FAQ (Frequently asked questions)
> Is the Fondation Claude Monet open on Bank Holidays ?Yes the Fondation is open daily until 1st November 2009 (included)
> How long does it take to visit the house and gardens ?
We suggest you allow approx 1h 30. to visit the house and gardens.
> Which days can we visit under the best conditions ?
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays are the least busy days.
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays are the least busy days.
> Are the gardens accessible to disabled people ?
The gardens are accessible to disabled people via the group entrance. However, there is no wheelchair access to the interior of the house or the main studio.
> Where is it possible to picnic ?
There are no specific picnic areas in Giverny itself. For those wishing to picnic on the grass, we suggest the banks of the river Seine (left bank ‘Vernon Plage’ or right bank near the ‘Tourelles’ castle ruins).
The gardens are accessible to disabled people via the group entrance. However, there is no wheelchair access to the interior of the house or the main studio.
> Where is it possible to picnic ?
There are no specific picnic areas in Giverny itself. For those wishing to picnic on the grass, we suggest the banks of the river Seine (left bank ‘Vernon Plage’ or right bank near the ‘Tourelles’ castle ruins).
For groups (including school parties ) the village hall in Giverny can accommodate up to 300 children.
For hire, please contact Giverny town hall (la Mairie) tel : 02 32 51 28 22 ; Municipal land is also accessible upon request.
> Are pets allowed ?
No, pets are not allowed, even very small ones. To preserve the beauty of the gardens and the tranquillity of the visitors, we are unable to accept animals, except guide dogs for the blind.
> Is admission free for the under 26s ?
No, the Fondation Claude Monet is not a public museum but a Foundation , part of the ‘Académie des Beaux Arts’.The house and gardens do not receive state subsidies and, therefore, have a duty to fund their own running and conservation.
> How do we get from Vernon train station to Giverny ?
By shuttle bus
By taxi
By taxi
On foot or by bike
> Where is the bus stop to return to the train station in Vernon ?
The bus stop is situated in the coach park, 200m from the entrance to the garden.
One way ticket : 2 € Round trip : 4 €
> Are painting lessons available ?
No, there are no painting classes at the ‘Fondation’ . Ask for details at the town hall (Mairie).
> Is it possible to hire « audio-guides » ?
An audio-guide system is currently being planned for the season 2010-2011.
In the meantime, numerous private guides propose their services . See list.
> Are there any guided tours ?
No, there are no guided tours , but you may contact an external lecturer to guide you during your visit.
> What is the weather like in Giverny ?
You can see the local weather forecast in the top right-hand of the main web page.
> Are there any original paintings by Monet in his house ?
No, there are no original Monets at the Fondation. Visitors can admire his gardens, which were themselves conceived as true works of art. Also on display are the Master’s collection of Japanese ‘estampes’ . The paintings he made in Giverny are exhibited at the Marmottan Monet Museum, the Orangerie Museum and in numerous other museums throughout the world.
