Explore Monet’s Garden by River Cruise

Set in the charming village of Giverny in Normandy, Monet’s House & Gardens are one of France’s most iconic and picturesque places to visit. For many guests, it is one of the real highlights of a Seine river cruise.

Located around 75km northwest of Paris, Giverny attracts visitors from all over the world. Many Seine river cruise itineraries include a visit to Monet’s Garden, especially during the spring and summer months when the gardens are at their most colourful.

Monet’s Garden is usually open from April to the end of October. The garden is split into two main areas: the colourful flower garden, known as the Clos Normand, and the Japanese-inspired water garden across the road, home to the famous lily pond and green bridge seen in Monet’s paintings.

When is the Best Time to Visit Monet’s Garden?

Each part of the season offers something slightly different, so the best time to visit depends on what you most want to see.

• April and May: Spring brings tulips, cherry blossom, daffodils, peonies and rhododendrons, with the gardens full of colour.
• July and August: This is when the water lilies are often at their best, making it a popular time for those hoping to see the famous pond in bloom.
• October: The final weeks of the season still bring colour, with flowers such as snapdragons and marigolds lasting into autumn.

No matter when you visit, Monet’s Garden is a peaceful and memorable experience. Seeing it as part of a Seine river cruise adds even more charm, as it becomes one stop on a wider journey through Normandy.

River Cruise Lines That Visit Monet’s Garden

Several river cruise lines include Giverny and Monet’s Garden on their Seine itineraries. Here are some of the best options to consider.

• AmaWaterways – Their Impressions of the Seine & Paris and Paris and Normandy itineraries include Giverny.
• VIVA Cruises – Their boutique ship VIVA Beyond launches in 2026 with In the Footsteps of Impressionism, built around Monet and his artistic legacy.
• Avalon Waterways – Choose their classic Paris to Normandy itinerary, or their Active & Discovery on the Seine sailing on selected departures.
• Riviera Travel – Monet’s Garden features on itineraries including The Seine, Paris & Normandy and Paris, Normandy & Historic Treasures of the Seine.
• Scenic – Their Highlights of Normandy & the Seine cruise includes a guided visit to Monet’s Garden.
• Uniworld – Their Paris and Normandy itinerary combines Monet’s world with Uniworld’s boutique hotel-style cruising.

More to See Along the Seine

Many Seine cruises that include Monet’s Garden also visit other memorable places in Normandy and northern France.

• Honfleur – A charming harbour town that inspired many impressionist artists.
• The D-Day Beaches of Normandy – A powerful and moving visit to historic sites.
• Rouen – Known for its half-timbered buildings, Gothic cathedral and rich history.

Whether you love art, gardens, history or simply want a gentle and scenic river cruise from Paris, Monet’s Garden is a wonderful highlight to include.