Le Havre Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Giverny, Rouen and Honfleur

The Le Havre Shore Excursion offers a captivating private tour that delves into the artistic inspirations of the renowned Claude Monet. Travelers can choose to explore the serene gardens of Giverny, the historic charm of Rouen, or the picturesque harbor of Honfleur, each destination promising a unique glimpse into Normandy’s rich cultural heritage. Led by a professional driver/guide, this customizable experience promises to immerse visitors in the region’s artistic legacy and leave them with an unforgettable appreciation for the beauty that captivated Monet’s brushstrokes. Whether it’s marveling at Rouen’s Gothic cathedral or admiring the quaint architecture of Honfleur, this tour invites travelers to uncover the allure that has drawn artists to this enchanting corner of France.

Good To Know

• This private shore excursion from Le Havre offers a customizable tour to explore Claude Monet’s inspirations in Giverny, Rouen, and Honfleur.
• Visitors can choose to visit Monet’s family home and gardens in Giverny, the Gothic cathedral in Rouen, and the picturesque harbor of Honfleur.
• The tour includes admission to the Fondation Claude Monet in Giverny, transportation by private vehicle, and a professional driver/guide.
• Health and safety measures are implemented, such as face masks, hand sanitizer, and vehicle disinfection, to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
• The tour has received excellent reviews, highlighting the guides’ knowledge, the unforgettable visits to Monet’s home and gardens, and the unique immersion in Normandy’s cultural and artistic heritage.

Tour Overview

This private shore excursion from Le Havre allows visitors to explore locations that inspired the iconic paintings of Claude Monet.

Guests can choose to visit two out of three destinations: Giverny, Rouen, and Honfleur.

At Giverny, they’ll tour Monet’s family home and gardens, the very subjects of his famous works.

Rouen boasts a stunning Gothic cathedral and the historic square where Joan of Arc was executed.

Honfleur’s picturesque harbor, lined with 16th-century buildings, rounds out this immersive art and history tour.

With a private driver-guide, travelers can customize their experience and explore the rich cultural heritage of Normandy.

Itinerary and Experience

Kicking off the tour, guests depart from the Le Havre cruise terminal at 8:30 am. The first stop is Monet’s family home and gardens in Giverny, located 1.5 hours away. The duration in Giverny includes 1 hour of admission to the Fondation Claude Monet. Guests can customize their tour, choosing between Giverny & Rouen, Giverny & Honfleur, or Rouen & Honfleur.

Departure Time	First Stop	Duration in Giverny	Tour Options
08:30 am	Giverny	1 hour admission	Giverny & Rouen Giverny & Honfleur Rouen & Honfleur

The tour provides transportation by private vehicle and a professional driver/guide. Food, drinks, and gratuities are not included, with the guide’s lunch costing approximately €30.

Inclusions

The tour package includes transportation by private vehicle and a professional driver/guide.

The inclusions for this private tour are:

1. Port pickup and drop-off at the Le Havre cruise terminal.
2. Admission to Fondation Claude Monet in Giverny.
3. Gratuities.

Food and drinks aren’t included, but the guide’s lunch is approximately €30.

Adhering to health and safety measures, the tour provides masks and hydroalcoholic gel, and the vehicles are disinfected after each use.

With a 5.0 overall rating from 19 reviews, this private tour offers a memorable experience exploring Monet’s inspirations.

Health and Safety Measures

To safeguard the health and well-being of tour participants, the private tour adheres to strict safety protocols. Face masks and hand sanitizer are provided to all guests. On top of that, the tour vehicles undergo thorough disinfection after each use. Social distancing measures are also in place to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Safety Measure	Implementation
Face Masks	Provided to all guests
Hand Sanitizer	Available throughout the tour
Vehicle Disinfection	After each use
Social Distancing	Enforced during the tour
Health Monitoring	Ongoing vigilance

Reviews and Ratings

Positive reviews and a 5.0 overall rating across 19 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor attest to the tour’s memorable experiences.

Highlights include:

1. Knowledgeable and personable guides who bring the destinations to life.
2. Unforgettable visits to Monet’s home and gardens in Giverny.
3. The ability to customize the tour, allowing visitors to explore Rouen, Honfleur, or a combination of the two.

The tour’s flexibility, coupled with the expertise of the guides and the iconic sights, creates a unique and highly rated shore excursion for those seeking to enjoy the Normandy region’s cultural and artistic heritage.

Exploring Monet’s Inspirations

Claude Monet’s iconic paintings of waterlilies and the Japanese bridge in Giverny are the centerpieces of this private tour.

Visitors will explore the very locations that inspired the Impressionist master, wandering through Monet’s former home and gardens. Strolling the flower-filled paths, guests can imagine the artist at work, capturing the ever-changing light and colors.

The tour also includes stops in the historic city of Rouen, where Monet painted the Gothic cathedral, and the picturesque harbor town of Honfleur, a favorite subject of the Impressionists.

This immersive experience allows travelers to follow in Monet’s footsteps and gain a deeper appreciation for the landscapes that captivated his artistic vision.

Gothic Splendor in Rouen

The majestic Rouen Cathedral stands as a testament to Gothic architecture, captivating visitors with its soaring spires and intricate stone carvings.

Among the highlights of the cathedral are:

1. The Butter Tower, an architectural masterpiece funded by the sale of indulgences for butter consumption during Lent.
2. The magnificent rose window, a stunning example of Gothic stained glass design.
3. The tomb of Richard the Lionheart, the legendary English king, housed within the cathedral’s grand interior.

Exploring the Rouen Cathedral offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and the enduring beauty of Gothic design.

Charming Harbor of Honfleur

On the picturesque banks of the Seine River, Honfleur’s charming harbor captivates visitors with its quaint architecture, lively atmosphere, and deep-rooted history.

Lined with colorful buildings, the ancient port offers a glimpse into the region’s maritime past. Stroll through the narrow streets and browse local shops, galleries, and cafés.

Don’t miss the iconic wooden Église Sainte-Catherine, the largest surviving wooden church in France. With its distinctive double bell towers, it’s a prime example of Honfleur’s architectural charm.

This delightful harbor town provides a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle, making it an ideal addition to the Le Havre shore excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Return to the Le Havre Cruise Terminal?

The tour returns to the Le Havre cruise terminal around 5:30 pm. The exact return time may vary depending on the customized itinerary and traffic conditions during the day.

Is There an Option to Visit All Three Destinations Instead of Choosing Two?

Yes, the tour offers an option to visit all three destinations – Giverny, Rouen, and Honfleur. This allows guests to experience the full range of sights that inspired Claude Monet’s paintings during their shore excursion from Le Havre.

Are the Gardens in Giverny Wheelchair Accessible?

The gardens in Giverny are mostly wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and ramps. However, some areas may be challenging due to uneven terrain. Visitors should check with the tour operator or Fondation Claude Monet for specific accessibility information.

Can the Tour Be Customized for a Larger Group Size?

Yes, the tour can be customized for larger groups. The private tour allows travelers to choose from Giverny, Rouen, and Honfleur, and the group size can be accommodated with prior arrangement with the tour operator.

Is There an Opportunity to Stop for Lunch or Refreshments During the Tour?

The tour includes a stop for the guide’s lunch, which costs approximately €30. Guests can purchase their own food and drinks during the tour, but these aren’t included in the tour price.

The Sum Up

The Le Havre Shore Excursion offers a captivating journey through Normandy’s artistic and cultural heritage. Enjoy Monet’s world, marvel at Rouen’s Gothic splendor, and discover the charming harbor of Honfleur. Set out on a personalized experience with a professional guide, exploring these enchanting destinations at your own pace. This tour promises unforgettable insights into the rich tapestry of Normandy’s history and inspiration.