When do the water lilies bloom in Giverny?
The pond has around 70 varieties of water lilies, first planted in 1902 after Monet dug the water garden in 1893 and then enlarged the pond between 1901 and 1910. The flowers appear when the water warms up, so from late June, and last until September. They close at the end of the day: by 5:30 PM, the last admission time, the light on the pond is beautiful, but many flowers are already closed. The best time to see them open and without crowds is at 10 AM, when the gardens open, on a weekday in July.
Visitors who come in April “for the water lilies” leave disappointed, and I see it every year. In April and May, the water garden offers something else: the wisteria on the Japanese bridge in May, the irises by the water, and the willows turning green. The full schedule is on the best time to visit. And if you’re looking for the paintings rather than the plants, they’re in Paris: see where to find Monet’s water lilies.
To photograph the pond in bloom, come at 10 AM with a timed-entry ticket; the on-site guided tour starts right in the water garden.
Frequently asked questions
Are there water lilies in bloom in May?
No, or barely. In May, it’s the wisteria on the Japanese bridge and the irises; the water lilies open in late June. See the best time to visit.
What time are the water lilies open?
In the morning and afternoon; they close at the end of the day. Entering at 10 AM is best, which means arriving by train or car—see how to get to Giverny.
How late can you see the water lilies?
Until September, though more sparsely after the July–August peak. In October, the dahlias and nasturtiums in the Clos Normand take over.