versailles visit tips

A Day Trip To Versailles: Complete Guide & Visitor Tips

This article is a guest post written by Abigail Dalton.

Are you wondering if you should take a day trip to Versailles? Well, we just visited this incredible place, and it’s definitely somewhere you should be adding to your Paris itinerary. It’s absolutely mind-blowing.

To be honest, a visit to Versailles Palace was not on our agenda, but the opportunity arose, and we decided to make it the last stop on our road trip before heading home. At the start of our trip, we visited Strasbourg and cruised around Alsaces’s wine region , but it never crossed our minds we would be ending the trip at this gorgeous site.

We’ve been to Paris before but didn’t manage to visit and so on this trip, and since it was our last stop in France , we were keen to make the most of our day out at Versailles Palace. And we did, even though it was rainy and windy.

In this article, I’m going to share everything we learned from our day trip to Versailles so you can plan an incredible visit as well.

Abigail is the owner and creator behind I’m Going On An Adventure . She focuses on world travel and outdoor adventure, giving first-hand experiences to help her readers plan their perfect travel and make the best memories.

Is A Day Trip To The Palace Of Versailles Worth It?

Even though we visited in mid-November on a cloudy and windy day, I genuinely enjoyed our day trip to Versailles. It was an attraction I have wanted to visit for a while now, having heard and read some interesting articles and seen many beautiful photos. 

You’ll find its sheer size quite breathtaking, along with the decor and manicured gardens. It was a lovely visit where we were able to explore the palace and gardens and learn about the French aristocracy. It’s certainly a place which would appeal if you’re looking for a blend of history and grandeur. 

I found the palace stunning, rooms like the Hall of Mirrors and the Apartments of Mesdames being my favourites. These are filled with intricate details, and if you get the audio guide (I recommend you do) you’ll learn a great deal about how daily life for these royals was carried out. 

It’s a destination for anyone who has a love for French culture, architecture and royal history.

For us, the vibe was just fantastic, even in early winter . It was still busy within the palace but not too bad, and although the gardens were not at their prettiest, it was nice to walk around and not be swamped by tourists.

It’s a superb choice for a day trip and promises a mix of awe and enjoyment, and since it’s super easy to get from Paris to Versailles, a visit can easily be added to any Paris itinerary.   

Best Day Trips From Paris To Versailles

Although we didn’t visit from Paris, most people enjoy day trips from the capital. It’s possible to book anything from full-day guided tours and skip-the-line tickets to basic entrance. However, it’s important to pre-book your visit, even in low season. ( Check availabilities here )

With this in mind and since we loved our visit, I wanted to highlight the top three Versailles day trips to help you plan whether you’re coming from Paris or not.

• Skip-the-Line-Tour of Palace & Gardens with Transfer from Paris – see prices here
• Versailles Palace & Garden, Full Access – check availabilities
• From Paris: Skip-the-Line Palace & Bike Tour – see booking info
• Versailles Golf Cart Tour with Palace Entry – check availabilities here

About the Versailles Estate

The Versailles Estate, which is generally what people refer to when discussing Versailles, comprises three main sections:

• the Palace of Versailles
• the Gardens
• & the Trianon Estate

Its history is marked by significant events over the centuries. For instance, the Hall of Mirrors witnessed the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, formally concluding World War I – an interesting fact we discovered during our visit.

It’s facts like these we absolutely love learning about, and Versailles is full of them.

The palace, initially a hunting lodge constructed in 1624, underwent a transformation in 1661 under Louis XIV, reflecting the absolute power of the French monarchy.  I previously mentioned its size, but its opulence is also breathtaking…it’s no wonder the French revolted.

Architect Louis Le Vau, landscape architect Andre Le Notre, and painter-decorator Charles Le Brun collaborated to bring Louis XIV’s vision to life, completing the palace in 1682.

The 18th century witnessed expansions, including the Petit Trianon (residence of Marie Antoinette) and the Queen’s Hamlet. Yet, it also experienced turbulent times with the outbreak of the French Revolution in 1789. The royal family left Versailles, and the palace underwent various repurposing.

Today, Versailles holds UNESCO World Heritage status , attracting visitors globally. Its rich history, from royal decadence to revolutionary upheavals, adds a layer of intrigue to an iconic site.

Overview: A Day Trip To Versailles Palace

Time you should plan for your visit: 6 Hours

Cost: Passport €21.50 (recommended entrance-only ticket option, book here ) + Audio Guide €5

Overall, you can expect to find a lavish and well-kept royal palace turned museum with grand formal gardens. Inside, you’ll wander through rooms filled with centuries-old furniture, stone statues, paintings, intricate objects and historic artefacts. 

Throughout the estate, there are information plaques providing details and usage of each chamber. Whether it be the royal apartments or galleries showcasing the history of the palace. 

When planning your day trip to Versailles, you’ll need to consider a few things. 

• Ensure you allocate enough time to explore the grounds, given the vastness of both the palace and the gardens. We spent a full day walking around. 
• With that said, remember to wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be covering a significant amount of ground. (You can book a Golf Cart Tour here )
• Take a look at the timetable for special events like the Musical Fountains Show or Musical Gardens to have the best experience. 
• Consider grabbing a guidebook or selecting an audio guide to get a better understanding of the history that Versailles presents.
• Don’t forget to pick up a map at the entrance!

Dates and Opening Times

• The Palace and the Estate of Trianon are open every day except on Mondays. 
• The Palace opens from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm (6:30 pm during high season)
• The Estate of Trianon opens from 12:00 pm to 5:30 pm. (6:30 pm during high season)
• The Gardens are open daily from 8.00 am – 6.00 pm – (8:30 pm in high season)

High season runs from 1st of April to 31st of October, Low season from 1st of November to 31st of March.

#1 Visit The Palace Of Versailles

The Palace has two accessible levels and although not all areas are open to the public, there is enough on-show to keep you busy for a few hours. Especially if you like to absorb all the information. 

For us, we spent just over two hours inside the Palace . We do enjoy our history and purchased the audio guide, but I will say that towards the end it does become rather repetitive. We are also not huge fans of art, and so moved quicker through the galleries.

There is a route to follow, colour-coded and easy to navigate . I recommend following this route. 

You will start on the ground level in the Dauphin’s Apartment (green) before entering the Gallery of the History of the Palace (purple).

On the second level, you will start at Louis XIV Rooms (orange) before moving on to the Hall of Mirrors (red) and finally, the Gallery of Battles (blue). There are a few other rooms within these sections as well.

I enjoyed the Dauphin’s Apartments, the Apartments of Mesdames and the Hall of Mirrors the most. By the end, we were ready to explore the gardens and get some fresh air.

#2 Explore The Gardens of Versailles

Note: the gardens are free of charge from November to March

The gardens and groves are wonderfully manicured and even in winter were lovely to walk around. 

The Gardens of Versailles are incredibly vast! We didn’t walk around their entirety, as it would take hours, if not days. However, there is a route through them, passing the Grand Canal, to the estate of Trianon.

Most visitors will follow this route however I urge you to explore further, especially around the groves as there are many hidden fountains.

The largest is Neptune Fountain which has fountain shows during the summer alongside the Mirror Pool, Apollo’s Fountain, and Latona’s Fountain among others.

#3 Discover The Estate Of Trianon

The Estate of Trianon is a separate estate which was used as Louis XIV’s retreat to escape the pomp of court . There are three buildings located inside: the Grand Trianon, the Petit Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet.

The whole estate is much more modest in comparison to the palace. Although the Grand Trianon still showcases a pink-marble facade. It served as the meeting place for Louis XIV and his lover Madame de Montespan. 

The Petit Trianon which was later inhabited by Marie Antoinette exudes a more intimate charm. It’s surrounded by English-style gardens, which you can wander around to reach the Queen’s Hamlet.

A surprise for us – it resembles more rustic farmhouse buildings than those fit for royalty.  

The estate therefore offers a glimpse into the private lives of royalty, surrounded by lovely gardens and picturesque lakes.

How To Get To Versailles?

There are many ways of getting to the Palace of Versailles, whether you’re coming from Paris or from another direction.

However, for the purpose of this article, I’m going to discuss getting to the Palace of Versailles from Paris. It’s possible to reach Versailles by train, car, and bus, or you can choose a guided tour. 

If you’re wondering how far the Palace of Versailles is from Paris, it’s between 20 min and 1h hours (by train). However, this can differ depending on where you depart from in Paris. 

#1 Join a Guided Tour

One of the best ways to take a day trip to Versailles is on a guided tour. Booking a tour gives you an easy and informative journey with a knowledgeable guide who will be able to provide historical insights while you explore. Personally, I enjoy these tours when I want a stress-free option.

It’s possible to arrange a guided tour from Paris which will include transport and expenses, or there are options to join tours at the Palace if you’re already in Versailles.

• From Paris: Transfer to Versailles with Skip the Line Tour & Garden Access ( book here )
• From Versailles: Skip the Line Tour of Palace and Garden Acess ( book her e )
• Time Saver: Combine Versailles with the Gardens in Giverny – More Info here

#2 Take the Train from Paris to Versailles

The most popular way to reach Versailles if you choose not to join a tour is to hop on the train. From Paris, it will take about 40 minutes. At most, it will take you 1.5 hours to reach Versailles, depending on where you are traveling from in Paris.

It’s quick and convenient, and that’s why day trips to Versailles from Paris are super popular!

You have three options travelling to Versailles by train: 

• The RER C train line (stops e.g., at the Eiffel Tower, St. Michel and Musée d’Orsay)
• The train line L (starting at Saint Lazare)
• The train line N (starting in the south of Paris at Montparnasse)

You can expect to pay around €7 – 10€ for a round trip. 

#3 Take the bus to Versailles

If you prefer a more scenic route then jumping on a bus might be a good option for you, although it’s not the fastest route. It does, however, provide a relaxed journey, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings and get a glimpse of suburban life outside Paris.

There are regular buses between Paris and Versailles. The most popular starting point is from the Pont de Sèvres bus stop in Paris — RATP bus line 171 which runs every 15–20 minutes — to the Place d’Armes Versailles bus stop and costs €4. 

#4 Drive to Paris in your Car

The fastest road connection between Paris and Versailles is via the N118 and the A86. Departing from the heart of Paris, travel west along the Seine using the D910 until reaching Pont de Sevres. Cross the bridge and stay to the left to proceed onto N118, before continuing on A86.

Simply follow the indicated signage, and in less than 40 minutes, you’ll arrive at the Palace of Versailles. Just be aware the traveling time can vary depending on rush hours.

#5 Take a Taxi (Uber)

If you are in a group and plan to travel to Versailles for around €60 you can book a taxi to get you there in 40 minutes!

Best Tips On Visiting Versailles

• Grab Your Tickets Early: It’s important to purchase your Versailles tickets in advance if you’re not visiting on a guided tour – the easiest way to book your ticket is here
• Time it Right: Mornings and weekdays are your best bet to avoid the crowds, although it’s busy throughout the year, winter is quieter. Make sure you check the website and official schedule for opening times.
• Garden Adventures: It’s not only the palace which is stunning, you’ll love exploring the Gardens of Versailles as well. Set aside a couple of hours to wander around the groves and fountains and if you visit in Summer, there are Fountain Shows and Musical Garden events.
• Joyride in a Golf Cart: We didn’t do it, but for €42 for the hour you can rent a golf cart and ride around the estate. It looked like a fun way to visit the Trianon Estate and discover more of the Gardens within the royal estate.
• Comfy Shoes are Key: Versailles is a walking attraction where you’ll be on your feet for most of the day, so it’s super important to wear comfy shoes.
• Check for Special Events: Before you book your day trip to Versailles, suss out any exhibitions or events. Temporary exhibits often reveal hidden gems of history or art.
• Take a Packed Lunch: If you’re looking to save a few bucks, then consider taking snacks with you. Most of the restaurants within the estate are rather pricey, although there are a few affordable options.

Where To Eat In Versailles

Since you’ll be spending most of the day at Versailles you’ll be happy to know that there are loads of places to eat within the grounds. Below are a handful of popular restaurants to help you plan your day trip (but there are more!).

Picnic – Free

You can bring your own food and enjoy a picnic in the park. The gardens are open every day from 8:00 am to 8:30 pm in the high season (April to October) and 8:00 am to 6:00 pm in the low season (November to March).

Tip: The Marché Notre Dame in Versailles is a lovely place to stock up on food for your picnic. The market halls are open Tuesday to Sunday. The outside market is open Tuesday, Friday and Sunday mornings.

Restaurant Angelina – Expensive

The restaurant Angelina is located at the end of the palace tour/route on the first floor. It was busy when we passed with a long queue already forming. 

It’s a tearoom which offers sweet and savoury dishes and is open from Tuesday to Friday, 10 am to 5.30 pm in high season (April to October) and 9:30 am to 5 pm in low season (November to March). Saturday to Sunday, 10 am to 6.30 pm, closed on 1 May, 25 December and 1 January.

La Girandole – Mid-Range

In the heart of the Gardens, La Gironde looked like a nice place for breakfast, lunch, or a snack. It has a terrace overlooking the grounds as well, if you visit on a sunny day and want a delightful view. 

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm, and closed on Monday. (Annual closure from 8 to 28 January 2024).

Le Dauphin – Budget

In the middle of the Groves, we stopped here for a coffee and to rest our tired feet. Le Daupin is a small café in between the Palace and the Estate of Trianon and great for grabbing a sweet or savoury snack and a warm drink. 

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm. Closed on Monday. 

La Petite Venise – Expensive 

Tip: Book your table with The Fork and save €10 when signing up with the code 83FDC2B7

For Italian cuisine in a rustic setting, you can enjoy a lounge area and shaded terrace perfect for warm sunny days. It’s between Apollo’s Fountain and the Grand Canal.

Open every day from 11.45 am to 6 pm (closed at 5 pm from November to March).

In Summary: A Day Trip To Versailles Palace

I like to finish with a few final thoughts about our trip to Versailles, the parts we enjoyed the most and those we didn’t enjoy as much. However, overall, I think a day trip to Versailles is a superb idea – it’s a lovely attraction with a lot of history and educational elements. 

The sections we weren’t as keen on as others include the galleries and the Estate of Trianon. But, this is just personnel preference as the galleries, for example, would be stirring for anyone who enjoyed art.

As for the Estate of Trianon, I think had we visited in Spring/Summer it would have been more impressive, but the buildings lacked the same pizazz the Palace exudes and looked rather windswept.

That said, we did enjoy strolling around the grounds spotting mushrooms! And, as for the Queen’s Hamlet, it was a wonderful little rustic area. 

The Gardens and Groves as a whole we loved. The trees were still changing colours so we had some lovely yellow and orange foliage to enjoy, but most of the statues had already been covered up in preparation for winter.

With this in mind, we would like to return in summer, if only to stroll around the gardens again.

The Palace was very impressive and well-organized. I enjoyed my visit, and therefore would recommend a day trip to Versailles to anyone visiting Paris or the surrounding area as a must-do activity. 

You might also like these articles :

• 22 memorable day trips from Paris by Train
• A Day trip to Reims from Paris: Champagne & History
• Monet’s Garden – visit Giverny from Paris (2024)

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Getting around paris, paris travel guide, paris essentials, train travel, paris arrondissements, you asked – what's the best way to visit the palace of versailles.

I'm finally making it to Paris this summer! I want to be sure to visit the chateau and the gardens of Versailles. How far from the centre of Paris is it? What are the easiest and best ways to arrange a visit?" – Judith, UK

Our Top-Rated Versailles Experiences

1. The Best of Versailles with Priority Access & Gardens… Our #1 choice

2. Versailles Guided Half-Day Tour with Skip-the-Line Entry… With an expert interpreter/guide

3. Full-Day Bike Tour + Skip-the-Line Chateau Access… Visit Versailles on two wheels

4. Visit Versailles + Monet's Gardens at Giverny… On one glorious day trip

1. The Best of Versailles with VIP Entry…

2. Versailles Guided Half-Day Tour…

3. Versailles Bike Tour & Chateau…

4. Visit Versailles + Monet's Gardens at Giverny…

The Best Way to Visit Versailles

Dear Judith, The immensely grand royal estate of Versailles is only about 45 minutes from Paris. It's a very popular place and always busy, with long line-ups. That's why we always recommend finding a skip-the-line tour with transportation from Paris. It's how we do it and the only way to avoid those ticket lines at the estate. You arrive at the palace refreshed and ready to take in its full magnificence! Versailles is huge, and you don't want to arrive already exhausted by the trip getting there.

We learned the hard way that a priority-access visit with an experienced guide is the best way to see busy attractions like Versailles. Someone else has done all the organizing work, we don't have to figure out anything. And, by traveling with a knowledgeable guide, we learn more in less time, while having a far better time that we would on our own — even though we are experienced Paris travelers. We've done it both ways, but now we're wise to the fact that a guided tour is the way to go.

But the greatest thing about the best tours is that we get to skip the long lines! As you know, we hate standing in lines so, to us, this alone is worth the cost of the tour. Read our reviews and recommendations for the top day tours to Versailles.

The Best of Versailles with Priority Access

This small-group, priority-access tour from Paris is immensely popular and sure to sell out, so book early. Be sure to choose the full-day option that also includes a guided tour of the gardens plus Marie Antoinette's fantasy farm.

If you want to go on your own, getting from Paris to Versailles can be done if you're familiar with the Metro/RER system. In a nutshell — from Paris take RER Line C to the station called Versailles-Rive Gauche . Then it's just a ten-minute walk to the royal estate.

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Home > Side Trips from Paris > Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Versailles from Paris – A Local’s Guide

Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Versailles from Paris – A Local’s Guide

Paris to versailles day trip.

Most people planning a holiday to Paris manage to squeeze a day in their itinerary for a day trip to Versailles. And for a reason!

Versailles is more than a French château; it is a royal domain that extends over 800 hectares! Here, nature and culture converge, and the sun shines even when it rains.

The Château de Versailles is a jewel of French Baroque architecture, and the grounds are stunning. The beauty of this site and its proximity to the French capital make a day trip to Versailles from Paris easy to organize and one of the top places on everyone’s Paris Bucket List .

Are you planning your Versailles trip last minute?

Below are some of the best Versailles tours, hotels, and more!

Book your transfer from a Paris airport to Versailles with Welcome Pickups .

Looking to travel around Versailles independently? Click here for the best rental car rates in Versailles .

Top Experiences and Tours in Versailles:

• Entry Ticket Château de Versailles, Gardens, and Estate of Trianon
• Château de Versailles Priority Entrance Ticket and Guided Tour
• Afternoon in the Petit Trianon and Estate of Marie-Antoinette
• Versailles Bike Tour with Château and Estate of Marie-Antoinette

Save money with the Paris & Versailles Bundle (Château de Versailles + Louvre Museum + Seine River Cruise), 100% digital!

Top Places to Stay in Versailles:

• Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace (by the Park of the Château de Versailles)
• Hotel Le Versailles (close to the Old Town and the famous Château)
• Hotel des Lys  (close to Notre Dame Market and the famous Château)

Don’t leave for Versailles without travel insurance!

Compare plans, prices, and coverage with  Travel Insurance Master , a comparison site that will find the perfect fit for you amongst the world’s leading programs.  Travel Insurance Master is also the best place to look for senior travelers .

The downside of Versailles’ fame and beauty are the crowds and the long lines to visit the Château. Indeed, with nearly 10 million visitors every year, the Château de Versailles is one of the world’s most visited historic sites! Also, there are so many things to see and do that a Paris to Versailles day trip can be a terrible experience if you arrive there without any plan.

How to plan a Versailles day trip from Paris? What is the best Versailles itinerary? This Versailles guide gives information and our best tips for planning the perfect day trip to Versailles from Paris. After reading this quick guide, you will see that it is very easy to visit Versailles!

Versailles is one of the most popular day trips from Paris. Check out the list of best day trips from Paris .

Table of Contents:

• Best Time to Visit Versailles
• Ways to Travel from Paris to Versailles
• Book your Skip-the-line Tickets to Versailles in Advance
• Why a Versailles Tour from Paris is a Good Idea
• Things to Do on a Versailles Day Trip from Paris
• Best Versailles Shows
• Extend your Versailles Trip
• Versailles Tips & Practical Info

1. Best Time to Visit Versailles

The best time to visit Versailles is in spring or autumn because the site is less crowded than in summer. The garden shows usually take place between April and October, and they are also lovely in the shoulder seasons. During this time, the French-style gardens that surround the Château are not free to visit, but there is Baroque music, and the fountains are running, so it is well worth the extra fee.

Winter is ideal for visiting the Château, but you will miss the beauty of the gardens in bloom, which is a shame. The French-style gardens are free to visit in winter, but many grooves are closed to the public. A day of snow can be nice, but it is rare!

Best Day to Visit Versailles

With your Versailles skip-the-line tickets, you will avoid the longest lines. Also, you may want to avoid the biggest crowds when you visit the Château of Versailles inside.

Versailles is particularly crowded on Tuesdays and during the weekends. If your schedule is flexible, prioritize Wednesdays and Thursdays for visiting Versailles, when there are fewer crowds. In our opinion, Wednesdays and Thursdays are the best days to visit Versailles .

The Château of Versailles is one of the top sights to visit near Paris. We recommend a day trip to Versailles from Paris in the following Paris itineraries:

• 4 days in Paris itinerary
• 5 days in Paris itinerary
• 6 days in Paris itinerary
• 7 days in Paris itinerary

2. Ways to Travel from Paris to Versailles

A Versailles trip from Paris is easy to organize. Read our article about all the ways to get to Versailles from Paris , public and private.

How far is Versailles from Paris? The distance from Paris to Versailles is about 25 km (15.5 miles).

3. Book your Skip-the-line Tickets to Versailles in Advance

If you decide to visit Versailles without a guided tour, buy your tickets well in advance. With the skip-the-line tickets, you will choose a date and a time slot, so you are sure to enter the Château within 30 minutes of your time slot.

Versailles offers different kinds of tickets, so it is essential to understand what you can visit with each ticket.

Compare the best Versailles Tickets

DID YOU KNOW? The Paris Museum Pass for 2, 4, or 6 days also includes access to Château de Versailles and the Trianons!

4. Why a Versailles Tour from Paris is a Good Idea

A Versailles tour from Paris is a popular option, especially among first-time visitors. Here’s why you should consider a guided tour for visiting Versailles:

» Your time is limited, and Versailles Estate is huge! Tour guides know how to get the most out of your time on a day trip from Paris to Versailles by showing the main sights at perfect times to avoid crowds.

» Guided tours with a knowledgeable guide are more interesting and interactive experiences. You can always ask your guide as many questions as you want, and they always seem to have many stories to tell.

» Versailles guided tours use a separate entrance to the Château, which is super cool. While Versailles skip-the-line tickets guarantee access to the Château within 30 minutes (the 30 minutes of your time slot), the access to the Château with a guided tour is immediate thanks to this separate entrance.

» Some of these tours also include the pickup and drop off at your hotel. After visiting Versailles for hours, how cool is it to go back straight to your hotel on a comfortable van or coach?

» Some Versailles guided tours allow people to visit otherwise closed rooms. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy these unique parts of the Château with a small group and far from the crowds.

Best Versailles Guided Tours in English (with skip-the-line tickets)

5. things to do on a versailles day trip from paris.

The Versailles Estate is vast, and there are many interesting things to visit. Here’s the list.

TIP: check out our suggested Versailles itinerary, self-guided.

Château de Versailles

Château de Versailles is the beating heart of the Versailles Estate. One of the most beautiful castles in France , the Palace of Versailles has two floors – the garden floor and the first floor – with a total surface of 63,000 m2 divided into 2,300 rooms and halls.

The most famous room in the Château is the Hall of Mirrors, used for ceremonies and exceptional occasions such as the masked ball for Marie-Antoinette and Louis XVI ‘s wedding. But of course, there’s much more!

Don’t miss one of the best castles near Paris . The articles below are in-depth articles about the Palace of Versailles and our best skip-the-line tips for visiting it.

Gardens of Versailles

Designed by André Le Notre , the same landscaper designer who created the gardens of Château de Chantilly , the magnificent French-style Gardens of Versailles is one of the jewels of the Versailles Estate.

The Gardens of Versailles surround the Château on three sides, and they are decorated with many fountains, grooves, statues, colonnades, and even an obelisk. From April to October, they host beautiful music and water shows, and there’s an entrance fee to access them. The access is free from November to March, but some grooves are closed.

