Visiting Versailles: Your Ultimate Guide to France's Iconic Palace

Visiting Versailles is a dream for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates sheer opulence. From the gilded splendor of the Hall of Mirrors to the enchanting beauty of the sprawling gardens, the Palace of Versailles offers an unforgettable journey through time and elegance. Conveniently located just a short train ride from Paris, visiting Versailles can easily be done as a day trip, making it a must-see addition to your Paris itinerary. Whether it is your first visit or a return trip, this guide will provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to make the most of your experience. From the best times for visiting Versailles to insider advice on exploring its hidden gems, you will find everything you need right here.

Visiting Versailles: Background 

Versailles is one of the most iconic landmarks in France and a must-see destination for anyone visiting Paris. Originally a modest hunting lodge built by King Louis XIII in the early 17th century, it was transformed into a sprawling symbol of absolute monarchy under his son, King Louis XIV, famously known as the Sun King. Louis XIV commissioned the expansion of Versailles in the late 1600s, intending to showcase the glory, power, and wealth of his reign. The Sun King imagery is prevalent throughout the palace and gardens, symbolizing Louis XIV’s belief that, like the sun, he was the center of France’s universe.

For over a century, Versailles served as the principal royal residence, housing some of France’s most famous monarchs, including Louis XIV, Louis XV, and Louis XVI, along with their queens, courtiers, and staff. However, the palace’s time as a royal residence was interrupted with the French Revolution in 1789, when Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were forced to flee. However, beginning in 1804, Versailles once again became a royal residence - this time to Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte and his household. 

Nowadays, Versailles serves as a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, welcoming millions of visitors each year. It is also occasionally used for official state functions and ceremonies. For those visiting Versailles, the palace’s rich history, opulent architecture, and sprawling gardens provide a captivating journey through France’s royal past, making it an unforgettable experience. Today, visiting Versailles offers a chance to step into the grandeur of "Le Grand Siècle" (or "The Great Century" as it is known in English) of Louis XIV's reign and Napoleonic France.

Visiting Versailles: Main Highlights 

Versailles occupies over 3.1 square miles (8.15 square kilometers). The grounds include: the Palace of Versailles, the Estate of Trianon, the gardens, the Great Stables, the Small Stables, and a public park. Inside this vast area, there are some key highlights worth exploring. However, I should note, that if you do not have all day to spend at Versailles, focus your time on visiting on the Palace of Versailles and the immediate surrounding gardens. If your time does however allow for further exploration, I highly recommend a visit to the Estate of Trianon. 

Before you begin your visit to Versailles, be sure to pause in the Marble Courtyard for a breathtaking first impression of the palace. This vantage point offers a stunning view of the exquisite and opulent façade, setting the tone for the grandeur and splendor you will experience while visiting Versailles.

Château de Versailles / Palace of Versailles

The Château de Versailles, or the Palace of Versailles as it is known in English, is the main building on the vast Versailles estate and contains a whopping 2,300 rooms. While not all of these rooms are open to the public, plenty are and it easy to become overwhelmed by all that there is to see when visiting Versailles. The main highlights, some of which we will discuss below, are located on the first floor of the palace.

Additional information about the Palace of Versailles can be found on the palace website.

The Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces)

The Hall of Mirrors is a must-see highlight when visiting Versailles, and it stands as one of the most iconic and opulent rooms in the world. Stretching nearly 240 feet (73 meters) in length, the hall is adorned with 17 large mirrored arches containing 357 mirrors. These mirrors, positioned opposite 17 grand windows, reflect the gardens outside, creating an illusion of even greater space and light. Installed to showcase the capabilities of French manufacturing—at a time when the Venetians dominated the mirror trade—the mirrors are a testament to the innovation and ambition of Louis XIV’s reign.

When visiting Versailles, you will find that the Hall of Mirrors is as rich in history as it is in beauty. The magnificent ceiling features elaborate paintings celebrating the political and military triumphs of Louis XIV, reinforcing his image as the Sun King. The Hall of Mirrors served as a grand ceremonial space where the king would walk from his private apartments to the chapel and as a venue for important state events. Notably, it was in this very hall that the Treaty of Versailles was signed in 1919, marking the official end of World War I.

This breathtaking room is understandably one of the busiest areas you will encounter while visiting Versailles and can often feel overwhelmingly crowded. To fully appreciate its splendor and capture those Instagram-worthy photos, it is best to plan your visit strategically. When visiting Versailles, consider heading to the Hall of Mirrors right as the palace opens to the public (meaning you are lucky enough to snag the time slot for the first admission to the palace) or just before it closes at 6:30 PM to enjoy a more serene experience.

King's State Apartment 

The King’s State Apartment is another must-see when visiting Versailles, offering a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle and ceremonial grandeur of Louis XIV and his successors. This series of lavish rooms was used for official functions and royal ceremonies, each space designed to impress and assert the monarch’s supreme power. The red and gold décor of the king’s bedchamber, in particular, screams wealth and opulence—though some might argue it is a case of "money but no taste." (Or, at least that is what I overheard one tour guide say when visiting Versailles back in September 2024!) 

The King's State Bedchamber at the Palace of Versailles is one of the most significant and symbolic rooms in the entire estate (albeit one of the gaudiest too). When visiting Versailles, this room offers a fascinating glimpse into the carefully choreographed life of King Louis XIV who used it as a stage for his immense power and authority. The bedchamber was the site of the king’s elaborate morning and nighttime ceremonies, known as the Lever (rising) and Coucher (going to bed), where select courtiers would attend to witness the king’s daily routines. These rituals were not only practical but served as a way for Louis XIV to reinforce his central role in the court and the kingdom.

Interestingly, despite its grandeur and importance, no monarch after Louis XIV actually slept in the King’s State Bedchamber. Subsequent kings preferred more private and less ceremonial quarters within the palace. However, the room retained its symbolic status and was preserved as part of the public and ceremonial image of the monarchy.

When visiting Versailles, the King’s State Bedchamber is a highlight, with its lavish decor, intricate gold detailing, and rich tapestries that reflect the opulence of Louis XIV’s reign. The room’s design, including its elevated bed platform, was intentionally created to emphasize the king’s supreme authority and divine right to rule. This space, steeped in both history and symbolism, offers visitors a vivid window into the grandeur and meticulous structure of life at Versailles.

When visiting Versailles, you will find another grand room within the King’s State Apartment: the Apollo Salon. The Apollo Salon is a masterpiece of Baroque design that served as the throne room where Louis XIV held court. The ceiling painting of Apollo, the sun god, is a direct nod to Louis XIV’s moniker as the Sun King, reinforcing his image as a divine ruler. It is one of the most magnificent ceilings that you will see while visiting Versailles.

However, my favorite room in the King's State Apartment is the Venus Salon which served as the main entrance to the apartment. It features a fantastic marble statue of Louis XIV by Jean Warin. Here, Louis XIV is depicted as a Roman emperor wearing armor, thus crowning Louis XIV as the successor to the glory of ancient Rome. 

For those visiting Versailles, the King’s State Apartment is a testament to the artistry, excess, and symbolism that defined the reign of Louis XIV, making it an essential stop on your tour of the Palace of Versailles.

Queen's State Apartment

The Queen’s State Apartment is another captivating part of the experience when visiting Versailles. Designed to mirror the grandeur of the King’s State Apartment, this series of rooms served as the official living quarters for the queen. Known for their elegance, intricate décor, and historical significance, these rooms were home to the following French queens: Marie Thérèse of Spain, Marie Leszczyńska, and the iconic Marie Antoinette.

When visiting Versailles, do not miss the Queen’s Bedchamber, the most famous room in the Queen’s State Apartment. This richly adorned space holds immense historical importance, as it was here that Marie Antoinette gave birth to her children in public view, following the traditions of the French court. It is also the room where Queens Marie Thérèse of Spain and Marie Leszczyńska died. The room’s exquisite design and fascinating history make it one of the highlights of any visit to the palace, offering a deeper understanding of the queen’s life and the customs of the time.

Royal Chapel

The Royal Chapel at the Palace of Versailles is an architectural and artistic masterpiece, completed in 1710 during the reign of Louis XIV. The Royal Chapel stands as one of the most impressive examples of French Baroque architecture. The chapel is notable for its grandiose design, featuring a two-story structure with a vaulted ceiling painted by Antoine Coypel, depicting the Holy Trinity. The royal family attended services from a gallery on the upper level, which allowed them to observe the Mass in privacy while maintaining their regal presence. In my opinion, the Royal Chapel is the most magnificent room in the entire palace complex. If you want to see more of the Royal Chapel while visiting Versailles, you have to book an official guided tour. Otherwise, you are left to only see what you can from the doorway. 

Coronation Room

The Coronation Room at Versailles is a fascinating highlight for history enthusiasts visiting Versailles. This grand room was originally a second royal chapel, but in the early 19th century, it was transformed by order of Napoleon Bonaparte to celebrate his reign and achievements. The room’s most striking feature is the monumental painting by Jacques-Louis David, depicting Napoleon’s coronation as Emperor of the French on December 2, 1804.

The painting captures the dramatic moment when Napoleon crowns his wife, Josephine, under the watchful eye of the Pope—a symbolic act that demonstrated Napoleon’s assertion of power and independence from the Church. The version displayed in Versailles is a second version of David’s masterpiece; the original painting is on display in the Louvre Museum in Paris (the original, at the Louvre, is shown below).

At the center of the room stands the Column of the German Campaign, often called the “Austerlitz Column,” which Napoleon commissioned to commemorate his military victories.

When visiting Versailles, the Coronation Room offers a glimpse into how Napoleon redefined the use of Versailles, repurposing its royal spaces to reflect his military legacy. The room’s opulent decor and historical significance, combined with the story behind its iconic artwork, make it a must-see for anyone interested in the grandeur of the French Empire and Napoleonic France.

Royal Opera (Opéra Royal)

The Royal Opera at the Palace of Versailles is a magnificent example of 18th-century theater architecture and one of the finest theaters in Europe. It was inaugurated in 1770 as part of the celebrations for the marriage of the future Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. The Royal Opera features a horseshoe-shaped auditorium, a design typical of the period, which enhances both visibility and acoustics. The theater can accommodate around 700 spectators. Today, the Royal Opera continues to host operas, concerts, and other cultural events, maintaining its status as a premier performance venue. While the Royal Opera is not a part of the traditional tour for those visiting Versailles (unless you are part of an official guided tour), it is a magnificent space worth seeing if you have the opportunity to catch a performance in the historic space. 

Gardens at Versailles

Visiting Versailles is not complete without exploring its magnificent gardens, which cover approximately 2,000 acres (800 hectares) and stand as a masterpiece of French formal landscaping design. Designed by André Le Nôtre during the reign of Louis XIV, the gardens are a harmonious blend of symmetry, geometry, and artistry, perfectly complementing the grandeur of the palace itself. Within the gardens, there are 50 fountains and over 800 sculptures. When visiting Versailles, take your time to explore the stunning highlights listed below and venture off the beaten path to discover smaller groves, hidden fountains, and picturesque vistas that make the gardens at Versailles an unforgettable experience.

Latona Fountain

Inspired by Ovid's Metamorphoses, one of the first fountains you will see when visiting Versailles' magnificent gardens is the Latona Fountain. This fountain depicts the goddess Latona and her children, Apollo and Diana, surrounded by sculpted frogs and turtles. If you are interested in learning more about the myth of Latona, check out this short video from the Château de Versailles on YouTube.

When visiting Versailles, take a moment to admire the intricate details of this fountain—its symbolism and architectural beauty are incredible. The grand scale of the fountain, combined with the surrounding trees and manicured pathways, creates a perfect setting for visitors to pause and reflect on the myths and history that shaped the gardens of Versailles. The Latona Fountain, as one of the primary features of the gardens, showcases the unparalleled artistry and ambition that made the gardens of Versailles famous around the world.

