Things To Do
in Vernon

Vernon, France is a picturesque town located on the Seine River, known for its charming half-timbered houses and vibrant flower-filled streets. It serves as a gateway to the stunning Giverny, where the famous impressionist painter Claude Monet lived and worked. Visitors can explore historical sites like the magnificent Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame and the ruins of the Château des Tourelles.

With its serene ambiance and rich artistic heritage, Vernon offers an enchanting experience for tourists.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Vernon
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, admiring its Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass windows.

afternoon
:

Head to the Museum of Impressionism, where you can learn about the art movement that flourished in the region and view various artworks.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local bistro, followed by a leisurely stroll along the Seine River to take in the beautiful evening views.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Giverny
morning
:

Take a short bus ride to Giverny and visit Claude Monet's house and gardens, marveling at the famous water lilies.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museum of American Art in Giverny to discover more about the artists influenced by Monet.

evening
:

Return to Vernon for dinner at a traditional French restaurant, sampling local wines and cheeses.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20-30
Coffee$3-5
🍞Baguette$1
🍷Glass of wine$5-10
🚍Public transport ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful countryside and historical sites.
  • Rich artistic heritage and cultural experiences.
  • Close proximity to Giverny and Monet's gardens.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Public transportation options may be limited outside of peak hours.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est…?" - Where is…?
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Vernon

Visit one of these nice places.

Monet's Garden

Capture the stunning water lily pond and the iconic Japanese bridge, which inspired many of Monet's famous paintings.

The Seine River

The beautiful riverbanks provide picturesque views of the town and the surrounding countryside, perfect for sunset photography.

Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame

The intricate Gothic architecture of the church, especially when lit by the afternoon sun, makes for stunning photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Vernon

Vernon offers a delightful culinary experience featuring traditional French cuisine and local specialties that reflect its rich agricultural heritage.

Vernon Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tarte Normande

A delicious apple tart from the Normandy region, often made with cream and Calvados for an authentic flavor.

Must-Try!

Poulet Vallée d'Auge

A creamy chicken dish cooked with apples and Calvados, showcasing the region's love for apples.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Vernon Market

Held every Saturday morning, this vibrant market offers fresh produce, cheeses, and artisan goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Vernon experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures in summer range from 20 to 25 °C (68 to 77 °F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0 °C (32 °F). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, so visitors should be prepared for occasional showers, especially in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting with a Kiss

When meeting locals, it's customary to greet with a kiss on both cheeks, especially among friends.

Polite Language

Always say 'Bonjour' (Hello) when entering shops or restaurants, as it is considered polite.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during meals and wait for everyone to be served before starting.

Safety Guide

Safety

Vernon is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. It's also advisable to familiarize yourself with emergency numbers and local hospitals in case of any health issues.

Tipping in Vernon

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

A service charge is typically included in restaurant bills, but leaving a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it an ideal time to visit Monet's gardens in Giverny.

Summer

Summer offers warm temperatures and sunny days, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions, but it can be crowded.

Autumn

Autumn features beautiful fall foliage, particularly in the gardens, providing a stunning backdrop for photography.

Winter

Winter is cold, with occasional snow, which can create a magical atmosphere but may limit some outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Vernon at Night

Vernon's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. Local bars and cafés offer a cozy atmosphere for enjoying a glass of wine or a cocktail. There are occasional live music events and cultural performances, primarily focused on local artists. Visitors can also find a few restaurants that serve late-night meals, making it a pleasant place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Vernon

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Les Boucles de Seine

This scenic hiking trail follows the Seine River, offering stunning views of the landscape and the opportunity to spot local wildlife.

The Forest of Bizy

A beautiful forest area near Vernon, featuring various trails suitable for hiking and walking amidst nature.

Airports

How to reach Vernon by plane.

Rouen Airport

Located approximately 70 km from Vernon, Rouen Airport provides regional flights and is the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Vernon is a highly walkable town, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The charming streets are lined with shops, cafés, and historical sites, making it pleasant to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian paths along the Seine offer lovely views.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The local population is predominantly French, with a mix of families, retirees, and younger individuals who enjoy the town's history and culture.

Tourists

Vernon attracts a variety of tourists, including art enthusiasts visiting Giverny, families exploring the town's history, and nature lovers enjoying outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Vernon, with local clubs and community events regularly taking place throughout the year.

Cycling

Cycling is favored by both locals and visitors, thanks to the picturesque routes along the Seine and surrounding countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Vernon experiences light traffic, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation includes buses that connect Vernon with neighboring towns and cities. However, services may be limited during off-peak hours, so plan accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Vernon.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Vernon offer vegetarian dishes, but it is advisable to check with the staff for specific options.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options are not very common, some restaurants can accommodate requests, so it's best to inform them in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Vernon is accessible, with several local clinics and a hospital providing services. Emergency medical services can be reached by calling 112. Visitors from the EU should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to necessary medical services.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide