About this experience
For more than a century, Normandy was considered a harsh land of Vikings. Today, it is one of the brightest attractions of France. Colorful landscapes, fruit orchards, sacral architecture, and exquisite local cuisine – you will feel the magic of this enchanted land and even taste it! You will also learn where Monet painted his famous water lilies.
What to Expect
Rouen – architecture, gastronomy, shopping
You will discover the gems of sacral architecture. You will see the Cathedral of Our Lady of Paris, which inspired Monet to create the series 'Cathedral'. We will not overlook Saint-Maclou Church, located in a picturesque corner. You will stroll along the Seine embankment – a favorite place for citizens and guests of the city. Rouen is famous for its good restaurants – you will be able to taste the high quality of the local cuisine. The capital of Normandy will also be appealing to shopping enthusiasts.
Etretat – a place of impressionists' power
The legendary city is known for its picturesque landscapes and extraordinary natural arches. The main attractions of Etretat – the 'Three Arch' and the 'Needle' carved in the cliffs by the sea waves. Besides the natural beauty, you will admire Norman architecture on the medieval streets of the city. You will also visit the famous neo-futuristic garden of Etretat.
Monet's Estate
You will visit the famous estate of the father of impressionism – Claude Monet. The garden here is a separate work of art. The artist's hand is visible in everything – in the arrangement of flower beds, ponds, and lawns. The garden became an improvised open-air studio for Monet. It is here that he created the painting with the famous water lilies. It is now housed in the Orangerie Museum in Paris.
Organizational Details
- Claude Monet's estate is open for visits from April 1 to November 1. From April to October, we visit Etretat and Giverny, and from November to March – Rouen and Etretat.
- The trip includes transfer and services of a driver-guide who does not delve into historical details. He does not accompany you inside Claude Monet's house-museum.
- The trip will be by a Renault Espace 5 or Volkswagen Touran car.
- The journey from Paris to Rouen takes approximately 2 hours (depending on road traffic).
- The excursion is possible with a professional guide. In this case, the cost will be €840 for 1-3 persons.
Additional Expenses
- Entry to Etretat Park – €17/person.
- Entry to Giverny – €13/person.
- Entry to Claude Monet's house-museum. To avoid queues, we recommend buying tickets in advance on the museum's official website. Please coordinate the time you purchase the tickets with the guide.
- Lunch – from €15/person.
- Tasting of Norman traditional beverages (cider and calvados) – €5/person.