If you want to know more about these stunning gardens, the articles below are in-depth articles about the Gardens of Versailles and the fountains that decorate these gardens.

The Estate of Trianon

The Estate of Trianon  is home to the Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon pavilions, the Queen’s Hamlet , and various ornamental gardens.

The Kings built these intimate spaces close to the Palace of Versailles to gain some brief respite from courtly etiquette and enjoy nature. The Queen’s Hamlet was constructed for Queen Marie-Antoinette and her children to play the peasants, and it had a farm, a mill, and many animals.

The Park of Versailles is the green extension surrounding the Grand Canal, and it is always free to visit. This part is very popular amongst locals and Parisians for family picnics, jogging, or bike rides.

The Grand Canal is André Le Nôtre’s most original design. With its huge dimensions (1,700 m east-west and 1000 m north-south) and 60 m in width, the Grand Canal was used for ship battles by the King and his court.

If you are fit, walk down to the Royal Star , a viewpoint at the edge of the western branch with amazing views.

This area is home to the famous Lime Tree Walk , which links the Château to the Mortemets, the waterfowl reserve within King Louis XIV’s hunting estate.

Le Potager du Roi

Le Potager du Roi (the King’s vegetable garden) was built between 1678 and 1683 by Jean-Baptiste La Quintinie at King Louis XIV’s request.

Well known for his experience with fruit gardens and vegetable gardens, La Quintinie was responsible for providing fruits and vegetables at the King’s table. 

The prodigies accomplished by La Quintinie attracted the interest and admiration of his master, the King, who liked to come for a walk in the vegetable garden. A gardening enthusiast, King Louis XIV liked to show his vegetable garden to his illustrious guests, and he even learned how to prune fruit trees with his gardener.

Le Potager du Roi is a listed historical monument and a “remarkable garden.” Its gardeners perpetuate the art of pruning and grow a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.

Le Potager du Roi is an independent visit, not included in any ticket shown above. The entrance is located at 10 Rue du Maréchal-Joffre. Tickets cost 5€ – 3€ (high season – November to March).

The Royal Stables (Gallery of Coaches)

The Royal Stables consists of two buildings – the Great Stables and the Small Stables – identical in size but with different uses.

The Great Stables are where the hunting horses were kept (hundreds of horses according to their race and coat), while the Small Stables were used to keep the carriages, sleds, and coaches.

Today, the Great Stables’ ground floor hosts an impressive display of coaches, mainly grand ceremonial Berlin Coaches from Napoleon I’s coronation and second marriage.

The Royal Stables are located at 1 Avenue Rockefeller, just in front of the Palace, and they are open on Saturday and Sunday, from 12.30 pm to 5.30 pm November to March, and from 12.30 pm to 6.30 pm April to October.

6. Best Versailles Garden & Fountain Shows

If you plan a day trip from Paris to Versailles during the high season (from April to October), you can enjoy beautiful shows around the gardens: the Musical Fountains Show , the Musical Gardens Show , and the Versailles Fountains Night Show .

Check out our dedicated guide to the fountains of Versailles for the show days and fountains schedule.

Versailles Musical Fountains Show

The Musical Fountains Show is our favorite Versailles Garden show. Explore the gardens and grooves while listening to Baroque music, and watch the fountains’ water displays with special effects. Skip the lines and save money by purchasing the Versailles Passport, with the Musical Fountains Show included

Versailles Musical Gardens Show

Wander through the largest open-air museum, decorated with amazing sculptures, while listening to the beautiful sounds of Baroque music. In the Musical Gardens Show , the Versailles fountains are not running – Click here to buy the Versailles Passport, with the Musical Gardens Show included

Versailles Fountains Night Show

The Versailles Gardens are transformed into a striking visual and musical experience during the Fountains Night Show . Stroll the gardens beautifully illuminated, with the fountains and grooves displaying water at the sound of music. The show ends with a ‘grande finale,’ fireworks display in front of the Grand Canal – Click here to buy the tickets for the Fountains Night Show

7. Extend your Versailles Trip

The Versailles Estate is huge, so you’ll probably need more than a Paris day trip to Versailles to explore everything at a leisurely pace. You will also find yourself staying late if you watch the  Saturday night Fountain Show . Traveling back to your hotel in Paris after the show will be difficult because everybody leaves the show at the same time (after the Grand Finale), the train station is always crowded, and taxis back to Paris are hard to find. 

Fortunately, there are several comfortable and luxurious hotels near the Château that will make your visit more convenient and that extra bit special. Here are the best-rated hotels near Versailles Palace , with something for every traveler. Spend two days rather than a day in Versailles and also visit some of the best things to do in Versailles town .

8. Versailles Tips & Practical Info

This is what you need to know to plan your Paris – Versailles day trip:

» The Versailles Estate is FREE for everyone on the first Sunday of the month, from November to March. Long lines to visit the different buildings are guaranteed, though.

» The Park and the Gallery of Coaches are always FREE to visit. If you only want to visit one of these places, there is no ticket to buy.

» The Gardens (the French-style Gardens around the Palace) are FREE to visit from November to March. From April to October, there’s a fee to access the Gardens, and the price depends on the kind of show on that day (Musical Fountains Show or Musical Gardens Show).

Versailles Opening Hours – Low Season (November to March)

• During the low season, Château de Versailles opens from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. The last admission is at 5:00 pm.
• The Trianon and Marie-Antoinette’s domain opens from 12:00 to 5:30 pm. The last admission is at 5:00 pm.
• The Park and Gardens are open from 8:00 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the last admission at 5:30 p.m. During the low season, some grooves in the Gardens are closed.
• The waiting time to visit the different buildings is definitely shorter during the low season, so your Versailles itinerary can be more flexible.

Versailles Opening Hours – High Season (April to October)

• During the high season, Château de Versailles opens from 9 am to 6.30 pm. The last admission is at 6:00 pm.
• The Trianon and Marie-Antoinette’s domain is open from 12 to 6:30 p.m., with the last admission at 6:00 p.m.
• The Park and Gardens are open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., with the last admission at 7:00 p.m.
• During the high season, the average waiting time to enter the Château is one hour without any Versailles skip-the-line tickets.
• There’s one line to access the Château and one different line to buy the tickets. If you want to buy your Versailles tickets on-site, you need to add one extra hour to this time.

Versailles Main Access Points

The Versailles Estate is vast, with many entrance gates, but some gates are permanently closed for security reasons. Find below the main gates or points of access to the Versailles Estate, which are always open.

GOOD TO KNOW: Remember that due to the anti-terrorist security plan, visitors with large baggage items (exceeding 55x35x20 cm) are not admitted on the domain, and every bag or vehicle is controlled upon access.

» The main entrance to the Place of Versailles is through the MAIN COURTYARD.

• ACCESS A is for individual visitors with their tickets already bought and printed (or on mobile phone)
• ACCESS B, on the opposite side of the courtyard, is for groups with reservations
• If you do not have a ticket upon arrival and are not eligible for free admission, go to the ticket office first, situated on the left in the Main Courtyard in the South Ministers’ Wing, and then to ACCESS A to validate it.

» You can access the Estate of Trianon by the Gardens and Park (entrances located at Allée des 2 Trianons) or from the city via SAINT-ANTHONY GATE (located on the D186 arriving from le Chesnay)

» The DRAGON GATE gives access to the Gardens from rue de la Parroisse.

» The QUEENS GATE, on Boulevard de la Reine, provides pedestrian access and car access to the Park.

» The SAILORS GATE, on the route de Saint-Cyr (D10), provides access to the Park and Sailors Walk.

» Access to the Potager du Roi is at 10, rue du Maréchal-Joffre.

» Access to the Royal Stables is on Avenue de Rockefeller, in front of the Palace.

So there you have it, our Versailles guide with everything you need to know for a wonderful day trip Paris to Versailles.

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Quirky parisian explorer with a preference for lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about me ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.

Versailles Tips: An Essential Guide to Visiting Versailles

Welcome, fellow travelers, to your essential guide to visiting the magnificent Palace of Versailles! In this guide, I will tell you all of my Versailles tips to help you plan a memorable and amazing visit.

This opulent, historical gem, nestled just outside Paris, is brimming with rich history, stunning architecture, and expansive gardens that will leave you in awe.

I had an amazing trip to Versailles with my family during our European summer vacation in June. It was truly a great visit! However, there are a few things that I wish I had known before our visit. Don’t worry though, I’ve included all those helpful Versailles tips, practical information, and details in this guide. I hope it helps you have a fantastic visit!

Preparing for a visit to such a grand location can be a bit daunting. This guide is here to ensure your visit is as seamless and enjoyable as possible. I’ll cover everything from Versailles travel tips to the must-see sights.

The Palace of Versailles is a stunning example of French Baroque architecture and served as the royal residence for several centuries. Its most famous residents were Louis XIV and the infamous Marie Antoinette.

How to Get to Versailles from Paris

To get to Versailles from Paris, take the RER C train to Versailles Château – Rive Gauche station. The train takes between 1 hour and 90 minutes. The round trip costs approximately 8 euros.

Once you’ve exited the station, it’s a short 10-minute walk to the palace. Just follow the signs and the crowd. Honestly, it was that simple.

Tickets for Versailles

There are a few options to purchase tickets for Versailles . Whatever you choose, make sure to book your timed entry well in advance.

Paris Museum Pass

The Versailles Palace is part of the Paris Museum Pass program. This means you can pay one low fee to see as many things on the expansive list as you wish. The passes include a 48, 96, and 144 hour option.

To use your museum pass, you will need to book your time slot to Versailles in advance. The pass does not include any special events in the gardens, which happen often in the warmer months.

This is one of my best Versailles tips. We used the museum pass during our visit and it was a breeze.

Passport Ticket

To enjoy the full Versailles experience, I highly recommend purchasing a full access pass, known as the Passport ticket. It costs around 22 euros. It grants you entry to the palace, the gardens, temporary exhibitions, the Gallery of Coaches, and the Trianon Palaces including Marie Antoinette’s estate.

On the days with the Musical Fountain Show or Musical Gardens, the cost for the passport ticket that includes the special event is around 29 euros.

Individual Tickets

While I don’t suggest it, there is also an option to purchase tickets for specific sections of the estate. Individual tickets are available for both the palace and the Trianon Estate.

Tips for Visiting Versailles

To get the most out of your visit to Versailles, it takes some pre-planning and preparation. Here are my top Versailles tips to help you have a smooth visit.

• Book in advance: The Palace of Versailles is an extremely popular tourist destination, so book your tickets online or book a tour in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Go early: Arrive at the palace early in the day to avoid large crowds, especially in the high season. Book the first available entry time at 9:00 AM and get in line at least 30 minutes before.
• Avoid Peak Days: Tourists flock to Versailles throughout the week but you should avoid visiting on Tuesdays and weekends to avoid the worst of the crowds.
• Dress comfortably: With vast gardens and lots to explore, ensure you’re wearing comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.
• Take a guide or audio guide: The history of Versailles is rich and complex. A guide or audio guide greatly enhances your understanding of what you’re seeing.
• Pack a picnic and water: While there are places to eat within Versailles, packing a picnic to enjoy in the gardens can be a fun and cost-effective option.
• Check the weather: Much of your visit will be outdoors, especially if you plan to explore the gardens. Make sure to check the weather and dress accordingly.
• Download the Palace of Versailles App: The app is extremely thorough. There is an audioguide for every part of the estate including the palace, gardens, and Trianon areas. There are even children’s versions that help make the estate exciting for young visitors.

What to See at Versailles

Versailles is renowned for its magnificent palace, but this estate offers so much more to discover and explore.

Palace of Versailles: A Glimpse Into History and Grandeur

The Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a dazzling monument of excessive opulence and royal prestige. Commissioned by Louis XIV, the Sun King, in the 17th century, it was intended to be a display of the absolute monarchy. Here, the king sought to centralize his power and control the nobility.

Every room tells a story. The palace is famously known for its Hall of Mirrors – a grandiose gallery adorned with 357 mirrors. Here, grand ceremonies, balls, and receptions were held.

Another highlight is the King’s State Apartments, which are a sequence of seven rooms, each elaborately decorated with gold and paintings. The Queen’s Apartments, where Marie Antoinette lived, are also really fascinating.

Discover the Gardens of Versailles

After viewing the palace, step outside to view the vast Gardens of Versailles . The gardens are a work of art, boasting geometrically designed pathways and sprawling lawns.

The gardens showcase the height of French formal garden design with symmetry and order as its guiding principles. The vast garden contains over 200,000 trees, 210,000 flowers, and numerous fountains spread throughout the gardens and groves.

The gardens are also home to the Grand Canal, a water feature that extends over a mile long. On a sunny day, the Canal is a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely boat ride.

Exploring the Gardens of Versailles is truly an immersive experience of the grandeur of French royalty’s past.

The Gallery of Coaches

Unveil another layer of Versailles’ rich history by visiting the Gallery of Coaches. This fascinating collection of ceremonial carriages is one of the largest in Europe. Each coach is a testament to the luxury of the French Court.

Marvel at the intricate details and craftsmanship of these carriages, used by the French monarchs for special occasions. Unfortunately, the Gallery of Coaches is only open on weekends. But you should definitely add it to your itinerary if you are visiting on a Saturday or Sunday.

Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, & Queen’s Hamlet

Many visitors overlook the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon areas of the Versailles estate. Don’t make that mistake!

Exploring the Grand Trianon

If time permits during your day at Versailles, tour the elegant Grand Trianon, tucked away from the main palace within the gardens. Originally built as a retreat for Louis XIV from the formalities of court life, the Grand Trianon is a testament to the refined taste of the Sun King.

The Grand Trianon is truly a sight to behold with its remarkable pink marble facade. As you step inside, prepare to be amazed by the lavish interiors that will leave you in awe. Each room is adorned with exquisite furniture, stunning murals, and intricate fabric designs, offering visitors a glimpse into the opulent lives of the French monarchs.

The Grand Trianon is nestled within its own gardens, which feature beautiful flower beds arranged in geometric patterns—in keeping with the symmetry of French formal gardens.

Explore the Petit Trianon

Just a short stroll away from the Grand Trianon is the Petit Trianon. The Petit Trianon is a gem hidden within the expansive estate. Its neoclassical architecture presents a stark contrast to the baroque style of the main palace.

The rooms inside are much smaller and more intimate, reflecting Marie Antoinette’s preference for privacy and comfort. The interiors are adorned with delicate details, pastel shades, and floral motifs, all of which give a glimpse into the queen’s romantic and whimsical style.

Surrounding the Petit Trianon are the Queen’s Gardens, a stunning ensemble of landscaped gardens, groves, and water features.

The Queen’s Hamlet at Versailles

The Queen’s Hamlet is a charming rural retreat tucked away in the Trianon area of the Versailles estate. This rustic idyll was built for Marie Antoinette in 1786, designed as an escape from court life and a place where the queen could indulge her pastoral fantasies.

The hamlet is composed of several cottages, a mill, and a vegetable garden, all arranged around a picturesque lake. The idyllic setting has thatched-roof houses and a peaceful atmosphere.

This turned out to be our absolute favorite part of our visit to Versailles! The area makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a magical fairy tale. Plus, there were hardly any other people around. I can’t recommend it enough!

Special Event Days

From April to October, the Gardens of Versailles come alive. Before your visit, check Versaille’s website for the latest special event dates.

The Musical Fountains Shows highlight the garden’s water features and add music to the gardens. This special event mostly only happens on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

The Night Fountains Show is only on Saturday evenings in the summer. During this event, the fountains dance to the tunes of classical music under dramatic lighting.

The Musical Gardens days just add music to the gardens. Two fountains put on a show to the music, but we honestly weren’t impressed with what was offered. Since this is considered a special event, there is an admission fee for the gardens on these days. If you have a choice, avoid visiting the gardens on these days.

How to Get Around Versailles

There are a variety of transportation options to help you navigate the vast Versailles estate. I have listed the options along with some helpful Versailles transportation tips.

Walking at Versailles

If you decide to walk around Versailles, just keep in mind that you will not be able to cover everything in the expansive gardens. The whole complex spans nearly 2,000 acres!

When we went, we opted to walk and ended up walking a total of 12 miles on our day trip. Looking back, I wish we had splurged on bicycles or a golf cart.

Renting a Golf Cart at Versailles

One of the convenient ways to explore the expansive estate of Versailles is by renting a golf cart. These electric vehicles make cruising around the vast gardens a breeze, allowing you to marvel at every picturesque corner while conserving your energy.

There can be a long line at times. The rental rate is 42 euros per hour and you must present a valid driver’s license to rent one.

You cannot take the golf carts into the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon areas. If you want to explore those, you will need to leave the golf cart parked.

Renting a Bicycle at Versailles

Renting a bicycle is another fantastic option to explore Versailles. The Grand Canal area always has a hire point with bicycles. On weekends and holidays, there are also bike hire points at Saint Anthony Gate and the Queen’s Gate.

The cost for a regular bicycle is 10 euros per hour or 23 euros for the day, making it a more budget-friendly option than a golf cart. There is also the option to rent electric bicycles for 16 euros per hour.

There is also a small train that runs visitors along a route of popular sights. It travels between the Palace North Terrace, Petit Trianon, Grand Trianon, and the top of the Grand Canal. You can purchase round-trip tickets or a single journey.

Best Guided Tours of Versailles

We enjoyed exploring Versailles at our own pace. But if you prefer to take a guided tour, there are quite a few options to choose from. Here are a few of the best options:

Liv Tours offers a 2.5-hour small group tour called the Versailles Royal Palace and Gardens Tour . This tour includes a guided tour of Versailles Palace including the Hall of Mirrors, Kings Apartments, and Chapel Royal. It also includes a guided walk of the gardens.

Another great tour option is the Royal Palace & Gardens Golf Cart Tour . This 3-hour tour not only takes you through the magnificent Palace but also lets you explore the vast gardens on a fun golf cart ride! The friendly guide will show you around and share fascinating stories about this historical place.

Best Time to Visit Versailles

The best time to visit Versailles largely depends on what you’re aiming for. If you want to beat the crowds, then late autumn to early spring is ideal. During these times, you’ll have a more tranquil experience exploring the palace and gardens.

For those who want to enjoy the full spectacle of Versailles, including its stunning gardens and the Musical Fountains show, late spring to early autumn is the recommended time. Just be prepared for larger crowds, especially during the high season in July and August.

How Much Time to See Versailles

There’s lots to see at Versailles. The palace, the gardens, and the Trianons all require time to explore, so plan for a full day to take it all in and see the highlights of each area.

It’s possible to spend just a few hours at the palace, but trust me, you’d be missing out if you don’t take the time to explore the rest of the grounds.

If you have the time, you can even explore the palace and gardens in a day and come back the next day to see the Trianons and Queen’s Hamlet.

Hotels Near Versailles

If you are looking to stay overnight in Versailles, there are plenty of fabulous hotels nearby that offer comfort, luxury, and easy access to the palace.

Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace : This opulent hotel, nestled in the heart of Versailles, is the epitome of French luxury. Its close proximity to the palace and the peaceful surroundings make it a perfect choice for tourists.

Hotel Le Louis Versailles Château – MGallery : This hotel combines contemporary elegance with royal grandeur. It’s just a stone’s throw away from the palace and offers stunning views.

If you need more space, there are also apartment options conveniently close to the palace. Take a look at these for your visit: Le Richelieu , Lovely Apartment Palace of Versailles , or Les Demoiselles à Versailles .

Final Thoughts on Visiting Versailles

Versailles is a spectacular place and is worth the time and effort to fully explore. Taking advantage of all of these Versailles tips will ensure that you have an extraordinary experience at this one-of-a-kind destination.

Whether you’re taking the time to appreciate the intricate works of art, strolling through the beautiful gardens, or exploring special attractions like Marie Antoinette’s Estate, every part of your Versailles visit will be mesmerizing.

With this essential guide to visiting Versailles in hand, I hope that you embark on an unforgettable journey and come away with wonderful memories. Bon voyage!

More About France:

7 Days in Paris: The Perfect One-Week Itinerary

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Caitlin is a passionate traveler and the founder of Twin Family Travels, a blog helping families with planning trips both big and small. As a mom of twins, Caitlin loves spending time together as a family. She finds joy in discovering new places from day trips to far-away destinations. Hiking beautiful trails and meandering through museums are some of her favorite ways to spend her time. She provides valuable tips and recommendations that assist others in planning wonderful travel experiences.

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Visiting versailles: tips for a fun day trip from paris.

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The most glittering jewel of France’s royal past is undoubtedly the Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles in French). Once home to kings and queens of France, the palace is perhaps the most extravagant and beautiful in Europe.

At Versailles, you can walk the corridors and gardens where Queen Marie Antoinette enjoyed an incredible life before meeting her famous and untimely end. Imagine yourself as a courtier attending a ball in the Hall of Mirrors and enjoying a stroll in the beautiful gardens.

One of our favourite day trips from Paris, it does require a bit of planning so you make the most of the experience. Here are our tips for visiting Versailles.

What's in this article

Why you should visit the Palace of Versailles

10 tips for visiting versailles, guided tour of versailles from paris, hotels near versailles, inspiration for your trip to versailles.

Versailles is one of the most important places in France and has been recognised as a world heritage site by UNESCO .

Originally a small summer palace, the Chateau de Versailles rose to significance in when King Louis XIV decided to develop the site.He moved the French Court to Versailles, 20 kilometres from Paris in 1682.

For just over a century Versailles was the centre of diplomatic activity in Europe, hosting emperors, kings and queens at sumptuous banquets and events. No doubt they were all dazzled by the opulence and grandeur of Versailles.

The palace under King Louis XVI and his Queen Marie Antoinette quickly became a symbol of luxury and excess. But this extravagant living did not impress everyone.

In October 1789 the royal family were forced to leave Versailles by a march of hundreds of women angry at the chronic shortage and high price of bread. The march is seen by many as the beginning of the French Revolution whose events changed France forever.

Join a half day guided tour of Versailles departing from Paris to discover its stories and history

The best time to visit Versailles

Versailles is beautiful all year round but especially so in spring and summer when the gardens are in full bloom. The chateau hosts special events at that time of year and the magnificent fountains in the gardens are turned on in a display that absolutely must not be missed.

On some summer nights the fountains and gardens are illuminated followed by a spectacular fireworks show. For the dates and times of these special events click here .

The Palace is open year round (except on 25th December and 1st January) from 09:00am to 17:00pm – except Mondays when it is closed. 

The gardens are open daily from 08:00am however the Trianon estate and the Coach Gallery only open in the afternoon.

Plan your Paris to Versailles day trip in advance

Expect to spend the best part of a day getting to and from and exploring Versailles, the gardens and the Trianon palaces.

Versailles is around 16 kilometres from central Paris and the return journey takes about 2½ hours by train including a modest amount of time for queuing to enter the palace.

If you want to avoid the busiest times, plan to arrive at 09:00am when the chateau opens and visit the main palace first followed by the gardens. The busiest days are Tuesdays and on weekends so it is best to avoid these times if you want to 

A time ticket must be purchased in advance . Security lines can be long too. We have heard reports of well over an hour at peak times.

Your visit to the palace interior takes around an hour and a half and you could easily spend another 2 hours exploring the gardens and summer palaces.

Getting from Paris to Versailles

The best way to get to Versailles from Paris is by train. The closest station to the palace is Versailles Château Rive Gauche on Line C of the RER regional train system. 

To find out the best routes from where you are staying use Google maps or  Citymapper

Note – This train line is separate to the metro and you need a different ticket. The cost is around €7 and the journey takes around an hour from central Paris.

From the train station in Versailles it is a 10 minute walk to the chateau.

Make sure you buy a return ticket to avoid queues going back to Paris

Navigating this system during peak hour is not a relaxing vacation activity. If you prefer not to DIY your transport to Versailles you could join a tour that departs from central Paris.

Tickets for Versailles Palace

Book in advance to skip the ticket line at Versailles . You can pre-book tickets for access to the entire complex from €20. If you want to visit the gardens during summer for the fountain and music show there is an additional €7 charge. It is free to enter the gardens on days when the fountain show is not running. 

Access to the Palace and the estate of Trianon is free for visitors under 18 (worldwide) or under 26 (residing in the EU). You will need to buy a ticket for the gardens on site on days when the fountain show is on.

