Private Tour Paris: Étretat Cliffs & Monets Gardens + Gift

If you’ve been dreaming of escaping the hustle of Paris for a day filled with breathtaking scenery and artistic inspiration, this private tour might be just what you need. It offers a seamless blend of natural wonders and cultural highlights, all wrapped up in a luxurious, personalized experience.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the chance to walk along Étretat’s dramatic white chalk cliffs and see the famous natural arches that inspired many Impressionist painters. Second, a carefully curated gourmet picnic on the cliffs, complete with French cheese, wine, and pastries — because eating well enhances the scenery. Third, exploring Claude Monet’s Gardens in Giverny, where vibrant flowers and the lily pond seem to jump straight from the artist’s brush.

A possible consideration? The tour duration of about 10.5 hours means a full day out, which could be tiring for some. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy comfort, art, nature, and a bit of adventure—all in one go. If you prefer flexible, intimate experiences and are happy to spend a good chunk of the day on the road, this could be a perfect fit.

Good To Know

• Customized, private experience with hotel pickup and drop-off in Paris.
• Stunning coastal scenery at Étretat, with opportunities for great photos and peaceful walks.
• A gourmet picnic setup with regional French treats, elevating the outdoor experience.
• Artistic immersion at Monet’s Gardens, including his house, lily pond, and flowerbeds.
• Luxury transportation in a private vehicle, ensuring comfort and convenience.
• Flexible itinerary tailored to your interests and pace, making it ideal for personalized travel.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Introduction to the Experience

This private tour offers a well-rounded day out from Paris, designed for travelers who crave both natural beauty and cultural richness. We loved the way the itinerary balances sightseeing with moments of relaxation—like the gourmet picnic on the cliffs, which transforms a simple scenic view into a special culinary experience. The use of a private driver-guide means you won’t have to worry about navigating or waiting around with strangers.

While a full day might be long, it’s packed with enough highlights to justify the time. The tour’s flexibility also means you can spend more time at the spots that catch your eye—and take your time soaking in the views. Only a heads-up: this is best suited for those comfortable in a vehicle and able to handle a fair amount of walking on uneven cliffside paths and garden grounds.

Exploring Étretat: Dramatic Cliffs and Coastal Charms

Your day begins with a scenic drive out of Paris, through Normandy’s rolling countryside. After roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes in a comfortable private vehicle, you’ll arrive in Étretat, a coastal town famous for its jaw-dropping white cliffs that tower over the sea.

Once there, you’ll stroll along the cliffside paths, which are wide enough for easy walking but offer enough elevation to give you spectacular views. The iconic natural arches—especially the famous “Arch” and “Needle”—are easily accessible and perfect for photos. Reviewers frequently mention how the views are among the most stunning they’ve seen in France, with some quoting that “you’ll love the views from almost every angle.”

The cliffs are not just a visual treat but also a quiet place to reflect or simply enjoy the sea breeze. Some travelers note that the pathways can be uneven, so wearing comfortable shoes is key. During your visit, you might find the peaceful atmosphere quite different from bustling Paris, making it a refreshing contrast.

Gourmet Picnic on the Cliffs: A French Feast with a View

One of the highlights here is the curated picnic setup on the cliffs, which elevates the experience beyond a casual snack. You’ll be served a selection of local cheeses, fresh baguette, seasonal fruits, pastries, and a chilled bottle of wine—all thoughtfully arranged for you to enjoy while overlooking the ocean.

Guests who’ve experienced this say the picnic adds a romantic and indulgent touch to the day, making the scenery even more memorable. It’s a chance to savor French gastronomy in one of the most scenic spots along the coast. The picnic is designed to be flexible and personalized, so you can relax and take in the views at your own pace.

Giverny and Monet’s Gardens: A Splash of Artistic Inspiration

After a few hours exploring Étretat, you’ll head back into the vehicle for a roughly 1 hour and 40-minute drive to Giverny, Monet’s former home and garden. This part of the day is dedicated to enjoying the world of Impressionism.

