France is known for many things, its mouthwatering cuisine, stunning architecture, and rich history. If you are interested in France’s history, like I am, seeing Versailles is likely on your trip itinerary. Let’s break down what you should know about Versailles, and if a visit is worth it!
How to get to Versailles from Paris
I found it was surprisingly easy to get to Versailles from Paris. I stayed in the Hilton Paris Opera right next to Gare Saint Lazare and was able to take a direct train to the Versailles Rive Droite station. From that station, the Chateau is just a 10-15 minute walk. Tickets were just $5 each way! So, for two people, $10 round trip.
A less cost-effective, but easier, option is to take an Uber or taxi right to the front of the Chateau. Although it is more expensive than the train, scheduling ahead and getting picked up right outside of your hotel can save time, stress, and steps.
When to Arrive
I would highly suggest arriving as early as possible. I arrived around 8:30am for a 9am ticket time. I was able to use the restroom just outside the gate and hop on line. My husband and I were about 10th and 11th in line. By 9am, the line had grown enormously and stretched all the way to security across the courtyard. I was so grateful we had pulled ourselves out of bed early that morning. We were able to walk through the Chateau without lines and had the Hall of Mirrors basically to ourselves! We circled back again around 10:30 am to check out a room we had passed and were packed like sardines. It was much less enjoyable with the tour groups crowded into the small spaces.
Tickets
The Palace of Versailles offers a few different ticket options. I would recommend buying the passport option. For 32 Euros, this ticket allows you to access the whole estate including the Palace, Estate of Trianon, and the Gardens. You can book this ticket online and secure an entry time in advance. There are options to add on things like bike rentals, or a return trip on the little train, however, I would recommend waiting until the day of your visit to book these so you have more flexibility.
(The Palace is closed on Mondays!)
What to See & Where to Eat
I would recommend starting your day in the Palace at 9am. See the Hall of Mirrors, Marie Antoinette’s chambers, the King’s Apartments, and the Hall of Great Battles. After you experience the awe-inspiring chambers and exhibits, make your way out to the gardens. If you do choose to start in the Palace, it should be about lunch time by the time you have made your way through.
For lunch options there are both counter service and sit down options. Look over the options before your visit, consider their meal choices, and where they are located. If you would like to dine at one of the restaurants you may want to make a reservation as they can get quite crowded during the lunch rush.
The Estate of Trianon opens at 12pm. Both the Petite Trianon, and Grand Trianon hold so much history, and are often a bit quieter than the main areas of the Palace as they are located quite a bit away. It is about a mile to get from the main palace to the Trianon’s.
The Queen’s Hamlet, accessed through the Petite Trianon, is not to be missed! A storybook like little village, Marie Antoinette spent much of her time here, away from Palace politics, and with her closest friends. A working farm, even today, vegetables and flowers grow outside of each adorable structure.
Don’t make the mistake we did and try to access the Hamlet from the back, although google maps may tell you you can, you will be unable to until the Petite Trianon opens.
Golf Carts, Bicycles, and the Little Train
To reach the Trianon, and discover the gardens you have a few alternatives to walking! Golf carts can be rented for the first hour, and then fifteen minutes increments after the first hour. The golf carts are a bit expensive, however, if you have three or four people it is more cost-effective per person. Renting bicycles for the day is less expensive, and for two people, may be a better option if you wish to explore at your own pace and not find yourself rushing to return your golf cart. My husband and I decided to walk through the gardens at our own pace to the Trianons, and then take the little train back to the front of the Palace. It was a nice way to end the day and cost five euros per person.
How Long Should You Spend at Versailles?
Many people will tell you that you need more than one day, or a full day at the minimum to really take in Versailles. Really though, you can spend however long you would like here. Don’t feel pressured to see everything, just enjoy being there! If you have a half day, meander around the Palace, and plan on checking out the gardens another day. If you have multiple days, focus on the palace one day, and the Trianons the other. Your walking pace, crowd levels, and interest in each area of the Chateau will influence how long you spend in Versailles.
Before your visit, download the Palace of Versailles App and be sure to look at the map ahead of time!
Visiting the Palace of Versailles is an unforgettable experience that transports you to a time of opulence and grandeur. As you walk through the Hall of Mirrors and roam the expansive grounds, it’s easy to imagine yourself mingling with the ladies and gentleman of the court. A trip to Versailles is not just a visit to a landmark; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich French history that continues to inspire and awe all who come to visit.