Vernon and Giverny, nestled along the Seine River in the Eure department, have long been havens for artists seeking inspiration. Just an hour’s train ride from Paris,these neighbouring towns await for a perfect friends’ getaway.
Getting from Giverny from Vernon
- On foot: Expect about an hour’s walk.
- By bike: Rent a classic, electric, or even tandem bike from Givernon Rental Station (from €10 per person).
- Walking or cycling route: Start on Rue de la Gare and follow the signs along Rue d’Albufera. Continue straight, cross Pont Clemenceau, then turn right to join the Seine à Vélo path. Follow it until you reach Rue Claude Monet in Giverny.
- By tourist train: A guided ride from the station.
- By electric shuttle bus: Available from the station from April to November (€15 return per person)
Travel sustainably and enjoy discounts at various attractions
Embrace eco-friendly travel and enjoy exclusive discounts by presenting your low-carbon travel credentials. Find out how to access these discounted tickets and make your journey not only rewarding but also kind to the planet.
Top things to see and do in Vernon and Giverny with friends
The world of Impressionism
Embark on an inspiring journey into the heart of Impressionism, where Giverny stands as its vibrant capital. This picturesque village served as the muse for Claude Monet, the movement’s leading figure, who captured its beauty countless times on canvas. A visit to the Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny and the Claude Monet’s House and Gardens is a must. Explore Monet’s charming home, where he lived from 1883 to 1926, and wander through his exquisite gardens, both of which are highlights of Normandy.
In Claude Monet’s footsteps
Next up: the Coteaux de Giverny trail. This 9 km route, marked with yellow signs, winds through Monet’s beloved landscapes, offering breathtaking views over the Seine. A true feast for the eyes!
Explore the charm of Vernon on foot
A walking tour of Vernon through its vibrant streets and rich history will lead you to the captivating Archives Tower, a remnant of King Philip Augustus’s formidable fortress, and at the stunning Notre Dame Collegiate Church. Make sure to check out “Le Temps Jadis,” one of the town’s oldest houses, brimming with character. And don’t forget to snap a photo of the iconic Old Mill, elegantly positioned on the right bank of the Seine, providing a perfect backdrop for your exploration of this enchanting town.
Adventure & relaxation
For a perfect mix of thrill and relaxation, head to SPN Vernon Canoë-Kayak. Glide along the Eure by canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or even a pirogue. For the ultimate experience, book a river descent with a minibus transfer, just you, your friends, and nature at its best. Vernon station pick-up included!
More fun activities for a short break with friends in Vernon
Market and shopping in Vernon
- Market Days: The two main markets in Vernon take place on Wednesday mornings at Place du Vieux-René and Saturday mornings at the squares of Général de Gaulle, Vieux René, and L’Ancienne Halle. You might even spot Top Chef David Gallienne and his food truck, “Picorette,” from his starred restaurant, Le Jardin des Plumes.
- For a shopping break, a visit to the town centre of Vernon is a must at Tout l’Tralala, Miss et Cie and La Vague Nordik, shops brimming with gift ideas. If you’re in search of a delicatessen, pop into Ô Plum’store, par David Gallienne (by David Gallienne) or the Quintessence, a gourmet grocery store specializing in regional Norman products.
- For souvenirs from Giverny, don’t miss the shop at the Fondation Monet and the Musée des Impressionnismes.
Our favourite spots in Vernon and Giverny
Places to stay
- Hôtel Le Normandy offers fantastic double, triple, and family rooms right in the heart of Vernon which has its restaurant L’Inavoué, just a short 10-minute walk from the train station—ideal for easy access to all the fun!
- For a weekend getaway with friends, Gîte Les Quatre Saisons in Giverny is a real find. With three charming gîtes available, each boasting 2 or 3 bedrooms and a lovely terrace overlooking a cozy garden, it’s only 200 meters from Claude Monet’s stunning garden. It’s the perfect base for a relaxing escape.
More suggestions for an overnight stay in Giverny
Places to eat
- La Capucine, the summer bistro-canteen in Giverny, captures our hearts with its charming atmosphere and concept. Set in a lovely garden, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy homemade sandwiches, soups, quiches, and salads. Plus, the venue frequently hosts concerts and events, adding to its vibrant appeal.
- For traditional cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients, Le Bistrot des Fleurs is a must-visit. Enjoy a delightful dining experience where seasonality takes centre stage.
- Another gem in Vernon is L’Estampille by Erisay , known for its exquisite menu. Highlights include the Normandy scallops and prawns on a cider risotto, as well as the lobster ricotta ravioli.
Other great places to try
- L’inavoué restaurant’s hotel Le Normandie
- Restaurant Baudy
- Crêperie Fleur de Seine in Vernon
- La Base in Vernon
- Le Jardin des Plumes in Giverny
How to get to Vernon and Giverny?
Travel sustainably and enjoy discounts at various attractions
Embrace eco-friendly travel by train, coach, bike or on foot and enjoy exclusive discounts by presenting your low-carbon travel credentials. Find out how to access these discounted tickets and make your journey not only rewarding but also kind to the planet.
| By train | From Paris |
|---|---|
| Travel Time | 49 mn |
| Price | From 9 € /pers. |
| Validity Period | The train runs all year round, but the bus shuttle between Vernon station and Giverny operates from April to November. |
| Details | Paris > Vernon Book my ticket |
Would you like to experience the same holiday?
Plan your trip to Vernon and Giverny with our handpicked spots and interactive map.
2 days / 1 night
With Friends
Vernon / Giverny
9 min walk from the train station
Very Easy
Travelling to Vernon - Giverny by Train
Reduces your carbon footprint: 0.8 kg of CO2 per person compared to 30 kg of CO2 if you choose to drive a car from Paris.
Explore Giverny by bike
Combine your fascination for art with your love of the great outdoors on a two-wheeled adventure to Giverny. This picturesque village in the Seine Valley is famously known for being where Claude Monet, the Master of Impressionism, lived from 1883 until his death in 1926. Today the Seine Valley is one of the most cycle-friendly...
The Seine à Vélo: follow in the wheels of the Impressionists
Get on your bike and follow in the footsteps of the outdoor painters. Along the banks of the River Seine, discover the landscapes that inspired Monet, Renoir and Sisley and stop off at the museums that display their best works. Giverny, the first stop on your trip The first few kilometres of this Impressionist route...
Touring Normandy’s Impressionist Sites Car-Free
Normandy, alongside Paris and its surroundings, stands as the very cradle of Impressionism: a realm where countless painters and visionaries converged to create the masterpieces that would redefine the artistic landscape of the late 19th century. From Monet to Pissarro, Morisot to Renoir, and the pioneers like Boudin and Millet, these luminaries etched the essence...