Children under 6 can visit the gardens during summer for free.

Note – all members of your group must have skip the line tickets even if there is no charge for them to enter. 

Highlights and must sees

Did you know that there are over 2,000 rooms in the Versailles complex? At its height the court was home to 5,000 people. These days you can only see a handful of the most grand apartments and galleries. Each has its own story to tell of intrigues, gossip and scandal.

Absolute must sees are:

• the King’s State Apartments
• Hall of Mirrors
• the King’s private apartments
• the Queen’s apartments and
• the Gallery of Great Battles. 

Apart from the palace interior you could spend several hours in the gardens alone. Wander through the magnificent parterres or formal gardens.

Make sure to enjoy the many fountains and bosquets – formal plantation of trees. 

We loved the Orangery and the incredible Apollo fountain but my favourite part of the garden is Latona’s fountain with its 24 cheeky frogs peeking out of the water. 

A 30 minute walk through the gardens will take you to the Trianon Palace, Petit Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet . Reopened to the public in 2018 after extensive restoration works, the Queen’s Hamlet was created for Marie-Antoinette in her image of an idyllic country retreat. 

For those traveling with children or people with mobility issues – you can jump aboard the little train that covers a circuit including Petit Trianon  and Grand Trianon.

Audioguides, apps, maps and tours

Personally I am not a fan of audioguides particularly in crowded places. If you do like them, the palace offers free audioguides in 11 languages or you can book skip the line tickets with audio guide .

More useful are the smartphone app guides – there are two apps – one each for the palace and gardens. For more information on the apps and audioguides click here

The palace offers guided tours of the King’s Private Apartment in English. They are available for an additional €10

Where to eat in Versailles

Make sure you bring a small bottle of water and a snack. There are several dining options onsite however they do get very busy.

If you want to revel in your luxurious surroundings, you can eat at celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay’s gorgeous fine dining restaurant Au Trianon . Another option is to have a picnic in the grounds. Pick up supplies from the Marché Notre Dame – a lovely covered market not far from the train station.

There are designated picnic areas at Saint Anthony Plain and the Lake of the Swiss Guard inside the chateau grounds. If you are visiting Versailles as an interlude from your foodie trip to Paris , Versailles has some excellent restaurants – click for recommendations .

What not to bring

Security is tight at Versailles as with most major sites in Europe. Some items are not allowed into the palace – umbrellas, pushchairs, and baby carriers with metal frames. You can leave them at the left luggage desk.

Make sure you leave large bags, suitcases, rucksacks and sharp objects at your accommodation. Items larger than 55 x 35 x 20 cm are not allowed on the estate including the gardens.

You may not use a selfie stick inside the palace.

What to wear

To ensure your comfort make sure to check the weather for your Versailles day trip.

You will be doing quite a lot of walking so whatever the season wear comfortable shoes. The walk from the train station is over cobblestones that are hard on your feet too.

The area around the chateau is open and can get quite windy so take a warm layer of clothing in every season. In summer the palace and grounds can be very warm – remember your hat and sunscreen. If there is a chance of rain a plastic poncho or rain jacket will come in handy.

Please note, for your safety and to comply with French regulations, face masks must be worn inside the palace and indoor areas as well as on public transport. 

Click here for the Versailles weather forecast

Visiting Versailles with kids

We attempt most cultural activities with our kids but I would think twice about Versailles. It is a long day, a large site and perhaps not the most exciting for small children.

Pro tip – pushchairs, strollers and baby carriers with metal frames are NOT allowed inside the palace

If you are determined to go, I recommend taking a guided tour from Paris so you can focus on the kids and having a great day – not navigating the Paris transport system and crowds.

The added advantage of this is being able to skip the lines for tickets and having an expert help guide you through the extensive grounds.

On site, once you have done your tour spend most of your time in the gardens where you can hop on the little train or hire a golf cart to get around. 

There is a little farm at the Queen’s Hamlet that is fun for kids.

From March to November you can hire row boats on the Grand Canal or bikes to ride around the grounds. On the gardens app there is a children’s trail that takes you around the most interesting fountains.

The onsite bathroom facilities are adequate and many have change tables.

>> Click to read our full guide on visiting Paris with kids for more tips

We think the best way to see Versailles is with a small group tour . When you explore this incredible royal complex with a guide you uncover the stories and legends that make this one of the most important sites in French and world history.

With a tour guide you can easily navigate the train and ticketing system meaning you are able to relax and enjoy your time at the palace. Rest assured these charismatic local guides will take care of the logistics and make sure you have all the juicy details of court life at Versailles. So you can relax and swan through the palace corridors and gardens just like Marie Antoinette > more info

Versailles bike tour

If you’re looking for a fun way to tour Versailles, join a palace and bike tour ! You’ll spend a full day exploring the palace and its grounds, visiting a local market to pick up picnic supplies and enjoying life on two wheels. This is a great activity if you’re keen to combine a day of culture with some outdoors fun. Plus you’ll see parts of Versailles many miss because they are tired from walking > more info

If you want to spend a full day exploring the palace and gardens why not stay close by and soak up the regal atmosphere. Notable hotels within walking distance of the palace include

• Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace – located opposite the Palace of Versailles, many of the luxurious guest rooms are inside the Trianon Palace building. Facilities onsite are fit for a queen and include a heated indoor pool, Michelin starred restaurant and day spa – for the latest deals and to read reviews click here
• Le Louis Versailles Château [MGallery by Sofitel] – just a 5 minute walk to Versailles palace, this modern hotel offers elegance and sophistication as well as an impressive location. There is a restaurant onsite and parking is available – to read reviews and check availability click here
• Novotel Château de Versailles – a great pick for families, this hotel has several large room sizes and offers daily breakfast and room service. The Novotel Versailles is only a 10 minute walk from the chateau and the town of Versailles. – for more information and room rate – click here

Just for fun here’s the trailer from the 2006 movie Marie Antoinette .

Sophia Coppola brought the palace to life and it was a feast for the eyes.. even if it was a little lacking in historical detail.

Disclaimer –  Untold Morsels assists our readers with carefully chosen product and services recommendations that help make travel easier and more fun. If you click through and make a purchase on many of these items we may earn a commission. All opinions are our own – please read our  disclosure  page for more information.

The creator, writer and photographer behind Untold Morsels , Katy has been travelling and tasting the world since she was a teenager.

Now the proud mum of twins, she hopes they grow up to share her passions of great food, wine and travel. Favourite destination: Italy

The Palace of Versailles: A Complete Visitor’s Guide

The Palace of Versailles. A decadent symbol of royal power and influence that, to this day, still wows visitors. It’s one of the most-visited attractions in Paris . The Palace offers an incredible insight into French history, illuminating the lavish and ostentatious lives the former monarchs used to live.

Over 10 million people visit this extravagant palace each year. After the Eiffel Tower, it’s the most popular attraction in the country. It is the symbol of France and this detailed visitor’s guide will help you avoid the crowds, learn what to see, do, and how to maximize your visit!

It’s one of my favorite spots in Paris so I want to make sure you have the best time and avoid all those tour groups who clutter the palace.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Versailles, including when to go, history, tips for visiting Versailles, and more!

Table of Contents

History of The Palace of Versailles

How to visit the palace of versailles, travel tips for the palace of versailles, how to get to the palace from paris, f.a.q. about the palace of versailles, get your in-depth budget guide to paris.

The tiny hunting lodge was initially transformed into a proper chateau by Louis XIII, who bought up the surrounding land to extend his park and gardens. However, it was Louis XIV, aka the Sun King who turned this into lavish country estate as a way to escape Paris and diminish the influential grip of the French nobility. He moved the court to Versailles, which forced the nobility to spend more time away from their homes, thereby lessening their ability to establish regional power that could challenge him. (Plus, partying nobles are less likely to revolt against you!)

The first major construction was started in 1661 and took almost twenty years to complete. The expansive construction and intricate interior designs were expanded upon over subsequent decades (the gardens alone took over 40 years to complete!).  

To help you get the most out of your visit to the Palace of Versailles, here’s a video of one of my first experiences in which I walk you through the rooms of the palace:

Tickets for Versailles “The Passport” ticket gives you admission to all the palace tours (grounds, Trianon Palaces, and Marie Antoinette’s estate), the Musical Fountain Show, the Musical Gardens, and the exhibitions and costs 32 EUR. If you just want to see the Palace, tickets are 21 EUR.

The palace is located at Place d’Armes, Versailles. It is open Tuesday–Sunday 9am–6:30pm, with the last entry at 6pm. It’s closed Monday and also on May 1st.

While you can definitely arrange a visit from Paris yourself, you can also book a guided tour . It makes visiting a breeze (and you’ll learn a ton too!).

Lines are incredibly long, so pre-purchase tickets in advance online. Keep in mind a museum pass will NOT let you skip the security line (everyone must wait in the security, though pass holders may have access to a shorter security line).

There are several different areas of the palace and grounds you’ll want to visit during your trip:

• The Gardens – the gardens of the palace are gorgeous and cover a huge tract of land. There are also plenty of sculptures and fountains to admire as well.
• The Main Palace – This is where you’ll spend most of your time (plan for at least 2-3 hours) as there are over 2,300 rooms in the palace itself. Some of the more famous rooms are the Hall of Mirrors, Marie-Antoinette’s bedrooms, and the King’s Apartments and Royal Bedchamber.
• Trianon Estate – These buildings are much less crowded than the main palace though equally as stunning. If you have an entire day, be sure to spend time exploring the Grand and Petit Trianon.
• The Queen’s Hamlet – This rustic getaway was built for Marie Antoinette in 1783 as a place where she could escape palace life and enjoy some private time with her closest friends.

Since this is one of the most popular tourist sites in the country, you’ll need some tips to help you make the most of your visit. These tips will help you save money, beat the crowds, and have a memorable visit:

1. Book online – To ensure there is space, book your ticket in advance online. It will save you some time on arrival. You can book tickets here . The Passport ticket is the best option.

2. Get there early – Around 10 million people visit the palace every year (an average of over 27,000 people per day). Expect lots of tour buses and queues. These buses come early so you need to get there before them right when the palace opens.

3. Or get there late – If you can’t get there early, get there at the end of the day when the crowds have died down and the tour groups have left. Just never go in the middle of the day. The crowds are huge!

4. Avoid the weekends – It’s so busy here on the weekends that the palace is too crowded to even enjoy. Stick to the weekdays.

5. Buy a Paris Museum Pass – While it won’t let you skip the security line, it will give you priority access once you’re inside. You can get yours here .

6. Get free admission – Admission to The Gardens is free during the low season (November-March) and it’s also free when there are no Musical Fountains Shows and Musical Gardens going on. On the first Sunday of every month from November to March, the entire estate is free (including the Palace).

7. Don’t eat at the palace – There are some restaurants in the palace but they are expensive. They also have long lines. Eat elsewhere to save your time and money. (If you do eat here, plan to wait in line.)

8. Don’t follow the crowd – Most people see the Palace first then the gardens then Marie-Antoinette’s Estate. Go in reverse order to avoid the biggest crowds.

9. Get a guide – If you really want to take a deep dive into the palace, take a guided tour. Guided tours cover specific areas of the palace, many of which are off-limits otherwise. The Private Apartments of the King’s was a 90-minute tour and is an additional 10 EUR. It covers a lot of rooms not seen by the public. I highly recommend it.

For a skip-the-line tour of the Palace, book here . It’s worth the price and you’ll learn way more than if you just go solo.

10. Download an audio guide – You can get a free audio guide at the palace, or download their free app . You can also get Rick Steve’s audio guide , as it is free and has a lot more detail (and more corny jokes!).

11. Enter for free – Free admission is available to anyone under 18 as well as EU residents under 26. Additionally, persons with disabilities (and one person accompanying them) will also qualify for free admission — just be sure to bring proper ID if you qualify.

12. Check the weather – If you plan to explore the Gardens, dress accordingly. That might mean a hat and sunblock, or a rain coat and umbrella. Either way, plan ahead and be prepared!  

• RER Line C to Versailles Château – Rive Gauche, followed by a 10-minute walk to the Palace.
• SNCF train from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers, followed by a 20-minute walk to the Palace.
• SNCF train from Gare Saint Lazare to Versailles Rive Droite, followed by a 20-minute walk to the Palace.

How much are tickets? Tickets are 32 EU per person. This is for “The Passport” ticket, which will give you access to the palace tours (for the grounds, Trianon Palaces, and Marie Antoinette’s estate), as well as access to the Musical Fountain Show, the Musical Gardens, and any ongoing exhibitions. It’s the best value ticket, especially if you want to see everything.

If you just want to see the Palace, tickets are 21 EUR.

Where is the Palace of Versailles located? The Palace of Versailles is located at Place d’Armes, Versailles. It’s about an hour from Paris by car or by train.

When is the best time to visit the Palace of Versailles? The summer offers the best weather, though you’ll also face bigger crowds. Consider visiting in the shoulder season (late spring/early fall) as you’ll get decent weather with significantly fewer crowds. Weekends are also busy so try visiting during the week.

How much time do you need at Versailles? Before you can decide how long to spend at Versailles, you’ll need to consider some things. Are you a die-hard history buff? Are you going to have a guide or audio guide? Do you plan on seeing the garden too?

If you are just going to see the main highlights and aren’t a huge history buff, I’d plan for two-three hours. If you want to really soak the place in, plan for a half-day trip. And if you want to enjoy everything, see the Garden, and not rush, plan for a full day.

Is the Palace of Versailles worth visiting? The Palace of Versailles is definitely worth visiting! While it will require some planning, you’ll learn a lot about French history and see one of the most incredible buildings in the world. No visit to Paris would be complete without seeing the Palace of Versailles with your own eyes!

The Palace of Versailles is one of my favorite things to visit in Paris . I’ve been five or six times now and never get tired of seeing it. Thanks to an increasing number of tour groups, it’s a lot more crowded than it used to be, but there are still ways to enjoy it and take in the opulence, history, and beauty of the palace and surrounding gardens.

This place is truly gigantic and should not be rushed. Be sure to visit the secondary palaces too as they are just as beautiful and have a lot fewer crowds! Don’t miss this place!

For more in-depth information, check out my guidebook to Paris written for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Paris. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on- and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, transportation and safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today!

Book Your Trip to Paris: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Some of my favorite places to stay are:

• St. Christopher’s Canal
• 3 Ducks Hostel

If you’re looking for more places to stay, click here for a complete list my favorite hostels in Paris . If you prefer hotels, here’s a list of my favorite hotels in the city .

And, if you’re wondering what part of town to stay in, here’s my neighborhood breakdown of the city.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• InsureMyTrip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Plan your visit

Due to Olympic Games events being held in the park of the Estate of Versailles, certain areas of the park are not accessible to the public. Visitors, whether on foot, horseback or bicycle, are asked not to go through the gates and barriers. Find out more about conditions of access to the park .

The Palace of Versailles Park remains open every day, free of charge, and accessible via the Gardens, the Queen's Gate and the Saint-Anthony's Gate .

useful information for your visit

• The Palace is open every day except Monday . The Palace opens at 9 am; the Trianon estate opens at noon, from Tuesday to Sunday.
• Remember to book the audioguide , available in 12 languages. A distribution desk is available in the Vestibule of the Gabriel's Pavilion (every day except on Mondays).
• The mobile app is also available. Download the audio tours, consult the opening times in real time and follow your tour on the interactive map of the estate.
• Open every day, the Park and Gardens are free from November to March. From April to October, access to the Gardens is charged from Tuesday to Sunday (days of the Fountains shows and Musical Gardens ).

Find the conditions access to the Park during the Olympic period from June 10 to September 15

• To make the most of your visit at Versailles, plan to spend a full day in the estate. Read our advices to better organize your visit. 
• Guided tours allow you to visit otherwise closed rooms and then to directly join free visit routes. 
• With Tootbus, take advantage of a combined ticket (bus journey from Paris + Passport ticket).
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Getting to the Palace

Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles

Check out the interactive map Bienvenue à Versailles

Opening times & Access

To ensure the anti-terrorist security plan, opening hours of the gates have changed , every bag or vehicle is controlled upon access and  large baggage items are not admitted on the Estate (exceeding 55x35x25 cm). Find out more

See the rules of visit

Read the FAQ   Conditions for free admission  

Opening hours

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From the seat of power to a museum of the history of France

The estate of Trianon

A place of intimacy

The Gardens

The art of perspective

The Great Stables

The Coach Gallery

A haven of greenery

The estate of Marly

The small stables.

The Sculptures and Mouldings Gallery

The Royal Tennis Court

A Testament to the French Revolution

Visit the estate

Are included:

The Palace with timed entry;

The estate of Trianon ;

The temporary exhibitions ;

The Gardens  and the Park .

Full rate 32,00€

Palace ticket

The temporary exhibitions  presented there;

Starting from 21,00€

Estate of Trianon ticket

The tempory exibitions  presented there;

Starting from 12,00€

"1 year in Versailles" card

Unlimited access to the whole estate of Versailles ;

Skip the line access to the Palace ;

An exclusive cultural program ;

Numerous discounts .

Starting from 65,00€

Enjoy all of Versailles

Guides will get you through hiden places of the Palace of Versailles and make your journey in Versailles exceptional.   

Entertainment and fun

Guides, cultural mediation professional, artists will make you discover Versailles in different ways for all the family. 

Services on site

To learn more about the Palace during your visit, remember to book the audioguide available in 12 languages. You can pick it up at a special counter in the Vestibule of the Gabriel Pavilion or book it online.

Mobile Application

Rabbids at Versailles

The Rabbids have invaded the Gardens of Versailles! You have to repair the damage and flush them out to send them back where they came from!

Plan my visit

guided tours

During guided tours, a speaker from the Palace invites you into lesser known locations otherwise closed to the visitors. You can also book online tours to discover the backstage of the Castle from your home!

Free access

Opening of the Gallery of Coaches

Located in the Great Stable of the Palace of Versailles, the Gallery of Coaches opens its doors on Saturdays and Sundays until the end of October, free of charge, from 12:30 to 18:30 (last admission 17:45).

The Palace offers a whole set of services on site

Patronage Token

Make a 8 € donation and join the community of Versailles patrons. Offer it to your loved ones as well!

Versailles Day Trips from Paris: Itinerary & Best Guided Tours

Versailles – it’s the epitome of opulence and a must-visit destination on any Parisian adventure.

When I think of this former palace of the Sun King, I can’t help but envision the lavish lifestyle of the French royals, strolling through the grand halls and picturesque gardens.

As a self-proclaimed Paris local, I’ve made numerous day trips to Versailles, and it remains one of my favorite escapes from the bustling city.

From the stunning architecture to the rich history, this day trip offers something for everyone. And it’s incredibly easy to get to from the center of Paris, so there’s no excuse to miss out on this unforgettable experience.

Throughout this article, I’ll be sharing my personal insights and local tips for visiting Versailles on a day trip from Paris.

You’ll learn how to get there, the best way to explore the palace and gardens, and some fantastic tour options that’ll make your trip truly memorable.

So, why not join me and let Marie Antoinette be your guide for a day?

Table of Contents

About the Iconic Palace of Versailles

Versailles is a charming suburb located just outside Paris, France, and is known for its stunning Château de Versailles – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It really is a must-see while visiting Paris.

Let me transport you back in time to 1623 when Versailles was built by King Louis XIII. It was home to none other than Marie Antoinette and King Louis XIV and served as the center of power in France for over a century.

Now, let’s fast forward to the present day – Versailles is a top European tourist destination with more than 8 million visitors each year!

People from all corners of the globe come to explore the many marvels and immerse themselves in the lives of French royalty.

The pièce de résistance of Versailles is the Château de Versailles, also known as the Sun King’s palace. Constructed by Louis XIV, it was home to royalty until the French Revolution in 1789. Let me tell you, the palace is truly a sight to behold!

When you visit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its grand rooms, such as:

• Hall of Mirrors
• Grand Trianon
• Petit Trianon

Not to mention, the palace is also home to the Royal Opera, where you can attend performances, as well as the Queen’s Hamlet and Marie Antoinette’s Estate of Trianon. If that’s not enough, don’t forget the palace gardens designed by André Le Nôtre – they’re an attraction in their own right.

What to Expect in Versailles

In Versailles, the vibe is more relaxed than in Paris, yet with the charm of clean streets and stunning architecture. With a healthy mix of shops, museums, gardens, and churches, this lovely town offers a taste of French culture without the overwhelming chaos.

As someone who’s been living in Paris for almost five years and has visited Versailles numerous times, I can assure you the crowds here are nothing like the queues in Paris.

Even during the summer season, you can expect shorter lines for tickets and palace entry. That being said, I would still highly recommend booking tickets well in advance for tours of the Palace.

Is Visiting Versailles Worth It?

You may be wondering – Is visiting Versailles worth it? And if you haven’t guessed already, the answer is a resounding: yes, absolutely!

I’ve visted Versailles multiple times, I can tell you that it’s the palace to see. Plus, it’s just a few minutes’ train ride away from Paris, so there’s no excuse not to go.

Seeing Versailles’ jaw-dropping gardens, the Trianon estate, and Marie Antoinette’s hamlet is like stepping into a fairy tale. If you have a day to spare, you can still squeeze in a memorable day trip from Paris to Versailles.

Best Things to Do in Versailles on a Day Trip

Visit versailles palace.

Of course, when you visit Versailles exploring the iconic Versailles Palace is a must-do. Been there myself several times, and I’ve got to say, the Hall of Mirrors and Grand Trianon are seriously impressive. Opt for a guided tour of the Palace, and they’ll even pick you up from your Paris hotel!

Discover the Grand Trianon

Take a stroll through the palace grounds, and you’ll come across Grand Trianon, a smaller version of the main palace, built by King Louis XIV for his personal use. You’ll love exploring the rooms filled with art and antiques from that time period.

Wander through the Hall of Mirrors

The Hall of Mirrors is easily one of the best parts of the Versailles Palace. Imagine 357 mirrors and 17 marble arches reflecting the palace’s beauty. I still get chills thinking about the grand ceremonies that took place here!

Roam the Gardens of Versailles

Ah, the Gardens of Versailles – don’t even get me started on their beauty. Walk through these sprawling grounds, and you’ll find breathtaking sculptures, fountains, and ponds. Not to mention, their famous summer musical show is a must-see!

Explore Eglise Notre Dame de Versailles

A short walk from the palace, you’ll find the eye-catching Notre Dame Church. Dating back to 1163, the impressive altar and stained glass windows are definitely worth a peek.

Attend a Show at the Royal Opera of Versailles

Right near the main palace, you’ll find the Royal Opera, an incredible venue for concerts, plays, and performances. Plus, the art and antiques exhibited in there are simply amazing.

Visit Marie Antoinette’s Estate

Venture through the beautiful Trianon Estate, where the spirit of Marie Antoinette somehow still lingers. It’s a lovely way to spend some time, walking in the footsteps of this famous queen.

Stroll through the Queen’s Hamlet

The Queen’s Hamlet, a small estate in the Versailles gardens, was built by Marie Antoinette for her own little escape. It’s got charming cottages, barns, and other buildings – perfect for a romantic wander.

Marvel at the Gallery of Coaches

If you’re a history buff like me, you’ll love the Gallery of Coaches housed in the Great Stables of the Palace. Over 100 royal coaches from the 17th and 18th centuries await you!

Picnic in the Park of Versailles

Nothing beats a picnic in the picturesque Park of Versailles after a day of sightseeing. Find a nice spot or a bench, unwind, and enjoy some lovely food surrounded by nature.

Admire the Fountain of Apollo

Finally, don’t forget to check out the iconic Fountain of Apollo in the Parc de Versailles. Built in 1668 and surrounded by statues of gods and goddesses, it’s a great spot to appreciate the beauty of nature during your visit.

As an almost 5-year Paris resident, I can assure you that visiting Versailles is an experience you won’t forget. Just follow my tips, and you’re in for a fantastic day trip!

How to Get to Versailles from Paris

Now that I’ve (hopefully) convinced you why you should visit Versailles on a day trip from Paris, let’s talk about the journey to get there.

First off, trains are your best friends when traveling from Paris to Versailles. The RER C line will whisk you from the heart of the city to Versailles in about 30-45 minutes. Just make sure to catch the right train and get off at “ Versailles Château – Rive Gauche ” station.

Another option, though it takes slightly longer, is the train line L with a one-hour journey. To make life easier, get your tickets in advance, which should cost around €4.

If you have a Navigo pass or a multiple-day transport pass, you’re in luck: those work on these train lines too!

Once you arrive at the “Versailles-Chantiers” station, a casual 17-minute stroll will land you in front of the palace gates. Feel the wind in your hair (or beret) as you take in the impressive history of this majestic estate.

The Ultimate Versailles Day Trip Itinerary

Begin your day by taking the RER line C from Saint Lazare station in Paris around 8:00-9:00 am. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes, so grab a croissant and coffee for breakfast at the station.

Once you arrive at the Versailles-Chantiers station, make your way to the Palace of Versailles. From 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, explore the palace, including the iconic Hall of Mirrors, Grand Trianon, and Petit Trianon.

Don’t forget to admire the beautiful grounds! I suggest this skip-the-line entry ticket which includes admission, a guided tour, and roundtrip transportation from Paris.

For lunch, head to one of the nearby cafes or restaurants. I personally recommend Le Bistrot du 11 for modern French cuisine or Restaurant Les Quatre Saisons for a more upscale experience.

Next, from 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm, visit the Queen’s Hamlet and Marie Antoinette’s Estate of Trianon. Enjoy the scenic surroundings and relax after your lunch.

From 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm, admire the Fountain of Apollo and wander around the Park of Versailles. If you brought a picnic, this is the perfect spot to enjoy it while taking in the beauty of nature. I usually find a spot on the grass for a full immersive experience.

Finally, head back to the Versailles-Chantiers station around 4:30 pm and catch the train back to Paris. You’ll arrive around 6:00 pm, just in time for a well-deserved dinner!

Through my multiple visits to Versailles, both solo and on guided tours, this itinerary has been the most fulfilling way to experience the palace, gardens, and the charming town in a single day. Enjoy your unforgettable Versailles day trip!

Best Tips for Visiting Versailles

As I’ve said, I’ve visited Versailles many times – both on my own and on guided tours. With that, I’ve gathered some helpful tips to share with you for your visit!

Reserve your tickets beforehand : Trust me, the lines at the Château de Versailles can be lengthy. To save time and focus on exploring, simply book tickets in advance online or at the ticket office.

Try a guided tour : Let’s face it, having a knowledgeable guide can really elevate the experience. You can find tours that provide transportation from Paris, speedy entry, and an expert guide (or audio guide) to enhance your understanding of the palace.

I personally recommend this guided Versailles tour to make your experience more unforgettable.

Look beyond the Palace : Of course, the Palace is a must-see, but Versailles has so much more to offer! Be sure to also explore Marie Antoinette’s Estate and wander through the stunning gardens.

Time is of the essence : In order to have an meaningful visit, plan to spend at least two hours exploring both the palace and the grounds. But why stop there? If you can spare 3 or 4 hours, you’ll be able to appreciate even more that Versailles has to offer outside the palace.

Where to Stay in Versailles

After a full day of exploring Versailles, you might consider extending your trip and staying overnight to discover more of the city. Versailles has various accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences.

Here are a couple of my top picks for where to stay near the palace:

Hôtel Le Versailles ($$)

I often recommend Hôtel Le Versailles to friends visiting the area. This gem is located in Versailles’ city center and is just a stone’s throw away from the palace. Offering excellent value, the hotel features air-conditioned rooms, flat-screen TVs, and free WiFi.

Rooms come equipped with either a shower or bathtub, a hairdryer, and a work desk. The full buffet breakfast, available in the dining room or on the hotel terrace, is the perfect way to kickstart your day. If you’re looking for an evening snack or drink, you’ll appreciate the available room service.

Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace ($$$)

If you’re seeking a luxurious stay, the Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace is an exquisite choice. The hotel is centrally located in Versailles and combines modern design with antique furniture, making it a unique experience. You can choose between rooms and suites in the historic Palace building or the contemporary Pavilion.

Each guest room boasts a fireplace, balcony, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, minibar, and tea and coffee facilities. The property spans across eight acres of lush greenery and houses two restaurants and a bar.

You’ll also have complimentary access to the relaxing Spa Guerlain facilities, complete with a swimming pool and fitness room. For a fine dining experience and delicious cocktails, try the Michelin-starred Gordon Ramsay au Trianon Restaurant. Alternatively, the hotel’s brasserie, La Véranda, offers meals throughout the day with a beautiful view of Versailles.

These are just two incredible accommodations I’ve experienced during my time in Paris and numerous visits to Versailles. They both provide a comfortable stay and are conveniently located near the palace, ensuring that you make the most of your visit to this magnificent city.

Thanks for reading!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a versailles day trip from paris possible.

You bet! It’s a breeze to take a day trip to Versailles from Paris. Just hop on a train or join one of the available tours, complete with transportation and skip-the-line privileges.

Is it worth spending a day at Versailles?

Definitely! Versailles ranks among Europe’s most awe-inspiring palaces, so it’s well worth allocating a whole day to soak in its splendor. You won’t run out of things to do, whether it’s wandering the grounds and gardens, visiting Marie Antoinette’s Estate, or taking a guided tour of the palace itself.

What are some nice lodgings near Versailles?

You’re in luck, because there’s a variety of Versailles-accommodating hotels to suit your preferences and wallet. My personal recommendations include Hôtel Le Versailles and Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace for cozy stays in the palace’s vicinity.

How much time should I allot for a Paris-to-Versailles day trip?

Typically, a day trip from Paris to Versailles takes around 2-3 hours. However, I suggest hanging around for the entire day to explore the palace and gardens at leisure.

Are tickets or reservations necessary for a Versailles visit?

Absolutely. Entry to the palace requires a ticket, which you can either purchase online or at the entrance. Take my advice: save yourself some waiting time in queues by booking skip-the-line tickets ahead of time.

Speaking from personal experience, as someone who has lived in Paris for almost five years and visited Versailles numerous times (both solo and on guided tours), feel free to refer to me as your go-to expert on all things Paris and Versailles. Remember, I’m here to simplify complex topics, making your trip to Versailles as enjoyable and well-informed as possible.

This 10-page Paris travel guide includes:

• Practical tips for visiting Paris
• The best foods to eat in Paris
• The best restaurants in Paris (my top picks for breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• The top things to do and see in Paris (including day trips, scenic tours, museums, attractions, and more)
• The best (and worst) places to stay in Paris, including my top picks for hotels in each area

All links in this PDF are clickable so you can book your tours and hotels directly!

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12 Best Things To Do In Versailles, France

By: Author Christine Rogador

Posted on Published: December 16, 2019  - Last updated: September 20, 2022

The town of Versailles is almost synonymous with its top attraction, the massive Château of Versailles . With its size and the various interesting sights within its grounds, it’s easy to see why. Most Paris itineraries almost always include a side trip to the chateau , as it is a short bus ride away from the French capital.

More than its famous attraction, though, Versailles has so much in it that’s just waiting to be discovered. From food markets to cute cafes to interesting museums, check out this list of the best things to do in Versailles, France.

Things you'll find in this article

Opening Hours:

Admission fee:, contact information:, hall of mirrors, cour des senteurs (courtyard of fragrances), costumed photoshoot, attend a ball at versailles, versailles cathedral, the royal opera house, le potager du roi, travel tips and resources, chateau de versailles.

It will probably take days to fully explore the chateau. Its total room number? Two thousand three hundred! Definitely not something you can do in one day. Still, even if you’ll only see parts of Chateau de Versailles, you’ll surely have a better appreciation of art and glamor.

Originally a hunting lodge owned by the father of Louis XIV, it was converted into a grandiose residence in the late 1600s. It was essentially an opulent symbol for the extremely fancy world of King Louis XIV.

No matter how popular and touristy this is, visiting the chateau is still one of the best things to do in Versailles.

Open every day except on Mondays, 25 December and 1 January Opening times: 9.00 am – 5.30 pm Last admission: 5 pm Ticket office closes at 4.50 pm

Palace ticket -18 €

The Palace ticket includes the admission to: the Palace (with the audioguide) the temporary exhibitions held in the Palace the Gardens (except on Musical Fountain Shows or Musical Gardens days) and the Park the Coach Gallery

Passport Tickets:

This ticket gives access to the whole area of ​​Versailles and Trianon.

20 € -Without Musical Fountain Shows or Musical Gardens

27 €-With Musical Fountain Shows or Musical Gardens

Access to the Palace of Versailles and the estate of Trianon is free for everyone below 18 years old, residents of the European Union below 26 years old, teachers in French schools, people with disabilities and one accompanying person.

Address: Place d’Armes 78000 Versailles France Phone:+ 33130837800

Gardens of Versailles

The grandness of the chateau extends further into its stunning gardens . The Gardens of Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, too.

Stroll through 800 hectares of well-manicured lawns, lush gardens, wild greenery, sculptures, and rare flowers. This is another great thing to do in Versailles that allows you to somehow experience life in a French royal court.

The Gardens of Versailles is beautiful at any time of the year. However, spring and summer in the come with evening fountain shows that are a must-see!

Every day from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Passport tickets:

The Passport ticket includes the admission to: the Palace (with the audioguide) the temporary exhibitions held in the Palace the Gardens and the Park the Musical Fountain Shows or the Musical Garden the Coach Gallery

20 € -Without Musical Fountain Shows or Musical Gardens 27 €-With Musical Fountain Shows or Musical Gardens

2-day Passport The Passport includes the admission to the whole Estate 25 € -Without Musical Fountain Shows or Musical Gardens 30 €-With Musical Fountain Shows or Musical Gardens

If you’re pressed for time and you need to see just one attraction inside the chateau, make it the Hall of mirrors. This is basically a meeting area and passageway that connects the apartments of the king and queen. This breathtaking hall is decorated with 350 mirrors, along with 17 mirror arches.

These arches reflect 17 gilded and arcaded windows. The setup then creates a splendid gold and crystal effect. Easily one of the best things to see in Versailles, be sure to go early to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy this magical sparkly place.

Académie Équestre de Versailles (Versailles Academy of Equestrian Arts)

A unique thing to do in Versailles involves an elegant sport that’s quite fun to watch — equestrian. It is headed by Bartabas, who also started the world’s most spectacular equestrian circus ballet. The Académie Équestre de Versailles is one of the few places that teaches equestrian choreography and dressage.

The Academie is open to the public but the best time to visit is the weekend so you can watch dressage demonstrations and equestrian shows. These events feature academy trained riders, and the choreography is of course by Bartabas.

Every Sunday at 10.30 am

Guided tour in French only

Heritage and non-guided tour:

Wednesdays and Saturdays from 01:30 pm to 04:00 pm.

Full price: 15 € Child price under 18 years old: 10 €

Booking required (only 30 places)

For Heritage and non- guided tour – 22 €

Address: Académie équestre de Versailles Manège de la Grande Ecurie du Château de Versailles Avenue Rockefeller 78000 Versaille Phone:+33139026270 Email:[email protected]

A literal feast for the senses, the Courtyard of Fragrances brings more than just a symphony of scents. Definitely one of the best places to visit in Versailles, it is a must to spend at least a few hours here.

Walk around the garden that has plants used in making perfumes , and you’ll come out smelling divine. This courtyard also has a museum, a gourmet cafe, and perfume shops.

The Cour des Senteurs is located close to the palace entrance. Spending time here is a good way to relax after all the exploring.

Since you’re already in Versailles and getting acquainted with the grand chateau, how about a little dress-up party? Head towards the Costumes and Châteaux and live the life (or at least the fashion) of Versailles. Have your photo taken wearing different costumes and wigs.

They have a variety of costumes for both men and women, wigs and other accessories. This dress-up photo shoot is a fun activity to do in Versailles and a great souvenir for your visit.

Complete your Chateau de Versailles experience by attending a ball in the palace. That’s right — you get to dress up like royalty and you get to attend a ball in the palace as well. This is one of the best things to do in Versailles at night, a definite must experience.

There are two types of ball that you can attend in Versailles. One of these is the modern Grand Masked Ball of Versailles, which plays club music and held at the chateau’s Orangerie. The other is the more formal Fetes Galantes, which is held in the Hall of Mirrors. It’s probably something most would love to try, just be sure to brush up on your period dancing skills before you go.

The Baroque style Versailles Cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of Versailles. It was built as a simple parish church in the 18th century and survived the French Revolution.

It was consecrated as a cathedral in the mid-1800s and now considered as a French National monument. The church is one of the best attractions in Versailles and home to a number of beautiful period art.

The Royal Opera House in Versailles is regarded as one of the most beautiful in all of Europe. It was designed and constructed to serve a lot of purposes for the aristocrats back in the day. It was an opera house, a theater, a banquet hall, and a ballroom. This is one of the best places to visit in Versailles, and attending a concert here is a must. This way, you get to experience the opera house’ magnificent beauty while being entertained.

Musée Lambinet

Yes, there are museums outside the royal palace and one of them is the storybook-like Musée Lambinet. This beautiful structure made up of thirty rooms you can explore was owned by the Lambinet family.

The items on display inside cover a variety of subjects from architecture to local culture and history. From the outside, it’s like a fairytale castle rather than a museum.

If you’re looking for something different, the Musée Lambinet is an interesting place to visit in Versailles. After you’re done exploring, be sure to visit the cute cafe outside.

Every day except Friday

2:00 p.m to 6:00 p.m.

Address:54, rue du Boulevard de la Reine 78000 Versailles Phone:+33130972875

Le Potager du Roi literally translates to ‘the King’s vegetable garden’.  It was constructed during the time of Louis XIV as a kitchen garden. Today, visitors can wander around the area among the flowers, vegetables, and shrubs.

The Le Potager du Roi is one of Versailles’ top attractions, which also operates as a mini-market. During certain times of the year, you can even buy some of the vegetables grown here.

Versailles Markets

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The Versailles Markets may not look as bright and grandiose as the famous palace, but it is as luxurious. The town’s market culture goes back to a few centuries ago.

Today, a visit to the markets is among the best things to fo in Versailles during weekends. Sample some delicious French food or wine , or stock up on delicacies and even souvenirs you can bring home.

A few recommended markets are the Market of Notre Dame, for fresh French food like brioche or frogs legs. If you prefer organic produce, head towards the Jussieu-Montreuil market.

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

What To Wear: If you want some ideas on what to pack for France, check out this packing list guide for France .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Reading Resources: Check out our best reading resources here .

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.

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Tips For Visiting Versailles. Is One Trip Enough?

Yes, you can see Versailles with just “one” visit; however, you’ll likely miss a lot. It is impossible to see everything in just one day. There’s much more than just the Château de Versailles. I have visited Versailles 5 times and I’d still like to go back. In this post, I share my tips for visiting Versailles-seeing many of the most impressive parts on the grounds over multiple trips.

*This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I get a small commission at no extra charge to you. It helps support the running of this website and I do appreciate your help.*

Table of contents

1. versailles is immense , 1. first visit: touring versailles with a guide, 2. second visit: self-guided tour of the palais de versailles, 3. third visit: bicycle to the queen’s hamlet and other palaces, 4. fourth visit: marie-antoinette evening show, 5. fifth visit: fountain show-musical gardens, 3. guided tours and events at versailles palace to consider, 4. opening hours and event days at versailles, 5. easiest way to get from paris to versailles: rer or sncf, 6. frequently asked questions (faq).

Versailles is one of the most popular attractions in France, with over 7 million visitors annually. It was originally a country residence and in 1631, Louis XIII decided to rebuild it but it was King Louis XIV, the Sun King (ie. Roi Soleil), who really transformed the hunting lodge and grounds into a grand palace with the Hall of Mirrors and formal gardens. 

Today the Château is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the entire estate covers an immense area. When you see these impressive statistics you’ll realize it is too big to see it all in one day:

• The palace alone is 67,000 square meters and has over 2300 rooms
• The Versailles estate covers 2014 acres
• 50 fountains
• 200,000 trees
• A grand canal that’s almost 6 kilometres long

2. Tips For Visiting Versailles: Go Multiple Times

In order to take advantage of all that Versailles has to offer, the best way to see Versailles is to go back….a few times. Here are 5 different visits to Versailles that you could make:

My first time visiting Versailles Palace was on a tour which actually was part of a full-day tour to see Giverny and Versailles- half a day at each place with lunch in-between. This is the tour: “ ”. 

Taking a “skip the line” tour even if it’s not with transportation included is a good idea for a first-timer because you get commentary and priority access to the palace with a guide. You will have little to no time to explore the grounds, however. 

Also, check out these .

The second time my friend and I visited Versailles on our way to Paris from Normandy. We lined up for tickets and went through the palace on our own. It was summertime and crowded but I don’t recall that the lineup to get tickets was that bad. Getting tickets online, in advance would be a good idea.

For my third time to Versailles, I skipped the palace and went straight to the gardens where I rented a bicycle and explored the estate. [Entry to these two areas are free]. I also visited the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Marie-Antoinette’s hamlet (Hameau de la Reine).

As the Palais de Versailles wasn’t enough for King Louis XVI, he had the Grand Trianon constructed not far away. This was his retreat from the madness of the court. 

Marie Antoinette also needed a place to escape and the King gave her the Petit Trianon (Little Trianon), a smaller palace in the same park as the Grand Trianon. He also had a working farm created for her. Marie-Antoinette invited friends to join her and together they could pretend they were peasants and commoners. In this hamlet, there were many buildings and components of a farm including a Queen’s house with billiards room, a windmill, cottages, a dairy farm, and a dovecote and pigeon coops.

Check out where you can rent a bike and see all the sights on the grounds of Versailles: Rent A Bike To Explore Versailles .

My fourth time to Versailles was to see the Le Destin d’Une Reine. This nighttime spectacle took place in the Jardins d’Orangerie and it was the perfect setting to learn about Marie-Antoinette—her rise and fall. Versailles at night with the light show is quite magical as I wrote in this post: Château de Versailles Spectacle . There were characters in illuminated costumes, floating hot air balloons, and best of all, fireworks. It was accompanied by classical music and French commentary by Stephane Bern (with English subtitles).

Do consider getting tickets if the show is offered again. It took place in 2018 and 2019 but was cancelled due to Coronavirus in 2020.

My fifth time to Versailles was actually the day after the Marie-Antoinette show. Although my friend and I just wanted to visit the Versailles gardens, it was “musical fountain” (Les Grandes Eaux Musicales) day, so we had to pay an extra admission. This special event takes place on weekends from April to October so if you don’t care about seeing the musical fountains do not go on those days.

I’ll be honest and say that after attending the Marie-Antoinette event, the musical fountains were a BIG disappointment. It was very crowded and the jets of water timed to classical music just weren’t that “grand” to me. I would imagine, however, that the evening show, which culminates with a fireworks finale (Les Grands Eaux Nocturnes-Night Fountains Show) would be much better. 

There are other guided tours (check out what’s available ) at Versailles and I have yet to take a tour of the King’s private apartments or attend any of the special events held at Versailles. A guide from the Palace takes you to the private apartments of King Louis XIV and King Louis XV. This tour no longer takes visitors into the Royal Chapel (La Chapelle Royale). As of 2021, the chapel is currently being restored. You can only see it from the entrance. 

Throughout the year and during the annual Versailles Festival, there are so many events such as galas in the Hall of Mirrors, a grand masked ball, operas in the Royal Opera, concerts, baroque dance classes, ballets, and costume balls. These will be for future visits.

[Note: entrance to both the park and garden are free except on days when the musical fountains take place. Only the park is open to the public during the Covid lockdown].

• Palace at Château de Versailles-open Tuesday to Sunday 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
• Park-open 7 days a week, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Gardens-open 7 days a week, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Trianon Estate-open Tuesday to Sunday 12:00-5:30 pm
• Water Fountain Shows: weekends throughout the day
• Night Fountain Shows: Saturday evenings in the summer

Taking a guided tour from Paris will make it easier for you as you’ll have the bus transportation, priority entry, and commentary from a tour guide. For future visits, however, I’d suggest you take the Paris Metro (RER) on your own.  

Take the RER (line C) from Paris to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station. It takes about 1 hour and once you arrive it’s a short 10-minute walk to the château. Just follow the crowd. Note: the Metro fare must cover zones 1-4. You can use the Navigo or Paris Visite passes as well.  Don’t worry if you’re attending a show at Versailles at night. You will catch the last train back to Paris. 

You can also take the SNCF trains from Gare Montparnasse or Gare Saint Lazare but they take you to Versailles Chantiers train station and Versailles Rive Droite train station respectively. Both require a longer walk (17-18 minutes) to the palace.

Yes, entry to the grounds at Versailles is free but not on those days that the Fountain Show and Musical Garden shows take place. To access the gardens at Versailles, head to the top left-hand side of the Cour d’Honneur (Ceremonial courtyard) and go through the gate to the Cour des Princes (Princes courtyard).

If you aren’t interested in seeing the musical fountains, visit Versailles on a weekday. Consider “entering” the palace later in the afternoon once the tour buses have left. it will be less crowded. Just remember the Château is closed on Mondays and the last entrance is at 5:00 pm.

If it’s your first time going to Versailles, allocate a whole day. Yes, you can do a day trip from Paris to Versailles. Travel time will be about 1 hour from Paris and you’ll want to explore the gardens and park before or after visiting the Château. 

Château de Versailles ( Official website ) offers different tickets depending on what you want to see. If you are not going to take a tour, I’d suggest buying your tickets online, in advance so you can avoid the long lineups at the gate. General admission ticket to the palace with an audio guide = 18 €  -timed entry -the Paris Museum Pass will give you admission to the palace, gardens, Trianon estate, and Queen’s hamlet. -access to the gardens and the Queen’s hamlet is only free on days when the musical fountains do not take place (even if you have the Paris Museum Pass) -Passport (with priority admission to the palace and Trianon estate plus timed entry) = 20-28.50 € depending on if you attend on a day when the fountains show and musical gardens take place -Trianon estate entrance: 12 € -Musical fountains show: 10.5 € -Musical gardens show: 10 € -Guided tours: 10 € (in addition to the general admission price)

I hope these tips for visiting Versailles Palace have been helpful. As mentioned previously, you should consider repeat visits because there is so much to see and experience besides the palace such as Marie-Antoinette’s hamlet, the Petit Trianon, and attending the musical fountains or Versailles spectacles that end with fireworks. Versailles should not be rushed. Every visit will impress you so keep going back!

*Prices are subject to change and can be found on the official Versailles website.

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I've travelled to France 38 times and love sharing my tips and unique experiences not always mentioned in travel guides. You can learn more about me by visiting my About Page . Subscribe to join my newsletter. Community members get access to free exclusive content and bonuses.

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Saturday, Aug 10, 2024

12 Pro Tips for Visiting Versailles

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Visiting Versailles is on many travelers’ bucket lists, and for good reason – it’s incredibly gorgeous and so full of history! However, a little preparation will go a long way towards making your visit to Versailles extra enjoyable. I’ve teamed up with some other travel bloggers to bring you 12 of our best pro tips for visiting Versailles.

Versailles Pro Tip #1: A Cheap Hack for Traveling by Train

Contributor: lena, salut from paris.

Versailles Pro Tip #2: Use the Versailles App

Contributor: kenny, knycx journeying.

Versailles Pro Tip #3: Book a Group Tour and Pack a Picnic

Contributor: nicole, go far grow close.

Secondly, bring a picnic. The gardens in Versailles are truly magical and enormous. You will want to put on very comfortable walking shoes , put aside a few hours, and bring a delicious picnic to properly explore it. Food and drinks are served in kiosks throughout the gardens, but they are busy, expensive, and do not nearly offer the selection that you can find at supermarkets, boulangeries, and other food stores found in France for a wonderful picnic.

Versailles Pro Tip #4: Instead of Walking, BIKE!

Contributor: elisa, world in paris.

Versailles Pro Tip #5: Go When the Fountains are On

Contributor: james, travel collecting.

Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors may one of the  most famous places in France , but it is the spectacular fountains scattered throughout the gardens of Versailles that are its true jewels.

Unfortunately, the fountains are not turned on all the time. So, if you possibly can, it is well worth timing your visit with a day that the fountains are on.

