Train vs Private Transfer to Giverny – An Honest Comparison
When planning a visit to Monet's gardens at Giverny, the two most popular transport options from Paris are the train (SNCF to Vernon station) and a private transfer. Both will get you there — but the experience is dramatically different. Here's a fair, detailed comparison.
Journey breakdown: train route
The train route involves multiple steps, each with its own timing and potential friction:
- Metro to Gare Saint-Lazare: 10–30 minutes depending on your location
- Wait at the station: 10–20 minutes (trains run roughly every hour)
- Train to Vernon-Giverny: 45 minutes
- Wait for shuttle bus: 5–15 minutes (April–October only, timed with trains)
- Shuttle to Giverny: 20 minutes
- Walk to gardens entrance: 10 minutes
Total door-to-door time: approximately 2 hours. On the return, you're locked into the shuttle schedule — miss it and you wait an hour or walk 7 km to Vernon.
Journey breakdown: private transfer
- Driver arrives at your hotel: On time, every time
- Drive Paris → Giverny: 60–90 minutes (via A13 motorway)
- Drop-off: Directly at the gardens entrance
Total door-to-door time: 1h–1h30. On the return, your driver is waiting at whatever time you choose.
Head-to-head comparison
| Criteria | Train + Shuttle | Private Transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Door-to-door time | ~2 hours | 1h–1h30 ✓ |
| Cost (1 person) | ~€25–€27 ✓ | €120 (entire car) |
| Cost (2 people) | ~€50–€54 | €120 total ✓ |
| Cost (4 people) | ~€100–€108 | €120 total ✓ |
| Luggage handling | You carry everything | Driver handles it ✓ |
| Schedule flexibility | Fixed train times | You choose ✓ |
| Child seats | Not available | Free on request ✓ |
| Season | Shuttle Apr–Oct only | Year-round ✓ |
| Drop-off point | Shuttle stop (10 min walk) | Garden entrance ✓ |
| 👉 Verdict: For 2+ travelers, the private transfer wins on value, comfort, and time. Solo budget travelers should consider the train. | ||
When the train makes sense
The train is a solid option for budget-conscious solo travelers who are comfortable navigating French public transport. If you speak some French, travel light, visit during peak season (when shuttles run frequently), and don't mind a fixed schedule — the train delivers at a lower price.
When a private transfer wins
For couples, families, groups, elderly travelers, anyone with luggage, visitors with mobility challenges, or travelers who simply value their time and comfort — a private transfer is the clear winner. The math is simple: for 2+ people, the per-person cost is comparable to the train, but the experience is incomparably better.
Coming from the airport?
If you're arriving at CDG airport or Orly airport, a direct transfer to Giverny avoids Paris entirely. No RER, no metro, no station changes — just a smooth 1h20–1h45 ride straight to Monet's gardens.
Our verdict
If you're visiting Giverny as a couple or family, book a private transfer. You'll save 30–45 minutes each way, skip every queue and connection, and arrive relaxed. Your driver waits while you explore, and drives you back whenever you're ready.
Planning your full visit? Our day trip planning guide covers itinerary, costs, and seasonal tips. Don't forget to pre-book your Giverny entry tickets, and check our guide to the best way to visit Monet's garden once you arrive.
