Are you prepared to visit one of France’s top attractions? In this article, we will provide you with important information to keep in mind before visiting the Palace of Versailles, known as the most renowned castle globally!
In the outskirts of Paris lies the Palace of Versailles, also known as Château de Versailles, which is a highly visited attraction in France, welcoming millions of tourists annually. The palace boasts 2,300 lavish rooms filled with thousands of artworks that depict centuries of history. The exterior is just as impressive, sprawling across 800 hectares.
Get ready to be amazed by the magnificence of the Palace of Versailles, the elegance of the Grand and Petit Trianon, the charm of the gardens and fountains, the domain of Marie Antoinette, and numerous other marvels of this architectural masterpiece. We’ll provide you with fantastic insights about this impressive and historic home of the French royalty.
Happy reading!
In this article, you will find:
- How to reach the Palace of Versailles
- How is the Palace of Versailles
- Points of interest at the Palace of Versailles
- Logs and opening times
- Paris Pass Museum can be rephrased as Museum Pass in Paris.
- When to go to the Palace of Versailles
- Where to stay near Versailles Palace
- Restaurants near Versailles Palace
- History and Curiosities
- What to do in Paris besides the Palace of Versailles
- See more tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
How to get to the Palace of Versailles
It is practical, easy and economic to reach Versailles, whether by train or by public transportation – but there are still other means, even if somewhat more expensive, as opting for a Car Rental in Paris or transfers from tourism agencies.
For those travelling by train, there are three metro stations in the French capital, being the Versailles Château – Rive Gauche the closest to the Palace of Versailles, which receives the RER C from Paris. Check out more tips below:
How to go from Paris to Versailles
To go from Paris to the Palace of Versailles, the transportation options are train, bus, car or through a tour with a travel agency from Paris. See also tips on How to get to Paris and Transportation in Paris.
Train
Going by train to Versailles is the fastest and most economical option, taking about 40 minutes when leaving Paris. To make this trip, it is necessary to take the RER C (suburban train line) towards “Versailles Château – Rive Gauche”. After landing, just walk for about 10 minutes to the castle.
Remember that it is necessary to have a subway ticket that includes up to the “Zona 4” of the Parisian region, because Versailles is a city outside of Paris.
Buses
The bus trip can last on average 45 minutes depending on the traffic. Line 171 leaves the Pont de Sèvres station (last stop of the Paris metro line 9), heading to Place d’Armes, which is close to the Palace. A tip is to use the ticket T+ for public transport.
How is the Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles comprises an area of over 800 hectares, and in addition to the main building, it also has other attractions that, together, complement the visit to the architectural complex. Therefore it is important to plan very well before going to the Palace. With the virtual map, you can already get an idea of everything you will see during the tour.
The interior of the Palace has luxurious lounges and a collection of more than 60 thousand works of art. There, you will find the famous Hall of Mirrors, the King’s and Queen’s Quarters, the Royal Chapel and the Battle Gallery – but there is still a whole universe to be explored.
Make sure to set aside an entire day for Versailles, as anything less than that is insufficient to fully appreciate the extent of the estate.
After getting to know the internal areas, it is time to leave outside the complex. It is possible to explore the Gardens of Versailles on its own, as well as the ornamental fountains, trees, statues, the Park of Versailles, the Grand and Petit Trianon and the Domain of Marie Antoinette.
A lot, isn’t it? Consider walking all of this region by renting a bicycle (€ 10 per hour), a car (€ 42 per hour) or the electric train (€ 9 per person on the full route). Another essential tip to avoid queues is to take a guided tour of the Palace of Versailles, so there is more time for you to enjoy the tour in the best way. 😉
Attractions in the Palace of Versailles
There is a lot to do at the Palace of Versailles, both inside and outside the complex, so we list the most popular attractions to help you organize yourself. This way you don’t miss the chance to meet every special spot pack. See below: a
Hall of Mirrors
Built in the 17th century by order of Louis XIV, the Hall of Mirrors was used for large receptions and celebrations of the French court (bailes, parties, audiences, etc.). The Hall is considered one of the greatest symbols of the power and wealth of the French monarchy, and impresses for the grandeur and details. There are 17 windows and 357 mirrors that reflect natural light and increase the sense of depth of the environment.
Outside the beauty and refinement, the Hall of Mirrors is the historical space where the Treaty of Versailles was signed on 28 June 1919, which ended World War I. Today, the Hall of Mirrors is the most visited comfortable of the palace, enchanting tourists from all over the world.
- Visit the famous Hall of Mirrors on the best guided tour of the Palace of Versailles.
Royal Chapel
Finished in 1710 during the reign of Louis XIV, the Royal Chapel of the Palace of Versailles, designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, is an architectural landmark of the French Baroque movement, with marble columns and a ceiling painted by Antoine Coypel.
It is in the Chapel where the king watched the “Missa do Rei” daily at 10am, accompanied by music that came directly from the magnificent organ decorated by cherubins, built by Robert de Cotte. In addition to Mass, there were other events of the monarchy, such as marriages and baptisms.
- Discover the sumptuous Royal Chapel of the Palace of Versailles on a guided tour.
Apartments of the King and Queen
Connected with the Gallery of Mirrors, the King’s Apartments in the Palace of Versailles are spaces with pure refinement, which reflect the opulence of the French monarchy. The Queen’s apartments retain the same greatness, but with a more delicate decoration.
On the first floor are the king’s quarters, which were occupied by Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI throughout history. These apartments housed other equally rich rooms, such as the King’s Room, the Hall of Apollo and the Hall of Mercury, environments that were used for both private functions and official ceremonies.
The Queen’s Room was occupied by Maria Theresa of Austria, Maria Leszczyńska and Marie Antoinette, in addition to being the royal cradle in which several princes and princesses came to be born. The current decoration demonstrates the refined taste of the last queen, Marie Antoinette, with luxurious tapestries and furniture.
- Visit the King’s and Queen’s Apartments at Versailles Palace for the most cost-effective option.
Battle Gallery
The Battle Gallery is a space dedicated to the celebration of the military history of France, through 33 valuable paintings that narrate epic scenes of different conflicts, from Clovis to Napoleon Bonaparte. It was created in 1837 by Louis Philippe I, who at the time wished to establish the spirit of national pride in the country.
Today, the Battle Gallery is an actual museum that leaves a lasting impression on history and art enthusiasts who visit.
- Visit the splendid Battle Gallery with the best tour of the Palace of Versailles.
Versailles Gardens
Spanning more than 800 hectares, the Versailles Gardens are among the Palace of Versailles’ most extensive features. Planned by André Le Notre for Louis XIV in the 17th century, the Gardens boast various structured groves, forests, ponds, water features, and traditional statues.
Due to its vastness, there are different means to explore them in the best way: with audioguide by the app, by bicycle, by car or by electric train. You can check out more information about the packages in the online box office.
The Versaille Gardens are open daily from 8am to 8:30pm during the high season (from April to October), already in the low season (from November to March), until 6pm. The visit is free in the low season, however, in the high season months, a fee of up to € 11 is charged due to the Show of Sources and Musical Gardens that takes place from Tuesday to Sunday.
You can see more information about timetables and values on the site.
- Tour the Palace of Versailles with no worries about the best Civitatis offer.
Music Fountains and Gardens Show
A magical experience that takes place in the Versaille Gardens is the Show of Sources and Musical Gardens. The Music Sources Show includes water jets from ornamental sources that are sprung to the rhythm of baroque music. It starts from April 5 and goes until October 26, taking place on most Tuesdays, Fridays and weekends. The ticket price is € 11 and can be purchased online.
The Musical Gardens offer an unprecedented experience in the heart of the Versaille Gardens, amidst exclusive woodlands that are open only in the high season to the sound of baroque music. The ticket is worth € 10 and can be purchased online. The days to make this visit vary greatly throughout the high season, so we recommend keeping informed through the official website.
These shows take place from Tuesday to Sunday during the high season – which starts on April 1 and goes until October 31. Therefore, those visiting on these dates can buy the passport in the amount of €32 (which grants access to all areas of the Palace of Versailles) or just pay the specific entrance fee for the gardens.
Another option to carry out these tours is through a tour of the Palace of Versailles that leaves Paris, or by buying your entrance to the Palace with access to the Show of Fountains and Musical Gardens by Civitatis, with values already converted into Brazilian reals.
- Experience the complete Palace of Versailles tour along with the Fountain Show and Musical Gardens with Civitatis for a comprehensive visit.
Versailles Park
Versailles Park is an immense green area linked to the palace gardens. The biggest attractions are the Grand Canal, a lake with cross shape, where it is possible to rent rowboats, and the Lake of the Swiss Guard. Other places to explore in the park are the woods, in addition to the possibility of cycling, walking and picnics.
The entrance is free for pedestrians and cyclists, except during the days when the Show of Musical Fountains and Gardens takes place. Opening hours are usually 8am to 6pm from November to March, and from 7am to 8.30pm from April to October. See other information on the site.
- Go to Versailles Park for the most cost-effective option.
Grand and Petit Trianon
The Grand Trianon was the second residence of Louis XIV, who sought a more intimate villa in the domain of Versailles, and also served as the stage of the peace agreement that gave a final point to the question of Hungary in World War I – the Treaty of Trianon. Its architecture is sumptuous, with various arcades and marble columns, in addition to possess a wonderfully well-kept garden.
The Petit Trianon, given to Marie Antoinette by the Sun King in 1774, was as beautiful as the Great Trianon but had a more feminine touch. This neoclassical home served as the queen’s sanctuary, similar to how the Great Trianon was for the king. What set the Petit Trianon apart was its garden, which departed from traditional French design to embrace a more natural and relaxed style reminiscent of English gardens, a choice made by Marie Antoinette.
You can get to know the Grand and Petit Trianon with the ticket in the passport mode (€ 32), which grants access throughout Versailles area, or just the Trianon property (€ 12). Buy your ticket on the site or take a guided tour across Versailles Palace with Civitatis.
“If the Palace of Versailles displays the name “Louis XIV” prominently from all angles, showing signs of masculinity and an extravagant display of luxury, the Trianon estate exhibits different qualities.”
- Discover the elegant Grand and Petit Trianon at the Palace of Versailles at a discounted rate.
Maria Antonieta’s domain
chsyys/PixaBay
The Queen’s Hamlet, which includes the Petit Trianon, also features the Domain of Marie Antoinette, a village where the historical figure sought refuge from the formalities of court life. This peasant village was a beloved retreat of the Queen’s where she enjoyed spending time with her friends and experiencing a simple rural lifestyle.
The picturesque setting includes gardens reminiscent of Marie Antoinette’s style, a lake, and a pavilion for events. It also boasts a Temple of Love and the Queen’s Cave, perfect spots for capturing stunning photographs.
- Explore the elegant Domain of Marie Antoinette with an exclusive deal from Civitatis.
Information regarding logs and hours of operation
Understanding the various schedules and admission fees for the attractions at the Palace of Versailles can be perplexing for many individuals. Each section of the castle has its own rules and operating hours, making it challenging to navigate. To fully enjoy the domain without stress, a recommended approach is to join a guided tour of Versailles Palace with Civitatis.
If you visit the château independently, we will provide lists with important and current information. Be sure to take note of all the recommendations.
Versailles Palace
If you plan to visit just the inside of the Palace of Versailles, the best option is the “Palace Ticket” priced at €21. However, if you wish to explore the entire Versailles estate, including the palace, gardens, park, Trianon, etc., we suggest purchasing the “Passport” ticket for €24 in low season and €32 in high season.
Explore additional information regarding the Versailles Palace operating hours based on the schedule provided below.
- We are open daily, except on Mondays, from 9am to 5:30pm during the off-peak season (November 1st to March 31st).
- We are open daily, except on Mondays and May 1st, from 9am to 6:30pm during the peak season (April 1st to October 31st).
- There is free entry to all parts of the palace on the first Sunday of the month, between November and March.
Text: Gardens of Versailles
The Versailles Gardens are among the most beautiful sights at the Palace of Versailles. Make sure to schedule your visit based on the following times:
- The facility is open daily from 8am to 6pm at no cost, except during the Show of Fountains and Musical Gardens.
- During the peak season (April 1 to October 31), the operating hours are extended until 8:30.
Sources of Music
The Fountain Show and Musical Gardens events are highlights of the Versailles Gardens during the peak season. You have the option to purchase a single ticket for the Musical Fountains at €11 (providing access only to the gardens) or opt for the passport ticket at €32, allowing you full access to explore the entire Palace of Versailles.
Below, we have provided details regarding the dates and times for attending the show.
- We are available on weekends between April and October.
- Open on Tuesdays between May and June.
- Children who are under 5 years old can enter for free.
“Musical Gardens” – A performance that combines music and nature in a beautiful harmonious experience.
To join the Musical Gardens event at the Palace of Versailles, you have the option to purchase a single garden entrance ticket for €10 or a passport for €32. We have listed the dates of the show below, but we advise checking the website for any potential schedule changes.
- Each Tuesday through Friday in April and May, as well as from July to October.
- Every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday in the month of June.
- Children who are under 5 years old can enter for free.
Text: The Grand and Petit Trianon can be described as large and small palaces.
You can visit just the Trianon for €12 by purchasing a ticket at the entrances of the Petit Trianon and Grand Trianon without needing to go through the castle. However, to skip the lines, we suggest buying your ticket online. Please refer to the schedule provided below.
- We are open daily during the off-peak season (November to March) from 12:00 pm to 5:30 pm, except on Mondays.
- We are open daily from 12:00 pm to 6:30 pm during the high season (April to October), except on Mondays.
