2026 Upper Normandy Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

#familytravel Walking through Jardin de Claude Monet in Giverny France is like stepping into one of his iconic paintings. The lush gardens, bursting with vibrant blooms, are a feast for the senses. The famous lily pond, with its tranquil waters and delicate bridges, perfectly captures Monet's love for nature. Each corner offers a new palette of colours, from the delicate pastels of the roses to the bold hues of the wisteria. It’s not just a garden—it’s an immersive journey through the mind of a genius, where art and nature blend seamlessly. Not to be missed as part of a wonderful family trip! My rating: 4.5 ⭐️ out of 5!

Here’s your go-to guide for soaking up the best of Etretat, Upper Normandy 🌊🌿 — where dramatic cliffs and serene gardens meet fresh seafood and beach fun! Must-See Places in Etretat: 1. Les Jardins D'Etretat (Av. Damilaville, 76790 Étretat, France) — This surreal cliffside garden is open from mid-February through November (hours and days vary by season, generally closing Mon-Tue). It blends art, nature, and insane coastal views for totally unique photo ops. If you’re visiting in summer, don’t miss the extended evening hours to catch the sunset! Tip: Buy your ticket in advance (admission is about 108.0) to skip the line. 2. Plage d' Étretat (1 Pl. Victor Hugo, 76790 Étretat, France) — Open all day, all year, this pebbly beach is perfect for a refreshing swim in summer. The water’s surprisingly clear, and the view of the famous cliffs is stunning. Bring a towel, swimwear, and water shoes for comfort on the stones. Local Insights: The nature here is absolutely next-level — Étretat’s mix of lush greenery, wild cliffs, and sea breeze is unbeatable. Pack a picnic or grab fresh, local seafood at one of the beachfront bistros (try grilled mussels or oysters for the real Norman flavor). Early mornings and late afternoons are best for fewer crowds and softer light for photos. Useful Stuff: Getting around is super easy — Etretat is walkable, or rent a bike to hop between beach and gardens. Most places take cards, but carry a few Euros for small vendors. Summer is swim season (water temp can be brisk!), so bring SPF and a hat. English is spoken in tourist spots, but a few basic French phrases go a long way. #EtretatViews #NormandyNature #FrenchBeachDay #TravelTips #Tripdotcom

Fresh seafood at amazing scenery at Etretat

#hellohalloween

Veules-les-Roses is a charming little village you can discover while driving along the Normandy coastline. The shortest river in France, La Veules, flows through the village, and walking along its banks feels like stepping into a fairytale. You'll find watermills, thatched cottages, and rose vines cascading from windows, creating a picturesque scene. As you wander through the alleys, you'll come across traces of Victor Hugo's stay, as well as small churches and gardens that make you want to slow down and take it all in. If you're looking for a tranquil spot in Normandy away from the crowds, this is a perfect choice! 📍 Veules-les-Roses 76980 Veules-les-Roses, Seine-Maritime, Normandy, France

When you visit the Normandy coastal town of Le Tréport, a must-do is the cliff elevator. You can ride it for free from the beach, and the moment you ascend through the white limestone cliffs, you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of the open ocean and the harbor town. At the top, there's an observation deck where you can admire the dramatic cliffside scenery. I enjoyed the view while enjoying a waffle and a beer! It's both a means of transportation and a top tourist attraction, so I highly recommend taking it if you visit Tréport. 📍 Funiculaire du Tréport 1 Rue du Docteur Pépin, 76470 Le Tréport, France #EuropeTravel

#westerneurope #france #normandy #travel I visited Veules-les-Roses in Normandy and it was honestly one of the most charming villages I’ve ever seen. It’s officially listed as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, and it’s easy to see why. The entire place feels like a hidden gem—timbered cottages, gardens full of roses and hydrangeas, and the Veules River (the shortest in France) running right through the village down to the sea. Walking along the river, you pass old watermills, stone bridges, and little vegetable gardens tucked behind houses. Everything looks like it’s been taken straight out of a painting. There’s this calm, quiet beauty to the place that’s really rare. Even though it’s small, there’s a lot to see—quaint shops, seaside views, and little spots where you can sit and just listen to the water.

#westerneurope #europe #normandy Benouville is a small village nearby famous Etretat that allows easy access to the stunning coast of Normandy for those who doesn’t want to deal with touristy crowds of Etretat. It is just a few minutes walk from the shore (not the beach though, you’ll be on top of the cliffs looking down) which is absolutely stunning. I enjoyed my two hours walk from Benouville to Etretat along the coast with stunning cliffs and the ocean on one side and fields and cows on another. The place is peaceful and perfect for a picnic while overlooking some stunning scenery of Normandy’s coast!

