A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Giverny vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Giverny or Florence?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Giverny or Florence? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Giverny

Giverny is a picturesque, peaceful, and serene town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Florence

Florence is a iconic, alluring, and historical city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Giverny and Florence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Home and Gardens of Claude Monet
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore)


Is there more to do in Giverny or Florence?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Florence than Giverny, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Florence is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Giverny is more popular for its small town charm. Giverny is well known for being the home and inspiration for Claude Monet. Florence is well known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore).

How is Giverny different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence and Giverny. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Giverny or Florence?

Giverny
Florence

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Florence are world-renowned. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Many visitors head to Giverny specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The town is most notable as the home of Claude Monet between 1883 and 1926. Highlights of a visit include visiting Jardin d'Eau (The Water Garden), The Normandy Garden, and Monet's House.


Is the Food Better in Giverny or Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Giverny
Florence

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Florence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Giverny area. There are cozy cafes and charming restaurants in the town. If you visit as part of a tour, a restaurant stop may be included.

Is Giverny or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Giverny
Florence

Florence is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Giverny is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Florence has a few options to choose from. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Giverny is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Giverny or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Giverny
Florence

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Giverny does not have a historic old town.

Florence offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Giverny does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Giverny or Florence?

Giverny
Florence

Florence is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Giverny is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Florence is well-known for its shopping. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Giverny is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Giverny or Florence Better for Families?

Giverny
Florence

Florence is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Giverny is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Florence offers lots of family activities. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Giverny is not the most family-friendly destination. The gardens are stunning and the house is impressive, but it's best to prepare younger kids with some activities beforehand. Even the most art-minded children will appreciate a hands-on activity that helps bring the experience to life.

Is Giverny or Florence Better for Couples?

Giverny
Florence

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

Florence makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Giverny is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting seeped in romance and the gardens bring art to life. On occasion you may even see a young couple get engaged during their visit.


Is Giverny or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Giverny
Florence

Florence is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Giverny is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many people, backpackers included, visit the town as a day trip from Paris. It's possible to visit by train and shuttle bus.

Is Giverny or Florence Better for Students?

Giverny
Florence

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Giverny is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Giverny is not popular with students.

Is Giverny or Florence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Giverny
Florence

Giverny and Florence both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Giverny offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can reach Giverny by train from Paris. You'll leave from the Gare Saint-Lazare train station in Paris and arrive in the town of Vernon. The trip is about 45 minutes. From there you can take a bus or taxi on to Giverny.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.


Is Giverny or Florence a more walkable city?

Giverny
Florence

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Florence is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

Giverny is a somewhat walkable town. Many people choose to walk between the town of Vernon and Giverny, both of which are worth visiting. They're separated by about 6 kilometers (3.5 miles).

For even more information, also check out Is Giverny Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Giverny?

How long in Giverny or Florence?

Both Giverny and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Giverny. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Giverny, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

Families should spend more time in Florence than Giverny. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Florence, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Florence than Giverny. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Florence that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Giverny if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Florence.


  • How many days in Giverny or Florence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Giverny 1-2 
    Florence 2-7

One day in Giverny or Florence?

The beautiful town of Giverny offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Florence, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Giverny or Florence?

Giverny is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Giverny, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Florence, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer.


Five days in Giverny or Florence?

Giverny is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Giverny or Florence?

Giverny is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. In Florence, you'll find museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in France, The Best Adventure Tours to France, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Florence or Giverny?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Giverny is €125, while the average daily cost in Florence is €154. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Giverny and Florence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Giverny 60
    Florence 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Giverny 120
    Florence 174
Compare Hotels in Giverny and Florence

Looking for a hotel in Giverny or Florence? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Giverny


Hotels in Florence


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Florence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Giverny 48
    Florence 22

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Florence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Florence:


  • Taxi Ride Within City
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    25
  • In City Parking (Full Day)
    30
  • Bus Pass (Full Day)
    5.00
  • Bus From Airport
    5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Florence

Also for Florence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Sorrento: $2,138
  • From Amalfi Coast Transfer with a Stop in Pompeii: $1,176
  • Transfer Between Florence and Rome with Sightseeing Stop: $1,176
  • Private Transfer from Cinque Terre to Florence or Siena: $893
  • Private Round-Trip Transfer to Pisa: $567
  • Private Transfer to Bologna Airport (BLQ): $429
  • From Private Transfer to Siena: $396
  • From Private Transfer to Livorno Port: $386
  • Transfer from Livorno Port to Accommodation: $386
  • Florence Airport (FLR): One-Way/Roundtrip Private Transfer: $314
  • Horse ride in the Mugello (transfer from / to Florence) and Tuscan aperitif: $293
  • Private Transfer from San Casciano in Val di Pesa to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $292

Is it cheaper to fly into Giverny or Florence?