Apollo Fountain

The Apollo Fountain is one of the most iconic and grandiose fountains in the Gardens of Versailles. Situated at the western end of the Grand Canal, it plays a central role in the overall design of the gardens and is a must-see when visiting Versailles. The Apollo Fountain features a dramatic gilded bronze sculpture group depicting Apollo, the Greek god of the sun, emerging from the water in his chariot, pulled by four horses and surrounded by Tritons and Nereids.

The scene symbolizes Apollo rising from the sea at dawn to light the sky, aligning with Louis XIV’s self-image as the Sun King. The Apollo Fountain is part of the elaborate network of fountains at Versailles, which are renowned for their intricate hydraulics and impressive displays. The Apollo Fountain underwent significant restoration work in 2022. Incredible before and after photos of the Apollo Fountain are available on the Château de Versailles website. 

The Grand Canal

The Grand Canal at Versailles is a remarkable feat of landscape engineering and one of the most distinctive features of the palace's extensive gardens. Stretching approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) in length, it forms a central axis in the gardens and cannot be missed when visiting Versailles. The canal was designed not only as a decorative element but also for practical purposes, such as hosting boating parties and providing a venue for naval demonstrations. Creating the Grand Canal required extensive hydraulic engineering, including a complex network of pumps, reservoirs, and aqueducts to supply water to the canal and the surrounding fountains. This ambitious project demonstrated the technical prowess and ingenuity of the time.

If you are not planning on visiting Versailles due to time or budget constraints, but do want to see the Grand Canal, know that it can be accessed from the park at Versailles which is free to enter and open daily. 

The Orangerie (L'orangerie)

The Orangerie at the Palace of Versailles is a stunning example of French garden design and architecture, serving as a winter shelter for delicate orange trees and other exotic plants. Created by architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart between 1684 and 1686, it exemplifies the grandeur and sophistication of Versailles, reflecting the opulence and botanical interests of Louis XIV. The parterre of the Orangerie (pictured here), which itself covers some 7.4 acres (3 hectares) is my favorite part of the gardens at Versailles with their iconic scrolling paths and is a must-see when visiting Versailles. 

Visiting Versailles: Hidden Gems

Visiting Versailles is not just about the grandeur of the main palace—it is also an opportunity to discover the more intimate corners of this vast and historic estate. The Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Queen's Hamlet are hidden gems that offer a glimpse into the private lives of Versailles’s most iconic residents: King Louis XIV, Queen Marie Antoinette, and even Napoleon Bonaparte. Tucked away from the main palace and gardens, these areas provide a tranquil escape from the crowds and allow visitors another chance to step back in time.  

The Grand Trianon, with its striking pink marble and elegant design, showcases the architectural brilliance commissioned by Louis XIV as a retreat from court life. Nearby, the Petit Trianon offers an even cozier look at Marie Antoinette’s personal sanctuary, where she could escape the rigid formalities of the royal court. The Queen's Hamlet, with its charming rustic cottages and idyllic gardens, reveals the queen’s fascination with simpler, pastoral life.  

Visiting Versailles would not be complete without exploring these often-overlooked treasures. They not only enrich your understanding of the estate's history but also provide some of the most picturesque and peaceful spots to enjoy during your visit. They are certainly our favorite spots on the entire Versailles estate! 

The Grand Trianon

The Grand Trianon, located a 25-minute walk from the main palace (1.2 miles), is an essential stop when visiting Versailles. This elegant palace, built in 1687 by architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart at the request of Louis XIV, was designed as a private retreat where the Sun King could escape the rigid formalities and overwhelming grandeur of court life. It later became a home for many of Louis XIV's extended family, including the Duchess of Burgundy. Its distinctive pink marble façade and harmonious layout make it a striking contrast to the opulence of the main palace, offering a more tranquil and intimate, albeit beautiful, experience for visitors.

While originally created as a retreat for Louis XIV and his inner circle, the Grand Trianon later played an important role during the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte. After becoming Emperor of France, Napoleon restored the Grand Trianon and used it as one of his residences. He appreciated its seclusion and serenity, often staying there with his second wife, Empress Marie Louise of Austria. Under Napoleon, the Grand Trianon became not only a symbol of imperial elegance but also a functional residence where he could conduct state affairs in a less formal setting.

