Today i did a day trip from Paris to/from Giverny. Very glad I went. Many flowers were blooming in the garden next to the house. As expected for mud-May, water lilies not blooming yet but was still some color in that part of the garden. So, overall a good visit. The purpose of this post is to give those planning to visit Giverny some tips re logistics:
1. After my train arrived at the Vernon/Giverny station, I expected to see 2 transportation shuttles: regular sized bus and an open air tourist “train” called “Le Petit Train.” There was no regular sized bus, so everyone rushed to “Le Petit Train”, which holds around 48. About 5 of us did not get a seat initially. I only got on when the driver announced he accepted cash only and several people got off. Tip: exit train at station and quickly walk to shuttle with cash in hand.
2. Signage at Giverny gardens is poor. I missed the sign showing where advance ticketholders should go. Got near front of line for non-ticketholders/Giverny employee turned me back to ticketholder entrance (down same path as group entrance)
3. The only WC (restroom) I saw in the gardens was near the shop, and it was poorly signed.
4. Even though I arrived at 10, the gardens quickly became crowded (as I expected). Tip: pack patience.
5. I did not see clear signage from the garden/Giverny village back to the bus/shuttle parking lot.
6. Our “Le Petit Train” left the Giverny parking lot 10 minutes late so that it arrived at the train station only minutes before the train for Paris departed.
Again, Giverny is a great place to visit. I hope these logistical tips are helpful.