Prices for flights to both Florence and Giverny change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Giverny 35
    Florence 36

Typical Food Prices in Florence

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Florence:


  • Panini Sandwich
    6.50
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Florence

For Florence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Florence Street Food Tour: Market & City Center: $23
  • Hard Rock Cafe Florence with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Virtual Live Cooking Class What Do You Have in Your Pantry: $35
  • Virtual Cooking Class: Bruschetta & Tiramisù: $35
  • Italian Fresh Pasta Private Virtual Cooking Class: $40
  • Street Food Tour with Local Expert Guide: $41
  • Street Food Tour and Sightseeing with Local Expert Guide in 2.5 hours : $41
  • Florence Food Tour: Home-Made Pasta, Truffle, Cantucci, Olive Oil, Gelato: $41
  • Food Tour in Santo Spirito: $47
  • Walking Food Tour at Sunset with Tastings: $47
  • Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: $61
  • Pasta Cooking Experience in Florence: $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Giverny 26
    Florence 30

Tours and Activities in Giverny

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Giverny.

  • Bike tour from Vernon to Giverny with local guide: $37
  • Giverny Monet House and Gardens Skip the line Walking tour: $60
  • Giverny Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Monet's House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour: $278
  • Monet's House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour: $256
  • Monet's House and Gardens Guided Tour: $62
  • Monet’s House and Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour: $59
  • Guided Tour of Monet's Gardens/small group: $63
  • Guided tour Monet's house and gardens/small group: $64
  • Trip from Paris to Monet's house in Giverny Skip the Line: $96

Typical Entertainment Prices in Florence

For Florence, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Admission to Uffizi
    11
  • Phone Booking Fee for Uffizi
    4.00
  • Firenze Card (for Two)
    100
  • Audioguides at Uffizi (for Two)
    20
  • Giotto's Tower Entrance Fee
    6.00
  • Boboli Gardens Entrance Fee
    7.00

Tours and Activities in Florence

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Florence.

  • Best of Florence walking tour & Accademia Gallery- monolingual small group tour: $92
  • Florence FoodTour with Local Guide: $191
  • Florence-Private bike tour: $98
  • From Sunset Panoramic e-Bike or Classic Bike tour : $38
  • Semi-Private Uffizi Gallery Guided Tour: $71
  • Tour Private of Florence in electric car : $41
  • VIP Uffizi Gallery Tour: $75
  • "Good Morning Chianti Classico" - Tour in 2 wineries with lunch: $196
  • 1-Hour Experience with Brunello. Visit to the Vineyard and Cellar: $35
  • 1-Hour Golf Cart Private Tour through the Center of Florence: $49
  • 2 Hour Private Guided Tour: Uffizi Galleries for Families: $38
  • 2-Hour Guided Tour to Uffizi Gallery and its Symbols: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Giverny 6.64
    Florence 18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Florence

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florence from other travelers:


  • Glass of Chianti
    4.20
  • Bottle of Wine
    7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Florence

Also in Florence, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting by CarusVini in San Casciano in val di Pesa: $16
  • Great wine tasting at Tenuta Moriano: $25
  • Biodynamic Wine Tasting with Producer in Vinci: $28
  • 3 Types Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $29
  • From Florence to Chianti Rufina: Wine Tasting Experience: $32
  • Classic Wine Tasting in Montalcino: $33
  • Discover Artimino wine tasting, a few steps from Florence: $33
  • Three Types of Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $37
  • Wine Tasting and Paring Class Guided Tour in Florence: $42
  • Chianti Wine Tour: Tuscan Reds : $43
  • Wine Tasting and Pairing Class Guided Tour in Florence: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Pairing Class Guided Tour in Florence: $43


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Giverny and Florence, we can see that Florence is more expensive. And not only is Giverny much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Giverny would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Giverny and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Florence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Florence than you might in Giverny.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Giverny Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Giverny or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 660 times larger than the population of Giverny. When comparing the sizes of Giverny and Florence, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Giverny or Florence?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Giverny or Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Giverny are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Giverny for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Giverny is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Giverny averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Florence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Giverny. Giverny usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. Giverny gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Giverny usually receives more rain than Florence. Giverny gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Giverny 20°C (68°F) 
    Florence 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Giverny or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Giverny during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Giverny in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Giverny is cooler than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Giverny in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Giverny often gets less sunshine than Florence. Giverny gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Giverny usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Giverny gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Giverny 13°C (56°F) 
    Florence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Giverny or Florence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Giverny and Florence. Most visitors come to Giverny for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Florence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Giverny can be very cold during winter. In January, Giverny is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Giverny average around 5°C (40°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Giverny usually receives less sunshine than Florence during winter. Giverny gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Giverny usually receives less rain than Florence. Giverny gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Giverny 5°C (40°F) 
    Florence 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Giverny or Florence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Giverny as well as Florence. The spring months attract visitors to Giverny because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

Giverny is cooler than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Giverny averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Giverny often gets less sunshine than Florence. Giverny gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Giverny usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Giverny gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Giverny 11°C (52°F) 
    Florence 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Florence and Giverny

Giverny Florence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)