The surrounding gardens enhance the palace’s charm, with meticulously designed pathways, vibrant flower beds, and scenic views that invite exploration. Visiting Versailles would not be complete without taking the time to explore this serene retreat, which offers a unique glimpse into the personal lives of some of France’s most influential leaders.

Jetset Seeker Pro Tip: If you are in a hurry, or do not feel up to walking from the main palace to the Grand Trianon when visiting Versailles, you can either rent bikes or take a tram called the Petit Train between the two sites. There is a fee for bike rentals and the Petit Train; however, both can be booked in advance with your tickets to Versailles. More information about the Petit Train can be found on the Château de Versailles website. The information is unfortunately only available in French, so I recommend using the Google Translate browser extension to translate the information to English. The tram services frequents the Grand Canal, the Grand Trianon, and the Petit Trianon. If you do not book tickets in advance for the Petit Train, you can pay the driver directly. 

The Petit Trianon

The Petit Trianon is one of the most beautiful parts of the Versailles estate and a true hidden gem when visiting Versailles. Located a 30-minute walk (1.5 miles) or a short tram ride from the main palace, this charming Neoclassical palace was built between 1762 and 1768 by order of Louis XV. The Petit Trianon is situated within the expansive Estate of Trianon, alongside the Grand Trianon and the Queen's Hamlet. It is conveniently located next to the Grand Trianon, just a brief 5-minute walk away. Originally designed as a retreat for his mistress, Madame de Pompadour (who unfortunately died before the palace's completion), the Petit Trianon later became famously associated with Queen Marie Antoinette, who received it as a personal gift from Louis XVI in 1774.  

For Marie Antoinette, the Petit Trianon represented freedom from the rigid etiquette of court life. She transformed it into her sanctuary, redesigning the interior to suit her tastes and creating a space where she could relax with her closest friends. The surrounding gardens, including the English-style landscape and the nearby Queen’s Hamlet, reflect her romanticized vision of rural life and offer a stark contrast to the formal French gardens of the main palace. The gardens of the Petit Trianon are, in my opinion, the most beautiful on the entire estate.  

When visiting Versailles, exploring the Petit Trianon allows you to connect with Queen Marie Antoinette’s desire for simplicity amidst the grandeur. The building’s relatively small size and refined décor showcase a quieter side of royal life, emphasizing comfort and elegance over pomp and splendor. Its intimate atmosphere, along with the idyllic gardens, makes the Petit Trianon a must-see for anyone looking to delve deeper into the personal stories of Versailles.

The Queen's Hamlet (Hameau de la Reine) 

Marie Antoinette's Hamlet, also known as the Queen's Hamlet (Hameau de la Reine), is one of the most unique features of the Versailles estate. Created in 1783, this rustic retreat was commissioned by the queen as part of her desire to embrace a simpler, pastoral lifestyle. The Queen's Hamlet can be accessed through the gardens of the Petit Trianon.

Designed to resemble a quaint village in Normandy, the hamlet includes picturesque thatched-roof cottages, a working mill, a dairy, and a farm, all nestled around a serene lake. Each element was carefully crafted to create a romanticized version of rural life, reflecting the 18th-century trend of seeking refuge in the countryside. The Queen’s Hamlet was not just a decorative feature—it was fully functional, with livestock, crops, and a farm staff managing the estate.

For Marie Antoinette, the hamlet provided a private sanctuary away from the rigid protocols of court life. It was a place where she could entertain her closest friends in an informal setting, enjoy leisurely walks, and participate in activities like gardening and farming. This retreat embodied her longing for authenticity and simplicity, a stark contrast to the extravagance that defined her life as queen.

If you are visiting Versailles, be sure to include a stop at the Queen's Hamlet. While the exteriors of the cottages are a delight to explore, gaining access to the interiors is possible only through guided tours. The hamlet, with its idyllic charm, is a highlight of the estate and a testament to Marie Antoinette’s influence on Versailles.

