History
If the small town of Giverny, France, looks oddly familiar, there’s a good reason for that: Impressionist painter Claude Monet lived here between 1883 and his death in 1926. The village of Giverny and its surrounding environs became the subject of many Monet works, with the painter even recreating his own personal garden on canvas.
Located along France’s River Seine, Giverny is home to slightly more than 500 people. The town is an ideal port of call for river cruises thanks to its quaint, charming nature and the influence of Claude Monet.
Your River Cruise Ship Docks …
Coming ashore in Giverny is no problem at all; your river cruise ship docks along the Seine within easy walking distance of this town and its beautiful countryside.
When in Giverny …
Some ways to enjoy yourself in this beautiful French town:
- Walk. Like many other river cruise ports of call, a stroll around the town and beautiful countryside is not only convenient but practical, and can be an excellent way to fully enjoy your time here.
- Monet’s House. Just like it sounds, this was the home that Claude Monet and his family resided in from 1883 to 1926. While there are no Monet works of art on-site, the real draw here is Monet’s gardens, which inspired many of his paintings. You’ll instantly recognize the famous water garden spanned by a Japanese bridge and flanked with water lilies. If you plan on going here independently, make sure you purchase your tickets ONLINE to avoid long queues on-site.
- Musée des Impressionnismes. This gallery sports a wide roster of constantly changing exhibits, and can be an excellent choice if you’ve had your fill of all things Monet.
- Natural Mechanical Museum. Something of an oxymoron (what’s natural about mechanics?), this hidden gem nonetheless stands out in Giverny, and is as much a must-see attraction as Monet’s house. Founded in 1955, the museum’s purpose is to restore and preserve old steam engines, a number of which are on display. A worthwhile visit for the obvious passion and dedication put into the careful restoration of these fascinating – and increasingly rare – pieces of technology.
River Cruisers Should Know!
- Monet is to Giverny what Shakespeare is to Stratford-upon-Avon. Giverny may be a small, sleepy town, but don’t underestimate the pull of its most famous citizen. The town is popular with land-based bus tours as well, so expect many attractions to become busier as the day goes on. If you can, try to get to prime attractions like Monet’s House in the early morning.
- While some English may be spoken in Giverny, knowledge of basic French will go a long way.
- The Euro is the official currency of France. Other currencies can be exchanged at major banks and financial institutions.
- Crime is generally not an issue in Giverny.