There are two options:

The fountains are turned on (with a musical accompaniment) at various times throughout the day every Saturday and Sunday from late May to the end of October, as well as Bastille Day, July 14.  If you are traveling during this time and can go on the weekend, you can easily combine your tour of the palace with a day spent wandering around the gardens enjoying the stunning fountains and groves.

If you just want to see the fountains, every Saturday night from mid-June to mid-September (plus Bastille Day), there is a Night Fountains Shows from 8:30pm to 10:45pm, ending with a stunning fireworks display at the Apollo’s chariot fountain.

Versailles Pro Tip #6: Go EARLY in the Morning, Like VERY Early

Contributor:martina, placesofjuma.

A real insider tip for an unforgettable visit to the Château de Versailles is an early morning walk. Most tourists know that the castle opens at 9:00am. Only a few, however, know that the gardens can be visited from 8:00am. If you go at this time, you will be able to admire the whole area at its best. There are hardly any tourists in the morning, so you have the opportunity to take amazing photos without any crowds. When the castle opens at 9:00am, the first visitors come into the garden. The best thing about it is that since they will likely visit the castle afterwards, you still have almost the whole castle to yourself at 9:00am!

Versailles Pro Tip #7: Head to the Estate of Trianon in the Gardens for Fewer Crowds

Contributor: rachel, means to explore.

Another Tips for Visiting Versailles is Escaping the midday overwhelming crowds at the Palace of Versailles by heading into the back right corner of the legendary gardens to visit the Estate of Trianon, consisting of three houses and their gardens: the Petit Trianon, the Grand Trianon, and the Queen’s Hamlet.

These three structures are two mini-palaces and an idealized farm, but each has a unique story to tell. The Queen’s Hamlet was constructed as a romanticized version of a rural farm village, for Queen Marie Antoinette to imagine herself away from court.

The Petit Trianon provided a private getaway for a king and his mistress, and the Grand Trianon was Napoleon’s palace of choice. Each has their own gorgeous architectural details and gilded splendor that you’d see in the main palace, but with far fewer people.

If the weather is nice, walk or bike through the gardens and the park and admire the fountains and scenery. If you need to get off your feet, the mini train at the gardens entrance at the main palace will take you to the entrances of both the Petit and Grand Trianon.

Versailles Pro Tip #8: The Estate of Trianon is Free with Admission and Has a Steamy History

Contributor: haley, haley blackall.

Versailles is more than just the main palace and gardens. Located at the back of the property, adjacent to the grand canal, is the Grand Trianon, a small elegant villa. The Grand Trianon was commissioned in 1670 by Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King, to get away from the pomp of court life and pursue his affairs. He built the Petit Trianon for his best mistress, a smaller yet still elegant version of the Grand Trianon, located right next door.

Both villas boast a refined French Baroque architectural style with large walkways, pillars, and arches. Venture to the back of the Petit Trianon property and you will find the charming Temple of Love. Make sure to bring your best camera , as these sights are picture-worthy!

The Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Hamlet are all included in the ticket price for the Palace of Versailles.

Versailles Pro Tip #9: Don’t Miss A Special Night Time Experience

Contributor: angela, where angie wanders.

Versailles is a stunning place to visit during the day but as dusk falls in the summer months, a very special experience awaits first-time visitors.

Another Tips for Visiting Versailles is the Versailles Fountains and Firework show comes alive and the palace gardens become a playground of dancing fountains, baroque music and characters, bubble machines filling the air with magic, and of course the finale, the most fabulous firework show you could imagine.

Tickets need to be bought separately from the normal Versailles Palace entry but you could spend a full day here by exploring the palace in the day and then seeing the fountains and firework show in the evening.

Versailles can be reached from Paris by rail, coach, or car, or better still you can book into accommodation near Versailles and enjoy spending a few days in the area.

Versailles Pro Tip #10: Grab Some Bubbly!

Contributor: stephanie, history fan girl.

One of the most decadent things you can do in Versailles is pick up a small bottle of champagne. You can purchase it at the La Flottille Takeaway in the gardens of Versailles. From here, you can choose to drink your champagne at the tables or walk the gardens with your bubbly in hand.

The Veuve Pelletier & Fils Brut is nice champagne with a good reputation for being a quality bottle at better prices than more expensive and more well-known brands. Nothing feels fancier than walking the grounds while sipping on French champagne in a place where it once flowed freely at some of the most lavish parties in the world!

Louis XIV drank champagne at Versailles every day, so you’re just partaking in a centuries-old Versailles tradition while you visit one of the most important historic sites near Paris.

Versailles Pro Tip #11: It’s An All-Day Thing

Contributor: stephanie, wandering why traveler.

I’m a fast traveler, so I like to see as much as possible in a day. One major regret that I have regarding my trip to Versailles is that I didn’t realize that it was an all-day affair. I’ve had museums say  that their grounds take a long time, but I’m in and out in two hours.

Not the case with Versailles. It really is an all-day thing.

Waiting in line takes up a lot of time. Then there’s visiting the grounds which are  very  extensive. I didn’t realize that it’s not just a few pretty flowers. There’s row boat rides, cafes, walking paths, the royal stables, and more. EVERYTHING requires a ton of walking. And that’s even before you get to the palace which is massive and can easily take two to three hours. And THEN there’s the Domaine de Marie-Antoinette on top of all of that.

I was so cranky because I didn’t do my research and was met with severe exhaustion. Plus, I made really poor footwear and outfit choices. Make sure you rest up before your excursion, it’s a big day.

Versailles Pro Tip #12: Learn Before You Go

Contributor: erica, trip scholars.

A top tip for visiting Versailles is to make the most of your time before departure by  learning more about the historic palace. The Palace of Versailles has long been an important location for major historic events and movements. It’s much more than a visitor can take in during a single visit. Curious travelers can extend the joy of their trip by diving deep into the history of the palace in the months preceding their visit. 

Entertain and educate yourself with movies, documentaries, podcasts, books, music, and artwork all related to the history of the palace. This is exciting history, and you will find yourself always wanting to learn more! 

Once you arrive, your efforts will reward you with a much richer experience. You will understand the symbolism and myths represented throughout the palace and gardens. You will be able to see in your mind’s eye the events that changed Europe and the world as you walk through the rooms you have learned so much about. Plus, you can extend your visit into months or years of enjoyable study about one of the most fascinating places in Europe!

• August 26, 2021

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Stephanie Amb

Stephanie is a writer of travel, fiction, and New York lifestyle. She currently lives in Brooklyn and teaches full time in Queens. She is a wife and mother to one son. Stephanie is a co-founder at Tawk of New Yawk and her work has been featured in Your Life is a Trip, Teaching Traveling, and Literary Traveler.

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How To Visit Versailles from Paris in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

Sean Finelli Last Updated: May 1, 2024

Could you really come all the way to Paris and not walk in the footsteps of Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI? You won’t want to skip a trip to Versailles’ magnificent gardens and opulent palace , but you might be wondering how easy it is to get there from Paris. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place. Versailles is only a short day trip away, but you’ll need to plan your visit ahead of time. Here’s how to visit Versailles.

The Best Ways to Visit Versailles

• Book in advance, don’t just show up — the lines are insane.
• You’ll need at least 6 hours round trip from Paris.
• The grounds are huge so book a guide .
• Read this article and review our Versailles page .
• Bookmark this article so you can circle back to it later.

How to Visit Versailles from Paris: Overview and What To Expect

Since its completion in 1634, Versailles was the cultural heartbeat of Europe until 1789. It was the grandest palace the world had ever seen and quickly became the envy of every king and queen in Europe.

Today, Versailles is one of the blockbuster sites in Europe, and events here have shaped world history even up to the 20th century. The monumental architecture, gilded royal apartments, and lavish gardens are a sight to behold that leave every visitor breathless by its grandeur.

We’ll dive deeper into how to get to Versailles later, but know that the Palace of Versailles is a 45-minute drive outside of Paris or an easy 35-minute train ride away. The easiest way to get there is by taking RER (the bigger suburban trains) Line C from central Paris. You can easily connect from the underground Paris Metro to catch RER C at major stops like St. Michel (near the Notre Dame & Latin Quarter), Champ de Mars (Eiffel Tower), or Musee D’Orsay.

In this guide, we’ll explore what you need to know about tickets to Versailles, opening hours, what you should see, how to get there, and much more!

• Hours and info
• Essential tips for visiting
• How much time to spend
• Guided tours of Versailles
• What to see
• How to get to Versailles
• Places to eat nearby

Not ready to book a tour? See if a Versailles tour is worth it .

1. Versailles Palace: Hours and Info

November 1st – March 31st

• Palace of Versailles: Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 5:30 pm
• Gardens of Versailles: Daily from 8 am to 6 pm
• The Estate of Trianon: Tuesday to Sunday from 12 noon to 6:30 pm

April 1st – October 31st:

• Palace of Versailles: Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 6:30 pm
• Gardens of Versailles: Daily from 8 am to 8:30 pm
• The Estate of Trianon : Tuesday to Sunday from 12 noon to 6:30 pm

Versailles Ticket Prices:

There are actually a lot of ticket options to see Versailles on foot or even by bike or rowboat. Here are the most common ticket options and their prices:

• Versailles Palace Ticket: €19.50 (includes audio guide)
• Garden of Versailles Ticket: FREE on days without a fountain or music show
• Garden Ticket with Fountains and Music: €10.50 – €10
• Passport Ticket: €21.50 to €28.50 (Includes all of the above plus the estate of Trianon. Price varies from high to low season)
• Petit Trianon: only open for guided tours

Free or Reduced Palace of Versailles Tickets

The first Sunday of the month during November through March is actually free to the public. Anyone can explore the entire estate without a ticket. Otherwise, any non-European residents under 18 have free entry, as does any EU resident under 26. Any disabled people and one escort can also access the palace and grounds without purchasing a ticket. Finally, anyone who has a Paris Museum Pass can also enter Versailles for free.

Versailles Palace Tickets

If you decide to go it alone, an €19.50 ticket includes an audio guide and gets you access to the palace. Access to the gardens is free, except on select days when there are special events taking place in the gardens (between April and October). The fountain show runs almost every day when the weather is nice.

Versailles Garden & Musical Fountains

On certain days of the week, the gardens are not free to access as the palace has fountain and musical shows that require ticketed access. The musical fountain show ticket (when the garden’s multiple fountains are synchronized to music) costs €10.50, and a musical garden ticket (when music is played throughout the gardens) costs €10.

You can check the website for detailed information about the times and days of these events that change throughout the year. Otherwise, simplify your visit by booking a guided tour so you can access everything without a hassle.

Borgo & Trianon

The Grand and Petit Trianon are two smaller palaces (much smaller than the Château de Versailles) which were built as a sort of retreat for King Louis XVI and Queen Marie-Antoinette. Many people choose to forgo these two palaces in order to spend more time in the gardens, but they are worth visiting if you have the time. And there are fewer crowds!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Versailles tour is worth it .

2. Essential Tips for Visiting Versailles

Plan Ahead and Avoid the Crowds

The Palace of Versailles gets most of its visitors on weekends and on Tuesdays. Especially during summer, you’re going to have to get a little strategic and purchase your Versailles tickets or tour in advance.

If you have not planned anything ahead, it helps to arrive as early as possible to tour the palace. We suggest arriving right at opening time—if not a little before. If you did not pre-purchase Versailles admissions or a tour, avoid touring the palace in the late morning and afternoon, when crowds are at their peak.

If you decide to visit Versailles in the afternoon, we suggest touring the gardens first. Then, circle back around in the later afternoon or evening for the palace.

Reserve Versailles Tickets in Advance

If you’ve reserved your Versailles ticket online and have your copy handy, then go directly to entrance A of the palace with your ticket. If you didn’t purchase a ticket in advance, then you can try to go inside and buy your ticket at one of the automated ticket machines that many visitors don’t know exist.

Picnic or Restaurant Lunch in the Garden

We highly recommend packing a picnic lunch. The food options at Versailles aren’t the best. Picnicking is allowed the gardens, so bring a sandwich from a bakery or hit up a market on the way to your train to Versailles.

You can check out Marche du Notre Dame which is a market near the palace where you can buy your picnic lunch—and a little wine if you like!

Don’t Walk, Bike!

Bikes are available to rent in the Versailles gardens. Electric vehicles (golf carts) are also available to rent for those with limited mobility.

3. How Much Time You Should Spend at Versailles

Short Answer:  6 hours, including transportation time from Paris

Your train ride will take about 1.5 hours round trip, including your walk to the palace from the train station in Versailles. You’ll also want to grab a bite to eat while you’re there, which can take some time. That leaves you with about 3 hours to walk around the palace and gardens.  

If you’re not the picnicking type, don’t worry. There’s a luxury Waldorf Astoria built into the Trianon of Versailles with an epic restaurant named La Veranda (find more about this in at the end of this article).

Sean’s Tip: Personally, I budget 2 to 4 hours for the gardens alone if the weather is nice. If you are going with the kids, bring a stroller and plan to get a meal on the grounds. Try not to rush through the experience, and it will become a positive and long-lasting memory for you and your travel companions. 

4. The Benefits of Guided Tours of Versailles

Like any museum, there is only so much you can do on your own. Tour guides spend years of their lives learning about and understanding historically rich monuments like Versailles in hopes of creating more memorable tour experiences for visitors.

We recommend a tour of Versailles when possible and believe our tours are the best in Paris. Our customer reviews back up that claim!

Our Best Versailles and Paris Louvre Tours

Top-Rated Tour

Secrets of the Louvre Museum Tour with Mona Lisa

The Louvre is the largest art museum on Earth and the crowning jewel of Paris, which is why it’s on everyone’s bucket list. Don’t miss out on an incredible opportunity! Join a passionate guide for a tour of the most famous artwork at the Louvre. Skip-the-line admissions included.

Likely to Sell Out

Skip-the-Line Palace of Versailles and Gardens Tour from Paris

Versailles isn’t that difficult to get to by train, but why stress over the logistics? Meet a local guide in central Paris who will purchase your train tickets and ensure you get off at the right stop. Then enjoy a guided tour of the palace and the unforgettable gardens. Skip-the-line admissions included to the palace and gardens.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our best Versailles tours to take and why .

5. What You Should See at Versailles Palace and Gardens

Avid enthusiasts of beauty could spend an entire day exploring all that Versailles has to offer from the palatial rooms to the Trianon estate. Here are the top places you should definitely see while you’re visiting Versailles:

• Royal Courtyard
• State Apartments
• Hall of Mirrors
• Royal Chape
• Letona Basin & Fountains
• Apollo Basin

Marie Antoinette’s Domain

• French Pavillion
• Hamlet 
• Temple of Love
• Petite Trianon

Grand Canal

Estate of trianon, 6. how to get to versailles from paris.

The Château de Versailles is not actually in Paris but in the city of Versailles, France. There are three ways for you to get to Versailles from Paris.

You will need to take the RER C to get to the Versailles Château Rive Gauche train station. Depending on where you are coming from, the train could stop at one of three stations in Versailles.

If you get off on the wrong one it is not a tragedy, but it may require some additional work and maybe a taxi. From the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station, you’re just a 10-minute walk to the palace. Thankfully, there are plenty of signs that clearly indicate which way to go, so don’t worry.

Here are some of the most popular train stations in Paris that can take you to Versailles.

• Saint Michel-Notre Dame
• Gar e d’Austerlitz
• Musée d’Orsay
• Pont de l’Alma
• Champ de Mars-Eiffel Tower

You’ll need to buy a special metro ticket to get to and from Versailles. A round trip ticket will cost you €7.10. If you’re worried about buying the incorrect ticket, purchase the tickets from a metro service agent instead of the machine.

Using a metro ticket machine, make sure you indicate that your destination is the Versailles Rive Gauche station (there are three destinations in Versailles, so it’s more convenient to choose the right one). Depending on your departure location, the train will take you anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, so plan accordingly.

Use Google Maps to check train departure times as they frequently depart every hour. Your ticket for an RER-C train will also cover any underground Metro. Be sure to buy a return ticket to cover the return trip to Paris. You can take any train headed to Versailles or Versailles Rive Gauche/Chateau. Trains depart every 15 minutes.

Pro Tip: Purchase both your tickets (to and from Versailles) while you’re in Paris. If you buy your return ticket to Paris at the Versailles station, there will likely be dozens of other people doing the same thing and the lines can get long.

The best way to get to Versailles is with a tour. You’ll get insights from an experienced guide without the guesswork of which train to catch or which ticket to buy.

The Versailles Express bus departs near the Eiffel Tower. Purchasing a ticket on their site will get you a round-trip bus ticket to Versailles and entrance into the palace (€42) or just a round-trip bus ticket (€24). But note that all their tickets are for half-day transfers, so going this route means you’ll have limited time at the palace.

A second bus option: Bus 171 will take you to the palace from the Pont de Sèvres area, accessible by metro line 9 for the cost of a normal metro ticket (€1.90, or €2 if you purchase onboard the bus).

While you certainly can take the bus from Paris, we recommend taking the train since it’s a smoother and faster transit. It’s what we use on our guided day trips to Paris from Versailles.

With a Tour Guide:

Take all the guesswork out and arrange to visit the Palace of Versailles with a tour guide . We take the train to get there, and you won’t have to worry about which Versailles stop to watch for or how long the entry lines are to get into the palace.

7. Best Places to Eat Near the Palace of Versailles

There are some food stands inside the gardens, but if you want to eat near the Palace of Versailles, there are a few options. If you’re in desperate need, there is a nearby Mcdonald’s, but since you’re in France, opt for something local. Here are some restaurant recommendations near the Palace of Versailles :

Outside the palace:

• Le Pinceman – This cool place is about an 18-minute walk from the Palace, so you will get a bit of a local feel. A 3-course menu will cost €40, not including drinks, and it’s an excellent choice. You will have to make reservations ahead of time though!
• Angelina Paris (€€€) – This restaurant is inside the palace and famous for its various dishes as well as its Hot Chocolate. The decor is classic and a great place to unwind after a day of touring
• Marche du Notre Dame – is a great little market to buy some fresh produce and bubbly to have a Versailles picnic. You won’t be able to bring food inside the palace, so you can either do the gardens first or exit the palace to get food prior to heading to the gardens.  They are separate entrances with separate admissions so you won’t lose anything but exiting the palace, getting food, and re-entering the garden. Its 15 minutes away by foot

Inside the palace:

There are at least six places to eat on the palace grounds: Two inside the palace grounds and four in the palace gardens, which is handy as you explore the extensive grounds.

• Ore – Ducasse au château de Versailles – If it is a cool, rainy day and you want a very nice meal, this is the place. Reviews are not what you’d expect but this a premier Ducasse restaurant so take them with a grain of salt. The food is worth any slip in service you might experience.
• Angelina Paris – Small snack and pastry bar to get some quick bites on the fly. 
• Brasserie De La Girandole – A great place to grab a salad or burger in the gardens.
• La Flottille – Super cool inside/outside dining right up against the lake where you can rent a boat. If I am not eating at La Veranda, which I probably am, I would eat here. 
• Le Petite Venise – Coffee, crepes and ice cream—just what you’d expect when you see this little food shop.
• La Veranda – If your budget allows, head to La Veranda, located in the Waldorf Astoria in the Versailles gardens. The food is going to be expensive and delicious, and the view is amazing. Make a surprise reservation here and surprise your travel companion with the best view (and possibly meal) at Versailles.

Additional contributions added courtesy of Angel Castellanos.

Where To Stay in Paris

With a city as magnificent as Paris, it can be hard to find the perfect hotel at the perfect price. Explore the best hotels and places to stay in these incredible neighborhoods in Paris.

About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

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15 Things to Know Before Visiting Versailles, France

Planning on traveling to Versailles sometime this year? This popular location in France is worth the visit, but there are some important things to know before you go. In this article, Emma Braby shares some of her top tips for your next trip to Versailles!

By Emma Braby

Last updated: April 11, 2024

10 min read

The Palace of Versailles, also known as the Chateau de Versailles, is one of the most iconic landmarks in France. It is visited by around 15 million visitors every year, making it one of the most popular attractions in the world. It sits approximately 12 miles west of Paris and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

I’ve been to the Palace of Versailles on one of my many trips to Paris , and it is an incredible place. Using my experience and insider tips, I have created a guide on how to make your trip to Versailles unforgettable.

From the must-see parts of the attraction to practical advice to make your trip as smooth as possible, get ready to discover the history and luxury of one of France’s most famous royal residences. So, let’s dive right in!

You Need A Full Day To Explore Everything

Peak Season

May-September

History Enthusiasts, Architecture Admirers, Art Lovers, Cultural Explorers, Garden Enthusiasts

One thing is for sure, when it comes to the Palace of Versailles, you need a full day to see it all and truly enjoy its splendor. This magnificent estate is vast and contains over 2,300 rooms full of beautiful art, history, and artifacts. In total, the estate spans over 63 thousand square meters.

From the grand and unmissable Hall of Mirrors to the charming village on the grounds, there’s so much to see and do. You should also make time to enjoy the stunning gardens, with majestic to modern waterfalls, over 400 sculptures, and beautiful landscapes spilling with vibrant flowers.  

Some travel blogs state you can visit it in half a day. Although you technically could, it won’t do your visit justice. Give yourself time to wander through each room and soak in the intricate details of the architecture. Imagine what life was like for French royalty centuries ago.

Check Out the Opening Times

Check the Chateau’s opening times before you go. The opening times vary depending on the season, so be sure to double-check before heading out. Different areas of the estate open at various times, and each of the six gates has different opening times, too.

The Palace of Versailles is closed on Monday, but the gardens are open every day. Although I enjoy some spontaneity on my travels, creating an itinerary for Versailles is a great idea. Knowing the opening times in advance allows you to schedule your day effectively and make the most of your visit.

Visiting the Palace of Versailles on a weekday will enhance your experience by avoiding large crowds. Weekdays typically have fewer tourists, allowing you to explore the estate with more ease and peace. This means you can take your time without feeling rushed or overcrowded. Remember that Versailles is closed on a Monday, but take advantage of the quieter weekdays if you can.

Book Your Ticket In Advance

When planning your visit to the Palace of Versailles, one crucial tip to keep in mind is to pre-book your tickets. This simple step can save you valuable time and ensure a smoother experience when you arrive at the palace.

When I visited Versailles, the line for on-the-day tickets was hours long. I still had to queue for 30 minutes with pre-booked tickets, but it meant I had more time to explore the Palace. Plus, the line has zero shelter, making standing around in the sun or the rain unenjoyable.

Booking ahead also allows you to secure your preferred date and time slot. This is particularly important during peak tourist seasons when Versailles can get very crowded. Because Versailles is one of the most visited attractions in Europe, tickets can sell out in advance. Don’t waste precious time during your Parisian trip.

Consider What You Want To See

When booking your ticket in advance, you must consider what you want to see during your visit. There are different ticket options, including:

• Passport & Little Train Ride
• Passport & Rowing Boat
• Passport & Bike Ride
• Palace & Restaurant
• Estate of Trianon
• Musical Gardens
• Musical Fountains Show
• Fountains Night Show Ticket

The passport ticket gives you access to everything on the estate, including temporary exhibitions and single admission during the garden shows. Some tours, such as the Gallery of Coaches and the Sculptures and Mouldings Gallery, are only open at the weekend. During the summertime, there are also a variety of musical garden and fountain shows.

Although you can pay extra on the day to include the additional attractions like the train or a musical garden show, they are not guaranteed unless you pre-book your tickets in advance.

Take The Train From Paris

Consider taking the train if you’re heading to the Palace of Versailles from Paris. It’s a hassle-free way to reach this iconic destination without worrying about traffic or parking, and it provides a scenic route.

There are a few options to consider. But hopping on the RER C line at Austerlitz towards Versailles-Rive Gauche station is the easiest. The entire trip takes around one hour. It’s a 10-minute walk from the train station to the grounds, with lots of obvious signage to get you there. It is an ideal travel option for a day trip from the bustling city to the serene palace grounds.

You can also take the RATP bus line 171. This runs between Pont de Sevres and the Palace and takes around 30 minutes without traffic. There are a few coach options to consider, as well as hiring a bike.

But the train journey is so simple, very low-cost (around 4 euros each way) with clean facilities and a great view. Plus, it gives you time to relax and plan your day. There are three train stations in Versailles. Versaille Rive Gauche is the one you want for the Palace. And Versailles Chantier and Versailles Rive Droite.

