Start your day with a pickup from your Caen hotel in the morning, and relax aboard your private minivan. Then, sit back and admire the Normandy landscape on your 1.5-hour journey west to Rouen with your private guide.
The capital of Upper Normandy, Rouen was one of the largest and most prosperous cities of medieval Europe, and one of the capitals of the Anglo-Norman dynasties, which ruled both England and large parts of France between the 11th and 15th centuries. Learn about Rouen’s history, from Roman times to today, as you walk around the city.
Admire the exceptional architecture of Rouen Cathedral, crowned by the highest spire in France. Art buffs may recognize the exterior of this Gothic masterpiece: Monet painted the cathedral numerous times at different hours of the day. Step inside to see the narrow and high nave as well as the stained-glass windows that date back to the 13th century.
Take a break for lunch (own expense), and continue with a walk along Rouen's cobbled streets that are flanked by half-timbered houses ─ some that have barely changed since the Middle Ages and Renaissance times. As you stroll, look out for other Gothic monuments such as the Church of St Ouen, Church of St Maclou and the Hall of Justice.
After viewing the Great Clock (Gros Horloge), an emblem of Rouen, arrive at Rouen’s famous market square, where Joan of Arc was executed in 1431 by the English. Hear the story behind Joan of Arc’s courageous quest through France during the Hundred Years’ War, and end with a visit to the modern church St Joan of Arc, built after World War II.
Hop back in your minivan for your 1-hour journey to the charming country village of Giverny, where Monet and his family lived from the 1800s until the artist's death in 1926. It was here that Monet painted some of his most famous works.
Walk through Monet’s former house to see his collection of Japanese prints, and follow the colorful lanes of his blooming gardens. The centerpiece is the large glossy pond, surrounded by bamboo and willow trees and traversed by an iconic Japanese bridge that overlooks the water lilies.
Depending on the time left available, either pay a visit to Giverny Museum of Impressionisms with your guide or enjoy some free time to explore the village, perhaps seeing the church and cemetery where Monet is buried. Your tour then finishes with a drop-off at your Caen hotel in the evening.