Visiting the Estate of Trianon: What to Know

• Opening Hours: The Estate of Trianon does not open until noon, Tuesday through Sunday. (The Estate of Trianon is also closed on Mondays.) Therefore, I recommend that you visit the main palace, enjoy a bite to eat at one of the many eateries at Versailles, and walk through the gardens, before venturing to the Estate of Trianon for your visit in the early afternoon. The Estate of Trianon is open until 5:30 PM (November to March) and 6:30 PM (April to October). 
• Tickets: The Estate of Trianon does require separate tickets from that of the main palace. However, when planning your visit to Versailles, you can purchase the Passport ticket which includes access to the Estate of Trianon and the gardens. Otherwise, a separate ticket for the Estate of Trianon is available for purchase. Tickets can be purchased, in advance of your visit on the Château de Versailles website.
• Shoes: I strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes when visiting the Estate of Trianon, as it is a far walk to and from the main Château, with gravel paths throughout the grounds. If you plan to explore the Queen's Hamlet and stroll through the gardens, opt for closed-toe shoes for added comfort.
• Bathrooms: Free public bathrooms are available near the Grand Trianon entrance, inside the Chemin Creux pavilion. 

Visiting Versailles: Tickets & More

The Palace of Versailles and the Estate of Trianon are closed on Mondays. The park and gardens are open daily. Admission to the Palace of Versailles is not required to visit the park portion of the estate.  

Tickets for Visiting Versailles

Tickets for the Palace of Versailles should be purchased, in-advance online on the Château de Versailles website. Audio guides, guided tours, and various ticket packages can also be purchased online. Tickets can be purchased as early as three months ahead of the date of your visit. Tickets for the Palace of Versailles are known for selling out well in advance, so be sure to book your tickets as soon as you finalize your plans for your Paris trip. 

If you do not purchase your tickets online, a ticket office is available on-site at the Palace of Versailles. The ticket office can be found in the South Ministers' Wing (to the left of the Honour Courtyard). However, admission can only be guaranteed if you purchase your ticket online, in-advance due to high demand. You can expect to wait in a lengthy line if you go this route for purchasing your tickets. 

The Palace of Versailles can be crowded! For the most enjoyable visitor experience, I recommend visiting the Palace of Versailles during the week, if possible, as weekends are the busiest days to visit. Tuesdays are also busy since the Louvre Museum in Paris is closed on Tuesdays. The palace has the least amount of crowds in the late afternoon, after 4:00 PM. However, the palace closes at 6:30 PM, so if you arrive late in the day, know that your visit may be rushed. If you are planning on visiting Versailles in the morning, try to book the first available time slot. 

Estate of Trianon

To visit the Estate of Trianon, you must purchase either the Passport ticket, which provides access to entire Versailles estate (including the main palace and gardens), or a ticket specifically for the Estate of Trianon. Regular admission to the Palace of Versailles does not include access to the Estate of Trianon. Furthermore, if you are looking to visit the Estate of Trianon on your visit to Versailles, note that the Estate of Trianon does not open until 12:00 PM. However, the Palace of Versailles and the gardens open at 9:00 AM and 8:00 AM, respectively.  

Bags, Food, & More

You are not permitted to bring bags larger than 21.6 x 13.7 x 7.8 inches (55x35x20 cm) with you when visiting Versailles. Food and drinks, animals, flash photography, selfie sticks, and tripods are also not permitted inside the Palace of Versailles and the Estate of Trianon.

Luggage storage is not available when visiting Versailles. Food and drink vendors are available throughout Versailles; however, food and drink are not permitted in the galleries. As previously mentioned, Versailles can be crowded, particularly if you are visiting Versailles on a weekend. As always when traveling, keep your handbags and personal belongings within sight at all times to prevent pickpocketing.  

Visiting Versailles on a Day Trip from Paris

The Palace of Versailles is located in Versailles, France, approximately 12 miles (20 km) southwest of Paris. Thanks to its close proximity to Paris, visiting Versailles can very easily be accomplished as a day trip from Paris.

Visiting Versailles: Public Transportation from Paris

The easiest way to reach the Palace of Versailles, from Paris, is by train. The nearest train station is Versailles Château Rive Gauche which is a 10-minute walk from the Palace. The train station is part of the RER network, servicing RER Line C. This station can be reached from the center of Paris (Champs de Mars, Invalides, and Musée d'Orsay).

On our visit to Versailles in September 2024, we took the RER C from the Musée d'Orsay Station. The train ride was 33 minutes and Versailles Château Rive Gauche was the last stop on the line. Upon exiting the station, you will want to make a right and head down Avenue du Général de Gaulle. After walking about a block, you will make a left onto Avenue de Paris and Versailles should be within view.

Since the Versailles Château Rive Gauche Station is busy, it is highly recommended that you purchase a return ticket when buying your initial RER ticket to Versailles, so you do not have to wait in line to purchase a ticket when you depart Versailles. 

There are two additional train stations are in Versailles: Versailles Chantiers and Versailles Rive Droite. Both of these train stations are approximately a 25-minute walk to the Palace of Versailles. These stations can be reached from the center of Paris (Montparnasse Bienvenüe Station or Saint Lazare Station). 

Guided Tours & Transportation from Paris 

The Palace of Versailles is immense and can be very overwhelming for a first-time visitor. As such, I really recommend visiting Versailles as part of a guided tour. This is how I saw Versailles on my first visit and it made the palace that much more digestible. I also found that I learned a lot from the tour guide, including that most of the palace's original furnishings and effects were sold at auction after the French Revolution in 1793, so much of what you see at the Palace of Versailles today were re-created to match the original furnishing. Additionally, some pieces that were sold at the auction in 1793 have slowly made their way back to Versailles. The more you know!

The Palace of Versailles offers an official, guided tour of the King's Private Apartment in English. The guided tour lasts 90 minutes. The tour can be booked on the Chateau de Versailles website. However, if you are looking to see more of the Palace of Versailles, an audio guided tour may be a better option. When it comes to audio guides, you have a couple of choices. First and foremost, you can opt for the official audio guide available for €5-8, which can be added to your Palace of Versailles admission ticket. The price varies depending on whether you plan to visit both the Palace of Versailles and the Estate of Trianon. This comprehensive audio guide is offered in 12 languages. Alternatively, you can also enjoy a free audio guide option from Rick Steves.

Jetset Seeker Pro Tip: Rick Steves offers a fantastic audio tour of the Palace of Versailles. So if you are looking to save some money, but still want to follow a tour while visiting Versailles, I highly recommend this option. If you download the Rick Steves Audio Europe app for iPhone and Android, you can even download the audio tour to listen to it without WiFi or cellular service while visiting Versailles. The audio tour takes about an hour to listen to straight-through, but you will be inclined to pause at different parts as you make your way through the museum. The Rick Steves audio tour covers the main Palace of Versailles and a part of the gardens.

If you are looking for a guided tour of the Palace of Versailles that includes round-trip transportation from Paris, there are also a number of options available to you. These tours also include your admission into the Palace of Versailles. A few that come highly recommended from GetYourGuide are available below:

• From Paris: Versailles Palace Guided Tour with Bus Transfers (5 Hours)
• From Paris: Versailles Palace & Garden Tour with Transfers (3 Hours)
• From Paris: Versailles Guided Tour by Deluxe Minibus (4 Hours)

If you book an experience or tour through one of our GetYourGuide affiliate links, we may earn a small commission. 

Accessing the Palace of Versailles 

The main entrance to the Palace of Versailles is through the Honour Courtyard (Cour d'Honneur). Within the Cour d'Honneur, there are three lines: (A) for those with reserved tickets, (B) for those visiting the Palace of Versailles with a group that has reserved tickets, and (H) for those that are disabled. Clear signage will be posted directing you to the correct area upon your arrival. 

If you are looking to just visit the park at Versailles, there are some additional entrances you can use to access this area away from the Honour Courtyard. The following gates separate the gardens from the park at Versailles. The park area is open to the public and no paid admission is required to enter. 

• Menagerie Gate
• Little Venice Gate
  
• Sailors Gate 
• The Queen's Gate
• Saint Anthony Gate 

The Estate of Trianon can be accessed either through the gardens on foot, using the Petit Train, or from the town of Versailles via the Saint Anthony Gate (Porte Saint-Antoine) or The Queen's Gate (Grille de la Reine). 

Visiting Versailles: Eating & Lodging  

As you spend your day visiting Versailles, you are bound to get hungry. Luckily, there are multiple places to eat on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles and its gardens. Some of the most notable include: 

• Angelina: Angelina is a famous French patisserie and tea room located inside the Palace of Versailles, near the Queen's Guard Room. Angelina is famous for its hot chocolate and makes a great spot for lunch or a light snack. A second Angelina location can be found on the Estate of Trianon. (Admission to the Estate of Trianon is not required to eat at the Angelina location located on the Estate of Trianon.) The food at Angelina is fantastic, and while you may have to wait a short while for a table to become available, the wait is far shorter than at Angelina's main Paris location. Do not miss the chance to indulge in their decadent hot chocolate, a true treat that perfectly complements the opulence of your surroundings.

• Grand Café D'Orléans: A casual spot offering a variety of French dishes and pastries, ideal for a quick meal or snack. Grand Café D'Orléans can be found in the Palace of Versailles on the garden level. Admission to the Palace of Versailles is not required to dine at Grand Café D'Orléans. 
• La Petite Venise: La Petite Venise is situated in the heart of the park at Versailles, in-between Apollo's Fountain and the Grand Canal. This restaurant offers a charming setting with a menu that includes Italian classics.
• Ore: A French gourmet restaurant located on the first floor of the Dufour Pavilion, Ore offers a luxurious dining experience with a menu inspired by French culinary traditions. Ore serves both breakfast and lunch. 
• La Flottille: La Flottille is a traditional French restaurant located near the Grand Canal. This casual restaurant offers a variety of French dishes, with outdoor seating available.
• Le Dauphin: In the middle of the garden, Le Dauphin offers sandwiches, salads, snacks, and homemade ice cream. 
• La Girandole: Offering classic French brasserie dishes, La Girandole is conveniently located for a break during garden tours. The restaurant's menu includes crepes, hot and cold sandwiches, ice cream, and more. 
• Ladurée: The iconic Parisian patisserie, Ladurée, has a shop in the main Palace of Versailles on the ground floor, and sells its famous macarons. 

Picnicking is also permitted on the Saint Anthony Plain, in the park between the Palace of Versailles and the Estate of Trianon, as well as by the Lake of the Swiss Guard, opposite of the Orangerie. Additional information about picnicking at Versailles can be found on the Château de Versailles website. 

Hotels & Lodging at Versailles

For a truly remarkable and immersive experience, there is a five-star hotel, Airelles, located on the estate of Versailles. For those seeking luxury and what life would be as a member of the French royalty, Airelles is top-notch. The hotel is small, with just 13 rooms and suites. Looking to learn more about Airelles? Check out this article by Condé Nast Traveler. 

Otherwise, Versailles is easily accessible as a day-trip from Paris. However, if you have your heart staying in Versailles, check out these other options on Expedia: 

• Waldorf Astoria Versailles - Trianon Palace
• Hôtel Les Lumières - Relais & Châteaux
  
• MGallery Le Louis Versailles Château
• Hôtel du Jeu de Paume
• Hôtel Versailles Chantiers

If you book a hotel through one of our Expedia affiliate links, we may earn a small commission. 

Visiting Versailles: In Summary

Visiting Versailles is an experience like no other, offering a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of France’s royal history. From the majestic Palace of Versailles with its opulent interiors and iconic Hall of Mirrors, to the serene retreats and hidden gems of the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Queen’s Hamlet, the estate invites you to step back in time and explore the lives of some of France’s most famous monarchs. The gardens, with their stunning fountains, sculptures, and meticulously designed landscapes, add yet another layer of beauty and intrigue to this historical estate.  

Whether you are marveling at the opulence of the palace or enjoying the tranquility of the estate’s hidden gems, visiting Versailles is a journey through both art and history. It is an essential stop for anyone traveling to France, offering countless opportunities to connect with the past and experience the splendor of one of the world’s most iconic royal residences. So, make sure to set aside plenty of time to fully immerse yourself in the grandeur of Versailles—you will not want to miss a single detail of this beautiful destination.