Paraphrased: Description of Versailles Park
Explore the schedule and prices for visiting Versailles Park to discover its highlights like the Grand Canal, Swiss Guard Lake, and Rivulet of Gally.
- We are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during the low season (November to March) and from 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. during the high season (April to November).
- During the off-peak season, pedestrians and cyclists can enter for free.
- There is a € 6 fee for vehicle entry and a € 3 fee for motorcycles.
You can find additional details regarding schedules and fees by visiting the Palace of Versailles’ official website.
Museum entry is included with the Paris Pass.
Another option for touring the Palace of Versailles is by using the Paris Pass Museum (PMP). This pass is an excellent option for individuals interested in exploring the renowned museums and landmarks of Paris and its vicinity, which includes Versailles.
You have the option to purchase the pass online starting at €70, allowing you to enjoy the ticket for a maximum of six days. With the pass, you can directly enter the Palace of Versailles and the Trianon without having to wait in long lines.
Another choice is purchasing the Go City Paris Pass through Civitatis, providing access to more than 75 attractions in Paris and nearby areas. Additionally, buying this pass grants access to the Paris Pass Museum, regardless of the selected reservation method.
When is the best time to visit the Palace of Versailles?
If you’re planning to travel to Paris and explore the Palace of Versailles, it’s recommended to go in the spring, specifically between April and June. This season offers pleasant weather and blooming flowers, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, it’s the perfect time to attend the Versailles Music Fountains and Gardens Show.
If your main goal is to save money, consider retiring between November and March. During this period, ticket prices for many palace attractions are reduced, and some may even offer free entry. 😉
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The weather in Versailles is enjoyable in the spring, from March to June, featuring consistent temperatures and blooming scenery. It is advisable to have an umbrella handy as rain showers are more frequent during this time.
Autumn, which lasts from September to November, and spring both have mild temperatures. However, the distinguishing feature of autumn is the colorful leaves and flowers with shades of orange. Additionally, there is an increase in wind and rain during this season.
The summer season lasts from June to September with long, hot days reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius, attracting a large number of visitors to the Palace of Versailles. In contrast, the winter season, spanning from December to March, sees temperatures ranging from 0 to 10 degrees Celsius and a decrease in the number of tourists.
Where to find accommodations close to Versailles Palace
The top accommodations near the Palace of Versailles in Paris are located in the Centre, Saint-Louis, Notre-Dame, and Porchefontaine areas.
The heart of Versailles is an excellent location to stay near the Palace of Versailles, with hotels just a short five-minute walk away from the castle, though accommodations in this area tend to be pricier. Saint-Louis is the most historic neighborhood in Versailles, boasting quaint and well-preserved hotels that are also conveniently located within a few minutes’ walk of the palace.
The Notre-Dame neighborhood is known for being home to the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, as well as providing a variety of accommodations, shopping, dining, and cafes. In contrast, Porchefontaine and Montreuil may not have many hotels, but they offer excellent apartments for those seeking a more private and self-sufficient lodging experience.
Text: Keep in mind that you have the option to stay at the luxurious Airelles Château de Versailles within the Palace of Versailles itself. Explore the accommodations that best suit your needs.
| Cheaper: Le cosy Versaillais | Note: 8.6 | € 80 / day |
| Honeymoon: Waldorf Astoria Versailles | Note: 8.1 | € 254 / day |
| Families: Hotel Le Versailles | Note: 8.5 | € 171 / day |
| Centre: Mgallery Le Louis Versailles Château | Note: 8.7 | € 203 / day |
| Saint-Louis: Royal Hotel Versailles | Note: 8.2 | € 109 / day |
| Notre-Dame: Hotel des Lys | Note: 8.4 | € 137 / day |
| Porchefontaine: Studio Cosy Fleur de Lys | Note: 8.8 | € 90 / day |
| Montreuil: Le Montreuil | Note: 8.1 | € 160 / day |
Locate all lodging options close to Versailles Palace at the most competitive rates.
Accommodations in close proximity to the Palace of Versailles
How about guaranteeing a comfortable place to stay so you can relax and enjoy your trip without stressing about the metro schedule? Choosing to book a hotel close to Versailles Palace is a fantastic option, as they are conveniently located near the main tourist attractions and provide charming accommodations suitable for both couples and families. Be sure to explore our suggested hotels.
- The Louis Versailles Château – Available daily starting from €203 – Rated 8.7
- Waldorf Astoria Versailles is available daily starting at €254, with a rating of 8.1.
- Hotel Le Versailles is available for a daily rate starting at € 171, with a rating of 8.5.
- Mercure Versailles Chateau offers daily rates starting from €113 with a rating of 8.1.