Download The Versailles App

Another great tip is to download the free Versailles App in advance to make the most of your trip to Versailles. With the app, you can access maps, audio guides, and information about each room at your fingertips. This handy app allows visitors to navigate the vast estate easily and offers an audio guide. Along the way, you can learn about the history and significance of different attractions.

Like an audio guide, the app provides insights into hidden gems many may overlook without guidance. It also enhances your experience by providing a deeper understanding of the Palace’s rich history. Unlike an audio guide, it keeps you up-to-date with current information, exhibitions, and special events. Plus, you can take it away and learn more about it on your trip home.

If you need to preserve your phone battery, you can still pick up an audio guide at the various counters throughout the Palace. The audio guide is available in 12 languages and has adapted content for children. Hiring an audio guide costs money, and you must book it to guarantee access.

Do Not Miss The Hall Of Mirrors

I recently had a conversation with a traveler who had been to Versailles but looked perplexed when I mentioned The Hall of Mirrors . For me, the Hall of Mirrors is the star of the show, and you cannot miss it! The hall’s breathtaking design features 357 mirrors and 43 chandeliers, and it is one of the most famous rooms in the world.

Every inch of the hall is adorned with gold, mosaics, and intricate art. The ceiling is smothered in beautiful frescoes that depict significant historical moments. The mirrors placed opposite the arched windows look out to the stunning gardens outside. This creates a mesmerizing optical illusion, making the room feel much larger than it is.  

To get the most out of your visit to the hall, try to visit early or late in the day. This helps to avoid crowds and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the room. Don’t forget to look out through the windows at the perfectly manicured gardens stretching as far as the eye can see.

Check Out The Countryside Palaces of Trianon

When visiting the Palace of Versailles, don’t forget to check out the charming countryside palaces of Trianon . They are nestled on the outskirts of the tranquil gardens and take approximately 30 minutes to reach by foot from the Palace. I didn’t allocate time for these, but I wish I did!

The Grand Trianon is a stunning pink marble Palace commissioned by King Louis XIV as a retreat for himself and his mistress. The elegant architecture and beautiful surroundings make it a must-see attraction. Plus, these smaller Palaces offer a peaceful escape from the grandeur of the main Palace.

Not far from the Grand Trianon, you’ll find the Petit Trianon. This is a more intimate Palace favored by Marie Antoinette. Explore her private chambers and wander through the picturesque English-style garden that surrounds it.

Check Out The Versailles Village Too

Versailles isn’t just a Palace, it is a village, too . This quaint little town offers a glimpse into local life and culture away from the grandeur of the Palace. The Avenue de Paris is France’s widest avenue. Stroll along the avenue and stop by a cafe to enjoy delicious French pastries.

There are several districts to visit. The antiquarian district is the heart of the city and home to over 50 antique dealers. Walk along its cobblestone streets lined with beautiful houses. So, if you love to rummage through oddities and treasures, this is a great spot to visit.

The Notre Dame district is home to the Notre-Dame church, which was once the King’s place of worship. On Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday mornings, the squares surrounding the church bustle with markets selling local goods and crafts. In the Saint Louis area, you’ll discover the Royal Tennis Court, which played a major part in the French Revolution and is open for guided tours. 

The Park And Gardens Are Open To All

The park and the gardens at the Palace of Versailles are just as impressive as the Palace itself. The gardens are open to all, even on Monday when the Palace is closed. The meticulously manicured lawns, stunning fountains, and picturesque groves are beautiful, especially on a warm and bright day.

As you wander through the park, you’ll discover gems like the Grand Canal, where you can take a boat ride in the summer. Fountains dedicated to the four seasons were built in the 1670s, and if you head to the end of Latona’s Parterre, you can view them all at once.

The park and gardens are free, except for musical events involving the fountains or the gardens. Whether you’re a history buff looking to complete your visit to the Palace or simply looking for a peaceful retreat from city life, Versailles’s park and gardens offer something for everyone.

Enjoy The Grandes Eaux Musicales

The Grandes Eaux Musicales is an enchanting experience that combines the beauty of the water fountains dancing to classical music. Every Saturday evening in the summer, be prepared to be captivated by the harmony of art and nature. There are six additional evenings to consider, where special events take place, such as anniversaries, outdoor concerts, and special occasions also take place.

The fountains’ synchronized movements to the rhythm of Baroque melodies are impressive. To finish off the show, a 15-minute firework display lights up the Palace skies. Remember to book these tickets in advance if you want to add an extra layer of magic to your visit to Versailles. They sell out quickly.

Take A Tour On The Petit Train

If you’re dedicating a whole day to this place, expect to do lots of walking. So, why not consider purchasing a ticket for the Little Train ? It is a fun and convenient way to explore the vast grounds of the Palace of Versailles. The train departs from the Palace and travels to the Trianon estate and along the Grand Canal before returning to the Palace.

As you ride along, listen to the informative commentary provided onboard that sheds light on the history and significance of different areas within the gardens. It’s a great way to learn more about Versailles while enjoying a relaxing journey. The Petit Train also offers you a chance to rest your feet after walking around all day. Whether you’re with your children or your Grandma, it’s great for all ages.

Picnic In The Gardens

I didn’t plan for this one, but I wish I had. You can take your own picnic to the Palace of Versailles. So, why not pack a lunch and enjoy it in one of the most beautiful gardens in Europe? You can’t get much better than the lush greenery, blossoming flowers, and the charm of French architecture as an al fresco backdrop.

On the walk from the train station to the Palace, there are a handful of boulangeries and cafes. So, grab some crusty baguettes, creamy cheeses, and refreshing wine along the way. Whether you’re visiting with a group or going solo, a picnic in the gardens offers a peaceful moment in this crowded attraction.

Wear Comfy Shoes

Another essential tip to keep in mind is to wear comfy shoes. You might be tempted to throw something glam on for the royal Palace. But my advice is to wear something comfortable, particularly when it comes to footwear.

Trust me when I tell you to wear sneakers or comfortable flats that will support you throughout the day. There’s so much ground to cover at Versailles, and the last thing you want is sore feet ruining your experience.

Consider Buying A Paris Museum Pass

When planning your visit to the Palace of Versailles and Paris as a whole, you should consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass. This pass provides access to over 50 museums and monuments in Paris and its surroundings, including the Palace of Versailles.

By getting this pass, you can skip the lines and save both time and money during your trip. It’s a convenient option if you’re looking to make the most out of your time in Paris without worrying about individual tickets for each attraction. The more you visit, the more you save.

Depending on your needs, you can purchase a 2, 4, or 6-day pass. For most of the busier attractions, like Versailles, you still need to pre-book your slot. Just select the free entry option and bring your Paris Pass with you.

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Tips and tricks to make the most of your visit to versailles.

V ersailles is an immense art piece. Everything currently on the 2,000-acre estate was thought out, designed, and built meticulously over 100 years (1683-1785) to become the outstanding place it is today. And although every single nook and cranny of the estate, from the furniture in the palace to the groves and paths in the gardens, is worth seeing, you probably only have a limited amount of time in your hands. That’s why we’ve asked French art historian and architecture expert Dorian Dallongeville to give us the lowdown on how to make the best out of your day in Versailles.

Dorian Dallongeville started studying Art History in high school when he was 16 years old. He made the discipline his major at the University of Nantes, France, for one year and then attended the Ecole du Louvre for four years where he graduated in 2009. Dallongeville’s area of expertise is architecture between the end of the Middle Ages (1492) and the French Revolution (1789). Dallongeville was the director and curator at the Port Museum of Dunkirk.

The #1 tip for visiting Versailles

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• If you have more time in the city Versailles

Where to stay in Versailles to be near the palace

Photo: Mistervlad /Shutterstock

The estate is huge, the crowds are massive, and security is very high, all of which translates into very long lines at the entrance, so you need to come to Versailles prepared.

Buy a “ passport with timed entry ” online before your visit. If you don’t you will spend hours in line outside to get in and you may even be refused entry if the crowds are too big.

The “passport with timed entry” will give you access to the whole estate (which is exactly what you want) and guarantees entry within half an hour of the selected time. Dallongeville recommends that you splurge a little and also book a ticket for the amazing Musical Fountain Shows and the Musical Gardens — just make sure they are happening on the day of your visit before you purchase your ticket.

Instead of purchasing the use an audioguide, download the free app on your phone or tablet before your visit. It includes the audio guide tour of the palace and an interactive map of the estate. It can be used without an internet connection.

Plan to spend the entire day visiting the estate — there is a lot to see.

In winter, The gardens and the park are open from 8 AM to 6 PM, the palace is open from 9 AM to 5:30 PM, the Estate of the Trianon is open from 12 PM (noon) to 6:30 PM, and the Gallery of Coaches is open from 12 PM (noon) to 5:30 PM. The estate is closed on Monday.

In summer, The gardens are open from 8 AM to 8:30 PM, the park is open from 7 AM to 8:30 PM, the palace is open from 9 AM to 6:30 PM, the Estate of the Trianon is open from 12 PM (noon) to 5:30 PM, and the Gallery of Coaches is open from 12 PM (noon) to 5:30 PM. The estate is closed on Monday.

Photo: ThomasLENNE /Shutterstock

Versailles is gorgeous all year round, but because the gardens are just as important and beautiful as the palace, we suggest you visit in June when the blossoms are out, the big events are on, and the crowds are still manageable. (July and August are the busiest months of the year to visit Versailles.)

Visiting in winter can be magical, especially if there is snow, but you’d be missing out on the spots that make Versailles the amazing estate that it is, i.e. many of the sculptures in the gardens may be covered, the Orangery will be closed, etc.

To maximize your time in Versailles, visit the estate during the day and take part in one of the events organized in the evenings. Check out the program of events and schedule your visit accordingly. There are concerts, operas, plays, ballets, art exhibits, masked balls, fireworks displays, and more that take place within the palace or the gardens — not your run-of-the-mill venue. Dallongeville insists that the icing on the cake after a visit to the estate is attending one of the night fountain shows . They are beautiful, but they only take place every Saturday evening in the summer months, so plan ahead.

Versailles is a town outside of the city of Paris. It’s a quick one-hour train ride, but be organized and arrive at the entrance before opening time with your “passport with timed entry” all ready to be presented to the staff.

There are three train stations in the town of Versailles. Hop in the RER C train in Paris to arrive at the train station Versailles Rive Gauche, which is the closest to the estate (10 minutes on foot). It is the last train station on the line, so you’re sure to not miss your stop.

The estate is huge and filled with amazing stuff to check out. Dallongeville suggests that you don’t book a guided tour and use the audio guide and map available on the free Palace of Versailles mobile app to visit the at your own pace. That way, you won’t stuck inside on a visit of the King’s State Apartments when you just want to be enjoying the break in the weather to roam the beautiful gardens.

Main facade of the Palace and Marble Courtyard – Photo: Jacky D /Shutterstock

All visitors arrive to Versailles through the main entrance gate (Grille d’Honneur) and walk across the Courtyard of Honour to reach the ticketing desks and security check. Once done with the entry requirements, don’t rush inside the palace. Instead, take the time to walk the Royal Courtyard, followed by the Marble Courtyard, and admire the facade of the palace — it’s pretty swanky.

Refer to the map of the estate to plan your visit.

The Hall of Mirrors – Photo: Mister_Knight /Shutterstock

Dallongeville highly recommends that visitors start with the palace where the royal families of Louis XIV, XV, and XVI lived from 1682 to the French Revolution. It is less crowded inside at 9:00 AM than it is at 11:00 AM, so get cracking with the lavishly decorated and furnished Private Apartments, including the underrated but gorgeous Mistresses’ Apartments (that’s right) and Louis XV’s daughters’ Apartments. The Royal Chapel, Royal Opera House, State Apartments, and Hall of Mirrors are also not to be missed. Finish off your morning with the Gallery of the Great Battles, which is sumptuous. This visit should take between 90 minutes and two hours. When you’re done, head outside to the gardens.

Palace of Versailles gardens

View upon leaving the palace to access the gardens – Photo: Takashi Images /Shutterstock

Once outside, don’t get sucked into the magnificent perspective — going straight down the steps to the Latona fountain and parterre and down the green carpet towards the Grand Canal is a rookie mistake. Instead, spend a couple of hours exploring the many secretive gardens and groves on the left and right of that perspective — that’s where the good hiding spots and the cool sculptures are located. The parterre of the Orangery is also well worth spending some time in to see orange trees, lemon trees, oleander, palm and pomegranate trees spread outside in the French formal garden in summer.

The Orangery parterre – Photo: PhotoFires /Shutterstock

Visiting Versailles involves a lot of walking, so if you want to give your feet a little break and if time allows it, rent a rowing boat for 30 minutes and take a little paddle on the Grand Canal. It’s always a hit with the kiddos, and on a sunny day, it’s a lovely activity to see the estate from a different point of view.

The Estate of the Trianon

The Queen’s hamlet – Photo: Takashi Images /Shutterstock

Once you have a taken a break from walking, head to Marie-Antoinette’s estate to visit the restored Petit Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet — fans of Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette will love checking this area. Dallongeville recommends that you take the time to wander around this bucolic and serene part of the park, which transports you well away from the city.

The Gallery of Coaches

The Gallery of Coaches – Photo: Chateau de Versailles

You should still have some time to spare before the estate closes, so head back to the Courtyard of Honour and through the main gate where you started and visit the Gallery of Coaches in the Great Stables. There, you’ll see the most amazing collection of travel vehicles, from coaches and small carriages for Marie Antoinette’s children to sedan chairs and sleds, all adorned with carvings, golden embroideries, golden decorations, etc.

Photo: Alfredo Garcia Saz /Shutterstock

The Grand Trianon is worth checking if you have time to spare. People flock to the Petit Trianon, so the Grand Trianon is much less crowded yet as magnificent.

The Peristyle, a sheltered colonnade connecting the two wings of the Grand Trianon, is surrounded by gardens and is the highlight of the Grand Trianon. Plan your visit to be there at sunset when the light hits the beautiful pink marble columns — it’s a spectacle like no other.

If you have more time in the city of Versailles

The city of Versailles, like the estate it was built around, is superb. Dallongeville suggests that you spend two days exploring it if you have time. Spend the first day in the estate and the second one visiting the following spots:

The King’s Vegetable Garden

When Louis XIV built Versailles, he hired an architect for the palace (Le Vau), a landscaper for the park (Le Notre), an artist for the sculptures (Le Brun), and a vegetable and fruit specialist for the kitchen garden (La Quintinie) to grow and provide the King and his court rare and out-of-season fruits and vegetables.

The 22-acre vegetable garden built between 1678 and 1683 still exists in its original location, a few minutes’ walk from the palace, and still produces veggies and fruit that are sold in the on-site shop. It is also the location of a prestigious gardening and landscaping school.

The Royal Tennis Court

The jeu de paume is an old version of tennis and was a popular sport in the 17th century among the royal family and the court. The Royal Tennis Court , built a few hundred feet away from the palace in 1686, played a significant role in the French Revolution as it was the place where actors of the demand for democracy gathered. The Royal Tennis Court still stands today and can be visited. The Royal Tennis Court is open for visits every first Sunday of the month, from June to October, from 12:30 to 6:30 PM.

We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend in Versailles! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.

Le Grand Contrôle

This five-star property is the only hotel on the grounds of Versailles, making for a very immersive stay. The hotel’s beautiful building was designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, Louis XIV’s favourite architect, and all the rooms have been decorated in luxurious and traditional 18th-century style. The hotel is home to a spa and a Michelin-star restaurant, but the best part of staying at le Grand Contôle is the unrivalled access to the estate. Every day before or after Versailles open the public, hotel guests get exclusive tours of the palace, the Estate of the Trianon, and more.

Waldorf Astoria Versailles

The Waldorf Astoria Versailles is a huge property that is located right by the palace. There are two hotels within the property: The five-star Trianon Palace and the four-star Pavillon du Trianon, both of which are exceptional places to stay. However, the Trianon Palace is a little more special: it is housed in a historic neoclassical-style building and has rooms overlooking the Versailles gardens. Waldorf Astoria Versailles has two restaurants (one of which has a Michelin star and is headed by Gordon Ramsay), a bar, a fitness room, and a luxurious spa.

Le Louis Versailles Château — MGallery

The Louis Versailles Château hotel — MGallery is a beautiful hotel located just five minutes on foot from the palace of Versailles and the train station that will take you to the center of Paris. The decor is modern and luxurious with velvet-covered contemporary furniture, glittering chandelier, gold accents, and more, making for a chic yet comfortable atmosphere. There is a French restaurant on site, as well as a bar, a fitness center, a steam room, and a sauna.

Hôtel Le Versailles

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How to Visit Versailles From Paris (Complete Guide + Tips!)

Visiting Versailles is at the top of many Paris trip wishlists–and considering that the palace and expansive grounds make up one of the most opulent royal residences on the planet, it’s not hard to see why!

Planning a day trip to Versailles from Paris is fairly straightforward, but you’ll definitely want to go in with a plan in place.

That’s what we’re here for !

We’ve been lucky enough to visit Versailles Palace, its gardens, and the lesser-known palaces on the property in both the depths of winter and the height of summer.

And while there are many wonderful day trips from Paris , there’s no doubt that Versailles is among the best of them!

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Versailles from Paris, from how to get there to whether or not a guided tour is right for you.

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Should you book a guided tour of Versailles?

Top things to do at versailles, tips for visiting versailles from paris, when to take a day trip to versailles, getting to versailles from paris, getting around when visiting versailles, faq about visiting versailles from paris.

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One of the first questions travelers planning their first Versailles visit tend to have is whether it’s worth having a guided tour to help structure your day.

And the answer is: it depends!

The Versailles estate–which as we’ll cover in this Versailles guide extends far beyond the iconic palace–is enormous enough to be overwhelming, and packed with enough history that a live tour guide can add lots of context!

If your goal for your day trip to Versailles is to see and learn as much as possible about the palace itself, while not stressing about finding your way around the estate, then a well-reviewed guided tour like this is an excellent option.

If your ideal day at Versailles sounds more like seeing the Hall of Mirrors and a few famous spots and then wandering through the gardens, relaxing, maybe renting a rowboat, and not stressing about seeing each place, then booking a timed entry ticket in advance may be enough to make sure you have a wonderful day.

There are no wrong answers here: Versailles tours are definitely valuable, but depending on your travel style, may or may not be right for you.

One other thing to consider?

Some Versailles tours, like this one , include transportation from Paris–and others, like this one , meet up in the town of Versailles itself (about a 40-minute RER C train ride from Paris, plus the time it takes you to get to the RER C train).

As you consider your trip to Versailles, be sure to keep in mind whether or not you want to be responsible for your own transportation!

Book your Versailles entry ticket or guided tour of the estate today!

Though “visiting Versailles” is often touted alone as something to do when it’s discussed in more general Paris posts, the estate is–clearly–enormous.

Even within Versailles itself, there are plenty of things to do, and most trips to Versailles won’t be able to cover them all.

Be sure to prioritize your personal list of things to do at Versailles to make sure you don’t miss anything that is important to you!

To help you make your plans, here are some of the best things to do at Versailles.

Tour the palace of Versailles.

Obviously, touring the Versailles Palace belongs at the very top of this list!

Most people visiting Versailles will already know of its most recognizable room, the Hall of Mirrors, and many more gilded areas are open to the public as well, including the State Apartments and the Royal Chapel.

The details, history, and beauty of the Palace of Versailles is the cornerstone of any visit to the estate, and the center point of virtually every guided tour of Versailles !

Pay a visit to Grand Trianon.

Built by the Sun King, Louis the 12th (grandfather of the famed Louis the 14th), Grand Trianon is incredibly beautiful.

Grand Trianon boasts more understated elegance than what you will experience at the over-the-top opulence of the palace of Versailles , and it’s an interesting window into the evolution of the French aristocracy.

Tucked into a quiet corner of the sprawling property, Grand Trianon feels worlds away from the hectic nature of Versailles.

Duck inside Petit Trianon.

This small palace was built by Louis the 13th as a gift for his longtime mistress, before being gifted to Marie Antoinette when Louis the 14th took the throne.

Though small (especially as compared to the palace of Versailles or even Grand Trianon), Petit Trianon is lovely, surrounded by beautiful gardens, and is isolated from the main palace of Versailles.

Standing inside this small (by Versailles standards, anyway) palace, it’s easy to see why it would have been considered a quiet escape from court life !

Flounce around Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet.

What do you do when you’re a teenage queen looking to get away from court life?

Why, turn the gardens of Trianon into a pretend rural village, of course!

The Queen’s Hamlet consists of an entire grouping of rural buildings built around an artificial lake.

In Marie Antoinette’s day, it functioned as a working farm, complete with plenty of animals and fields, the purpose of which was to contribute to the education of the royal children.

Marie Antoinette herself used the hamlet to relax or host small gatherings.

Visiting the hamlet while on a day trip to Versailles definitely gives a bit of a feeling of being out of place–which makes perfect sense given the context of how the hamlet came to be!

Today, the hamlet is once again a working farm, and as you explore, you’ll likely spot growing food or even some animals in this part of the property.

Rent a rowboat on the Grand Canal.

Versailles’ Grand Canal–which is located west of the palace, straight back into the gardens–is home to a collection of wooden rowboats that are available to rent.

If you’d like to get an unusual perspective on the palace and the gardens, consider hitting the water as part of your tour of Versailles!

Wander through the maze of gardens.

Spanning more than 8.2 square kilometers, the gardens of Versailles are more than just beautiful flowers and well-manicured trees–they’re the perfect place to get lost!

Definitely dedicate a chunk of the time that you are visiting Versailles to exploring the gardens!

Each section has its own perks, from baroque fountains to ice cream stands.

Especially be sure to check out the Ballroom, the Apollo Baths, the Enceladus Grove, and, of course, the beautiful and easy-to-spot Leto’s Fountain, which is situated right at the top of the gardens.

Unlike most of the estate, the gardens are free to visit from November to March.

While they certainly aren’t at their best then, they’re definitely still worth a stroll even during a winter visit to Versailles.

Check out an exhibition or event at the palace.

If you’d like to make your visit to Versailles extra special, consider visiting Versailles for a special event!

Most popularly, the Musical Fountains show is put on during some summer days, and though it requires a special ticket, allows you to admire the gardens at their very best, with live baroque music and the fountains turned on in all their glory.

Various exhibitions and events also take place throughout the year, so if you have your eye on a unique visit to Versailles, be sure to check the calendar to see what’s going to be available during your trip!

Alternatively, popular guided tours like this often include a stop at the shows (during the season) as well!

Hire a bike and explore the grounds.

If walking around the grounds of Versailles feels too slow and a golf cart feels too removed from the environment, consider renting a bike for the day !

Not only is riding through the grounds lots of fun, it will also make your schlep out to Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and the Queen’s Hamlet much easier.

Buy skip-the-line tickets in advance.

The lines for visiting Versailles are nearly always ridiculously long: with 7 million visitors per year, Versailles doesn’t really have anything approaching a deserted period during opening hours.

For that reason, if you’re visiting Versailles independently, we strongly recommend purchasing timed entry, skip-the-line tickets before arriving.

C onsidering the amount of time it saves, there’s absolutely no reason not to!

Bear in mind that though purchasing tickets for Versailles in advance does allow you to skip the (usually enormous) ticket line, you’ll still need to pass through security–there’s no way around that one.

You’ll also need to visit the palace itself at the entry time you choose–all the other attractions of Versailles can be visited at your leisure.

Book your Versailles tickets today!

Consider touring the gardens and Trianon first, then the palace.

This depends somewhat on what time you arrive, but especially for those of us who are a bit challenged by early mornings, it can pay off to reverse the order of your traditional visit.

On one of our previous Versailles day trips, we walked right around the enormous security line to enter the palace when we arrived and instead made our way into the much more accessible gardens.

From there, we visited Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and the Queen’s Hamlet at our leisure before looping back to the palace of Versailles just a couple of hours before closing–and as a result, we waited less than 5 minutes in the security line!

If you book a timed entry slot to the palace (which we highly recommend in 2023), this won’t apply to you–but just in case you’re planning a last-minute trip, it’s worth mentioning!

Keep in mind that the outer buildings only open at noon, so if you’re an early riser and are able to get into the security line before the palace of Versailles opens, the traditional route might still be better for you.

Bring cash with you.

