Things To Do
in Vernon
Vernon is a picturesque Norman town perched on the Seine, known for its timber-framed houses and riverfront charm. It serves as a gateway to the green lanes and châteaux of the surrounding countryside. The town offers a relaxed pace, charming markets, and easy access to Monet’s gardens in nearby Giverny.
Visitors can savor Normandy specialties like Camembert and cider while enjoying scenic views along the river.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the heart of Vernon, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and rich coffee. After your meal, take a stroll along the Rue de la République, admiring the charming half-timbered houses that line the street. Make your way to the stunning Church of Notre-Dame, where you can appreciate the intricate architecture and peaceful ambiance.
In the afternoon, visit the Musée Alphonse-Georges Poulain to immerse yourself in the local art scene and learn about Vernon’s rich history. Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch in the picturesque Jardin des Arts, surrounded by sculptures and beautiful greenery. Don't forget to take a moment to relax by the Seine River, watching the boats glide by.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional French bistro for dinner, where you can indulge in regional specialties such as duck confit or coq au vin. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the historic streets, as the buildings are beautifully illuminated. Finally, find a cozy spot at a local wine bar to sample some exquisite French wines and reflect on your day.
After breakfast, take a short trip to Giverny, the home of the famous painter Claude Monet. Start your visit at the stunning gardens that inspired many of his works, where vibrant flowers and serene ponds create a picturesque setting. Spend time wandering through the beautiful pathways and capturing photos of the iconic Japanese bridge.
In the afternoon, visit the Musée des Impressionnismes, which showcases Impressionist art and provides insight into Monet’s influence on the movement. Enjoy lunch at a café in Giverny, sampling local delicacies while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Afterward, explore Monet’s house, where you can see his personal collection of art and the rooms he lived in.
Return to Vernon for dinner at a charming restaurant that offers stunning views of the Seine. Savor a traditional French meal while enjoying the ambiance of the riverside. As the evening winds down, take a stroll along the riverbank, reflecting on the beauty of Giverny and Monet’s legacy.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧀Cheese and dairy products | $5-15 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $6-15 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Norman town with riverside scenery
- Close to Monet’s gardens at Giverny and other attractions
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Occasional tourist crowds in peak season
- Can be quiet in off-season
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est...?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Vernon
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections on the water with historic houses and boats along the quay.
Cobbled street with timber-framed façades ideal for atmospheric street photography.
Historic church silhouettes framed by the Seine provide classic Normandy photo opportunities.
Monet-inspired gardens and water features offering iconic photographic motifs, a short drive from Vernon.
Food in Vernon
Vernon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Soft, creamy cheese from nearby dairy farms; best enjoyed with crusty bread and a glass of cider.
Must-Try!
Apple brandy that’s often sipped as a digestif or used to flavor desserts and cocktails.
Apple custard tart with cream and almonds, a staple dessert in the region.
Local apple cider (cidre) and pommeau (apple juice blended with Calvados) as refreshing options.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering cheeses, apples, cider, seafood, and prepared dishes; a great place to sample local produce.
Seasonal stalls along the river serving crepes, galettes, and savory bites with a Norman twist.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet with Bonjour or Bonsoir. Use polite titles (Monsieur/Madame) when addressing locals.
Keep hands on the table (not elbows on the table); wait for everyone to be served before starting; say please and thank you consistently.
Safety
Tipping in Vernon
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included in the bill (service compris). If not included, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is welcome, especially in tourist areas.
Credit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and smaller establishments. Contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with mild to warm temperatures; occasional showers. Perfect for river walks, markets, and outdoor dining on terraces.
Cooling temperatures and vibrant foliage; harvest markets and cider season bring local flavors to the fore.
Chillier weather with possible frost and rain; fewer crowds but cozy cafés and possible Christmas markets.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for gardens, hikes, and outdoor photography.
Vernon at Night
Hiking in Vernon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic loops between Vernon and Giverny with fields, orchards, and quiet roads.
Forest trails and rolling hills within a short drive, ideal for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Vernon by plane.
Major international hub about 90-110 km away; train or taxi connections from Vernon.
Second major airport about 150 km; accessible by road and rail.
Small regional airport about 60-70 km; convenient for domestic or short-haul flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local families and workers who live in Vernon or nearby towns; some commute to larger cities for work.
People visiting mainly in spring and summer for Monet’s gardens and river views.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular for the flat Seine banks and surrounding countryside; many scenic routes.
Local clubs and rental options on the river.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vernon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Vernon you’ll find vegetarian options at markets and many restaurants; look for vegetable plates, soups, and dairy-based dishes like Camembert, while asking for no meat or fish when needed.