View all available hotels close to Versailles Palace.
Eating establishments close to Versailles Palace
Do you need recommendations for dining options near the Palace of Versailles? Interestingly, there are various restaurants located within the castle itself where you can enjoy a meal. Additionally, you can explore the Versailles Gardens where you will find a selection of excellent dining establishments. Quite convenient, isn’t it?
Check out our suggestions for dining options in Paris as well.
- The Ore Restaurant (Palace of Versailles)
- Angelina at Versailles Palace
- The Grand Café of Orléans in the Palace of Versailles.
- The Girandole (Gardens of Versailles)
- Paraphrase: The Dolphin Fountain in the Gardens of Versailles.
- “La Flottille” refers to the Gardens of Versailles.
- The Little Venice (Gardens of Versailles)
Title: Historical Events and Interesting Facts
According to legend, the Versailles estate was established because Louis XIV was envious of Nicolas Fouquet, a nobleman who owned the impressive Vaux-le-Vicomte castle in the 17th century. Fouquet’s estate was considered the most beautiful in France at that time and it was where the renowned “French garden” was first created by André Lenôtre.
Influenced by Colbert, his financial minister, Louis XIV chose to construct the Palace of Versailles to showcase his authority and magnificence. The construction of the palace spanned several decades, incurring significant expenses, and was completed in 1682. Subsequently, additional structures like the Grand Trianon in 1687 and the Petit Trianon between 1761 and 1768 were added to the complex.
What activities can you do in Paris aside from visiting the Palace of Versailles?
Text: If you were captivated by the Palace of Versailles and are looking to discover additional attractions to include in your itinerary for exploring Paris, explore the top museum recommendations and other tour options provided below.
Paris has many museums.
Are you familiar with the Museums in Paris that are worth visiting? Apart from the famous Louvre Museum, the city offers a unique variety of options for history and art enthusiasts. Check out the following list of the top museums in Paris to explore during your trip:
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- Museum of Orsay
- The museum dedicated to Picasso
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- Text: Museum of Rodin
- The information pertains to the l’Orangerie National Museum.
- The Paris City Museum of Modern Art
- Grévin Wax Museum
Sightseeing excursions and admission passes in Paris
Text: Have you already arranged your Paris Tours? Leave home well-prepared to avoid waiting in line for tickets and enjoy the convenience of installment payments without foreign exchange fees. Explore tour prices or browse our curated list of top choices.
- Eiffel Tower and a cruise along the Seine River
- Paris sightseeing double-decker bus, Big Bus
- Tickets for Disneyland® Paris
- Tickets for the Moulin Rouge
- Train Tour of Versailles Palace
Explore additional incredible tours to enhance your complete Parisian vacation experience.
View additional advice.
The tips are not finished yet! Below, we provide a list of detailed posts to assist you in organizing your trip.
- Paris – the capital city of France.
- Spending a honeymoon in Paris.
- How to travel to Paris
- Accommodation options in Paris
- Where to dine in Paris
- Where to view the sunset in Paris
- Hotels in Paris
- Accommodations in close proximity to the Palace of Versailles
- Accommodations close to the Eiffel Tower
- Hotels in Paris offering breakfast included.
- Hotels that cater to romantic getaways in Paris.
- Accommodations situated in the heart of Paris
- Accommodations close to the airport in Paris.
- Renting a car at the airport in Paris
Commonly Asked Questions
If you have not yet found the information you are looking for, review the frequently asked questions and answers related to our readers’ common inquiries.
The most convenient way to purchase tickets for the Palace of Versailles is through Civitatis. This platform allows you to explore the palace hassle-free, skipping the long lines, and includes amenities such as transportation and a knowledgeable tour guide to enhance your visit.
At present, the cost of a ticket to access all areas of Versailles is €32. However, this price may change based on the season or the number of attractions you wish to visit.
At the Palace of Versailles, you must visit the renowned rooms of the castle, including the Hall of Mirrors, the Gardens of Versailles, the Grand and Petit Trianon, the Domain of Marie Antoinette, and the Park of Versailles.
The Palace of Versailles is situated in the town of Versailles, which is 30 kilometers away from Paris, France.
The Palace of Versailles served as the home of Kings Louis XIV, Louis XV, and Louis XVI, along with other French aristocrats, including Queen Marie Antoinette.
You can access the official website of the Palace of Versailles by clicking on this link.
The Palace of Versailles is available for visiting Tuesday through Sunday, with operating hours from 9 am to 17:30 during the low season and from 9 am to 18:30 in the high season. It’s worth noting that different sections of the palace may have varying schedules, so it’s advisable to verify this information on the website.