The house is vibrant, with colorful interiors and a private collection of prints and paintings. Wander through the lush flowerbeds, admire the iconic Japanese bridge, and stroll along the water lily pond—all places that Monet himself painted countless times. Reviewers often mention how the gardens look even more beautiful in person than in the pictures, with some calling it “a painter’s paradise.”

The self-guided tour allows you to absorb the atmosphere at your own pace. The gardens are a riot of colors with flowers blooming in season, making every corner a potential photo op. The house’s interiors give a glimpse into Monet’s life and creative process, adding depth to your visit.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Comfort

Transportation is a big plus with this tour. Traveling in a private luxury vehicle means you avoid the chaos of group buses or public transit—plus, it’s easier to make spontaneous stops or linger at a scenic point. The entire trip is roughly 10.5 hours, including pickup, travel, and sightseeing, so it’s a full but manageable day.

Pickup from your Paris accommodation is included, which means no stress about navigating to meeting points. The group size is limited to a maximum of three, ensuring a private, intimate experience. The driver-guide is typically knowledgeable and friendly, providing insights along the way, and sometimes sharing tips about other local spots.

The cost of $1,346 per group up to three people offers excellent value considering the personalized service, private transportation, and curated experiences included. Compared to arranging separate visits, this all-in-one package saves time and effort, making it a more relaxed way to see two of Normandy’s most iconic sights.

What’s Not Included

While the tour covers transportation, entry fees to Monet’s Gardens, and the picnic, it doesn’t include hotel accommodations or additional meals and drinks outside the picnic. Personal expenses like souvenirs are also not covered, so budget accordingly if you plan to buy art prints or local crafts.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who appreciate art, nature, and comfort, and prefer private, flexible itineraries. It suits travelers with a reasonable level of mobility, as there will be some walking on uneven surfaces. If you love scenic drives, picturesque villages, and a touch of luxury, you’ll find this tour hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

This private day trip from Paris to Étretat and Giverny offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, artistic inspiration, and gourmet indulgence. The personalized service, comfortable transport, and carefully curated highlights make it a memorable escape from the city. It’s particularly ideal for lovers of scenery and Impressionism, and those seeking an effortless, all-in-one experience.

While it’s a full day, the variety of stops and the luxury touches—like the picnic—make it well worth the investment. The views at Étretat alone are worth the price, and Monet’s Gardens will delight anyone who’s ever admired his paintings. This tour is a chance to see Normandy’s coast and Giverny’s blooms in one beautiful, seamless package.

If you’re looking for a private, hassle-free way to combine nature, art, and French gastronomy, this trip could be the highlight of your stay in Paris.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Paris to Étretat?
It takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes in a private vehicle, offering a comfortable start to your day.

What are the main highlights of Étretat?
The dramatic white cliffs, natural arches, and coastal views are the main attractions, perfect for photography and peaceful walks.

Can I enjoy a picnic on the cliffs?
Yes, a curated gourmet picnic with regional cheeses, pastries, fruits, and wine is set up for you on the cliffs, enhancing the outdoor experience.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best suited for those who can handle some walking on uneven paths and are comfortable in a vehicle for a full day. It’s not ideal for mobility-impaired travelers.

What does the visit to Monet’s Gardens include?
You’ll explore Monet’s house, walk through vibrant flowerbeds, cross the Japanese bridge, and enjoy the serene lily pond—each inspiring places that Monet painted.

Are there any hidden costs?
The tour price includes transportation, entry to Monet’s Gardens, and the picnic. Additional expenses like souvenirs or extra meals are not included.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The tour is private and can be tailored slightly to your interests and pace, allowing you to spend more time at spots that captivate you.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Paris accommodation are included, making the day hassle-free.

In all, this private tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, artistic immersion, and luxurious comfort, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to see Normandy’s iconic sights with ease and style.

You can check if your dates are available here: