Any body take the combo tour out of Paris? Is it worth it or better to go on your own via train?
Thanks
Posted by
Ontario, Canada
4922 posts
I don't think I'd want to attempt either on a single day. Sounds exhausting. And given the time constraints, I doubt you'd have time to really see everything. But if you only have the one day, I'd go with the tour. Getting to Giverny and from there to Versailles on your own is possible, but will take much longer than the tour bus will.
Posted by
Twin Cities of MN
5720 posts
It is very easy to get to Versailles and Giverny and cheaper on your own. That said, if you only have one day, I guess the tour would be the way to go. They have the ability to be more efficient with the logistics and probably are able to cut lines. I've done both. As beautiful as the palace of Versailles is, I got the most enjoyment in leisurely wandering in the immense gardens. I would doubt that the tour would allow you the time for Marie Antoinette's "rustic retreat" which I found very enjoyable. There also is more to Giverny than Monet's garden. The little village is enjoyable and there is a art museum.
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
Versailles palace will be massively crowded.. so a half day visit there is not going to allow you much time to enjoy the rest of the estate.. (Marie Antionettes hamlet and the Trianons and gardesn) and most folks enjoy those more than the palace.. I would not choose to do a combo tour there at all.. even now, Ive been at least a dozen times.. it would be too rushed and limited for me.
Both Versailles and Giverny are easy to do on your own.. I would allow a full day for Versailles.. but Giverny could be done in a long half day.. although I would stay and look around the small city of Vernon ( where the train takes you ) also.
I dont know your age.. or interests.. but I did the BEST bike to to Giverny.. on Fat Tire bike tours.. I was in my mid forties and hadnt owned a bike for 30 years.. but still had a great time.. saw the gardens of course ( and skip the line tickets were included) shopped for picnic food and had a nice picnic on river shore,, and ride was short through town, most of it was actually on a bike path that runs along the river.. scenic and pleasant.