What if spring was the perfect time to escape into a living painting? Less than an hour from Paris, Claude Monet’s Gardens in Giverny offer a natural and artistic spectacle that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Whether for tourists passing through or Parisians looking for a breath of fresh air, this bucolic getaway promises a truly relaxing break. And to welcome you for a weekend, La Maison Saint Nicolas opens the doors to a large, welcoming and comfortable house, in the heart of the Normandy countryside .
Why visit Monet’s Gardens in spring?
Spring is undoubtedly the most beautiful season to discover Monet’s Gardens. From April onwards, nature awakens and the paths are adorned with bright colours and intoxicating scents. Tulips, daffodils, peonies, cherry blossoms… Every corner of the garden evokes a moving impressionist canvas , like a nod to the famous painter. It must be said that Claude Monet entirely thought out and shaped this place to draw inspiration from it.
The Clos Normand
The story goes that when Claude Monet moved to Giverny, he immediately set to work shaping the garden of his dreams. This garden would become the Clos Normand , a plot of land that extends over more than one hectare. In spring, tourists and Parisians frequently flock to the central path, lined with nasturtiums and fragrant roses. You can also admire cherry trees, Japanese apricot trees, daffodils, oriental poppies, and peonies. A true delight for the senses with rectangular beds of shimmering colors that regain their magic every year.
The Water Garden
The Water GardenOn site, you will also discover the Water Garden, famous for having inspired the Water Lilies . You will be able to admire its Japanese bridge painted in green as well as the oriental atmosphere subtly distilled in the choice of plants. Maple trees, Japanese tree peonies, weeping willows, bamboos, ginkgo biloba… You will also come across the water lilies at the bottom of the pond which immediately add a bucolic touch to this subtle atmosphere.
Why is this the exotic getaway Parisians shouldn’t miss?
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city just a stone’s throw from home, Monet’s Gardens in spring are a must. The town of Giverny is accessible by train from Saint-Lazare station, followed by a short bus or bike ride. For a midweek or weekend getaway, Maison Saint Nicolas welcomes you with its two group accommodations for families or friends.
Thanks to its “Accueil Vélo” label, it welcomes you within 5 km of your cycling route and offers you services adapted to the needs of a cycling holiday. In the heart of the Normandy countryside, you can enjoy a calm and quality environment to recharge your batteries with large outdoor spaces entirely at your disposal. Because the emphasis is first and foremost on conviviality , we also invite you to meet around the fireplace during the cooler evenings. And if you decide to extend your getaway over a few days, we remain at your disposal to invite you to discover the Normandy region by offering you multiple hiking routes for a 100% nature immersion .
This is the perfect opportunity for Parisians seeking a green break, far from the asphalt and complicated logistics. In just one day, you can visit the gardens and Monet’s house, while strolling through the village streets and enjoying a delicious apple tart in one of the small tea rooms nearby. A great way to escape and recharge your batteries without actually leaving the Île-de-France region!
When should you plan a visit to this must-see part of French heritage?
Monet’s Gardens are open from March 29 to November 1, 2025. To make the most of them, it is strongly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during spring weekends which always attract crowds of tourists. Because Monet’s Gardens are not just a place to stroll, they are an integral part of France’s artistic heritage .
It was here that the Impressionist painter created his famous Water Lilies series , now on display at the Musée de l’Orangerie in Paris. For foreign visitors, this is a must-see to complete their immersion in the Impressionist world by making a short detour to Giverny. Moreover, many tourists decide to combine this visit to Monet’s house with a cultural tour of Paris, particularly in the Orsay and Orangerie museums.
But Giverny also has a few surprises in store for you on a spring weekend. Every year, the Impressionist Museum offers high-quality temporary exhibitions, often in tribute to Claude Monet. Tourists and Parisians can also stroll through the village itself with its superb flower-filled Norman houses and art galleries.
For an unforgettable spring getaway in the heart of Monet’s Gardens, let yourself be charmed by the warm welcome of Maison Saint Nicolas, the ideal starting point to fully savor art, nature and the gentle way of life in Normandy.
