Located just 45 minutes outside of Paris with the SNCF, this is a charming (bon marché) and highly recommended little excursion North-Westward en route to Normandy. The sights, smells and pace of life of the town of Vernon in Eure are a welcomed change from modish, and quick tempo of Ile de Paris. Pick your own apples, grapes and blackberries on an (easy) 7km bike ride from Vernon to Monet's village of Giverny. A visit to Monet's house and garden (Fondation Claude Monet) is a must preferably during the sping/summer months when the gardens are in full bloom.
