his renowned yellow dining room. Interestingly, this room also inspired the color scheme in us childhood home.

The studio, although not where Monet painted—he worked outdoors—served as a gathering place for friends and fellow artists. We saw reproductions of some of his famous works here, as well as the works of his contemporaries such as Renoir, Pissarro, and Manet. The influence of Japanese woodblock prints on Monet is also evident throughout the house.

Once outside, we wandered through the beautiful gardens, which are at the heart of Monet's work. The walk to the waterlily pond takes us through an underground tunnel, leading to one of the most iconic spots on the property. The pond, with its blooming waterlilies, is a true testament to Monet's genius, as he spent countless hours capturing its serene beauty.

A Garden of Wonders

We couldn't help but marvel at the meticulous design of the gardens. The work involved in maintaining such a vibrant and diverse collection of flowers and plants for over a century is awe-inspiring. Monet's gardens are a work of art in their own right, bursting with color and life at every turn. We could easily understand why these gardens served as such a rich source of inspiration for Monet's later masterpieces.

Visiting Giverny isn't just a trip to an artist's home; it's a personal journey into the world of Claude Monet himself. The gardens, the house, and the entire property reflect his passion for art and nature, offering a rare chance to step into the world he created.

Practical Information for Visiting Giverny

We recommend pre-booking tickets to avoid the long lines, especially in July. It can get quite crowded, and if you're visiting on a weekend, like we did, expect to share the space with many other visitors. However, pre-booked tickets give you the advantage of skipping the long queues. The town itself is charming, though small, with limited attractions. Monet's grave is located nearby at the local cemetery, where you can also find the graves of his wife and children.

Travel Tips for Getting to Giverny

Getting to Giverny from Paris was a bit of a challenge, especially since we traveled on a busy weekend. The train ride from Paris to Vernon was crowded, with many people standing. Once we arrived at the station, there were no taxis available, and the shuttle service was packed. It's a good idea to plan ahead and be prepared for some potential delays, especially during peak tourist season. We also recommend visiting during the shoulder season for a more peaceful experience.

Despite the travel hiccups, the visit was absolutely worth it. Giverny remains one of the most beautiful and inspiring places we've ever had the pleasure of experiencing. If you're a fan of Monet or simply love art, history, and nature, Giverny is a must-see.