#centraleurope Tucked away in Normandy’s lush Andelle valley, Château de Pont‑Saint‑Pierre is a Renaissance treasure rising from centuries of silence. Surrounded by a tranquil moat and dense greenery, its elegant facade and forgotten towers are now being lovingly restored by local preservationists. 📍 Address: 27360 Pont‑Saint‑Pierre, Eure, Normandy, France 🚗 Getting There: About 1 hour by car from Rouen. The château is private but visible from the public road and river path. 💡 Tips: • Best seen at sunrise or sunset for magical reflections • No entry yet — it’s under restoration • Support the rescue at logempre.fr • Pair your visit with stops in Les Andelys or Château de Radepont #chateaupontsaintpierre #hiddengemnormandy #renaissancecastle #travelnormandy #frenchcastles #castlerestoration #moatmagic #historicfrance #normandyviews #saveourheritage #frenchhistory #architecturalrevival#trip #travel

📍 Location and Overview Giverny is located in Normandy, France, about 80 kilometers from Paris. It is the former residence and source of inspiration for Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Here, he created the famous "Water Lilies" series and personally designed the garden. 🕒 Opening Hours Monet Garden and Residence are open from April 1 to November 1 each year, from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM). 🎫 Ticket Information Adults: Approximately €14 Students aged 7–17: Approximately €8.50 Children under 7: Free It is recommended to book tickets online in advance and select your entry time slot. 🌸 Highlights Clos-Normand Garden: Monet freely paired flower colors, making the entire garden look like a living painting. Japanese Water Garden: Featuring the famous green arched bridge and water lilies, it feels like stepping into Monet's artwork. Monet's Residence: With pink walls and green windows, the interior is vividly decorated, showcasing artistic touches from the kitchen to the dining room. Village Stroll: Visit the Impressionist Museum and historic cafes to experience the lifestyle of artists from the past. 🚇 Transportation Train + Walking/Bus/Bike: Take a train from Paris to Vernon, then transfer to a shuttle bus, walk about 10–15 minutes, or rent a bike to reach Giverny. Suggested Visit Plan: Opt for the 9:30 AM opening time to avoid crowds and savor the garden's beauty. A stay of 1.5–2 hours is ideal. 👟 Helpful Tips Avoid Crowds: Visit on weekdays, early morning, or late afternoon for a better experience. Photography Rules: Do not step on flower beds, and refrain from bringing pets or food into the garden. Gear Reminder: Bring sunscreen in spring and summer; in autumn, carry a jacket due to significant temperature differences between morning and evening. 🌟 Summary Giverny is a town that perfectly blends natural beauty with art. Whether strolling through the garden, visiting the painter's residence, or enjoying the tranquility of the French countryside, it feels like stepping into the world of Impressionism. It is an excellent choice for a one-day or half-day trip from Paris.

📍 Giverny, France 🕒 Recommended Duration: 2 Days, 1 Night (Spring to Early Fall) Giverny is the charming village where Claude Monet, the master of Impressionism, spent his later years painting and cultivating his garden. Located just an hour away from Paris, this destination offers the perfect blend of nature and art for a relaxing 2-day getaway from the bustling city. 🌿 Day 1 – Departure from Paris, Immersing in Art 🚄 Morning: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare in Paris to Vernon (approximately 50 minutes). 🚲 Before Noon: Travel from Vernon to Giverny via shuttle bus or bicycle (about 15 minutes). 🖼 Afternoon: - Visit Monet's House (Maison de Monet) - Stroll through the Flower Garden (Le Clos Normand) - Capture stunning photos at the Water Garden 🍷 Evening: Enjoy a French home-style dinner at a local restaurant in Giverny. 🛌 Accommodation Recommendations: - La Musardière: A cozy lodging near Monet's garden. - Le Jardin des Plumes: A boutique hotel featuring a Michelin-starred restaurant. The small village offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for stargazing under the night sky. 🌞 Day 2 – Relaxation and Inspiration in Nature 🥐 Morning: Breakfast at your accommodation or a quaint café in the village. 🎨 Visit the Musée des Impressionnismes (Museum of Impressionism). 🚶♀️ Take a leisurely stroll around the village and explore souvenir shops. 🚄 Afternoon: Return to Paris by train around 3–4 PM. 📝 One-Line Review: "The landscapes Monet lived in are even more beautiful than the ones he painted." 🔖 Hashtags #2DayTripFrance #Giverny #MonetTrip #FlowerGarden

🌸 Giverny, Monet's House – A Symphony of Colors in the Flower Garden 📍 Giverny, France Looking for a one-day trip from Paris that will fill your heart with blooms? Visit the flower garden (Le Clos Normand) personally cultivated by Claude Monet. This garden, where his love for color, nature, and light comes alive, is a living painting that changes its face with each season. 🌼 Highlights Garden Layout: A path leading to Monet's house is adorned with vibrant flowers, creating a masterpiece that feels like a painting without brushstrokes. Variety of Flowers: Tulips, peonies, irises, hydrangeas, sunflowers, and more... The types and colors of flowers change constantly, offering a different landscape each season. An Artist's Touch: More than just landscaping, the garden's arrangement reflects the sensibilities of an Impressionist painter, offering an emotional experience rarely found in museums. 🕰 Travel Tips Best Season: Late May to mid-June is the peak time when various flowers bloom simultaneously! Avoid Peak Hours: Visit right after the 9 AM opening or after 4 PM for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities. Photography Tip: Capture the garden with Monet's house in the background using a low angle and backlighting for stunning results. 💡 Small but Special Details Iron arches and ivy naturally placed among the flower beds Trees said to have been planted by Monet himself A pastel-toned view of Monet's house from the end of the garden 📝 One-Line Review "It feels less like a picturesque landscape and more like stepping into a painting." 🔖 Hashtags #MonetsFlowerGarden #LeClosNormand #FlowerPathWalk #MonetsGarden

#traveldiaries This stunning garden, once the home of Impressionist painter Claude Monet, feels like stepping into one of his paintings. The water lilies, Japanese bridge, and flower beds are beautifully preserved, offering visitors a serene and inspiring escape into nature and art history.