My Dreamy Day in Giverny and Versailles with City Wonders Tours
Paris has my heart, there’s no question about it. But after spending a few days soaking in the buzz and beauty of the city, I found myself craving a different kind of magic. I wanted a breath of fresh air, a slower pace, and maybe a little countryside charm. That’s exactly what I got (and so much more) on the Giverny and Versailles Day Trip with City Wonders Tours.
Honestly, it was one of the most memorable days of my trip. Let me take you along!
First Stop: A Dream in Giverny
We started the morning bright and early in central Paris, where our small group met up with our (cheerful and seriously knowledgeable) Sofia, English-speaking guide. Our ride, a comfy, air-conditioned bus made it so easy to sit back, relax, and listen to the little stories and bits of history our guide shared as we made our way out of the city.
In just about an hour, we were pulling into Giverny the charming village where Claude Monet lived and created some of his most famous masterpieces. It honestly felt like we had stepped into one of his paintings.
With skip-the-line access (bless it!), we were free to roam Monet’s house and gardens after a short introduction. And wow, the gardens! I wandered among vibrant blooms, stood on the iconic Japanese bridge, and even saw the very lily ponds that inspired those famous paintings.
Inside his cozy, ivy-covered home, every colorful room felt like a piece of living art. I could almost picture Monet walking through the kitchen or sitting by the window with his paints. It was so personal, so moving and definitely a pinch-me moment.
After exploring, I found a cute little café in town, ordered a simple but delicious French lunch, and just soaked it all in. Giverny is pure magic, peaceful, quaint, and somehow untouched by time.
Next Up: Royal Splendor at Versailles
After lunch, we all hopped back on the coach and made our way to the Palace of Versailles. I knew it was going to be impressive, but honestly? I wasn’t prepared for just how jaw-dropping it would be.
Thanks again to skip-the-line access, we breezed right past the crowds and into pure royal opulence. Our official guide walked us through the palace, sharing juicy stories about Louis XIV (aka the Sun King), Marie Antoinette, and all the drama that unfolded in these golden halls.
The Hall of Mirrors literally took my breath away. The chandeliers, the endless reflections, the sheer scale of it all. It’s impossible not to be swept up in the grandeur. I loved hearing about the real lives behind the glitter, too — the triumphs, the scandals, the heartbreak.
We explored the King’s and Queen’s Apartments, the stunning Chapel, and more… every room felt richer and more detailed than the last. I couldn’t stop snapping photos (and mentally decorating my dream château, of course).
Finishing the Day in the Gardens of Versailles
Just when I thought the day couldn’t possibly get any better, we stepped outside into the Gardens of Versailles , and oh my goodness, they are next-level stunning. Stretching out as far as the eye could see, every hedge, fountain, and pathway was straight out of a fairy tale
After wandering through the gardens, I boarded the coach back to Paris with a heart full of memories (and a camera roll full of beauty).
Why I’d 1000% Recommend City Wonders Tours
This whole day felt effortless and so thoughtfully organized. Here’s why I loved it:
- Friendly, passionate guides who made history come alive
- Comfy coach bus rides (with A/C — essential!)
- Skip-the-line access that saved so much time
- Plenty of free time to explore and soak it all in
- Small group size — no feeling like herded tourists
If you’re heading to Paris and want to experience a day packed with art, history, beauty, and a little bit of magic, this tour is it. Trust me — escaping the city never felt so good.
Quick Tips Before You Go:
- Book early — these tours fill up fast (especially in spring and summer)!
- Wear comfy shoes — you’ll thank yourself later.
- Bring a fully charged phone or camera — there’s beauty around every corner.
- Pack a little snack or water for the ride!
✨ If you’re dreaming of the perfect Paris day trip, let City Wonders Tours show you a side of France you’ll never forget. Giverny and Versailles are waiting for you! ✨
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