Explore the charming cityscape of Rouen, the serene gardens of Giverny, and the dramatic cliffs of Les Andelys on your next French adventure.
Hello! Your travel plan to visit the beautiful towns of Rouen, Giverny, and Les Andelys in France sounds quite exciting. Here are some useful travel tips for your trip.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit these parts of northern France is from late spring (April - June) to early autumn (September - October) when the weather is generally mild and pleasant. It's also less crowded during these periods.
Route and Accessibility:
All three destinations are accessible from the French capital, Paris, using public transport. From Paris, take a train to Rouen from Gare Saint-Lazare (1.5 hours). Giverny (home to Monet's house and garden) is about an hour's train ride from Paris Saint-Lazare to Vernon, and then there's a shuttle bus from Vernon to Giverny. Les Andelys is reachable by train from Paris to Gaillon (1 hour) and then take a taxi.
Accommodation and Booking:
Each of these towns has a good selection of hotels, B&Bs, and guesthouses. It's advisable to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons. Websites like Booking.com, Airbnb, and the official websites of hotels could be used for booking.
Clothing and Essentials:
Carry light clothing for the warmer months and layers for the cooler periods. Pack a good pair of comfortable walking shoes to explore these towns on foot. Don't forget to pack your camera, sunscreen, a raincoat/umbrella (just in case), and a good guidebook or access to offline maps.
Health and Safety:
France is generally a safe country, but standard travel caution is advised. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. Make sure you have travel insurance covering health emergencies. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) holders can use French public health system under the same conditions as French residents.
Local Etiquette and Respect:
As France is a culturally rich country, try to learn a few basic French phrases. Respect the local norms, be polite, and arrive on time if you're invited somewhere, as punctuality is important in the French culture. When visiting religious places, dress modestly.