Whether you want to buy a coffee or an ice cream from one of the vendors in the gardens, rent a rowboat for a romantic paddle in lake, pick up a golf cart for a few hours, or hop a ride on the small tram in the gardens to make the trek out to Trianon a bit easier, odds are you’ll find something while visiting Versailles that you want to drop some cash on.

Wear the most comfortable shoes you packed.

Visiting Versailles includes a lot of walking.

Even if you take advantage of bike or golf cart rentals for exploring the grounds, you’re still going to end up spending the bulk of your time on your feet .

W e both walked away from Versailles with feet just as sore as the day we visited Disneyland Paris, and that’s saying something!

This is not the place for new shoes or heels of any kind: do yourself a favor and stick to something cozy.

The palace of Versailles and the Trianon Estate are not open on Mondays.

Though the park and gardens are still open, if you’re taking a day trip to Versailles from Paris, you’ll obviously want to avoid coming on a Monday.

Consider avoiding Versailles on Tuesdays.

If you have the opportunity to schedule your visit to Versailles on any day of the week, Tuesday is best avoided.

Given that the palace of Versailles is closed on Monday and the Louvre (along with the Musee Rodin and some other Paris museums) is closed on Tuesday, Tuesday is one of the most popular days to visit Versailles.

T he resulting heavier-than-usual crowds are best avoided if possible !

Expect to spend a full day at Versailles.

It is possible to get a glimpse of Versailles in half a day, especially if you book a guided tour, but if you want to see the bulk of what Versailles has to offer, expect to spend a whole day there… and to leave with feet so sore that you’re not interested in sightseeing with any time you have left in the day.

If you only have a few days in Paris and can only dedicate half a day to visiting Versailles, we recommend booking a tour to ensure that you make the most of your time.

This half-day tour from Paris will ensure that you see the best of Versailles, fast!

Don’t forget about the town of Versailles!

While for visitors, visiting Versailles from Paris is synonymous with the visiting royal palace and grounds, Versailles is also a town!

If you’d like to step outside the typical route and see Versailles beyond the relics of the royals, consider paying a visit to the beautiful Versailles Cathedral, admiring the adorable French homes in the quarter of Saint-Louis, and checking out the Musée Lambinet.

And, of course, no visit to a French town is complete without wandering the quiet, beautiful streets while ducking into the occasional pastry shop!

At this point, we’ve been lucky enough to visit Versailles in both the summer and winter, and the truth is… summer is undeniably better.

Sure, it’s a bit more crowded, but the grounds truly come to life in the summer (especially the Queen’s Hamlet), and it’s much easier to immerse yourself in the grounds and lose track of yourself wandering the estate during the summer.

That being said, we did also adore our visit to Versailles in the winter, and if you happen to have a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Paris in the winter , we wouldn’t recommend skipping Versailles just because of the season.

T he palace is stunning at any time of year, and there is a peacefulness to the grounds in winter, as well.

To visit Versailles from Paris, the easiest thing to do is to take the RER C train to the Versailles-Château-Rive-Gauche station.

Once you get on the RER C train, the journey is about 40 minutes from the center of Paris.

Keep in mind that the RER is a separate train system from the metro, even though they both exist in some of the same stations in Paris!

Be sure to intentionally buy an RER ticket to Versailles, and not simply use a Paris metro ticket.

When you purchase your train ticket to Versailles, be sure to purchase a round-trip ticket (and then keep track of which ticket you validate first, so you don’t accidentally try to reuse a ticket on the way home!).

The crowds can get very heavy at the Versailles-Château-Rive-Gauche station, especially around the time that the palace closes, and it’s much simpler to already have your return ticket in hand when heading out to Versailles.

Once you arrive at the Versailles-Château-Rive-Gauche station, it’s an easy 10-minute walk to the palace.

While visiting Versailles via the RER C line is fairly simple, if you’d prefer not to have to worry about transportation, consider booking a tour of Versailles that leaves from Paris .

The grounds of Versailles are enormous!

Regardless of how you decide to get around Versailles, you’re virtually guaranteed to finish your Versailles visit with sore feet–hours of walking is the nature of the beast.

However, if you’d like to expedite your way around the grounds, you have a few options.

Y ou can rent bikes, hop on the tram, rent a golf cart for the day, or even sign up for a bike tour of Versailles .

I f you think you might want to take advantage of these options, be sure to bring some cash with you on your visit to Versailles!

Book your bike tour of Versailles today!

Is Versailles worth visiting?

Yes, Versailles is definitely worth visiting!

As one of the most opulent and (in)famous palaces in Europe, Versailles is both beautiful and extremely historically relevant.

There’s a reason Versailles is widely considered one of the best day trips from Paris !

Do you need a whole day for Versailles?

If you want to explore Versailles in-depth, including the gardens, palace, Queen’s Hamlet, and Trianon Estate, you’ll definitely want a full day to visit Versailles.

However, if you’re limited on time and only have half a day to spare, it’s still worth seeing the palace and gardens in a shorter timeframe.

Can you walk around Versailles for free?

The gardens of Versailles are free to visit when the fountain shows and musical gardens are not happening.

The shows are seasonal, from April to November, and you can check the exact days here .

A couple of other offbeat areas, like the park and Gallery of Coaches, are also free.

However, if you want to truly experience the estate, you’ll be better off purchasing a ticket.

Personally, unless you’re on a very strict budget and also extremely motivated to see Versailles, I’d recommend skipping Versailles and sticking around Paris longer if you don’t want to purchase a ticket (after all, there are an overwhelming number of wonderful, free things to do in Paris).

What’s included in a ticket for Versailles?

Most travelers visiting Versailles from Paris will want to book the passport ticket , which is the “main” Versailles ticket.

It includes access to the palace, grounds, Queen’s Hamlet, and Trianon Estate (note that these tickets are more expensive on days when the fountain and garden show plays).

There are also tickets strictly for the palace or the Estate of Trianon if you’re planning a more limited trip to Versailles.

Book your tickets to Versailles today!

What should you wear to Versailles?

The most important things to consider about what to wear when visiting Versailles are the weather and your comfort!

A trip to Versailles almost inevitably includes a lot of tightly packed crowds and a lot of walking.

The Queen’s Hamlet, for example, is about a 30-minute walk from the palace.

Opt for comfortable shoes and clothes you don’t mind wearing all day when planning your day trip to Versailles from Paris!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “How to Visit Versailles From Paris (Complete Guide + Tips!)”

This is really useful info. I know that the palace and Trianon estate are closed on Mondays, but I was wondering if you can still wander around the grounds and look at the outside of the Trianons and Queens Hamlet without going inside them on a Monday? Thank you.

Hi Ruth! My understanding is that you can visit the exterior of the Trianons on Mondays, and I know the gardens are certainly open. I’m less sure about the Queen’s Hamlet, as it’s set a bit further out than even the Trianons, but I suspect your odds of being able to walk through the area are good.

If you do happen to visit on a Monday, we’d love to hear what you find out on your trip! :-)

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• Five tips for a stress-free visit to the Château de Versailles
• Inspiration
• Top experiences

How do you avoid the queues at the Château de Versailles? What's the easiest way to get there from Paris? Where should you start your visit?

Visit during the week

One of the top ten most visited sites in France, the Château de Versailles gets its biggest crowds on the weekends and Tuesday mornings (it is closed on Mondays).

So aim to visit between Wednesday and Friday . The result? Less waiting and a smoother visit around the palace.

And note that buying a ticket in advance online allows you to go straight to Entrance A , without stopping at the ticket office. Also, to make the most of this immense estate and avoid an exhausting rush, do consider setting aside a whole day for your visit. The ideal programme? Arrive early and start with a tour round the palace then head to the Trianon , which opens at 12.30pm. For the rest of the day, enjoy the magnificent park and gardens.

Try a Passport

The Passport ticket , available for one or two consecutive days, is a pass that gives you access to the whole Versailles estate, from the Château and the Trianon palaces, to temporary exhibitions, the gardens, the park and the Gallery of Coaches – and not forgetting events like the Musical Fountain and Musical Gardens shows .

Take the train

The Château de Versailles is easily accessible from Paris by train from the Saint-Lazare or Montparnasse stations , or by taking the RER C from Les Invalides . It is then a short walk from any of the Versailles stations ( Rive Droite, Rive Gauche or Chantiers ). For a stress-free visit around the estate, the little train is a perfect choice, for families especially. The trains circulate between the Château de Versailles and the Trianon palaces. Sheltered from the elements, comfortably seated, visitors can admire the garden vistas as well as the palace façades, without the effort.

Take advantage of the free entry to the park and gardens

Take advantage of free admission to the palace gardens every day from 8am to 8.30pm to discover this botanical masterpiece created by Le Nôtre, the King’s gardener, as well as some spectacular views of the palace. Filled with optical and light effects and majestic perspectives, the Versailles gardens are a sublime arrangement of art and nature. Dozens of statues add to the charm, creating the effect of an open-air museum .

The Musical Fountain and Musical Gardens shows offer visitors access to the groves,the leafy copses favoured by the Sun King and his court for entertainment, which are closed to the public the rest of the year. Do note: the gardens close at 5.30pm during the Fountain Night shows .

Refreshments for all tastes

Good news! Versailles is well equipped when it comes to restaurants. And there is no lack of delicious options.

The most prestigious, Alain Ducasse’s Ore Restaurant set in the Dufour Pavilion, offers exceptional evening dining. During the day, the elegant café with its contemporary décor provides breakfast, lunch, and a “Thé de la Reine” afternoon tea, which mixes sweet and savoury treats for a truly refined feast.

Angelina’s restaurant and tea rooms will delight children and chocolate lovers. On the banks of the Grand Canal, meanwhile, you can have lunch at La Flottille or pick up supplies there for your own picnic.

The restaurant La Petite Venise takes you to Italy. Authentic flavours which conjure up the charm of the Italian Peninsula to be enjoyed on sunny days on the shady terrace, with the Apollo basin and the Grand Canal for neighbours. There are also vendors throughout the garden selling cold drinks.

Extend your visit to the royal city of Versailles and discover the events and activities for which it is famous.

You might also like.

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Versailles Travel Tips: What to know about visiting Versailles from Paris

April 24, 2018 by Karen Turner 17 Comments

Are you planning on taking a day trip from Paris to Versailles? For fans of history as well as  Marie Antoinette (the movie), Versailles is something that must be included on your Paris bucket list.  Read tips for the best month to visit Versailles, how to avoid the crowds at Versailles, and how to get to Versailles from Paris.

The crowds at Versailles can be quite aggravating, so this guide to Versailles will focus on practical Versailles travel tips as your information packet at Versailles will inform you about the history of the grounds.  I’ve included information about how to skip the lines at Versailles.

• 0.1 The best month to visit Versailles
• 0.2 How to skip the lines at Versailles
• 0.3 What tickets to get for Versailles
• 0.4 Free tickets for Versailles
• 0.5.1 READ MORE  24 hours in Paris: A local's guide to off the beaten path ​Paris​​
• 0.5.2 How to visit Versailles on a budget
• 0.5.3 What to know about bringing food into Versailles & the Versailles bag policy
• 0.5.4 Bring some extra cash
• 0.6 The best time to visit Versailles
• 0.7 READ MORE  The perfect day trip from Paris to Provins, a beautiful medieval town
• 0.8 How to get to Versailles from Paris
• 1 Have you been to Versailles?

The best month to visit Versailles

It’s best month to visit Versailles in the off season and to avoid the busy summer months, in particular July. Spring and fall certainly hold interest, however I felt that the beginning of November was a perfect time as you can enjoy the turning leaves in the gardens if you’re lucky enough.   I absolutely loved visiting Versailles in early November where we could see the leaves turning.  (Spot the cute fat cats on the grounds!)

Similarly, visiting Versailles during winter months and early spring (1 November to 31 March) means that you’ll get access to parts of Versailles that ordinally aren’t free, including the Musical Fountains Shows, Musical Gardens, and the Gallery of Coaches.

How to skip the lines at Versailles

You can buy your Versailles tickets online directly without any extra fees.  Although you will need to come a bit early as security can take a bit, you can skip the line for tickets if you buy ahead!  Similarly, if you buy the Paris Pass, you’ll get access to the palace as well as the estate of Marie-Antoinette (although not some other features).   The Paris Paris allows you to skip the lines at Versailles, however you cannot skip the security line.  I cover some tips for getting through security at Versailles quicker at the end.  If you want to ensure that you can skip the line and get a tour, it’s possible to book in advance with external partners.

Although you can buy tickets outside of Versailles, you’ll generally pay  more for the same ticket.  I’ve heard people extolling the benefits of a private tour, however if you buy your ticket in advance, you also get to skip the ticket line.

Click to buy tickets direct for Versailles! 

What tickets to get for Versailles

Many people skip the estate of Marie Antoinette, however that was one of the highlights of my visit.   If you don’t have much time for Versailles, plan to get the  Passport with timed entry , which guarantees your entry within a half hour of the entry time. It includes most of the major attractions, including the estate of Marie Antoinette, besides the days that the gardens will be closed for the Musical Gardens event.  I missed this event, but I heard that it’s worthwhile.  The normal passport is seven euros cheaper and includes access to the Musical Gardens event, however without the guarantee.

The stunning Petit Trianon

Some people only get access to the Palace [18 euros], however for only two euros more, you can get access to the Estate of Trianon.  I’d recommend the combined tickets if you are planning to take a day trip to Versailles from Paris.

Note: on Tuesdays, the gardens will be closed to the public without a ticket to the Musical Gardens  between specific days during March-May and July-October.  Similarly, this event takes place on Fridays between April and October.

If you live close to Versailles, “A year in Versailles” card may be a worthwhile investment as it allows you to skip the line! Similarly, if you’re already visiting other museums in Paris, consider getting the Paris Pass , which includes both Versailles and Louvre.

Free tickets for Versailles

The estate of Marie-Antoinette at Versailles

Head to Chateau A if you think you qualify for free tickets to Versailles. Click for the full conditions of who gets into Versailles for free . Note: Anyone can get into Versailles for free on the first Sunday of the month between November and March.

You can get free tickets to Versailles if:

• EU residents under the age of 26.
• You’re bringing children under-18s
• Disabled people and their accompanying person
• Check the full list for more conditions!

Travel tips for Versailles

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If you happen to get free tickets to Versailles, you’re most of the way there. However, Versailles isn’t particularly cheap.  The key is bringing your own food and drinks.  That said, you cannot bring them into the palace itself.    We managed to get an affordable lunch at the M&S in La Defense (where we transferred).  Depending on where you’re coming from in Paris, I recommend buying a sandwich and a drink for later!

What to know about bringing food into Versailles & the Versailles bag policy

I recommend minimizing your bags as you cannot bring large bags and backpacks into Versailles palace. I managed to be allowed my larger purse, but I recommend minimizing your bags. Suitcases larger than carry-on size are  not allowed at all. I recommend separating your food and drinks into one bag (that you bring from home) as this bag cannot be brought into the palace.  You’ll find options for food at Versailles, however prices are closer to what you’d pay in Paris.  There are inexpensive options outside of Versailles.

Bring some extra cash

You might be tired after walking around Versailles.  When reading about how Marie Antoinette and other royalty would retreat within Versailles, I wondered how easily it was to get away from the palace.  The grounds are sizable enough that her estate truly feels separate from the rest of Versailles.  There’s a tram that runs around the grounds of Versailles, so it’s good to carry some cash (€4 for a single ride) if you get tired on the way back.  Trust me, we were exhausted after our long walk around the grounds of Versailles.  (The tram runs until a bit after 5pm).

The best time to visit Versailles

I recommend arriving close to opening hours at Versailles (9 am) to ensure that you can see Versailles with minimal crowds.  Head straight for the palace and the Hall of Mirrors, which are best seen without the large tour groups that arrive later in the morning and in the late afternoon. As soon as you’re done, you’ll have enough time to walk towards the Estate of Marie Antoinette, which opens at noon. It’s lovely being able to explore it without anyone else around.

The park of Versailles actually opens up earlier (7-8am) if you’re interested in enjoying the grounds of Versailles without people.  We ended up leaving in the early afternoon, which was when many of the tour groups had begun to arrive.

Avoid going to Versailles on a Tuesday as the rest of the museums in Paris are closed on Tuesdays, so expect massive crowds on these days! Similarly, the Musical Gardens events are held on Tuesdays during peak season, which means that you’ll need a more expensive ticket to access the gardens.

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How to get to versailles from paris.

It depends where in Paris that you’re staying in.  You can take the RER C direct from Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame to Gare de Versailles Chantiers .  Check for strikes as they’ll impact your journey from Paris to Versailles.  Alternatively, you can take the N from Gare de Montparnasse towards Gare de Rambouillet until you get to Gare de Versailles Chantiers .  From the station, it’s a twenty minute walk.  Alternatively, you can take a tour if you want to take the guesswork out of it!

Have you been to Versailles?

Click for more travel tips in Paris , including a s elf-guided walking tour of the covering passages , a self-guided walking tour of Montmartre , and day trips from Paris .

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

May 14, 2018 at 12:10 am

Hello! Thank you for this great information. I will be traveling with my 16 year old daughter, and I wanted to double check that we would not need an admission ticket for her. Do we need to bring her passport to prove her age? We will be traveling from the US. Thanks so much!

May 14, 2018 at 9:44 am

Hi Tricia, no problem. You need a proof of an identity document with a photograph indicating date of birth (e.g.passport, long stay visa, residence permit, student card). You can check the Versailles website if you’re nervous about it. 🙂

June 14, 2018 at 7:50 pm

I will be visiting for a day from Paris. Do I need to bring my passport as I am from the United States, for once I get to the train station? Will there be a customs area? I’d rather not bring my passport with me for the day trip if I do not have to. If I do need it, does a copy of my passport suffice? Thanks.

June 14, 2018 at 7:53 pm

Hi Rebeca, Generally when you travel in a foreign country, you need your passport when you’re asked for identification by the police. I was not asked for it once besides when I flew to France at the airport, however it’s generally a good idea to have it. It’s your call of course.

Kind regards, Karen

June 25, 2018 at 7:45 am

My family and I will be traveling to Versailles on August 15 because there will be a fountain show on that day. Will the crowds be unbearable because it is a French holiday, Assumption Day? Also, we are trying to figure out the timed entry ticket. Does the “timed entry” allow you into the entire compound at a given time slot or allow you into the palace itself during that time slot? On the palace website, you must commit to a time. If it is just the time you wish to enter the palace, we would sign up for a later time on our day (to give ourselves wiggle room in case we have any delay.) However, we do not want to go all the way there with a later time slot and have the gate keeper tell us that we cannot enter the compound until that later time slot. Also, I understand that foods would never be allowed into the palace (as it is a museum) but can we bring foods/drinks to enjoy as a picnic before entering the palace? Are there backpack lockers? Thanks for answering all my questions

June 25, 2018 at 2:12 pm

I’d suggest signing up for a time later in the day to ensure you make it. Give enough time for security. The timed ticket only gives you access into the palace at the given time, but once you’re in, you’re fine.

You have to give your bags/food items to security (who stores it for you) before going into the palace. You can pick them up afterwards with the number. A picnic is fine in the gardens or outside, but I think that inside the gardens is nicer. 🙂

I’d expect it to be crowded on a French holiday.

August 8, 2018 at 7:02 am

When you are mentioning about backpacks being checked in, how big of a bag are you speaking about? What about one that is like a large purse? If I am going early in the day to avoid the crowds & I would like to take food along for a picnic later, what is your recommendation for storing it to avoid spoiling?

August 8, 2018 at 12:01 pm

Hi Leanne, In terms of backpacks, they ask all backpacks are checked. For purses, it must be smaller than these dimensions according to the website: 55cm x 35cm x 20cm. I saw some ladies with slightly large bags.

I’d recommend being mindful of what you bring. I ended up bringing a sandwich as it didn’t need to be heavily refrigerated.

Best, Karen

January 14, 2019 at 1:13 am

Hi There! I just wanted to clarify the food situation. I noticed another lady asked about the bags. So if you have a back back it will be checked in? Are you able to uncheck the bag and take your food and then picnic in the gardens? Thanks again, I can’t wait to see it all

January 14, 2019 at 1:15 am

Hi Leigh, your backpack will need to be checked in while you see the actual castle. Once you’re finished, you can uncheck your bag with the food as you head out to the gardens. There, you can picnic.

Hope that helps!

March 9, 2019 at 4:29 pm

Hello Karen, I am trying to figure out when I can purchase a passport ticket to Versailles with timed entry- I see it is an option but I can’t find where to purchase it. We are areiving after lunch and want to get a times entry of 1 or 2 pm. Any advice would be appreciated.

March 12, 2019 at 10:28 pm

You can buy it on the official website.

May 27, 2019 at 4:51 am

We just returned with a group of 13 family including a five month old and three kids 9-14. I bought official tickets ahead of time but lines for tickets and security were almost non existent. We went in a Thursday in May around noon. Yes kids under 18 are free and don’t need any proof of age. We couldn’t bring the stroller through the palace. Of course the Kings and Queens chambers were busy but Marie Antoinettes Chateau which we reached by tram was almost free of tourists. The kids fell in love with her Hamlet they said they wanted to live there. We have been often and even if lines look long they have always moved quickly but with this large of group I wanted to avoid the ticket line. I think getting there around noon helped us avoid the lines.

October 3, 2019 at 2:04 pm

Thank you, Madam !

“Oh let the skies thy worthy mirror be! And in dear stars thy shape and image see…”

October 8, 2019 at 1:35 am

I was at Versailles this summer and can contest to July afternoons being insanely busy! BUT we ate at a cafe just across the street from the parking lot for very cheap! My roommate and I both had a cafe’, crepes, and a glass of wine for around 6 euros each.

October 25, 2019 at 7:33 pm

Hi, great post and some very useful tips. I had a question about Paris Pass. If you have Paris Pass, do you need any timed ticket or are required to block a time slot on their website?

October 27, 2019 at 10:47 am

I did not use the Paris Pass myself when I went, but I understand that you get to skip the ticket line (except on days with the water fountain show) although you still need to wait in the security line.

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10 Tips & Tricks for Visiting Yosemite Right

What makes for the ultimate Yosemite experience?  Is it all about adopting a zen attitude before entering its vaunted gates? Maybe the secret is exploring the Park outside of peak season when crowds thin and shadows grow longer? How about studying that map to discover the perfect trail with killer views?

The answer, of course, is yes, yes, and yes! 

From the obvious to the obscure, and from endless summer strolls to sipping hot cocoa around a crackling winter fire, here are 10 tips & tricks for visiting Yosemite right…

1. Slow Down

When it comes to visiting Yosemite right, 1970’s hitmakers Foghat hit the bullseye when they belted out “slow ride, take it easy.”  The land and waterscapes surrounding you — from epic rock formations to misty waterfalls — demand that you slow down and channel their timeless beauty. Breathe in that lush forest for a four count, hold that view across the Sierra peaks for a seven count, and exhale for as long as you need. Ahhhhh.

2. Spread Out

Measuring up at nearly 1,200 square miles, Yosemite National Park is just plain big. Yet most visitors make a beeline for Yosemite Valley and get clumpier than a Sunday biscuit mix. The solution?  Spread out and explore!  Use our Regions page to discover the roads less taken in Yosemite Mariposa County.

3. Get Map Happy

Maps don’t get a fair shake anymore.  We mostly rely on them to give traffic updates and bemoan the dreaded red line.  Yet in their purest form maps are works of art.  Check out our Discover Yosemite Maps page and find a hidden valley, waterfall-feeding river or Gold Rush town that piques your interest.  Bonus points for learning how to read a topo !

4. Find the Right Hike

Incorporating elements of the three previous tips, hiking is the creme de la creme of Yosemite activities. There’s a Yosemite Mariposa County hike for every age and fitness level from graded, paved nature trails with informational placards to riverside jaunts and cloud-kissing wilderness summits. Tighten your laces and find your pace!

5. Farm-to-Peak Dining

With its tradition of abundant farming and ranching, the Great Central Valley is known as America’s Farmers Market. Sprinkle in the fact that Mariposa County geographically connects this cornucopia of tasty food to the majestic peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains, and it makes sense that eating is such a popular pastime up here. Check out our Eat & Drink section to find the right meal on your next visit.

