Photo: Gardens of Versailles
Planning a trip to Versailles? We made a list of everything you need to know before visiting; don’t forget to reach out if you have any questions!
1. Plan Ahead
- Tickets: Tickets can be purchased here in advance online to avoid long lines. Consider opting for a Passport ticket, which will provide you access to the entire estate, including the palace, the gardens, the Trianon estate, and temporary exhibitions. Be aware that if you only buy a ticket for the palace, you will need to buy another ticket to access the gardens.
- Timings: The palace can be crowded, especially in the summer. Aim to arrive early, around opening time (usually 9:00 AM), to beat the crowds.
2. Transportation to Versailles
- Train: The RER C train line from Paris goes directly to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station, which is a short walk from the palace. The journey takes about 45 minutes ; but be sure to check the day before for any renovations works or strikes.
- Bus or Car: Various tour buses offer trips to Versailles. Driving is also an option, with parking available just in front of the palace entrance.
3. What to See
- Palace: Start with the main palace, where you can explore the King’s State Apartments (8 rooms), the Hall of Mirrors, and the Queen’s State Apartments (5 rooms). The Hall of Mirrors is considered the greatest room ever built in French History ; in the Queen’s Apartments, the Queen’s bedroom is also a not-miss.
- Gardens: The formal gardens are extensive (2,000 acres!) and beautiful. Don’t miss the Musical Fountain Shows and Musical Gardens on specific days (you can check the calendar here).
- Trianon Estate: Visit the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and the Queen’s Hamlet, a fake village Marie-Antoinette created for her children, for a more intimate look at royal life.
Photo: The Hall of Mirror, Palace of Versailles
4. Guided Tours
- Audio Guide: Audio guides are available for free with your ticket.
- Private Tours: Consider a private guide for a more detailed and personalized experience. You can discover our Versailles by clicking on this link.
5. Amenities in Versailles
- Dining: There are several cafes and restaurants on the grounds for a meal or a quick snack : Angelina, located in the Palace, famous for its pastries and hot chocolate ; Ore by Alain Ducasse: a fine dining option in the Palace ; La Flottille: near the Grand Canal, offers French cuisine ; La Petite Venise: Italian restaurant near the Grand Canal.
- Accessibility: The palace and gardens have facilities to accommodate visitors with reduced mobility : you can rent a weelchair for free for the palace section ; for the gardens, there are golf carts and a train that can help you explore without too much walking.
Photo: Versailles Private Full Day Trip Tour
6. Special Events
- Night Fountains Show: Held on Saturdays from June to September, this event features illuminated fountains and fireworks. Tickets are available here.
- Concerts and Operas: Check the schedule for performances at the Royal Opera or in the gardens.
7. General Tips for a trip to Versailles
- Comfortable Shoes: The estate is vast, and you’ll do a lot of walking!
- Weather Preparedness: Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time in the gardens.
- Photography: Photography is allowed in most areas, but tripods and flash are prohibited inside the palace.
To help you discover one of France’s most iconic landmarks, make sure to check out our selection of Versailles Private Tour packages available on our website!
