Le Havre: Giverny and Honfleur Private Shore Excursion

Exploring Normandy: A Private Shore Excursion to Giverny and Honfleur

Taking a private day trip from Le Havre to Giverny and Honfleur offers a delightful glimpse into Normandy’s artistic and coastal charm. This experience is perfect for those eager to see Monet’s iconic gardens, wander through a picture-perfect harbor town, and enjoy a relaxed, personalized tour.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to walk through Monet’s preserved home and gardens, which will appeal to art lovers and lovers of beautiful scenery alike. Second, exploring Honfleur’s enchanting streets and harbor provides a more authentic taste of Normandy beyond the usual tourist spots. Third, the comfort of a private, air-conditioned vehicle and the intimate group size ensures a flexible, stress-free day.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the travel time — about 1.5 to 2 hours each way — which means longer days for some travelers, especially those with tight schedules. Still, if you’re after a personalized, in-depth experience of these Normandy highlights, this tour offers genuine value.

This excursion is ideal for art aficionados, couples, or small groups seeking a tailored, scenic day out that balances culture with relaxing sightseeing.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Small group private tour limited to 8 makes for a more intimate, flexible journey.
• Monet’s Gardens: Visit iconic sites like the Clos Normand flower beds and Water Garden, inspiring for art lovers and garden enthusiasts.
• Authentic Norman Charm: Explore Honfleur’s cobbled streets, art galleries, and the postcard-perfect Vieux Bassin.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transportation with pickup and drop-off at Le Havre Cruise Port simplifies logistics.
• Included Entrance Fees: Tickets to Giverny gardens are covered, saving you time and hassle.
• Time Management: About 9 hours total, balancing sightseeing with enough leisure for lunch or spontaneous wandering.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Transportation

This tour kicks off right at Le Havre Cruise Terminal, where your guide will meet you with a clear sign bearing your name. The vehicle is a comfortable, air-conditioned van equipped with a PA system, ensuring you won’t miss any commentary or interesting tidbits en route. The small group size — limited to 8 people — means you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, with opportunities for questions and spontaneous stops.

The drive from Le Havre to Giverny takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. During this time, your guide (who is English-speaking) will fill you in on local history, Monet’s life, and some Normandy tidbits. Reviewers note that the drive is scenic, giving a preview of the lush countryside that inspired Monet’s paintings.

Exploring Giverny: Monet’s Home & Gardens

Arriving at Giverny, you’ll be greeted by a charming village that feels like stepping into a painting. The highlight here is Monet’s house, where you’ll get to see the artist’s personal spaces — his bedroom, Alice Monet’s room, and the artists’ first studio. Many mention the well-preserved interiors filled with artwork from Monet’s friends like Cezanne and Renoir, along with Monet’s Japanese prints collection, offering a fascinating glimpse into his influences and personal tastes.

The gardens are what most visitors come for. Monet himself designed the Clos Normand, a riot of color with tulips, peonies, roses, and other seasonal blooms. The central path, lined with nasturtiums and fragrant flowers, leads to the Water Garden, where lily ponds and the iconic Japanese bridge create a fairy-tale scene.

Reviewers find that the gardens are breathtaking, especially when the flowers are in full bloom. One noted, “The flower beds are so vibrant and meticulously maintained, you can see why Monet was so inspired.” The tranquility of the Water Garden, with its lily-covered ponds and oriental plants like maples and bamboo, offers a perfect backdrop for photography and quiet reflection.

Leisure & Optional Lunch in Giverny

After the garden visit, you’ll have some free time. You might choose to grab a quick lunch at one of the local cafés (lunch is at your own expense), with options ranging from crepe stands to more substantial bistro fare. This break allows you to relax and soak in the village atmosphere before heading south to Honfleur.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visit to Honfleur: Artistic Harbour Town

The drive to Honfleur takes about 1.5 hours, providing scenic views of Normandy’s rolling countryside and coast. Once in Honfleur, your guide will lead a short walking tour, pointing out the town’s architectural charm — half-timbered houses, art galleries, and boutiques lining the cobbled streets.

The highlight here is the Vieux Bassin, the old harbor, which is renowned for its postcard-perfect charm. Its colorful boats, historic quays, and lively cafés make it an ideal spot for photos and people-watching. Reviewers mention that wandering through Honfleur feels like stepping into a living painting, with many appreciating its authentic, less commercialized vibe compared to other French villages.

You’ll have about three hours here, plenty of time to explore, pick up souvenirs, or enjoy a coffee while taking in the views. Many note that the town’s relaxed ambiance offers a refreshing change from busier tourist spots.

Return to Le Havre

The journey back takes about 1.5 hours, giving you the chance to relax and reflect on your day. Your guide may share additional insights or answer questions about Normandy, Monet, or local life.

Pricing & Value

At $2,025 for a group of up to 8, this private tour offers a lot of value for those seeking a personalized experience. The price includes entrance tickets to Giverny, private transportation, and the services of an English-speaking guide — all key factors for a hassle-free day. Given the exclusivity and the detailed access to Monet’s home and gardens, many find this to be a worthwhile splurge, especially if you’re passionate about art or photography.

Compared to larger group excursions, this private tour provides more flexibility, comfort, and the opportunity to tailor the experience slightly — whether that means lingering longer at a favorite spot or adjusting the pace.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for art enthusiasts, small groups, couples, or families looking for a leisurely, immersive day in Normandy. It’s perfect if you value comfort, personalized attention, and the chance to explore Monet’s gardens without rushing. Travelers with a keen interest in photography will particularly enjoy the vibrant scenery and picturesque towns.

However, those with mobility issues or who dislike long drives might want to consider whether the 9-hour schedule suits them, as the trip involves some walking and approximately 3 hours on the road each way.

Final Thoughts

This private Giverny and Honfleur tour hits the sweet spot for travelers who want a curated, intimate day exploring Normandy’s artistic and coastal highlights. The chance to stroll through Monet’s gardens and capture stunning photos in Honfleur’s harbor is hard to beat. The comfortable transport and small-group setting elevate the experience, making it less about rushing and more about savoring each moment.

While the price tag might seem steep, the included tickets and bespoke nature justify the investment for art lovers or anyone craving a meaningful Normandy outing. For those seeking a relaxed, visually inspiring day with expert guidance and minimal crowds, this tour offers genuine value.

This trip makes an excellent choice for travelers who prioritize quality over quantity — a memorable, beautifully paced day that combines culture, scenery, and authenticity.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Le Havre to Giverny?
The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours each way, making for a total of about 3 to 4 hours on the road, including the return trip.

Are entrance tickets to Giverny included?
Yes, the tour covers the cost of entrance tickets to Monet’s Gardens, saving you time and hassle at the site.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 people, ensuring a small, personalized experience and the ability to ask questions or request minor adjustments.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense. You can choose from local cafés or bring snacks, with plenty of options available in Giverny.

Is this tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking, and since it’s not wheelchair accessible, it may not be suitable for travelers with mobility challenges.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and water are recommended. Be prepared for some walking and potentially variable weather, depending on the season.

To sum it up, whether you’re an art lover eager to see Monet’s home or simply seeking a scenic, relaxed day exploring Normandy’s charming villages, this private Giverny and Honfleur tour offers a thoughtful, well-organized way to experience the region’s best. Its focus on comfort, authenticity, and personalized service makes it stand out for small-group travelers craving a meaningful escape into Normandy’s artistic and coastal beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: