Giverny: This Weekend, Immerse Yourself in Monet's Gardens and the Blockbuster Show at the Museum of Impressionisms
There are some places that, with the first rays of sunshine, remind you why you love Normandy so much. Giverny is one of them. This little village in the Eure region, I know it like the back of my hand, and I can tell you that now is the time to visit—right when the fruit trees are just starting to burst into colour. The Claude Monet House and Gardens have reopened for the season, and this year, there are two reasons why it's an absolute must-visit.
Monet Like You've Never Seen Him at the Museum of Impressionisms
The Museum of Impressionisms Giverny, just a stone's throw from Monet’s property, has just unveiled an exhibition that’s going to be the talk of the town. We all know the master of water lilies, but this time, they've had a brilliant idea: turning back the clock to focus on his early years in the Eure, the period when he was discovering the local light, just before he embarked on the famous series we all know. Word from those close to the institution is that the display is simply masterful. You'll find paintings rarely seen in the region, with a layout that drops you right into what he saw from his studio window. If you think you've already covered everything about Impressionism, think again—this exhibition will prove you wrong.
The Artist's Garden, a Spectacle That Reinvents Itself Every Spring
Of course, the heart of the visit is the property. The Artist's Garden at Giverny isn't just a garden; it's a living work of art. And right now, it's waking up in a big way. Tulips are bursting with colour everywhere, wisteria is starting to cascade over the famous Japanese bridge, and the flowering apple trees give it an almost surreal, pastoral charm. Monet's house, with his studio and that iconic yellow kitchen, is of course open, but my advice: get there early in the morning. That's when you'll have the best light for photos, and, most importantly, you'll get the luxury of hearing the birds sing without the buzz of tour groups.
To make your trip perfect, here are three things not to overlook:
- The Golden Hour: Aim for a slot between 9.30am and 10.30am for the gardens. The crowds usually roll in after 11am, especially on Easter weekend.
- Shopping Strategy: Just a few kilometres away, the McArthurGlen Paris-Giverny outlet is the perfect spot for a lunch stop or a shopping session at the end of your visit, especially if the weather turns a bit cloudy.
- End on a High Note: Finish at the Museum of Impressionisms. The light there is fantastic in the late afternoon, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy a drink on their terrace before heading back.
Why This Weekend is the Perfect Time
With the Easter holidays in full swing, there are plenty of unique outings to be had in France, but Giverny is a sure bet that reinvents itself every year. The region is expecting a big influx this weekend, and for good reason: the forecast is mild, and the poppies are just starting to timidly appear in the fields surrounding the village. It’s the perfect backdrop for a stroll, blending art history with the simple pleasures of the Normandy countryside. So, if you were still on the fence about making the trip, I’ll be frank: the red carpet is rolled out, the gardens are in full glory, and the exhibitions are of a calibre rarely seen. All that’s left for you to do is hop on the train or hit the road.