6. Group Dreams

The association between group events and mountain life isn’t always an obvious one, but it should be. Sharing experiences with others elevates the memories we make. From work retreats to weddings and simply renting a vacation house with a bunch of your homies, having Yosemite Mariposa County as your backdrop (and front drop, for that matter) inspires creative thought and forges bonds unlike any other.

7. Well-Seasoned Adventure

With elevations that range from 900 ft in the west to 12,000 ft in the east,  Yosemite Mariposa County makes the most of its four seasons . Each offers its own mood and menu of things to do as summer hiking leads to winter snowshoeing and spring wildflowers cycle to fall colors. Shoulder and off-season visits translate to a greater choice of accommodations, often at lower prices.  Check out our Special Offers page to explore the latest savings.

8. Make Peace With The Reservation System

It’s normal to have reservations about reservations, but with a little planning and a few “hacks” it’s easy to experience Yosemite.  Always check the current reservation system and consider booking a group tour or take regional transit which are exempted from reservations.  Another tried and true method is visiting outside of the peak spring/summer months. If summer is a deal breaker then arrive before 5 am or after 4 pm to avoid restrictions. Added bonus?  You’ll get to enjoy Yosemite’s soul-stirring sunrises and sunsets!

9. The Great Indoors

Yosemite is indeed the epitome of the Great Outdoors, but its indoor game is equally on-point. With seven museums , locally-inspired art galleries and Made In Mariposa shopping opportunities, adding the indoor yin to the outdoor yang makes for a well-rounded Yosemite Mariposa County vacation.

10. Stay & Celebrate

Camping is fundamental to the national park experience, but a cabin, hotel or luxe resort in one of Yosemite’s gateway towns can be tempting.  Soft beds, local food & drink and health spas are just a few amenities that create a comfy base camp for your day trips into the Park.

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More From Forbes

5 communication tips from olympic stars like snoop dogg and ilona maher.

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PARIS, FRANCE - JULY 28: Snoop Dogg attends the Artistic Gymnastics Women's Qualification

For the first time ever, athletes at this summer’s Olympic Games have been given unprecedented freedom to communicate - to embrace social media for their own personal brand development, storytelling and community building.

New, more lenient International Olympic Committee rules allow athletes to post on their personal social media accounts audio and video recordings of highly engaging content like the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, the Olympic Village and competition venues.

These new rules, and a community of athletes used to “sharing,” have created a never-ending flow of communications between athletes and their fans. Here are the communications strategies that have worked best for the Olympians, and that we can apply to our own professional lives to become better communicators.

1. Conquer TikTok

Gen X loves Facebook, Millennials have Instagram and Gen Z (and now Gen Alpha!) are all about TikTok. While mired in legal uncertainty, it remains the go to channel for news, shopping and infotainment for Gen Z and for anyone looking to connect with this younger audience.

Simone Biles "Get Ready With Me" for the Olympic All Around Finals received almost 16 million views ... [+] on TikTok

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Trump vs. harris 2024 polls: harris widens lead—up 5 points in latest survey, harris vaults past trump as the bookies’ favorite to win presidential election.

Olympians like Simone Biles and Ilona Maher have mastered the art of communication via TikTok. They have fun feeds of POVs, GRWMs and OOTDs (if you don’t know what I’m talking about, look here ) that provide sneak peeks into their personal lives, including lots of croissants and cardboard bed content! This authentic connection between athlete and fan creates a receptive and eager fan base, the perfect audience for paid partnerships.

Visit Maher’s page for example, and you’ll see an ardent supporter of body positivity and inclusivity. Keep scrolling and you will also see a paid partnership with L’Oréal Paris, because as Maher tells her fans, “I love using makeup as a way to express myself on the rugby pitch and off.” I mean, who doesn’t?

Need help figuring out yet another social media app? Check out this TikTok for Dummies video.

2. Let Them See You Sweat

I challenge you to keep a dry eye while watching the medal ceremony of #1 ranked golfer Scottie Scheffler. The otherwise unflappable Scheffler showed an authentic version of himself as he broke down in tears towards the end of the Star-Spangled Banner. Scheffler’s emotions were the ultimate form of non-verbal communication, an important tool for any good communicator.

PARIS, FRANCE - AUGUST 04: Gold medalist, Scottie Scheffler of Team United States reacts on the ... [+] podium during the Men's Individual Stroke Play medal ceremony following Day Four of the Men's Individual Stroke Play on day nine of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Le Golf National on August 04, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

Non-verbal messages, including displays of emotion, help others understand you better, facilitating a deeper and more meaningful connection. When you see Scheffler, the #1 golfer in the world, a two-time Masters winner and now Olympic gold medalist break down with emotion, he becomes more relatable.

“So amazing to see such an elite pro doing it for nothing but the glory to represent this nation,” said a golf fan on X. “I'm not a golf fan, but I am a fan of this man,” said another.

3. Think Before You Speak

There are more mobile phones in the world than there are people. So, there’s a good chance that what you say may be recorded and live in the cloud forever - one thoughtless verbal slip up could define your legacy.

Former Olympic gymnast MyKayla Skinner knows. She made a flippant comment about the 2024 US gymnastics team. “I feel like the talent and the depth just isn’t what it used to be,” she said. Her comments went viral and drew the ire of Simone Biles, who shot back with some snarky Instagram comments, and her teammate Jordan Chiles’ mom. “Whoa. She really said that out loud and posted it?” asked Gina Chiles. “That's something...."

Simone Biles claps back at MyKayla Skinner's comments about the 2024 US gymnastics team

Australian swimmer Cate Campbell referred to American swimmers as “sore losers.” Once out, there was no taking it back. Her reputation suffered and she failed to make the 2024 Australian swimming team.

We’re not all natural orators. Professional media training can teach you how to think on your feet and deliver a message that you will be proud to have floating in the cloud for eternity.

4. Work On Your Weaknesses First

Have you ever watched gymnasts warm up before their competitions? They’ll step on the mat and practice their final tumbling pass, or the dreaded tour jeté full - over and over again. While it’s easier to practice the things we like and that we’re good at - that gives us confidence - it’s more important to practice the things that make us uncomfortable.

So, if public speaking scares you, put yourself in front of a group (it’s ok to start off small, like presenting in front of your team at work). If recording a podcast intimidates you, start recording yourself so you can get used to the microphone, the format and the sound of your own voice.

Remember, you’re only as good as your greatest weakness.

5. Keep It Real, Like Snoop Dogg

Tennis phenom Coco Gauff was one of the few lucky enough to score a Snoop Dogg original Olympic pin

While Olympians are busy trading pins representing their country or sport, Calvin Broadus, aka Snoop Dogg, is adding a fresh, authentic take to the practice (that, interestingly, dates back to the first modern Olympics in 1896.) The NBC special correspondent and breakout star of this year’s games has the most coveted pin of the games (well, it might be a close tie with Simone Biles G.O.A.T. pin ). It shows the rapper exhaling smoke in the form of the Olympic rings logo with the Eiffel Tower in the background. A cheeky reference to his penchant for smoking pot.

He also went viral for his conversation with Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps, during which Snoop praises himself for his “great lung power.”

This genuine self-reflection makes Snoop seem real, like you can now trust him. He’s not pretending to be a formally trained journalist or an expert is dressage (although his appearance with Martha Stewart is a must see!).

Snoop Dogg (2ndR), US rapper and record producer, attend sitting next to US businesswoman and writer ... [+] Martha Stewart (3rdR) the equestrian's team dressage final during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Chateau de Versailles, in Versailles, in the western outskirts of Paris, on August 3, 2024. (Photo by Henrik Montgomery/TT / TT NEWS AGENCY / AFP) / Sweden OUT (Photo by HENRIK MONTGOMERY/TT/TT NEWS AGENCY/AFP via Getty Images)

Nor should you. When communicating with others, embrace the real you. Sharing a piece of you makes you seem more real and helps establish a connection that makes communications more effective. If you’re a mom, talk about your kids. If you have a fear or special talent, let people know. When you have things in common with your audience, when the speaker and audience are like-minded, you are instantly bonded.

As athletes at the Olympics continue to explore their newfound freedom of expression, they not only inspire fans but also provide valuable lessons in communications. Whether it's mastering new platforms like TikTok, embracing authenticity or refining skills that intimidate you, the strategies showcased by these Olympians offer a playbook for all of us to be better communicators.

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This Beautiful French City in Provence Is Known as the City of a Thousand Fountains — and It Has Over 300 Days of Sunshine a Year

Here's how to plan a trip to Aix-en-Provence that’s "parfait."

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Best Things to Do

Best restaurants, best shopping, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

xbrchx/Getty Images

As a travel writer with a fondness for the South of France, my love of its quaint hilltop villages, lavender fields, glimmering beaches, and under-the-radar islands is well-documented. But this enchanting region has more than just pastoral pleasures in store for visitors. The university city of Aix-en-Provence, or simply Aix (pronounced like the letter X), feels quite cosmopolitan with leafy boulevards, 18th-century mansions, and chic shops that have earned it nicknames like the “21st arrondissement” or the “Paris of Provence.” Its grand thoroughfare Cours Mirabeau looks like a film set with leafy trees, historic fountains (Aix is also called "the city of a thousand fountains"), and sidewalk cafés. Art buffs will enjoy the many museums. The large student population imbues a youthful spirit. And the pleasant year-round weather — with over 300 days of sunshine, on average — encourages dining al fresco at the many lovely restaurant terraces.

Here’s how to plan the perfect trip to Aix-en-Provence.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Peruse the markets.
• Stroll along Cours Mirabeau.
• Peep art and sip tea at Hôtel de Caumont.
• Savor provençale cuisine.
• Shop the local boutiques.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Courtesy of Relais & Châteaux

Villa Gallici

A Florentine-style mansion with a Provençal soul, Villa Gallici exudes elegance and grandeur. The five-star Relais & Châteaux property pairs opulent interiors (think: rooms covered in floral wallpaper, glimmering chandeliers, and sumptuous fabrics) and landscaped grounds. The lounger-framed pool terrace and sculpture-dotted private garden are ideal for basking in the sunshine.

Château de la Gaude

Château de la Gaude , a beautiful 18th-century bastide-turned-high-end Relais & Châteaux hotel, puts an emphasis on the deeply French pleasures of gastronomy, wine, and art. The laid-back pace encourages you to linger over a plate of Cavaillon melon and cured ham with a glass of perfectly chilled rosé at the Michelin-rated restaurant before admiring Bernar Venet's work in the garden.

La Villa St. Ange

For something intimate and stylish that’s within walking distance of sights and shopping, turn your attention to La Villa St. Ange . The five-star hotel offers 34 rooms and suites decorated with patterned screens, silk curtains, tufted velvet sofas, and ornamental ceiling moldings, plus an outdoor swimming pool, an atmospheric cocktail bar, and a celebrated restaurant.

Hôtel Le Pigonnet

Surrounded by lush Mediterranean gardens filled with fragrant flowers, fountains, and topiaries, Hôtel Le Pigonnet provides a pastoral oasis within the city limits. While enjoying provençale cuisine on a terrace shaded by century-old chestnut trees and swimming in the outdoor pool, it’s easy to forget that Cours Mirabeau and Aix Cathedral are just a 20-minute walk away.

Les Lodges Saint-Victoire

It’s impossible not to get swept up in the natural beauty and serenity of Les Lodges Saint-Victoire . The bucolic five-hectare estate punctuated by olive trees, grape vines, and gardens is the ideal setting for a leisurely, sun-drenched holiday. Relaxation comes in many forms, including getting a massage at the spa, floating in the adults-only pool, or treating your tastebuds to dishes at the Michelin-starred restaurant.

Hornet83/Getty Images

Stroll down Cours Mirabeau.

Originally built in 1650 to accommodate horse-drawn carts, Cours Mirabeau is a wide, tree-lined thoroughfare that’s long been an emblem of the city. Sophie Epton , a photographer based in Aix-en-Provence and the U.S., suggests starting at the Fontaine de la Rotonde and walking to the end of the boulevard. “Don’t forget to grab a brioche or buttery croissant at Pâtisserie Béchard .”

Grab afternoon tea at Hôtel de Caumont.

Hôtel de Caumont, an art center housed inside a resplendent 18th-century residence in the Mazarin district, shows off elegantly appointed interiors, manicured French gardens, and an idyllic courtyard. “Discover the special exhibitions and stay for afternoon tea with pâtisserie in the salon or outdoor terrace,” says Matteo Labre, concierge at Villa Gallici.

Browse the collection at Musée Granet.

One of the first public museums in France, Musée Granet boasts an impressive collection of nearly 600 paintings and sculptures. Among the many highlights are works by Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso, and Provence native Paul Cézanne.

Take a walking tour.

While it's lovely to wander along the narrow streets, one of the best ways to really get to know Aix — and take in its beauty — is a guided walking tour. “Between the historic mansions (the famous hôtel particuliers) , squares, and fountains, there’s so much to learn and appreciate,” adds Epton.

Pick up a souvenir at the local markets.

Aix is famous for its markets. “All over the city, you will find different vendors for everything from woven baskets and antiques to regional gourmet products and fresh, seasonal produce. Epton urges visitors not to miss the clothing and artisanal goods market held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays along Cours Mirabeau.

Paula Galindo Valle/Travel + Leisure

“A gem in the heart of Aix, Grenache serves seasonal, modern French food that’s approachable and absolutely delicious,” says Epton. “The menu changes frequently, except for one dessert called Chocolat, a decadent chocolate mousse that’s a must-order!”

Housed in the middle of a shaded courtyard that’s part of a contemporary art gallery, Gallifet (open June 1 to Oct. 1) impresses diners with harvest-driven dishes that look like works of art. “It’s definitely a place where cool, hip locals congregate,” adds Epton.

Known by locals and clued-in tourists as the best place for brunch in Aix, Kava is a walk-in-only eatery that specializes in all the morning and mid-day must-haves: coffee, sweets, and savory dishes. There’s also a selection of biodynamic wine if you’re in the mood. Epton’s go-to order? The pulled pork pancakes, which she says will “have you practically licking your plate.”

Hailed as one of the most exciting places to eat in Aix, Sauvage is a fine dining restaurant that doesn’t lose sight of fun. Chef Loïc Pétri, who earned his stripes working in Paris before returning to Provence, whips up inspired prix-fixe menus that pair unexpected flavors and textures to the delight of diners.

L’Incontournable

For a memorable lunch or dinner, Labre recommends L’Incontournable . The food and service are both excellent, and patrons can savor creatively presented twists on French classics in the modern dining room or at one of the terrace tables that flank a historic fountain.

A true Provençal brand, Souleiado (which Princess Diana put on the map when she wore one of the totes in 1981) sells everything from dresses and fitted tops to scarves and bags made out of their colorful, signature prints.

"Walking into Fragonard will flood you with beauty, color, and inspiration,” says Epton. The beautifully displayed perfumes and cosmetics make the store look like a jewel box, and the textiles — long flowy dresses, kaftans, kimonos, and tunics — are stunning as well.

Maison Brémond 1830

Maison Brémond 1830 stocks all sorts of regional products, from honey and jam to olive oil and truffle salt. It’s particularly well known for calissons , a housemade specialty confectionery that consists of ground almonds and candied melon.

Chocolaterie de Puyricard is an amazing chocolatier in Aix, named after the nearby village where the factory is located. The shop makes everything from decadent truffles that look like little gems to marshmallows, caramels, and candied fruit. Everyone will find a sweet treat to love.

“While Casanera has a beautiful collection of perfumes, what I really love is the jewelry. The colorful and uniquely designed pieces give the vibe of a getaway to St. Tropez mixed with the fabulous fashion sense of Aix,” says Epton.

Giraudou Laurent/Getty Images

Spring (April through early June) and fall (especially September and October) are the best times to visit, according to Labre. Aix gets quite hot and busy in the summer months, so it’s better to come during shoulder season when it’s cooler and less crowded.

The easiest way to reach Aix is either flying into Marseille Provence Airport (it’s about 30 minutes from the city) or taking the three-hour high-speed train from Paris to the Aix-en-Provence TGV station (a short bus ride from the city center).

Once you get here, central Aix is walkable. “Exploring on foot allows you to marvel at all the beautiful architecture, [which] evokes the feeling of being in a Vincent Van Gogh painting,” says Epton. Planning to take day trips to visit the many charming towns and countryside destinations throughout Provence? You'll want to rent a car.

Related Articles

We went to the Amalfi Coast during peak summer season. These 4 tips made our trip better — but there's one mistake I won't make again.

• My family visited the Amalfi Coast during the peak summer season, and it was hot and crowded.
• I was glad we didn't deal with the hassle of renting a car, and we had comfy shoes.
• I wish I hadn't booked so many excursions and tried to pack too much into the trip.

When I planned my family's trip to Southern Italy — including a stop at the Amalfi Coast — for the end of July, I knew enough to expect it'd be hot and crowded.

July and August are some of the warmest months for the area, and it's famously a crowded tourist hot spot that can get expensive to visit throughout summer. I also saw many videos online of unprepared tourists lugging suitcases up cliffside steps in the heat and fighting for an inch of elbow room at famous sights throughout the region.

But I'd always wanted to visit, and I had to work around my kids' school vacation schedules. So off we went in peak season.

Although we made many happy memories, we also encountered plenty of discomfort. Here are four things that helped make our trip better — and one thing I wouldn't do next time.

Regularly taking our food to go saved us money

If you're ready to get off your feet and have the time to enjoy a restaurant experience, do it. But if you're just feeling peckish for a quick snack, eating it as you stroll can save you a few euros.

That's because some restaurants tack on a coperto, or an additional cover fee for a dine-in experience — even if you're grabbing a quick coffee or gelato at a sidewalk table.

Related stories

It doesn't seem like much, but the name of the game for budget-conscious travelers is saving a few euros wherever you can. And did I mention how expensive this destination can get during high season?

I was glad we didn't rent a car

There are so many iconic sights around the Amalfi Coast, all packed into what seems like a feasible number of kilometers to traverse in a few days' time.

Renting a car is possible, but this area is not casual road-trip territory unless you're adventurous, fearless, and well-insured.

Many roads felt treacherous because they were narrow and perched above dramatic cliffs leading to the sea. Sometimes, they were one-way only.

If you're not staying in one location and plan to explore the area mostly by foot, I'd recommend hiring a driver (as we did) or arranging some other organized tour .

Packing fashionably but practically was key

The Amalfi Coast is like a fashion show in high season — a feast for the eyes of chic coastal Italian style .

But with the heat and cliffside topography, you must pack for practicality as well or pay for the choice with discomfort.

I was glad we packed breathable clothing that could withstand the stifling heat and humidity.

Comfortable footwear is also crucial because the beautiful path to Positano is steep, with lots of ramps and stairs. Some of the beaches have pebbles instead of sand, so consider packing water shoes or other supportive footwear, too.

Eating a lot of pizza was also a great idea for our wallets

Pizza is abundant, authentic, and downright delicious in the region, but there's a less obvious reason to eat a ton of it on the Amalfi Coast: It's cheap.

Prices around tourist hubs in this region felt sky-high, especially in busy season. Our accommodations, transportation, souvenirs, and meals added up, but we tried to save where we could.

At many places we ate, pizza was the cheapest item on the menu by a landslide. Fortunately, it's also a crowd-pleaser for our whole family, so sharing it felt like a true cost-saving strategy.

Still, I wish we hadn't overbooked and tried to do too much

Our Airbnb in Sorrento was our hub from which we'd visit the Amalfi Coast and surrounding area on day trips. This was a good move. Trying to pack a ton of activities into a few days amid hectic crowds and intense heat was not.

I'd booked many excursions online in advance but found my family was just too tired to do several of them. Unfortunately, I was on the hook to pay for them even if we didn't show up.

In fact, my husband and daughter opted out of our semi-private boat trip to Capri because they simply couldn't wake up in time. (They ended up getting FOMO and meeting the rest of my family there later on the ferry, meaning we paid double. Fail.)

I found if you try to do too much, you'll just exhaust yourself — at the expense of a fun or meaningful experience.

If I did this trip again, I'd plan to check off fewer of the so-called "can't miss" sights so I could spend more time relaxing and absorbing the scenery and local culture with a spritz in hand.

• Main content

Traveling abroad with a wheelchair? Here's what to do if it gets damaged on the way.

• Travelers who rely on mobility devices can face extra challenges if they arrive on a trip abroad to find those devices damaged.
• Some pre-trip planning can go a long way to making for smooth travels.
• If something does go wrong, it’s important to report it quickly and know what airlines are expected to do.

Get more news like this delivered to your inbox by signing up for our Travel newsletter here . 

Daniela Joseph said as much as she loves to travel, a damaged wheelchair is making her second-guess how much she flies.  

She was flying from her home in Virginia to Frankfurt, Germany, via Lisbon on TAP Air Portugal in April, and when she arrived for her connection, she said her wheelchair came back damaged. 

“The back was completely bent, the tire can’t lock in the chair right anymore,” she told USA TODAY. “The brakes are broken, meaning I can’t stop my chair from rolling. The seat is ripped.” 

For Joseph, the situation was complicated by the fact that she’s splitting her time between Germany and the U.S., and that her wheelchair was delivered to her in the states. 

“No German dealer wants to work with an American-issued chair,” she said. “When it comes to an estimate, they can’t really give an estimate because they don’t know the prices that are charged in the United States.” 

Travelers who rely on mobility devices can face extra challenges if they arrive on a trip abroad to find those devices damaged .  

"You’re such at the mercy of what happens to your wheelchair,” Joy Burns, alliances and organization coordinator at Wheel the World told USA TODAY.  

Wheel the World is a tour and travel booking site that caters to travelers with accessibility needs.  

Burns acknowledged that damaged mobility devices can ruin even the most carefully planned vacation, but she said there are some basic things disabled travelers can do to try to minimize the chance of damage, or to salvage a trip if damage occurs.

1. Plan ahead 

Burns said some pre-trip planning can go a long way to making for smooth travels. 

She recommends sticking to U.S.-based airlines, even for international trips, because if damage occurs, it’s often easier to deal with American companies when travelers return, rather than trying to keep on top of a carrier with offices abroad. Plus, Burns said, the regulations and expectations of airlines in the U.S. are fairly clear-cut, even if they’re not always followed perfectly. 

She also said it’s important to let your airline know about your accessibility needs in advance. 

“Make sure you call ahead to the airline,” Burns said. “There are some flights that can’t fit a power chair, the cargo space isn’t big enough. They need to have enough advanced notice.” 

Burns added that booking with a specialty company like Wheel the World can help ensure a traveler’s itinerary is more accessible overall, too. 

Airline wheelchair damage: Here's how 30+ flyers were affected

2. Know your rights 

If something does go wrong, it’s important to report it quickly and know what airlines are expected to do.  

Department of Transportation regulations and the Air Carrier Access Act, which cover U.S. airlines and usually all international flights departing from the U.S., generally hold airlines responsible for mobility device damage. 

DOT statistics show U.S. airlines damaged about 1.38 percent of the mobility devices they handled in 2023. 

When traveling on a foreign airline in another country, or when leaving from abroad to return to the U.S., local regulations typically apply, so travelers will need to research the laws of the place they’re visiting. For example, European airlines are not necessarily required to cover the full cost of wheelchair repair or replacement even if they cause the damage, according to wheelchairtravel.org .

Manual wheelchairs are often able to be stored in the cabin and don’t need to be checked, and Burns recommended power wheelchair users take extra care in protecting their devices for the cargo hold whenever possible.  

3. Find a local vendor 

Burns said it’s a good idea to research local wheelchair vendors beforehand so you’re ready in case something goes wrong. 

“The first thing is, before you travel, make sure you know where the local repair shop is,” she said. “If it’s such damage that it’s unusable, find the local vendor and see if they have a loaner chair.” 

Of course, as Joseph learned firsthand, local vendors aren’t always able to help, especially with bigger repairs.  

“I’m playing with the idea of maybe having a cheaper travel chair that maybe can be broken down so you can put it in the overhead compartment when you travel and checking my everyday wheelchair, but what’s the guarantee that that won’t be damaged?” she said. 

Burns acknowledged that a loaner chair or local repair may not be ideal for some wheelchair users, either. 

“Wheelchairs are so specific to the person, and it really depends on the disability. People that have a more severe disability, they are going to have a much harder time in finding that replacement,” she said. “It’s not just a chair that your grandmother could use.” 

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].  

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .