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Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Versailles from Paris [2023] – 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 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 .

Versailles Palace

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

train station in Paris

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 proposes 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

Versailles Palace France

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.

Versailles - Hall of Mirrors

Gardens of Versailles

Versailles French Gardens

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.

Visit Versailles Gardens

The Estate of Trianon

Queen's Hamlet - Versailles

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.

Versailles - Lime Tree Walk

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.

The famous Lime Tree Walk is located in this area, and it links the Château to the ‘Mortemets,’ the waterfowl reserve within King Louis XIV’s hunting estate.

Le Potager du Roi

Le Potager du Roi - Versailles

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,” and its gardeners perpetuate the art of pruning, and they 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 a different use.

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 Shows [2023]

Grandes Eaux Versailles

If you plan a day trip from Paris to Versailles during the high season (from April to October), you will have the possibility to enjoy beautiful shows around the gardens: the Musical Fountains Show , the Musical Gardens Show , and the Versailles Fountains Night Show . Here’s what to expect:

Versailles Musical Fountains Show

Baccus Fountain Versailles

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 – Click here to buy your tickets to the Musical Fountains Show alone or buy the Versailles Passport, with the Musical Fountains Show included

Days:  

  • Every Saturday and Sunday from 1 April to 29 October 2023.
  • Every Tuesday from 2 May to 27 June 2023.
  • Friday 7 April, Monday 10 April, Monday 8 May, Ascension Thursday 18 May, Monday 29 May, Friday 14 July, and Tuesday 15 August.

Versailles Musical Gardens Show

Wander through the largest open-air museum, decorated with amazing sculptures, while listening to the beautiful sounds of Baroque music. This show does not include the fountains’ water display – Click here to buy the Versailles Passport, with the Musical Gardens Show included

  • Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 4 April to 28 April 2023 (except Friday 7 April, day of the Musical Fountains Shows).
  • Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 3 May to 30 June 2023 (except Thursday 18 May, day of the Musical Fountains Shows).
  • Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from Friday 4 July to Tuesday 31 October 2023 (except Friday 14 July, and Tuesday 15 August, days of the Musical Fountains Shows).

Versailles Fountains Night Show

Versailles Gardens Fountain 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

  • Every Saturday evening from 11 June to 17 September 2022 and on Thursday 14 July, from 8.30 pm to 11.05 pm.
  • Two additional nights on Monday 15 August (Fire Night Show) and Saturday 24 September (Electro Night Fountains Show).

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7. Extend your Versailles Trip

Versailles' Old Town

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 in Versailles rather than a day, and also visit some of the best things to do in Versailles town .

8. Versailles Tips & Practical Info

Versailles Main Gate

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 pm to 5:30 pm. The last admission is at 5:00 pm.
  • The Park and Gardens are open from 8:00 am to 6 pm. The last admission is at 5:30 pm. Some grooves in the Gardens are closed during the low season.
  • 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 opens from 12 pm to 6:30 pm. The last admission is at 6:00 pm.
  • The Park and Gardens are open from 8:00 am to 8.30 pm. The last admission is at 7:00 pm.
  • 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 the 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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Paris Discovery Guide

Best Palace of Versailles Tours

  • See & Do
  • Palace of Versailles
  • Versailles Palace Tours from Paris

The 10 Best Versailles Palace Tours from Paris for 2024

Are you planning to visit the Palace of Versailles from Paris?   If so, you may be wondering:  what is the easiest, most stress-free way to get to Versailles, and how can you get the most out of your experience - especially if you want to avoid wasting time in the notoriously long lines at the Chateau's entrance?

Most Popular Paris Day Trips to Palace of Versailles

These top-rated day trips from Paris to Versailles fill up fast, so book early to get the dates you want:

Popular Versailles day trips with transportation from Paris:

  • Palace of Versailles & Gardens - Audio tour; choose a full-day or half-day trip
  • Versailles Skip-the-Line Guided Tour & Gardens  - Optional garden tour
  • Versailles Bike Tour with Palace & Queen's Farm Entrance  - Highly-rated
  • Giverny & Versailles Guided Day Trip - See 2 iconic attractions in one day

Traveling to Versailles on your own?  Book a ticket with a reserved time slot for fast entry:

  • Versailles Palace & Gardens Full Access Ticket - Includes entire Estate, including 3 palaces, the gardens (including Musical Gardens or Fountain show from April-October), & Marie-Antoinette's Hameau (farm and village)

Fortunately, you can choose from many excellent guided Palace of Versailles tours from Paris that allow you to go through a special priority fast-track entrance gate for use only by group tours.  Some of them also include transportation on comfortable air-conditioned coaches.   For others, you'll meet your guide in Paris and go to Versailles together on the train. 

However, sorting through all the tour choices and options can be challenging, especially if you're planning your first or even your second visit. 

To make choosing the best tour for you easy, we've compiled a list of the 10 best Versailles Palace tours from Paris in 4 different categories:

  • Versailles Tours with Included Bus or Train Transport
  • Guided Tours of Versailles - You take the train to Versailles on your own
  • Guided Bike Tours of Versailles & Its Estate - You meet your group in Paris and travel together to/from Versailles on the train
  • Guided Combo Tours of Versailles Plus Giverny or Fontainbleau with transport included

Top photo: A guided tour in the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles, (c) Paris Discovery Guide

Paris Discovery Guide is a reader-supported publication.  When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost for you.  Learn more

Best Guided Tours of the Palace of Versailles with Transportation from Paris

These guided tours of Versailles departing from Paris eliminate all the guesswork and stress of getting there and back on your own. Plus, you get fast entry through the dedicated tour-only gate. 

These tours are perfect for when you want maximum convenience plus the knowledge and insights of an expert guide.

1.  From Paris: Full Day Guided Tour of Versailles with Lunch & Transportation

Close-up view of details in Chateau de Versailles' Hall of Mirrors

The highly-rated Full-Day Guided Tour of Versailles starts with a comfortable trip by air-conditioned coach from Paris. 

Your expert guide will whisk you through a special entrance  and take you on a tour of the most spectacular Palace rooms, such as the magnificent Hall of Mirrors. You'll get to enjoy entertaining stories about the history of Versailles and life at the Royal Palace as you explore the Sun King's home.

After your Palace tour, you'll have free time to stroll through the beautiful formal Palace Gardens, where you'll have lunch at around noon. 

During the afternoon, your guide will show you Versailles' other most important sights: the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Marie Antoinette's Estate including her charming Hamlet before your relaxing return to Paris by bus.

2.  Skip-the-Line Versailles Palace Guided Tour by Train from Paris

Apollo Fountain and Grand Canal at Versailles, attractions seen during a guided tour of the Palace gardens

You'll meet your guide for the Skip-the-Line Versailles Palace Tour by Train in central Paris and travel together to the famous Chateau. 

After passing quickly through the priority entrance reserved for tour groups, your 3-hour journey through the opulent Palace begins.  

Your knowledgeable guide will keep you informed and entertained as you visit the Royal Apartments, Hall of Mirrors, and other opulent rooms, as well as the spectacular gardens.  Depending on the day of the week, you'll see the enchanting Musical Gardens or Musical Fountains show. 

After your tour, you can head straight back to Paris on the train if your schedule is tight.  But if you have enough time for a longer visit, you can linger in the gardens, walk around the Grand Canal, and perhaps even enjoy a delicious French dinner in a nearby bistro before taking the train to Paris.

3.  Versailles Palace & Gardens: Ticket, Audio Guide, & Bus from Paris

Inside the Chapel at Versailles Chateau

If you want the convenience of bus transportation to and from Paris but prefer audio guides or exploring independently rather than taking a guided tour, then the Versailles Palace & Gardens: Ticket, Audio Guide, & Bus from Paris may be an excellent choice for you. 

You can choose a half-day (with morning or afternoon arrival) or a full day at the Chateau.  For the half-day afternoon tour, your ticket will give you access to the Palace and Gardens, where you can experience a Musical Fountains show or Musical Gardens on days when they take place.  When you choose the full-day excursion, you will also get access to the Grand and Petit Trianons, as well as to Marie Antoinette's Estate.  All options include an audio guide.

A host will accompany you on the air-conditioned bus from Paris and make sure you get through the skip-the-line entry to the Palace.  From there, you can spend your time discovering all the exciting wonders of this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site.

More about Visiting the Palace of Versailles

  • Top Things to See & Do at the Palace of Versailles - Plus visitor tips
  • Best Ways to Get from Paris to Versailles Palace
  • Best Hotels & Apartments near the Palace of Versailles

4.  From Paris: Day Trip to Giverny & Versailles

Formal garden room and statue at Versailles Gardens

To visit both Claude Monet's home and gardens at Giverny as well as the Palace of Versailles in one day from Paris, this small group Giverny & Versailles Guided Day Trip makes that easy to do, thanks to the included transportation on a comfortable air-conditioned coach.

You'll tour Giverny at your own pace with a self-guided audio app.  After a quick lunch break, you'll head to Versailles where you'll have a guided tour of the Palace's most famous rooms, and then explore the beautiful gardens on your own.

The Giverny portion of the tour includes a ticket to Monet's house and gardens.  At Versailles, your ticket also admits you to the Palace and Gardens. 

Best Skip-the-Line Guided Tours of the Palace of Versailles

For these tours, you'll take the train on your own from Paris to Versailles, and then meet your guide after you exit the station.  Together, you'll walk to the Chateau and because you're with a guide, you get the benefit of entering quickly through the guided tour-only gate. 

5.  Versailles Palace: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour 

Grand Trianon at Palace of Versailles, on of the stops on a guided tour

The Versailles Palace: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour is perfect if you want to explore the spectacular Palace with an expert and learn a bit about Louis XIV (the "Sun King"), Marie Antoinette, and the leading members of the French monarchy who once lived here. 

After you meet your guide and go into the Palace through the priority entrance, your guide will introduce you to this architectural masterpiece.  Then, as you explore the most important rooms, such as the elaborate King's and Queen's Royal Apartments and the magnificent Hall of Mirrors, your guide will point out treasures you might not see on your own. 

When you book:  You can choose to do this tour with a group or as a private experience.

After your tour, you can continue exploring the Palace on your own, but please note: this tour does not include access to the Gardens.  If you want to also tour the sumptuous Gardens, with or without a guide, during the period when the Musical Garden and Musical Fountains shows take place, you'll need a ticket - so check out the following option below!

6. Versailles Palace & Gardens: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Royal bed, part of a Versailles Chateau tour

Like the previous tour, the Versailles Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Guided Tour includes fast entry to the Palace through the priority gate used by tour guides.  You also get a fascinating guided tour of the Palace's most important rooms and can choose between a group and a private experience.

But here's the difference:  This offer also includes a ticket to the statue-filled Royal Gardens (on days when they're not free) where you can see beautiful flowers and ornate fountains.  Your ticket to the Gardens also includes Musical Fountains or Musical Gardens, depending on the day.

When you book your ticket, you can include a guided tour of the Gardens - or choose just to get an entry ticket and explore on your own.

When Can You Enter Versailles' Royal Gardens for Free? 

Currently, free entry days include Wednesdays during September and October, and every day from November through March. 

What happens on the other days?   Musical Fountains shows take place on Saturdays and Sundays from late May through October and on Bastille Day (July 14).  Musical Gardens take place on Tuesdays through Fridays during July and August, and on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays during September and October.

When you choose a tour ticket that includes admission to the Gardens on a day when Musical Fountains or Musical Gardens take place, you get to experience these special events.

Best Guided Bike Tours of Versailles

Versailles's mostly flat terrain and expansive grounds makes this the perfect location for bike tours. 

7.  Versailles Bike Tour with Palace & Queen's Farm Entrance

Bike tour exploring trails through the woods at Chateau de Versailles

On the Versailles Bike Tour with Palace & Queen's Farm Entrance,  you'll meet up with your guide and the rest of your tour group in Paris and take the train together to Versailles. 

Once there, you'll visit the traditional farmers' market to pick up cheese, fruits, and charcuterie for a picnic lunch later in the day by the Grand Canal.

After a quick stop to pick up your bike (plus rain ponchos, just in case!), you're off to cycle around the Chateau's landscaped parklands and sumptuous gardens.   With over 2,000 acres, the place is enormous - so you'll appreciate having both a guide and a bike! 

Your guide will also take you to see the smaller palaces of the Grand and Petit Trianons as well as Marie-Antoinette's Hameau, her rustic village, and her farm.  Meanwhile, your guide will share lots of information about the incredible places you're seeing as well as the colorful French kings and queens who once lived there.

Finally, you'll visit the Palace of Versailles with the skip-the-line entry ticket included as part of your tour.  This portion of the trip is on your own, so you can use the included audio guide and explore the Hall of Mirrors and other opulent rooms at your own pace before heading back to Paris on the train.

8.  Paris: Versailles Sunset Bike Tour with Fireworks Show (& After-Hours Palace Entrance!)

Musical Fountains show at Chateau de Versailles - Photo credit: Yann Caradec

The seasonal (late spring through early fall) Paris: Versailles Sunset Bike Tour with Fireworks Show  gives you three phenomenal experiences:

1. The spectacular evening Fountains Show in Versailles' Royal Gardens

2. Exclusive after-hours admission to the Palace where you'll see costumed performers and musicians as they sing, dance, and play musical instruments as you explore the Royal Chambers and other famous rooms without encountering crowds of other visitors.

3.  An unforgettable fireworks display over the Grand Canal.

In addition, you'll have plenty of time to ride your bike around the Estate with your guide and see the famous gardens, the Petit Trianon and Grand Trianon, and Marie-Antoinette's Hamlet.  You'll even enjoy a picnic dinner.

Similar to the previous daytime tour by bike, you'll meet your guide in central Paris and go together to Versailles on the train.  Once you reach Versailles and pick up your bike, you'll head to the market square to pick up food for a picnic dinner.

Once you reach the Palace grounds, you'll explore the estate, with stops at Marie-Antoinette's Hameau, the Petit and Grand Trianons, and finally the Grand Canal, where you'll enjoy your picnic dinner. 

Finally, you'll get after-hours entrance to the Palace and Gardens, where the magical evening entertainment unfolds.

After the fireworks, you'll return to Paris by train where your tour ends.

Want to bike from Paris to Versailles?  Find out how

Best Combo Tours of Versailles + Giverny or Fontainbleau

When your schedule allows time for only one day trip from Paris, these guided tours from Paris let you experience Versailles and Giverny or Versailles and Fontainbleau in a single day. 

9. Versailles & Giverny Day Tour with Lunch at Moulin de Fourges

Peonies blooming in May in Monet's garden in Giverny

Giverny & Versailles Day Tour with Lunch - Medium (14 or less) group tour in a minibus. 

When you arrive at Giverny, you'll explore Impressionist artist Claude Monet's home, gardens, and the ponds where water lilies inspired his most famous paintings.

After enjoying a delicious 3-course lunch with wine at Moulin de Fourges, a restaurant in a delightful old mill house by a scenic river about 5 miles from Giverny, you'll head to Versailles, where an art historian will lead you on a guided tour of the most famous rooms including the Hall of Mirrors.  Headsets will be provided to enable you to hear the guide. 

This tour also includes access to Versailles' magnificent gardens,  which means you'll get to see the Fountain Show or Musical Gardens on the days when they're available.

Please note: the private option mentioned in the "Includes" section of online description appears to not be available at the current time.

10.  Versailles Palace & Château de Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau Palace

Fontainebleau, like Versailles, is a magnificent palace which grew from a modest medieval hunting lodge.  The Palace overlooks a large lake and spectacular gardens including the largest formal garden in Europe.  It has served as a residence for numerous French rulers including 34 kings and two emperors from the 12th through the 19th century. 

The best way to see both Versailles and Fontainebleau in a single day is to sign up for a Chateau de Fontainbleau & Chateau de Versailles Private Tour.

Your driver/guide will pick you up at your hotel, will first take you to the Chateau de Fontainebleau for a private tour of the magnificent palace, where you'll also see Napoleon's Throne.  

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trip to versailles from paris

How to get from Paris to Versailles by train

This page is a step by step guidebook to get to Versailles by public transport. It helps you to understand how to get to Versailles from Paris by train easily.

There are 3 convenient trains from Paris for your outing to the palace of Versailles. Our guide below is customized to make sure that each one of you find the transport that fits her/his own requirement depending on your own vacation address and budget.

Because we love Versailles and because the castle is opened to each one of us, we sincerely hope that you will enjoy this guide to Versailles by train as much as we enjoyed designing it for each one of you.

Versailles Palace

Versailles is a chateau (& now a town) located in the west of Paris in a green & wealthy suburb. The distance between Paris & Versailles is about 9 miles. If you want to make some savings, the cheapest way to get to Versailles from Paris is to use public transports and especially by train.

Paris to Versailles by train cost about 7,3€ for a round trip. That is the cheapest solution comparing to the bus, private car, or Uber transport option for your Paris to Versailles round trip. You will find below are our advice to reach quickly and safely the castle of Versailles from your hotel located in Paris.

This guide is customized to make sure that each one of you can get to Versailles by his own safely with her/his family for the cheapest option. Take some time to read this article. You might save your precious time by following our advice.

3 ways to get from Paris to Versailles by train

There are 3 ways to get to Versailles by public transport. The number 1 used by most visitors is to take the RER C train that crosses Paris and follows “the Seine” along the bank of the river. Number 2 is to use the train line L starting at Saint Lazare in the center-north of Paris, close to the famous department store of Galeries Lafayettes & Printemps. And the last solution is to use the train line N starting in the south of Paris at Montparnasse in the chic and trendy district of Saint Germain des pres in the 6th.

With our photos and maps, let’s check where is Versailles from your hotel in Paris and let’s look at the 3 possibilities for your Versailles journey:

Paris to Versailles with RER C train - Solution 1

The most common and easy way to get to Versailles is to take the RER C train that will take you to Chateau rive Gauche train station at Versailles.

  • Where can I get the RER C train? This train crosses Paris from East to West and follows the famous Seine River that divides Paris into 2 parts. (Look at the Map of Paris and RER C train below). Each station is located 10 minutes from each other. The train comes every 15minutes. If you are not in a hurry, that’s correct. It will take you about 1 hour to 90 minutes to get to Versailles depending on your exact location.
  • Where is located the terminus: Chateau rive Gauche train station? This train station is located about 10 minutes walk from the Palace of Versailles. The path to reach the palace is easy and pleasant.

If you are interested in this option, then skip the information below and directly follow our instructions to get to Versailles with the RER C train .

Train RER C map to get Paris to Versailles

Paris to Versailles with the train line L from Paris Saint Lazare - Solution 2

Another possibility if you stay in the North of Paris is to catch the train line L from Paris Saint Lazare to Versailles Rive droite . If you don’t wait to get your train and if are really close to Saint Lazare train station, you will be at the palace in 45 minutes. (look at Map of te train line L below)

  • Where can I get to Paris Saint Lazare train station? This station is convenient if you are around Montmartre or close to the department stores of the Galeries Lafayettes or Printemps. This train station is right in front of these department stores.
  • Where is located Chateau Versailles Rive droite train station? This train station is on the other side of Chateau Versailles Rive gauche train station. It is also 10 minutes walk from the palace of Versailles but this time on the other side of the town. By this way, it is also convenient and easy to get to the palace.

trip to versailles from paris

Paris to Versailles with the train TER N from Paris Montparnasse - Solution 3

The last option for your Paris Versailles trip is to take the train TER N from Paris Montparnasse . If you choose an hotel or apartment in the south of Paris, that’s the right option. This train will take you from Montparnasse train station in the south of Paris to Versailles Rive Gauche chantier in about 50 minutes. Follow our step by step guide to get to Versailles from Paris Montparnasse.

  • Where can I get to Paris Montparnasse train station? This station is convenient if you are based in the south of Paris around the trendy district of Saint Germain des pres in the 6th district.
  • Where is located: Chateau rive Gauche train station? This train station is located about 10 minutes walk from the Palace of Versailles.

If you are interested in this option, then skip the information below and directly follow our instructions to get to Versailles with the train line N from Paris Montparnasse to Versailles Rive Gauche Chantier .

Paris to Versailles by train TER N from Paris Montparnasse station

Get a fully customized private tour to Versailles. Skip the lines, save time and enjoy !

Determine your own custom itinerary to reach Versailles palace from Paris

Do you want to know the best itinerary for your Paris Versailles day trip ? Nothing easier, let’s connect on google Map and find out the best way to get to Versailles from your hotel:

  • Write “Versailles palace” as destination.
  • Click on “direction” and choose the starting point that fits the exact address of your hotel or apartment located in Paris. Google will gives you several itineraries among our solution 1, 2 or 3.
  • Choose the one that you prefer.

Most of the time, you will use our Paris to versailles itinerary using the RER C train . That’s why we explain you in this paragraph below this itinerary. If you prefer to use the train line N from Saint Lazare or the train line L from Montparnasse , just click on our links above to follow our guide solution 2 or 3.

The RER C train is the most commun transport to get to Versailles. 70% of the visitors take this option to travel. It takes about 1h to 1h30 to get to the door of the palace with the RER train C.

Paris Versailles with RER C train - solution 1

As you can see, the solution that you will use will be a mix between walk, metro and train.

If you want to catch the RER C train, The first thing to do will be to find the closest train station to your hotel or apartment. You will probably need to use the metro. For that, we propose you a quick sum up of the different transport in Paris:

Understand public transport in Paris & the links between Paris to Versailles ?

There are 14 Metro lines and 5 RER train lines. Metros lines are identified on maps by numbers and colours. RER lines are identified by letters. See below the Metro & RER Lines.

Metro lines serve Paris and the RER is a train system which serves Paris and its suburbs.

The Palace of Versailles being in the suburbs, about 12 miles away from the center of Paris, to get Versailles from Paris you will need to get the train. You have the choice between the RER C train (anywhere along the bank of the Seine River), the line L train (from Saint Lazare station) and the N train (from Montparnasse train station).

So that the RER C is a train which will take you directly to the Palace of Versailles : on the transport map it is the yellow line which stretches from East to West of Paris and runs alongside the Seine River.

trip to versailles from paris

In order to get to the closest train station from your hotel, you will need to use the metro or to walk.

How far is Versailles from Paris ? Depending on where your hotel is located, it will take you between 60 to 90 minutes to travel from Paris to Versailles by train (including the walking distance). Most of the time you reach the train station of Versailles in 1 hour.

Follow this step by step guide to get safely to the Versailles chateau. Our advise: Paris is safe, however, we recommend you to be careful with pick pockets: keep an eye on your belongings.

Paris Versailles Step 1: get to the nearest station from your hotel

Get to the nearest metro station from your hotel.

Step 2: Buy tickets for Paris to Versailles Palace

Reaching Versailles by train is the cheapest option. From Paris, the total cost of a round trip ticket Paris Versailles is 7,3€ per person all included. If you want to check the price of your Versailles ticket just use this useful tool to calcul the cost of your transport . (choose Versailles – Rive Gauche Château) Do I buy a Metro and RER Ticket to Versailles? The metro and RER have common ticketing. It means that you don’t need to buy 1 metro ticket and 1 train ticket. It is all included. Just go to your nearest metro station (or train station), and buy your tickets to Versailles Château Rive Gauche. The tickets will be good for the metro and the RER as well by whatever combination of metro or RER lines is the quickest route. You can use a machine or queue up for a human.

Ticket Vending Machines for Versailles

All machines work in English. You just need to choose the right destination: “ Versailles Château Rive Gauche ” station and pay by cash or credit card your trip to Versailles. but if you use a machine be sure you get the correct Versailles station (there are three station at Versailles). Keep in mind: the machine will print you 2 tickets per person. One ticket by way. So keep the second ticket for your return from Versailles to Paris.

Ticket Windows for Versailles

At the ticket window, the saler will speak a basic english and will be able to sale the right ticket. You just need to explain that you want to buy a 2 ways “Versailles Château Rive Gauche” ticket. You can buy by cash or credit card. Better not to show your cash in order to avoid pickpockets. Be careful and stay safe, a few of them wander around the public transport.

Once you get your tickets, you can start your trip to the Castle… Keep safely your Paris Versailles tickets because you will need it to exit from the Versailles train station.

Step 3: take the metro to reach the RER C train station Paris Versailles

Step 4: find the right platform to board your train paris versailles.

What schedule for the Paris RER C train? You can find the schedules of the RER C train to Chateau Versailles directly on the website of the transilen .

Once you have arrived at an RER C train station, don’t be confused, choose the right platform and the right train which goes to Versailles Château Rive Gauche: follow the signs to the platform for RER C: Versailles Chateau RG (Versailles Château-Rive Gauche).

In the train station, there are blue display screens showing which RER C trains are heading where. (look below). The key to get your correct direction is to read correctly this screen and find your platform. Nothing easier.

Example of Display screen

You need to check carefully this display screen and find the line that interest you: Versailles Chateau RG. ( NOT Versailles-Rive Droite or Versailles-Chantier ). You can identity your train by its name: VICK written on the left of the destination. On the right of the destination you have the time left before the next train. At the right again, you have a letter. This letter gives you an indication to know what platform you need to board. Follow this indication and find your right platform. Here on our example, it is the platform G and the train is coming in 7 minutes. Once you are on the right platform, you just need to wait a few minutes before boarding your train Paris Versailles. Once in the train, relax! You are close to your goal. Enjoy the landscape.

Important information for those who are not in the center of Paris : The RER C train which runs south of the Seine is divided into 3 parts (check above the map of the RER Line C to Versailles ) :

  • one to the East of Paris (station : RER C Champ de mars, Pont de l’Alma, Invalides, Musee d’Orsay, St-Michel, Paris Austerlitz, Bibliotheque Francois Mitterand),
  • one to the West of Paris (station: RER Porte de clichy, Pereire Levallois, Neuilly Porte Maillot, Avenue Foch, RER C Avenue Henri Martin, Boulainvilliers)
  • and one to Versailles Chateau / Rive Gauche (RER C Javel, Pont du Garigliano, Issy…).

You need to take this last one to get to the Palace of Versailles : Javel, Pont du Garigliano, Issy… direction … Versailles ! In some case, you will need to take one direction and then change of train to take the train that takes you to Versailles.

You have different options depending on where you catch the RER C train from:

  • Case A : If you catch the RER C train at Javel or at Pont du Garigliano or in the East of Paris (station : RER C Champ de mars, RER C Pont de l’Alma, RER C Invalides, RER C Musee d’Orsay, RER C St-Michel, RER C Paris Austerlitz, RER C Bibliotheque Francois Mitterand), then you are lucky, it is the easiest case: just take the RER C Direction Versailles Chateau RG (VICK) and stop to Versailles Rive gauche Chateau de Versailles. No need to change of train. It is a good point.
  • Case B : if you catch the RER C train in the northwestern part of Paris (station: RER C St Ouen, RER C Porte de clichy, RER C Pereire Levallois, RER C Neuilly Porte Maillot, RER C Avenue Foch, RER C Avenue Henri Martin or RER C Boulainvilliers), in this case, you’ll need to change of train before to catch your train Paris Versailles Chateau RG (VICK).

Pay attention : The RER C line forks out, so make sure to change at the station Champs de Mars/Tour Eiffel to catch the Versailles Rive Gauche line. To Sum up, from your RER C station, catch the train direction Pont de Rungis – Aeroport d’Orly and change at the station Champs de Mars Tour Eiffel. Then catch the RER C train direction to Versailles Rive Gauche / Chateau de Versailles and your stop is the last one on the line.

Let's take an example

Let’s take an example: imagine that your address in Paris is 9 rue Saint Bernard . Google Map gives you this itinerary:

Itinerary Paris Versailles

That means that you will need to walk for 4 minutes up to Faidherbe Chaligny tube station. Once at the station, you will look after the metro line number 8 and you take the line 8 direction:  Balard. Then get off the metro at Invalides station. Walk for 1 minute and take the RER C train called “VICK” direction Versailles Rive Gauche.

Step 5: Walk from Versailles train station to the Palace

Once you have arrived at Versailles Station, the Palace of Versailles is only a short walk away.

Versailles Rive gauche station

The Palace of Versailles is only a 13-minutes walk away from the train station. Pick an exit and follow the signs to the Chateau de Versailles. You can check this Google map itinerary from the station  Versailles Rive Gauche to Chateau Versailles  to see the short walk from the station to the Chateau.

As seen on the map, you need to turn right when you exit Versailles Rive Gauche station. After walking for about 5 minutes, you will need to turn left. (photo below). Then go straight. You are arrived to your destination.

trip to versailles from paris

Paris Versailles Step 6: if you enjoyed this guide, then give us a like!

Guide to visit the gardens of versailles.

guide Versailles

The Versailles gardens & park make more than 800 hectares. Prepare your visit with our advises about the Versailles map of the gardens & Park.

We propose you to have a look at one of our garden tour. For example, our Versailles Gardens Tour . Then, you will have a better understanding of the Gardens of Versailes.

Are you ready to get to Versailles ?

Did this page help you to feel reassure and understand how to reach Versailles Palace ? Yes! So let’s write a few words in the comments. It is always a pleasure to share a positive feeling! No? So let us know your point of view. What improvements would be appreciate ?

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trip to versailles from paris

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154 Comments . Leave new

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Thank you so much for this informative website. Very helpful to get my way to Versailles castle. Thanks again!

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Can I travel from trappes to Versailles by train. Thanks Tony

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Bonjour Tony, Yes you can: Take the U line from trappes to Versailles. It should take you around 30 minutes. Best, Xaver

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Very informative. We haven’t been to Paris so need the most assistance

Hello Vivienne, How can I help you ? Best, Xavier

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How far is the palace Versailles Palace from CDG airport? how can we get there with shortest duration

Good morning Hannah,

By car it is the easiest and safest way to get to Versailles. We can organise this trip for you. Get in touch by email if you are interested, Best Xavier

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My wife and I will be arriving by cruise ship at Le Havre toward the end of May and would like to know the fastest way to get to Chateau de Versailles. I know that there is a train from Le Havre to Gare du Nord. Is it possible to get the Metro or RER train from there to the Chateau? Any advice would be very much appreciated.

Yes you can take the RER line B at gare du nord in the center of Paris. Then change of train at St Michel and take the RER train line C at St Michel. It will take you to Versailles and its castle. Best, Xavier

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Very clear and helpful. I wish every website gave directions as clearly as you do.

Thank you. I hope it help to reach the castle of Versailles

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Thank you so much! This information is very helpful, as I did not realize there were actually two lines – Metro and RER.

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We will be staying at the Holiday Inn Notre Dame. Where is the nearest train to Versailles?

Hello Mickey,

You are lucky: you rae a few step from the train station Saint Michel Notre Dame. Ask the concierge of your hotel how to reach the metro station by walk. Then take the RER C to reach Versailles. It is direct!

Regards, Xavier

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Hi, Xavier, Hotel I’ll stay in located near Gare de i’Est, so I’ll transfer to RER C at St-Michel station. Is it possible to buy direct ticket to Versailles at Gare de l’Est? Thank you very much

You can buy tickets in any metro/train station in Paris.

Best, Xavier

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How often do the RER C trains run to Versailles?

About every 15 minutes.

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Bonjour, our hotel is near the Rome metro station. My 80 year old mother walks with difficulty so wish to minimize walking and stair. Can you please advise the best route

Hello Steph,

To my mind, the best is to take a cab to reach Versailles palace. Maybe a guide could be also a good option to save you some precious time in the gardens and see the best. (the gardens are huge)

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Can you please confirm what you have written above which says that it will take 1.5 hours (roughly) to get from the Paris train station to the Versailles train station one way? Or is 1.5 hours return? Thanks so much for your help, Justine.

Hello Justine, It is not easy to confirm you a precise schedule. It depends where you are in Paris. But just for 1 way, it can take until 90 minutes depending of your location and the number of metro you will need to change. Best, Xavier

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Can we buy tickets in advance for a tour of the palace so that we don’t have to wait in line once we are there? We will be in Paris Aug 1-6, 2016. Do you recommend a good tour operator?

Hi Beverly, You can buy your tickets in advance but you will still have to queue to enter in the palace. To avoid the queue, you need to book a guided tour with a company. If you check our website, we propose several private guided tour of Versailles .

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Can we buy a trip to Versailles from RER C St Michel. Last year we had to get another ticket further down the line.

Normally Yes! I don’t see any reasons why we couldn’t get a ticket at this station to travel to Versailles castle.

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Great info..All trains to Versailles have the amazing decoration or one in particular? Which hour that one runs? Thanks in advance

All trains don’t have the decorations. Only a few. And we can’t expect in advance which train will have decoration! Just need to be lucky.

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Is there a website to purchase combination tickets (train transport and Versailles entrance costs)?

Unfortunately No. Maybe one day!

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Bonjour Xavier,

S’il vous plait, How late do the trains run from Versailles back to Paris on Saturday nights in July? We are thinking of staying for the fireworks at Versailles but will need to be back in Paris that night. Merci beaucoup.

Hello Anna,

Good question. To make sure to catch the latest metro in Paris, better to take the RER C train at least around 11.30pm / 12pm. Enjoy the fireworks.

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The firework display will start at 10:50pm The last metro train station leaves at 11:30PM/12

can we finish the fireworks with such little time in between? Merci! 🙂

Yes you can. The train from Versailles will take you on time to get the last metro in Paris.

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Very informative thank you. We are staying overnight in Versailles – is the return train ticket valid only on the same day?

Hello Sarah, The return train ticket from Versailles to Paris is also valid the next day.

Enjoy your stay in Versailles. It is a beautiful town. Xavier

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The 7.1€ round trip ticket to Versailles includes the journey from any metro station to the nearest RER C station?

Thank you for this detailed info, very helpful!

Yes Tiago. This price includes the cost of the metro.

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Thank you very much. Very clear and informative. Your instructions enabled us to decide on what hotel to choose and where to board the train to get to Versailles from the centre of Paris. Much appreciated.

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Your site has been very helpful! We are staying at the Le Littre Hotel close to Montparnasse area and want to travel to Versailles Chateau. Our nearest metro station appears to be the St. Placide station. My route appears then to be: St. Placide (on route 4 purple) to St Michel/Notre Dame station, connect with RER C Yellow with destination Versailles Chateau – Rive Gauche. Do I need to be careful of split referred to on this site?

Instead of traveling by RER C train, I suggest you to take a Transilien line N train from Montparnasse main railway station which will take you directly to Versailles – Chantiers train station in Versailles. Montparnasse is very close to your hotel. It will be much easier for you. You can check this page: Montparnasse to Versailles

Have a good day to the castle of Versailles, Xavier

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Very helpful site. And really appreciate how you have been responding to each person. We are staying in Armentieres en Brie and would like to go to Versailles. Any suggestions on how to get there via transit? Also do you do tours without the pickup at the Hotel?

Hello Linda,

We can organise tours without transportation. If you send us an email, we will give you a quote.

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I heard there have been train strikes in Paris. I would like to sign up for a cooking class that goes to Versailles by train but don’t want to lose my money or have bad delays. I would be going on June 28th from Paris to Versailles. I think its the RER C that I would take. Is the train expected to be on strike then?

Hello Laureen,

Unfortunately, we can’t expect whether the train to Versailles will be on strike or not. Sorry. It is one of the reason why we prefer to organize our tours by vehicle. This way we have no bad surprise!

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Hi Xavier Thanks much for very helpful information. Just want to check if I can take metro/train from one destination but another one for return way? e.g I will take metro from Pont de Sevres to RER C to Versailles but the destination for return way be Champ de mars. The cost still be 7,1€ per person?

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If doing a day trip from Paris to Versailles, how many hours do you recommend spending in Versailles? Also, what time does Palace Versailles open and what time would the earliest train arrive? Also, what time is the last train from Versailles, back to Paris?

Versailles opens at 9am. It can be a good idea to leave around 8am…The last train from Paris to Versailles is around 11.30pm

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Thanks for the information! Great site for visitors.

-New Yorker

Thank you Steph!

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I followed your advice and reached Versailles and thanks very much for the simple and clear cut explanations!!!!!!

Thank you for your feedback. It is very kind. If you have a photo of your trip to Versailles, we’ll be happy to post it!

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Vere helpful! Thank you for making it easy for us!

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Excellent website. I will be in Paris end of November 2016 and looking forward to a day trip in Versailles. Are there any bike rentals in Versailles? Would you recommend it that time of year (I live in Toronto so 5 to 10 Celsius is spring for me). Merci!

Hi Eduardo from Toronto, Yes there are some bike rental inside the park of Versailles. It is about 10€ for a half day for rent. It can be a good idea!

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we are going to Paris at the end of April and will take train and spend one night in Versailles. My concern is purchasing a train ticket after we arrive as Im sure the train fills quickly during spring. Should be purchase in advance or just take a chance? if so what is the best website to use for purchase?

You can buy your tickets the day you take the train to Versailles. You can buy it directly to the train station in Paris.

Have a pleasant stay, Xavier

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Hi Xavier, Thank you so much for your patience answering to everyone and such a valuable information for travelers. I will be in Paris on April with my 10 yrs old son and I just realized that the day we are planning to go to Versailles is April 9th, which is the same day of the International Marathon. I assume that the city will be crazy crowded and not easy to transit. I will stay at Paris Rivoli Hotel which I believe is on the same path of the runners. Do you think it could be an issue? Any suggestion you may give me would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! 🙂 From Miami.

Hello Susana from Miami,

It is a good question. The day of the Marathon, plenty streets are closed. We may tour to versailles but it is really complicated and we may be blocked. If you can choose another day, it is better. Otherwise, start the tour at 8am from your hotel. At this time, normally, the streets shouldn’t be blocked.

Have a good day, Xavier

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Very informative article, thank you. Is it possible to get one way RER C ticket from Paris to Versailles ? If available, how much does it cost? From Versailles, I won’t be returning to Paris. Thank you

yES, it is possible. It is half price.

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I have one whole free day before I join my tour group and it happens to be July 14th Bastille Day. Do you think this would be a good or bad day to visit Versailles as far as crowds are concerned?

Hi Valerie, It can be a good idea for a private tour to Versailles this day.

Enjoy! Xavier

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How much is the price for 1 adult and 2 children 9 and 12 years to enter Versailles” Is it open on sunday the 2. of April 2017?

Our tour “The Unmissables” half day for 3 people cost 555€ from door to door all included.

Best regards,

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I am travelling with somebody in a wheelchair. Is there a elevator at VERSAILLES-RIVE GAUCHE station?

I know that the wheelchair is welcome at the palace of Versailles. But I don’t know if there is an elevator at Versailles station. Have a good visit, Xavier

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So informative. Thank you so much!

We will be staying at Hotel Felicen in Paris. It seems that the Javel stop is the closet to our hotel. Do we just get on from Javel and get off at Versailles Chateu/Rive Gauche or do we have to make any switches? Are the train tickets available for purchase ahead of time for the round trip? I know that the tickets for Palace are. Thanks!

Direct! lucky you. The train tickets are available in advance.

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What about Sundays ??? It seems that RER C is not avaible on Sundays. Which is the best alternative to get to Versailles on Sundays ???? MERSI !

The RER C train works on Sunday. Enjoy your tour to Versailles .

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I know a lot of people are paying money to get to Versailles by tour or taxi, etc.. I’m sure that most people already know this, but for those of you that don’t, Google maps gives you the exact way to get to Versailles from wherever you are in Paris. All you have to do is go to Google maps on your phone, put in Palace Versailles, select directions and choose the icon for public transportation. When you do that it tells you exactly how to walk to the nearest station. What train to take, what direction to take it, how many stops, what train to refer to etc. This will take you all the way to the Versailles station. Then walk up to the palace of versailles and enjoy. Hope this helps.

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Can you take luggage on the train to Versailles from Paris?

Yes Mary! But not convenient.

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Hello. I’ll be travelling from the Hotel Serotel Lutece in the Latin quarter. I have looked up Google maps but just wanted to confirm that the most direct and easiest way of getting to Versailles is walking to Saint Michel Notre Dame station and catching the RER C line direct to Versailles. Could you please confirm. Thank you.

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Good Morning, I have to fly my boss and his wife to Versailles from the US. It looks like they will need to fly in to Paris, then catch train to Versailles??? If so, which airport in Paris would provide the closest train ride to Versailles??? Thanks so much for your help.

I sent you an email Nora.

Do you propose a tour to discover the Necropolis of the French King at the Saint Denis cathedral ?

Yes you can check this Saint Denis Cathedral tour

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Bonjour. My family and I will be in Paris for the holidays. We would like to take the train to Versailles and have a private tour of the Château if that’s possible. We will be staying st Saint James Albany and I’m assuming there’s a train station nearby. Merci.

Yes victoria, It is possible. Can you contact me via the contact form or by email ? If you let me know what tour you are interested in and how many people wish a private tour, I’ll give you the rate without transportation.

Thank you, Xavier

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Hi, I was wondering if it’s possible for my mother in law to ride the train from Paris to Versailles in her motorized wheel chair? Can you please guide us, so we know if it will be alright to take her with us.

Sorry Anna but I ma not sure. I can’t reply. Best Xavier

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Thank You very much for making the effort to give out this information, it has answered all my questions.

Thank You Rikki,

I see that you work in the jewellery industry. Don’t miss the Appolo Gallery in le Louvre. You will see “Regent”. We have a special visit about the French Crown jewel if you are interested. Or a visit of the Highlight of le Louvre .

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HI, I am visiting Versailles, in May with my friend, staying at Hotel de France, Versailles for 4 nights. We will be arriving in Paris on Eurostar to Gard du Nord, can we also get train from this station to Versailles? Thank you

Yes Diane, you can get to Versailles from this station. Xavier

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What are the options to get from one of the train stations to the Queen’s Gate for a Marie-Antoinette Trianons Tour?

Hi Mark, You can walk 20 minutes from the train station (gare versailles chateau rive gauche) to the queen’s gate to reach which is the nearest gate from the petit Trianon. check the Map here

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Xavier: Your responses to all the questions was very informative for sure. We would enjoy hiring a guide to visit the Versailles Palace for approx. 4 hours. Could you please provide me a quote for a 4 hour guide ? We have our transportation taken care of already

Yes Phillip. To see the rates, you just need to fill out the booking form and choose “without transportation”. Then you will see the price! It includes a tour guide for 3 hours for the half day and 6 hours for a full day. And if you are interested, you can book online your tour to Versailles. It is very easy. Best regards, Xavier

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Hello! My family and I (There are 6 of us – 2 adults and 4 children ages 18, 16, 14, 11) will be staying in an AirBnB in Versailles and are planning to take a train in to visit Paris. How long is the train ride in to Paris center, and do you recommend any particular areas of Paris that would require additional subway rides that are not on the Versaille line? We have 5 days to visit Paris in late June. Also, I saw a previous post on your site about fireworks in Versailles. Is that only at certain times of the year, or is it a regular event? Thank you so much!

Hello Joanne,

The ride takes about 1 hour. The firework- It is only a few Saturday during the summer.

Have a nice stay in Paris. Best Xavier

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Thanks for an informative and concise article to make my trip stress free. Are there bicycle rentals once you arrive at Versailles? Much appreciated.

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If I arrive by ferry at Dieppe can I get a train straight to Versailles or must I travel to Paris first

Hello Carol, Paris first ! Best Xavier

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Thank you. Very helpful!!!!

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Hi, how often do the trains run to Versailles? My ticket says the entrance to the palace is at 09:00

The trains from Paris to Versailles run about every 30 minutes

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Thanks for the clear ad detailed instructions, very helpful!

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Hi Xavier, We are travelling in from London on Eurostar with 2 adults and 2 kids (14 and 10). Arriving in Paris around 5:15pm. What would be the cost and journey time for vehicle transport rather than the train? Thinking at that time of evening this might be better than dealing with a train.

Hello Chris, Can you send me an email ? easier to communicate than on the website! Xavier

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Will the RER train from Paris to Versailles accept bike boxes?

I am not sure Maureen, But I dont think so. Or with an extra.

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This is such a helpful page! Thank you so much for easing my mind over traveling from Paris to Versailles.

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We will be staying in Versailles for 5 days in July. Does it make sense to buy train tickets in advance online for Charles de Gaulle airport to Versailles Rive Gauche, and via which website?

Hi Carole, No that s useless. You’ll be able to buy your train ticket to Versailles anytime, directly at the airport with a machine. Best Xavier

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Xavier, my name is Irene Grodner with All World Travel in New Mexico, USA. I have two ladies wanting to travel from Paris to Versailles and staying two night. I show a schedule from Paris to Versailles on June 29, 2019 but no available schedule from Versailles back to Paris on July 1. Do trains get booked up and what should they do. They need to get to Orleans that day. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Irene Grodner

Dear Irene, Trains are available everyday, except when the public admin is on strike! Have a nice day Xavier

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We are coming from Poitiers, stopping at Versailles then want to continue on via RER to Paris. I’m assuming it won’t be a problem getting a one way ticket from Versailles train depot.

No problem Julie !

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Thank you so much. This was so helpful. This not only helped me figure out how to get there but also whether buying a 1-5 zone train pass was worth it for the time in Paris (it’s not). So thanks for saving us money too. 🙂

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We are staying at the Best Western, 50, Rue des Mathurins…what station do we need to go to for the train to Versailles? Or, is a taxi quicker and easier?

You are in the corner next to my office! Veru easy, just walk to get to Siant Lazare train station and take the train up to Versailles. Then walk 10 mns to get to the castle of Versailles.

Best Xavier

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Hi we are travelling to Versailles from Paris with two children are there any toilets on the trains?

Hello Jules

No toilets in the train from Paris to Versailles, Best Xavier

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Hi, I was wondering if I would be able to get the Versailles by taking the Train at Gare Montparnasse. That is one of the options that googlemaps is giving me, but I don’t see that as a Train line in the helpful guide above. I know there are many ways, but just wanted to see if you knew if this was an option.

The N train at Gare Montparnasse gets me to Gare de Versailles-Chantiers in 1 stop, does this seem right?

Thank you Jason

Yes Jason, thats an option to get from Paris to Versailles that you can find here: https://www.paristoversailles.com/paris-to-versailles-by-train-rer/paris-montparnasse-to-versailles-chantiers/

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Hello, on your full day tour with transport to Versailles, on a Saturday, will we be able to see the fountains with music? Will we get to see things in the Chateau that would not be possible with just an audio guide? Thank you, Andrea

Hello Andrea, yes the musical fountains of Versailles work on Saturday during spring and summer. You need to get in touch with me by email to get more details. Best

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Thanks so much! This is very informative, but can we buy tickets the day before? Or, we have to buy tickets on the same day we are going to Versailles?

Hello Kelly, The day before is fine. Best Xavier

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Thanks for the clear information about the train from Paris to Versailles. However, I can’t find a train timetable for line C anywhere online. I need to know what time the trains run to and from Paris to Versaille on a Sunday in March. Can you please help me?

Good afternoon Helen That’s not so easy to answer. The timetable from Paris to Versailles changes often.. Best Xavier

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Hi Xavier! I stumbled upon your site here. It’s very informative.. just wondering if I can buy the metro ticket going to Versailles 2 days in advance at any train station?

Appreciate any response! Cheers!~

Yes Catsy, you can buy your metro ticket going to Versailles 2 days in advance at any train station…

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This is really informative! The questions I had in mind was answered just by reading until the end. Thank you so much for sharing this.

Thank you for your kindness. Have a nice day, Xavier

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This is the most comprehensive, complete and best instructions to follow when planning a visit to Versailles. I forwarded this to my group who are also travelling to Paris.

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This is a great, informative website. Obviously a labor of love. Thank you!

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We have 10am entrance. What is the best way to get there by train from Le Marais to get to versailles palace and gardens?

Julie, Difficult to answer if I adon’t have your exact address. Xavier

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Thank you very much for your wonderful website and interesting and educational tours. We are traveling to Versailles Chateau. It’s been about 12 years since I was thee last. When I “Google Map my ride” now, the transportation to the Chateau from St Michel Notre Dame station on the RER C line shows an interrupted service notation according to the RATP website. They suggest an alternate route with multiple busses and “Optile(?)” transfers with a significant walking distance as part of the trip. When I check with our hotel Concierge and with the Transilen website there is no shutdown of service mentioned. Does the modernization/repairs of the RER affect the C line or not? Will we be able to take the RER C in about 2 weeks straight to Versailles RIve Gauche as you mentioned above?

Bonjour Ken, It is not easy to answer in advance. Conditions of public transport can change every day. I advise to check a few days before your trip to Versailles Palace. Best Xavier

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Thank you so much for this amazing article with detailed instructions for making a trip from Paris to Versailles palace economically! You are fantastic!

Thank you Joey

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What would be the nearest station if we are staying in Palais Royal. La Terrasse Vivienne Opéra area?

I advise you to walk up to St Michel train station to get the REC C train to reach versailles palace.

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Hello and thanks for the informative guide. I was investigating option 1 with RER C train, but google maps gives the direction the other way round i.e. from west to south east, going around Orly Airport and then to Versailles.

Bonjour Andrea,

I d need to know where do you start to check your itinerary to get to Versailles palace ?

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Thank you for this information. For the C train to Versailles, would I get on at St Michel or St Michel-Notre Dame? Thanks.

Hello Carol,

I think St Michel Best Xavier

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Hello Xavier! You have a very informative site. I will be traveling from Paris to Versailles this October. The closest train station to my hotel is Gare de Lyon. I’m so confused with the various transportation options and I’m hoping you can help me decipher and make the best travel decision. My tour begins at 9am! so I have to leave at least by 7am, right? Help!

Bonjour Patricia, I think that the best is to take the RER A train to get to la defense and change with the train to get to versailles. Have a pleasant visit to Versailles palace and its gardens. Best Xavier

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Very informative site

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This was so helpful!! Thank you for the details, the best I have seen. Looking forward to our trip!

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Loved this page as info was super helpful. Glad I stumbled across it. Very useful details and should make the trip stress free and more enjoyable.

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This site was very detailed, helpful and easy to understand. Thank you.

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My question is related to use of RATP’s “Navigo” pass card relative to taking metro from central Paris (Saint Michel-Notre Dame) to catch the RER C train to Versailles Chateau RG station. I purchased a Navigo pass card to travel on Metro and bus within central Paris which worked great. But I didn’t understand that Navigo can only be used within the two metro/RER travel zones around central Paris. I had no issues using Navigo in taking metro from Grand Boulevard area to Saint Michel-Norte Dame and connecting on the RER C train to the Eiffel Tower (which apparently falls within the two zones).

But another time when I used the Navigo card to first metro to Notre Dame station and then connect on the RER C train to Versailles Chateau RG, when I exited the RER C at Chateau RG, the exit gate wouldn’t let me pass. Going back, I spoke with the RER ticket agent at Chateau RG station, and he explained that I had to buy a separate (paper) ticket back to Paris. He sold me two tickets thinking I would need to return from central Paris back to Versailles.

Could you explain and suggest what I should’ve done? Maybe use Navigo to Metro to Notre Dame and then purchase RER ticket for the C train to Versailles?Thanks!

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Hello Steve, The problem is just as you mentioned, that the Navigo Pass Card typically called Navigo Easy only functions within the 2 zones of Paris. When you catch a train you will never face a problem when entering the stations and catching the trains as they still have stops within Paris. Typically, you face the problem when you are trying to exit; as you technically should not be in that zone according to the pass you have. Whenever, you go to other zones you need to purchase tickets that are in the Ile de France area (surrounding areas of Paris). You typically need to input or find the specific station you need to stop at. This is very important as even though you have purchased tickets you bought the wrong one so if there are SNCF controllers they can fine you around 40 euros just for having the wrong ticket and around 80 euros for not having a ticket at all. I hope this addresses your question. Best, Sarah Warford

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A Day Trip To Versailles: Complete Guide & Visitor Tips

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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.

trip to versailles from paris

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.

Close-up of the ornate golden gates at the entrance of Versailles

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. 

trip to versailles from paris

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

Intricate window and wall frescoes and artwork inside the Palace of Versailles

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.

Ceiling details at the Versailles Castles

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.

Grand Trianon Marble Facade

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!

trip to versailles from paris

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).

The Art Galeries of the Chateau de Versailles

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.

The Garden of Versailles with the Castle in the backdrop

#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.

The Queens Hamlet - Le Hameau de Marie Antoinette

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. 

RER C stop at the Eiffel Tower in Paris

#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!

Statues and sculptures adorning the indoor spaces of Versailles

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.

Louis XIV Rooms in the Castle of Versailles with Velvet curtains

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 Daupin in the Jardin de Versailles

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).

Statue in the Gardens of Versailles - Trianon

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. 

a little lake near in the Trianon

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 :

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  • A Day trip to Reims from Paris: Champagne & History
  • Monet’s Garden – visit Giverny from Paris (2024)

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The Ultimate Paris Day Trip to Versailles Itinerary & Guide

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Searching for the ultimate Paris to Versailles day trip itinerary? Luckily, it is easy to plan a Paris day trip to Versailles whether you want to visit on your own or with a tour. 

The only problem is that it is massive! The whole estate measures 3.147 square miles (just over 5 km), with the chateau itself measuring about 679,784 sq ft (63,154 sq meters). 

It can be a bit overwhelming just trying to figure out where to start on your day trip to Versailles!

But with this trip to Versailles guide and itinerary, I have all the tips on how to make the most of your trip to Versailles.

Paris to Versailles Day Trip Itinerary

Ultimate Paris Day Trip to Versailles Guide

In this guide, we’ll be covering the following: 

  • Brief History of the Palace of Versailles
  • Paris to Versailles: How to Get There
  • Best Day to Visit Versailles 
  • Types of Tickets
  • Best Tour of Versailles
  • Best Versailles Day Trip Itinerary
  • Shows to See in Versailles
  • Where to Stay
  • Other Information For Your Versailles Day Trip

A Brief History of the Palace of Versailles

Exploring Versailles Palace - Paris to Versailles Day Trip

While this chateau estate is quite imposing these days, it actually once started out as a relatively small hunting lodge for King Louis XIII. He fell in love with the land back when he was the dauphin and eventually created the lodge in 1624. 

However, he decided to rebuild the lodge in 1631 and made it bigger as well as purchased some of the fiefdom of Versailles in 1632. 

It wasn’t until King Louis XIV came onto the scene that vast improvements were made. He ordered and planned a lot of the construction of the South Wing, North Wing, Royal Chapel, Grand Commun, and more. He even had the Grand Trianon made for himself and his maîtresse-en-titre, and, of course, those lovely gardens. 

Then, he moved the French Court here in 1682. But when he died Versailles lay abandoned for a time, until King Louis XV decided to finish the work of the palace. He even had the Petit Trianon built for his mistress. 

Then, King Louis XVI came into power and brought Marie Antoinette to Versailles. He then gave her the Petit Trianon for her own use. She even had the Hamlet built, where she could enjoy the quiet country life. 

They lived at Versailles, where they threw extravagant parties, completely removed from the troubles of non-royal French citizens. Obviously, tensions rose and the French Revolution began, leaving Versailles largely abandoned and emptied of many of its contents. 

It had been used briefly for some things over the years but didn’t undergo large-scale renovations until the 20th and 21st centuries. Now, of course, it is easily one of the most visited places in France and definitely a France bucket list item ! 

Paris to Versailles: How to Get to the Palace of Versailles

Red bedroom in Versailles

There are 4 main ways to get to Versailles from Paris: train, bus, car, or take a tour. Let’s break it down. 

1. Paris to Versailles Train

If you want to see Versailles on your own, this is the best way to get to Versailles from Paris. Simply take the RER C train to Chateau Rive Gauche station . From here, it is roughly a 10-minute walk to the palace. This will take about an hour to get to the palace from Paris. 

This is definitely the easiest option and the Paris to Versailles train cost is €7.30 round trip. 

There is also the option to take the SNCF Line N Train from Montparnasse Train Station to Versailles Chantiers Train Station . From there, it is about a 20-minute walk to the palace. This is about a 15-minute ride from Montparnasse, meaning you’ll get to the chateau in about 35 minutes including walking. 

This Paris to Versailles train costs €6 round-trip. 

Lastly, you could take the SNCF Line L Train from Saint-Lazare to the Versailles Rive Droite Station . From there, it is about a 20-minute walk to the palace.  The train journey is about 40 minutes long, meaning you’ll arrive at Versailles in about an hour. 

This Paris to Versailles train costs about €6 round-trip. 

2. Paris to Versailles Via Bus

You can also get to Versailles by bus! This option begins at the Pont de Sèvres bus stop (last stop on the Line 9 Paris Metro) in Paris and ends at the Place d’Armes Versailles. The bus is RATP 171, and it is about a 40-minute ride. Then, it is about a 10-minute walk to the palace. 

This bus ticket costs about €3.80 round-trip if you purchase it ahead of time . 

Petit Trianon with Music Room

3. Paris to Versailles by Car

You could also drive there if you wish. This journey takes about 40 minutes, most of it along N118. 

If you have a car and want to drive, this will likely offer you the most flexibility! 

There is also the option to take an Uber there, however, this will cost you. Plan to spend anywhere from €30-60 per way! Maybe it works if you have a group, but the other options are much cheaper.

4. Versailles Day Tour

And for the final option, you can take one of many day trips to Versailles ! Let your guide handle the stress of getting there and back and guide you around the palace and grounds. 

Prices range from $100-200 per person but usually include things like entrance to the palace, transportation, a guide, etc. 

Best Time and Best Day to Visit Versailles  

Front of Versailles - Paris to Versailles Day Trip

I’ll be honest upfront and say that the Palace of Versailles is busy quite a bit of the time. This is such a popular tourist attraction, that it can be hard to find popular spots, like the Hall of Mirrors, not surrounded by crowds. 

However, if you plan your visit correctly, you can try to avoid crowds! Here are some tips! 

  • Go in the winter. There are no fountain shows, and mid-winter is the low travel season in France overall (except for the ski resorts, of course). Bundle up and you’ll have fewer crowds to contend with. 
  • Go midweek versus weekends. You’ll find fewer people in the middle of the week than on weekends. 
  • Whatever you do, avoid the first Sunday of the month from November through March. It is free admission for all, which means there will be crowds. 
  • Best Time of Day to Visit Versailles? Either as soon as it opens or a couple of hours before closing is best to avoid crowds. 

Whatever you do, purchase a skip-the-line ticket so you don’t have to wait in line if you choose to go on your own!

Which Ticket to Versailles Should You Choose?

Perhaps you’re well into planning your perfect day trip to Versailles and have noticed on the Versailles website all of the ticket options. 

When I first saw this, I was incredibly overwhelmed with the options. So let’s talk about it! 

First of all, these are the ticket options and standard prices below:

Versailles Tickets

Note that the Palace and Estate of Trianon are free for visitors under 18 or under 26 and residents of the EU. Admission is also free for people with disabilities and their companion. 

Children between 0-5 have free access to the Gardens during the Musical Gardens and Fountains Show days. 

The Gardens are free for everyone to visit except during Musical Fountains Shows and Musical Garden days. 

But… which ticket should you choose?

If you’re going all the way to Versailles, then you must see the palace itself. So either the Palace Ticket or Passport are the top choices. 

However, note that the Palace Ticket doesn’t include the Estate of Trianon, so if you are shorter on time and can only visit the palace and gardens, then this is a great option. However, you cannot visit the gardens on Musical Fountain Show or Musical Garden days without an extra ticket for that. 

Honestly, though, your best bet is to just get the Passport . This ticket includes everything so if you plan to spend the whole day at Versailles and are going to explore the grounds, then go on ahead and purchase that ticket. 

Book your passport ticket here ahead of time! 

There is also the option of going on a tour which includes admission and a guide! Let’s talk about that below.

Note that you will need a ticket to get into the Palace, meaning you’ll need to reserve ahead of time.

Best Tours of Versailles

Kat in front of Chateau de Versailles

With Versailles being one of the most popular tourist attractions in France, you can only imagine that half-day and full-day tours abound. 

However, here are a few great tours to Versailles to choose from:

1. Skip-the-Line Guided Tour of Versailles

This is one of the more basic tours, especially as you’ll need to find your own way to Versailles yourself. 

This option allows you to skip the lines and have a 90-minute guided tour of the palace, and you can also add on access to the gardens on select days the gardens aren’t free, and a 45-minute tour of the gardens. 

Prices start at $61 per person. Book it here!  

2. From Paris to Versailles Guided Tour

Want some help getting to Versailles too? There is the option to take a guided tour that departs from Paris and explores Versailles. 

This half-day tour includes your guide, transportation to/from Paris, entrance to the palace, the Fountain Show on select dates, plus a guided tour of the palace and gardens. 

Prices start at $120 per person. Book it here!

Chateau de Versailles with flowers in the foreground

3. Full-Day Guided Tour of Versailles From Paris

Want to enjoy a full day of exploring the Château de Versailles and the estate? Opt for a full-day trip from Paris on this tour. 

This tour includes transportation to/from Paris, your guide, entrance to Versailles, Gardens, and Estate of Trianon, and lunch in the Palace Garden.

This is a great way to get the most out of Versailles and learn more! 

Prices start at $198 per person. Book it here! 

4. Bike Tour of Versailles From Paris

This is another great option to really enjoy the most that the estate has to offer in a short amount of time. 

Exploring the estate via bike is a great idea so it cuts down on your time getting from places like the gardens to the Estate of Trianon. 

This tour includes round-trip train tickets to Versailles, entrance to the castle, gardens, Estate of Trianon, guide, bike, and helmet. 

Plus, because you’re saving time with biking, you get the chance to stop in the town of Versailles and explore the Marche Notre-Dame for tasty food! 

Prices start at $120 per person. Book it here! 

Ultimate Versailles Day Trip Itinerary

Gardens of Versailles

I feel like the true ultimate day trip to Versailles has to include visiting most of the estate. And to do that, you may need a guide to help you find everything. 

So that’s why I ended up booking the aforementioned bike tour above ! It was such a great day trip to Versailles from Paris that I highly recommend it. Here is what we did! 

Start in Paris at Le Peloton Cafe

Begin your morning bright and early and head to Le Peloton Cafe in the Le Marais part of Paris at 8:45 am. After grabbing a coffee and getting fitted for your helmet, your guide will lead you to the train station to catch the RER C train to Versailles. 

Grab Your Bike and Marche Notre-Dame

Fresh tomatoes and peppers

After you arrive at the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station, you’ll pick up your bike with your guide and pedal over to Marche Notre-Dame. This giant market is full of locals picking up their produce, meats, and cheeses. 

The tour stops here for a bit so that you can pick up all the things you’ll need for a picnic later in the day. It is a lot of fun to stroll along the stands and find delicious treats. 

I happened to pick up some great cheeses, nuts, and then bread at a boulangerie nearby. 

Chateau Gardens

Grotto at the Gardens of Versailles

Now, while many would think to begin your day at the palace, I actually really enjoyed that we ended our day there, especially as it was far less crowded toward the end of the day. 

So we began our bike tour exploring some of the gardens of Versailles. We stopped by Apollo Grotto, Water Theatre,  and saw the fountains even go off! 

It was a lovely place for a morning stroll without the crowds (who are likely in the palace at this time). 

Petit Trianon & the Queen’s Hamlet

Queen's Hamlet and pond

Up next we hopped on our bikes to explore the Petit Trianon, where Marie Antoinette loved to spend her time. 

You get to walk through her little palace including her bedroom, courtyard, plus many rooms for entertaining. After that, you get to walk through the English Garden and spot the famous Temple of Love, Grotto, and the Belvedere building, which Marie Antoinette used as a music room. 

Marie Antoinettes Bedroom Petit Trianon

After exploring the garden, head down to the Queen’s Hamlet. Built to resemble a simple Norman village, this place actually was a working farm complete with animals and a dairy.  

This wasn’t where Marie Antoinette simply played pretend that she was a peasant, but where she liked to go on relaxing walks and host people. 

Kat in front of a building at the Queen's Hamlet

Grand Trianon

Grand Trianon

After your visit to Marie Antoinette’s estate over at Petit Trianon, it is time to explore the Grand Trianon. This estate is also quite large with the Empress’ and Emperors’ rooms, plus rooms for entertaining. 

The Grand Trianon also has splendid gardens to enjoy. 

Picnic on the Grand Canal

Picnic on the Grand Canal - Paris to Versailles

At this point, it is early afternoon and the perfect time to finally tuck into those delicious treats you picked up at the market. 

Here you’ll find a place along the Grand Canal for a picnic and enjoy it all! From the Grand Canal, you can spot the rowboats as well as the main palace itself. 

Grand Finale: Palace of Versailles

Hall of Mirrors - Paris to Versailles Day Trip Itinerary

It is after the picnic that you head back to the train station to drop off your bike and return your helmet. This is where your guide leaves you to explore the palace at your own pace with an audio guide. 

So from here you’ll head back to the palace and explore! Some rooms you must visit during your time at the palace include the Hall of Mirrors, King’s Chamber, Gallery of Battles, Royal Chapel, Marble Courtyard, Royal Courtyard, and Honour Courtyard out front. 

Corridor in Versailles

You also have more time to explore the gardens, and you cannot leave without trying some famous hot chocolate at Angelina’s located within the palace. It is rich and perfectly delicious.

After that, you can wander back to the train station and head back to Paris for dinner. 

Fountain & Garden Shows Schedule at Versailles

I’ve mentioned the Fountain Shows and such at Versailles, so here is a breakdown of when they occur. 

Fountains at Versailles

Musical Fountains Show

Enjoy the fountains flowing in sync to Baroque music. 

These occur on Saturdays and Sundays from April through October, except on May 1, 2022. 

The show is also on Tuesdays from May through June, and on a few select holidays like Good Friday, Ascension Day, Bastille Day, and Feast of the Assumption. 

Musical Gardens Show

For the chance to explore the gardens with Baroque music, then you must go during the Musical Gardens Show. 

These occur every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday in April, except on Good Friday. 

Every Thursday and Friday from May until the end of June, the show occurs (except on Ascension Day). Then every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from July through August it occurs other than on July 14. 

Also, from September until October, you can witness this show on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. 

Lastly, you can witness the show on public holidays like Easter Monday and Whit Monday. 

Gardens of Versailles - Paris to Versailles Day Trip

Night Fountains Show 

Discover the gardens lit up and fountains running to the rhythm of Baroque music! Plus, there is a fireworks display over the Grand Canal. 

This occurs every Saturday from mid-June until the end of September from 8:30 pm-11:05 pm. They also have this show on July 14 (Bastille Day) and on August 15 (Feast of Assumption). 

Where to Stay Near Versailles

Temple of Love at Petit Trianon

Plan to spend more time in Versailles or even spend a couple of days exploring the grounds? Then why not stay in the charming town of Versailles ? 

Here are some hotel options based on your budget! 

Budget: Hotel Versailles Chantiers

This basic hotel is across from the Versailles Chantier train station and about 20 minutes from the palace on foot. This is a lovely place to easily catch the train back to Paris, and the rooms are nice and cozy. 

Prices start at $110 per night.

Book it here! 

Mid-Range: Hotel Le Louis Versailles Château – MGallery

Very close to the Palace of Versailles, you’ll easily be able to explore the town and estate on foot! This hotel also has lovely rooms, a bar/lounge, a fitness center, and a sauna- perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring the chateau. 

Prices start at $195 per night.

Luxury: Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle

Did you know that you can stay at Versailles? Yes! 

A stay here includes a private after-hours tour (Hall of Mirrors by yourself anyone?!), your own butler, breakfast, tea service, complimentary minibar, unlimited access to electric golf carts and electric boats, oh, and views of the estate! 

You also can arrange yoga classes, spa treatments, and more! Feel like royalty here! 

Prices start at $1,775 per night. 

And if you are searching for where to stay in Paris, check out our in-depth guide ! 

Other Information For Your Day Trip to Versailles From Paris

Royal Chapel in Versailles

Here is some more important information to note before embarking on your one-day in Versailles itinerary. 

  • Opening Hours: Every day except Mondays. The Palace opens at 9 am and the Estate of Trianon opens at 12 pm. They close at 5:30 pm during the low season (November-March), with the last admission at 5 pm. During high season (April-October) they close at 6:30 pm, with the last admission at 6 pm. 
  • Park & Gardens are open every day from 8 am-6 pm during low season and are free to access. Gardens aren’t free on fountain and garden show days. The last admission to the park is at 5:30 pm. During the high season, the gardens close at 8:30 pm (with the last admission at 7 pm) and the park is open from 7 am-8:30 pm with the last admission at 7:45 pm. There are select dates that gardens close early for Night Fountain Shows and other events. 
  • Coach Gallery is open on Saturday and Sunday from 12:30-5:30 pm during the low season. The last admission is at 4:45 pm. During the high season, they close at 6:30 pm with the last admission at 5:45 pm. 
  • Parking is available at Place d’Armes.
  • Entrances to the Park are at the Queen’s Gate, Sailors’ Gate, Saint Anthony’s Gate, and Main Gate. For vehicles, you can enter at the Queen’s Gate and Saint Anthony’s Gate (only on weekends and holidays in the summer).  Bikes can enter through the Queen’s Gate, Sailors’ Gate, and Saint Anthony’s Gate. 
  • Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for your visit! These white sneakers are always popular! Plus, an anti-theft bag is a good idea to prevent pickpocketing during crowded visits and even on the ride to Versailles. 

That wraps up the ultimate day trip guide to Versailles and how to have the perfect Versailles day trip itinerary! 

Would you visit Versailles? 

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The Ultimate Day Trip From Paris to Versailles

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Visiting Versailles: Hall of Mirrors

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.

Table of Contents

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.

Visiting Versailles: Fountains in the Gardens

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

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.

front facade of palace of versailles, a paris bucket list sightseeing destination

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!

kate storm in the gardens versailles day trip from paris

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.

Visiting Versailles from Paris: Grand Trianon

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 !

Visiting Versailles: Exterior of the Palace

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.

Visiting Versailles: Interior of Grand Trianon

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 !

kate storm on the grounds of versailles enjoying a day trip to versailles from paris france

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.

Visiting Versailles: The Queen's Hamlet

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.

tower at marie antoinette hamlet as seen from across the water on a visit versailles

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!

travelers enjoying rowboats in the versailles gardens on a versailles tour

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.

Visiting Versailles: Flowers in the Gardens

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!

grove of 3 fountains spraying water on a day trip to versailles france

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.

Visiting Versailles: Tour the Gardens

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!

Visiting Versailles: Girl in the Gardens

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.

Visiting Versailles: Gardens of Trianon

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.

Visiting Versailles from Paris: Girl near Petit Trianon

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 !

Visiting Versailles from Paris: Bedroom Interior

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!

Visiting Versailles: Gardens of Versailles

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!

Visiting Versailles from Paris: Interior Doors of Palace

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.

Visiting Versailles from Paris: Porch of Grand Trianon

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.

Visiting Versailles from Paris: Train Station

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 .

Visiting Versailles from Paris: RER C Train

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!

view of the versailles gardens from just outside the palace on a versailles day trip from paris

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 !

jeremy storm standing in the hall of mirrors in versailles palace

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.

travelers admiring artwork inside versailles palace

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).

kate storm walking through leafy trees in the versailles grounds

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!

building located inside the queens hamlet in versailles france

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!

Visiting Versailles from Paris: #versailles #paris #france #parisdaytrip #travel

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, 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! 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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From Paris to Versailles: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The UNESCO-listed Château de Versailles is perhaps the most emblematic castle in France, famous for its lavish royal court during the reign of the Sun King (Louis XIV). This opulent 17th-century palace was the residence of French monarchs, from Louis XIV to Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette, the last queen of France.

It is easy to visit Versailles from Paris. The distance is only 20 kilometers — far enough away to feel like a bucolic escape to today's tourists but close enough that Parisian mobs were able to march to Versailles by foot during the French Revolution.

Tourists can travel from Paris to Versailles by train, car, bus, or guided tour. There are even organized excursions that include cycling around the Versailles estate.

Jardins de Versailles

The best way to get there depends on your personal preferences. For instance, if you enjoy listening to historical commentary, taking a guided tour is the ideal choice.

For those planning a longer travel itinerary in France, public transportation can limit the possibility of visiting nearby attractions. To get to other destinations in the area around Paris (especially places that are not directly accessible by train), renting a car makes the most sense.

On This Page:

  • From Paris to Versailles by Guided Tour
  • From Paris to Versailles on a Guided Bike Tour
  • From Paris to Versailles by Train
  • From Paris to Versailles by Bus
  • From Paris to Versailles by Car

1. From Paris to Versailles by Guided Tour

Château de Versailles

Most tourists appreciate the experience of visiting Versailles on a guided tour. This option offers the convenience of organized transfers, along with interesting commentary from a knowledgable guide.

The Versailles Palace & Gardens Guided Tour includes round-trip transportation by air-conditioned coach to Versailles. You may select the hotel pickup option. The drive from Paris to Versailles takes about 30 minutes.

This half-day tour provides skip-the-line admission to the Château de Versailles, and a two-hour guided visit to the château that covers the King's State Apartment, the Queen's Apartment, the Royal Chapel, the Coronation Room, and the Hall of Mirrors .

As you visit the magnificent rooms of the palace, your English-speaking guide will provide historical context, including stories about Louis XIV (the "Sun King"), Louis XVI, Marie-Antoinette, Madame du Barry, and other important figures of France's royal court.

After admiring the château interior, you will tour the gardens of the Château de Versailles ( Les Jardins ). These immaculately manicured French formal gardens feature harmonious geometric proportions that mirror the château's Neoclassical architecture.

André Le Nôtre , who developed the outdoor elements of Versailles, considered the gardens to be as important as the interior decor and architecture of the château. Between 1661 and 1664, Le Nôtre landscaped the gardens for King Louis XIV with elaborate parterres, ornamental pools, fountains, sculptures, flower beds, perfectly sheared shrubs, and shady tree-lined paths.

Depending on the day, you may have a chance to see a Musical Fountains Show or experience a Musical Gardens event during your tour of the gardens.

This organized excursion to the Château de Versailles takes about four hours.

2. From Paris to Versailles on a Guided Bike Tour

Bicycle Path in the gardens of Versailles

The Château de Versailles estate has dozens of kilometers of picturesque cycling paths that traverse a lush 800-hectare parkland. Much of the original estate has remained intact since the French Revolution.

Visiting the Versailles estate by bicycle gives tourists a different perspective and offers the opportunity to see more of the grounds than is possible by walking. Cycling makes it easy to explore beyond the formal French gardens to get glimpses of the diverse scenery of the luxuriant estate.

The Day Bike Tour of Versailles from Paris is an excellent way to discover the Château de Versailles estate by bicycle. On this well-planned tour, a guide will meet you at the train station in Paris to take the train ride to Versailles. Then you will pick up your bicycles near the Château de Versailles and stop for picnic provisions before embarking on a cycling adventure.

Your guide will lead you on a discovery of the Versailles bike trails, while you admire the estate's expansive parkland. On this tour, you will cycle along tree-lined paths, through wide-open spaces and dense woodlands, alongside the Grand Canal, and to the quaint pastoral hamlet that Marie-Antoinette created as an idyllic refuge from her stiflingly formal court life. You will also see the Petit Trianon and Grand Trianon palaces.

After an invigorating bike excursion, you will spend some time exploring the interior of the château while listening to an audio-guide. The interior visit includes the State Apartments, Chapel, and the Hall of Mirrors.

Alternatively, if you prefer to arrive at the Château de Versailles on your own, it is possible to rent a bike at Versailles and cycle independently around the estate. Within the Château de Versailles estate, visitors can pick up a bike at Little Venice (bike rentals are available every day). On the weekends, bike rentals are also available at the Saint Anthony Gate and the Queen's Gate.

The Château de Versailles permits bicycle access to the public for free every day of the year. Bike rentals are available from mid-February through mid-November.

While cycling through the grounds, visitors may stop to grab a take-away picnic lunch (sandwiches, salads, crepes) from La Flottille or from the Gourmandises de la Petite Venise stand; both are located next to the Grand Canal. Angelina in front of the Petit Trianon palace also offers sandwiches, quiches, and salads to-go. Other take-out food options include Le Dauphin in the Dauphin's Grove and La Girandole Café in the Girandole Grove of the gardens.

Tips for Picnics at Versailles : Picnicking is allowed in the park of the Château de Versailles but not in the gardens. If you purchase a take-away lunch from Angelina, Le Dauphin, or La Girandole Café, you must head to another spot in the park to enjoy your meal. Lovely places to have a picnic within the Château de Versailles park are the Saint Anthony Plain, the lawns surrounding the Grand Canal, and the green space next to the Lake of the Swiss Guard.

3. From Paris to Versailles by Train

Great Hall Ballroom at the Château de Versailles

There are several ways to take the train from Paris to Versailles. Travelers can check train route schedules on the official SNCF site.

The easiest option is the RER (Line C) train , which departs from Métro stations (Gare d'Austerlitz, Saint-Michel-Notre-Dame, Musée d'Orsay, Invalides, Pont de l'Alma) in the center of Paris and arrives at the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station , which is the closest train station in Versailles to the Château de Versailles. The train ride on the Line C from one of the central Métro stations takes between 30 and 40 minutes. After arriving at the Château Rive Gauche station, it's about a 10-minute walk to the château.

The Invalides Métro station in the 7th arrondissement is one of the most convenient (least hectic) Métro stations on the Line C, which makes it ideal for tourists traveling from Paris to Versailles. From the Invalides station, the train arrives at the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station in just 30 minutes.

Another option is the SNCF train from Gare Montparnasse in Paris to the Versailles Chantiers station . The direct train ride (in the direction of Chartres) takes less than 20 minutes.

From either the Versailles Chantiers station, it's about a 25-minute walk to the Château de Versailles, where you should also expect a considerable wait in the tourist queue (especially during the high season) to enter the palace.

4. From Paris to Versailles by Bus

Buses at the Château de Versailles

Taking the bus is another affordable and easy way to travel from Paris to Versailles. Tourists can check the bus schedules ahead of time on the official RATP site .

The RATP bus (Line 171) offers public transportation bus service from the Pont de Sèvres Métro station (end of the Métro line 9) in Paris to the Château de Versailles. This route takes about 30 minutes, or longer if there is traffic.

5. From Paris to Versailles by Car

Château de Fontainbleu

Since public transportation and guided tours are the easiest ways to get to Versailles from Paris, it is usually not necessary to consider renting a car. This option makes sense for travelers who are combining a visit to Versailles with an extended sightseeing itinerary in France .

Tourists can rent a car either at Charles de Gaulle Airport or at a car rental agency in Paris. Several car rental agencies offer convenient locations in central Paris, such as the Gare Saint-Lazare and the Gare Montparnasse.

Driving to Versailles makes it possible to continue a travel itinerary in the nearby Normandy and Champagne regions, where picturesque villages and historic towns are scattered throughout the countryside but are not easily accessible by train or bus.

Just a one-hour drive from Versailles is the UNESCO-listed Château de Fontainebleau . Built in the 12th century as a royal hunting lodge, the estate castle was enhanced and transformed into an Italianate palace during the Renaissance. The château was later renovated for Napoleon I (Napoléon Bonaparte).

Traveling by car makes sense for several other itineraries: from Versailles to Evreux (renowned for its Gothic cathedral), and from Versailles to the seaside town of Honfleur (a place that inspired Impressionist painters) or to the beach resort of Deauville on the Normandy coast. In these cases, it is much quicker to travel by car than by train.

If you want to travel from Versailles to see Monet's Garden in Giverny , your only option is to get there by car. The drive is about one hour and is well worth the detour.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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Planning Your Paris Vacation : Plan your sightseeing itineraries ahead of time. For ideas, take a look at the list of top attractions in Paris , which includes the Eiffel Tower and the Musée du Louvre . Art lovers should check out the list of top museums of Paris and consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass.

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Places to Visit near Versailles : The surroundings of Paris are packed with amazing tourist attractions within a one-hour drive or train ride from Versailles. Many of the historic castles and churches are UNESCO-listed sites, including Chartres Cathedral in the Loire Valley and the Château de Fontainebleau. Reims , in the Champagne region, is two hours away by train or car. About a four-hour drive or train ride from Versailles, Mont Saint-Michel is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in France.

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

Sean Finelli Last Updated: October 29, 2023

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.

Pro Tip: Planning to visit the Versailles Palace near Paris? Avoid planning in circles by bookmarking this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our guide to Versailles for more planning resources, our top Versailles tours for a memorable worry-free experience, and how to visit Versailles .

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

Top 5 things to see in Versailles

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

1. Versailles Palace: Hours and Info

Palace of Versailles Gates Adorned with Gold

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

Manicured garden of Versailles with pond in the background.

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

close up of a golden statue water fountain feature at Versailles, France

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

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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.

trip to versailles from paris

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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.

How 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.

trip to versailles from paris

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.

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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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My Paris Itinerary

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

hall of mirrors versailles

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

trip to versailles from paris

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

trip to versailles from paris

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.

trip to versailles from paris

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 ($$)

hotel 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 ($$$)

waldorf astoria versailles

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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  • Best International Day Trips from Paris (by train)
  • Where to Eat on a Budget in Paris
  • How to Spend One Day in Paris (24 Hour Itinerary)

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.

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How to Get to Versailles from Paris: Ultimate Transportation Guide

Rolling on the outskirts of Paris, near the region’s main train station, Versailles is a timeless masterpiece that transcends all seasons. But what’s the most comfortable and efficient way to reach this grand destination from the bustling city center?

Look no further. Whether you’re an ardent historical enthusiast, an art lover or just seeking new adventures, embarking on a journey to Versailles promises more than just sights; it’s a page from history brought to life.

We are prepared to walk through opulence, grandeur, and awe-inspiring beauty as we map out the comprehensive navigation guide on how to get to Versailles from Paris by car or train. Buckle up, and let’s embark on a trip down this royal route filled with incredible activities!

To travel from Paris to Versailles, the most common and convenient option is to take the RER C train. This train crosses Paris from east to west and takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Versailles, depending on the timetable. The train frequency is every 15 minutes, making it easily accessible for travelers.

If you prefer to drive, car navigation to Versailles from Paris can offer scenic views of the region. Another option is using train lines L or N, depending on your location in Paris. It is advisable to plan your itinerary based on the location of your accommodation and choose the most suitable mode of transport.

Table of Contents

Using Trains from Paris to Versailles

Rer c: the most common route, train line l and n: the alternative paths, public transportation: route finder and tickets, how to use google maps for route planning, avoiding pickpockets on your travel, cost of journey from paris to versailles.

Pond in front of the Royal residence at Versailles near Paris

Traveling from Paris to the magnificent Palace of Versailles is a journey filled with history and grandeur. Regarding transportation options, trains are a popular and efficient choice, and shuttles might also be available. Not only do they provide convenience and comfort, but they also allow you to experience the scenic countryside as you make your way to this iconic destination.

Trains offer a quick and reliable means of transportation, with several departures throughout the day. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended visit, the train system in France ensures that you can easily access Versailles from various parts of Paris, no matter your starting point.

Imagine stepping onto a train platform in the heart of Paris, excitement in the air as you embark on a journey to explore the lavish palace that once symbolized absolute monarchy. As the train pulls out of the station, you sit, gazing at the passing urban landscape before transitioning into picturesque views of rolling green fields and charming villages.

Now, let’s delve into one of the most common routes for reaching Versailles by train: RER C, which departs from the main train station in the region.

  • The RER C train line is the most commonly used route, with 70% of visitors travelling to Versailles opting for this option.
  • On average, it takes 45-90 minutes to travel from Paris to Versailles, depending on your location and choice of transportation (via RER C, Train Line L or N).
  • A study shows that a round trip from Paris to Versailles by train costs approximately €7.30 making it the cheapest public transport option.

See Related:   Best Towns and Cities Near Paris to Visit

The view from Ile aux Cygnes towards the Eiffel Tower, with a RER-C train crossing the Pont Rouelle. | how to get to versailles from paris

The RER C line is popular among travelers from Paris to Versailles. This rail line offers direct service between prominent stations in Paris and the enchanting city of Versailles. Here are some key details about using RER C for your journey:

  • Frequency : Trains operate regularly on the RER C line, providing convenient options for travelers. With approximately 26 trains per day and departures occurring approximately every 29 minutes, you can plan your trip according to your preferred schedule. This reliable timetable ensures you won’t miss any planned activities in Versailles.
  • Duration : The journey from Paris to Versailles via RER C takes approximately 12 minutes, allowing for swift travel between these destinations. It’s important to note that the travel time remains the same regardless of departure time.
  • Tickets : Prices for a single ticket start at $108.63 but vary depending on availability and demand. Checking prices and booking your tickets are recommended for the best deals, especially if you are planning your trip around peak travel seasons. With its frequent departures, relatively short travel time, and reasonable prices, RER C provides an efficient and accessible route to reach Versailles from the bustling cities of France. It is also a convenient option for family trips , especially when you have a long list of places to see, and it leaves more time for sampling local food and connecting with nature in the Versailles area.

When it comes to traveling from Paris to Versailles, there are multiple transportation options available. One alternative path that can take you to your destination is through train lines L and N. These train lines provide a convenient and efficient way to reach Versailles from various points in Paris. Enjoy the picturesque view of nature and witness a different cultural ethos as you travel from city to city.

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Paris Train Line L

The train Line L (often called the Transilien Line) operates from St-Lazare station in Paris and offers direct access to Versailles-Rive-Droite station. This route is particularly useful if you are located near the center or western parts of Paris.

The journey typically takes around 30 minutes, allowing for a swift and comfortable commute. You will have enough time to produce a quick list of must-visit areas in Versailles while on the train.

On the other hand, if you reside in southern Paris or would prefer a different route, Train Line N may be your alternative path. Operating from Montparnasse station, this line allows direct access to Versailles-Chantiers station. This route’s journey time is slightly longer than Line L’s, usually taking around 40 minutes. It might be an excellent time to finalize the food options you want to try in Versailles.

Regardless of which train line you choose, both offer frequent departures throughout the day, allowing flexibility in planning your visit to Versailles. This means more time to explore the beautiful cities, immerse yourself in the local culture, and spend quality time with your family.

Now that we have explored the alternative paths provided by Train Lines L and N, let’s explore how public transportation functions for traveling between Paris and Versailles, along with essential information regarding route finders and tickets.

Finding your way through public transportation networks in a foreign city can initially be overwhelming. Fortunately, several user-friendly tools are available that can assist you in planning your route, making your trips more straightforward. One such tool is Google Maps.

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People taking public transportation

Using Google Maps for route planning is simple and efficient. Open the app or website on your device, enter your starting point (e.g., your hotel or current location in Paris), and input your desired destination (Versailles). The application will then provide you with several route options, including different modes of transportation such as trains, buses, or a combination of both.

For instance, if you are in the heart of Paris near the Louvre Museum , Google Maps may suggest taking the metro to a specified RER station and then transferring to a train directly to Versailles. It will provide detailed instructions on which lines to take, where to change, and estimated travel times. It’s like having a virtual guide list every step for you.

Additionally, it’s crucial to have the appropriate tickets for your journey. In Paris, public transportation tickets are known as “Ticket T+” and can be used on various modes of transport like metro, bus, tramway, and RER within the city limits. These tickets are valid for 1 hour and 30 minutes from the validation time and allow for connections between different metro lines or between metro and RER lines.

It’s important to note that prices for public transportation increased starting January 1, 2023, due to rising energy costs and inflation. However, don’t let this deter you from exploring the deltas of French cities, the rich culture, and the warmth of the family-like community.

Before embarking on your journey to the historical Château de Versailles, it’s advisable to check for updates on ticket prices. Since things like these can change at short notice, it’s best to stay informed. Order your train tickets online if possible, thus avoiding long lines on arrival.

Ticket TypePriceSingle Ticket T+2.10€Pack of 10 Tickets16.60€Weekly Navigo Pass30€Monthly Navigo PassStarting at 84.10€Navigo Liberté+Not exceeding 8.45€/day

With these route planning tools and ticket information in mind, you can confidently navigate the public transportation system between Paris and Versailles. This way, whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there is plenty of scope to put this knowledge into action and embark on an unforgettable trip to the Palace of Versailles.

From the vibrant city life of Paris to the tranquil suburbs of Versailles, Google Maps becomes an invaluable tool in navigating your way. This innovative app provides detailed information on public transportation routes, estimated travel times, and real-time updates on disruptions or delays. For a person unfamiliar with the routes, these features are a boon.

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A traveler making use of google map

Install the app on your smartphone or access it through a web browser. Start by entering your current location in Paris as the starting point and Versailles Palace as the destination. Google Maps makes it easy by automatically generating several transport options to reach Versailles, including varied modes like trains, buses, and walking routes.

Each transport mode comes with an estimated travel time. Consider convenience, cost, and any specific preferences when choosing a mode. If you prefer a direct journey with minimal transfers, opt for the train route that aligns with your departure point. But if exploring different areas along the way to Versailles, alternatives like buses or a combination of walking and public transport can give you a detailed insight into the surroundings.

By tapping on your chosen route, you’ll get step-by-step directions. You would know where to board and disembark, the approximate walking distances, and any notable landmarks worth visiting. Look out for signs and take your time to review this information thoroughly before setting off on your journey.

For example, let’s say you’re staying in central Paris near the Notre-Dame Cathedral and planning to visit Versailles Palace. Google Maps might suggest taking the RER C train directly from the Saint-Michel Notre-Dame station to Versailles-Château – Rive Gauche station. The estimated travel time could be around 45 minutes and take you past the beautiful Seine River , bestowing amazing views along the route. The app will show you where to catch the train at the station and guide you to the palace once you arrive in Versailles.

Now that we have a solid understanding of utilizing Google Maps for route planning let’s navigate another important aspect of traveling from Paris to Versailles—avoiding pickpockets.

Like any popular tourist destination, Paris is not immune to pickpockets. It’s essential to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect yourself from potential threats. Here are some valuable tips to ensure your safety while exploring Paris and going to Versailles.

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Avoid pick pockets while traveling

First and foremost, be mindful of your surroundings at all times. Busy areas such as train stations, crowded streets, and popular tourist attractions can attract pickpockets who prey on unsuspecting targets. Stay alert, watch out for any suspicious behavior, and be sure to protect your belongings, especially in such places.

One effective measure, especially when traveling through town, is securing your valuables in a concealed money belt or an anti-theft bag with hidden compartments. These precautions make it more difficult for pickpockets to find ways to access your belongings without your knowledge.

Additionally, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, flashy jewelry, or items like an easily visible train ticket that might draw unnecessary attention. Don’t give them a reason to stop you.

When using public transportation, be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded conveyances like trains or buses. Ensure your bags and backpacks are tightly closed and held in front of you where they are within sight. Locks or clasps on zippers can act as deterrence machines for opportunistic thieves.

Let’s consider a scenario where you’re on the RER C train heading towards the chateau of Versailles. While standing amidst fellow passengers, ensure your wallet is securely stored inside a zippered pocket or an inner compartment of your bag, preferably one not easily accessible by someone behind you.

Keep a firm grip on your belongings and remain vigilant of anyone attempting to get uncomfortably close or acting suspiciously.

Following these simple yet crucial strategies can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to pickpockets while traveling from Paris to Versailles.

When planning a visit to the magnificent Palace of Versailles, it is essential to consider the cost of transportation from Paris. Exploring the options available and understanding the best ways to secure your belongings can help you make an informed decision and ensure that your journey is convenient and budget-friendly.

One of the most common means of reaching Versailles from Paris is by train. The RER C line offers direct service from several stations in Paris to Versailles-Château, a stop conveniently situated near the palace. The cost of a train ticket on the RER C depends on the zones you travel through. For a trip exclusively between Zone 1 (central Paris) and Zone 4 (Versailles), the fare is typically around €3.85.

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Versailles Palace

For instance, if you’re departing from Saint-Michel-Notre-Dame in central Paris and heading straight to Versailles-Château station, you only need to purchase a ticket covering Zones 1-4. However, if your journey involves traveling from a different starting point or you plan to visit other areas in Paris before heading back to Versailles, the ticket price for your train trip may vary depending on the zones crossed.

It’s worth noting that there are also options for purchasing discounted tickets, such as the “Paris Visite” travel card, which provides unlimited travel within specific zones for a designated number of days. This can be advantageous if you plan to explore various attractions, including the Chateau of Versailles , throughout your stay in Paris.

Additionally, there are alternatives to train transportation as well. Some visitors prefer taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt. While these options offer convenience and door-to-door service, they often come at a higher price than public transportation, which may prove taxing especially if you stop at several sights around town.

It’s worth noting that there are also options for purchasing discounted tickets, such as the “Paris Visite” travel card, which provides unlimited travel within specific zones for a designated number of days. This can be advantageous if you plan to explore various attractions throughout your stay in Paris, including Versailles.

Additionally, there are alternatives to train transportation as well. Some visitors prefer taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt . While these options offer convenience and door-to-door service, they tend to come at a higher cost compared to public transportation.

The average taxi fare from Paris to Versailles can range anywhere from €40 to €70 or more, depending on factors such as traffic conditions and the specific location of your starting point in Paris.

Another alternative is booking a guided tour that includes transportation from Paris to Versailles. These tours often provide round-trip transportation, guided visits to the palace and gardens, and skip-the-line access, saving you time and providing valuable insights from knowledgeable guides. The cost of guided tours can vary depending on the level of service and additional amenities offered.

Ultimately, the journey cost from Paris to Versailles will depend on various factors, such as your preferred mode of transportation, ticket prices, discounts or travel cards, and any additional services you choose to include.

Taking the train remains a popular and cost-effective option for reaching Versailles from Paris. However, if convenience or personalized experiences are of utmost importance to you, alternatives like taxis or guided tours may be worth considering despite their higher costs.

Evaluate your priorities and budget to make an informed decision that suits your needs when planning your visit to the enchanting Palace of Versailles.

Related Resources:  

  • These Are The Most Essential Experiences in France for Travelers
  • Best Travel Tips for Paris: A Guide for a Memorable Trip
  • Must-Visit Locations in Paris: An Insider’s Guide
  • Moulin Rouge Show including Champagne & Transport

trip to versailles from paris

Other Travel Guides

  • Paris Hotel Check-Out Time Guidelines: A Guide for Visiting
  • What is the Weather Like in Paris? Climate & Temperature Guide
  • Day Trip to London from Paris: A Seamless Eurostar Adventure
  • Currency Exchange in Paris: Tips and Best Rates for Travelers
  • What to Wear in Paris: Essential Fashion Tips for Your Trip
  • Best Airlines to Fly to Paris: Your Guide to a Comfortable Journey

Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

How to Get From Paris to Versailles & Plan The Perfect Day Trip

January 23, 2023 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on October 10, 2023 by Lauren Melnick

how to get from paris to versailles palace

Doing a day trip from Paris to Versailles is one of those bucket list experiences I’ve had on my list since Grade 10 history class.

For those unfamiliar, Versailles is the Palace of the French kings. It’s where Marie Antoinette and her husband, King Louis XVI, spent their days until the bloody French Revolution.

Once a hunting lodge for the royals, it became their seat of power in the 19th century. Today, the estate is 800 hectares of pure opulence made up of the Palace, gardens, a park, and the Trianon estate .

Known for its decadent Hall of Mirrors, lavish Italian-style decor, and gold-covered  everything,  Versailles is a portal back into French decadence and spares no expense.

Only 30 to 60 minutes from Paris, it’s a must-visit for history buffs who want an intimate glimpse into the lives of the French Royals.

Have I convinced you? Here’s absolutely everything you need to know about how to get from Paris to Versailles Palace!

Psst…Want more Europe travel tips? Check out these other posts:

  • 3 Insanely Cheap Ways to Travel Europe in 2022
  • How To Travel Europe on a Budget: A Complete Guide
  • A Magical 2-Days in Lisbon Itinerary (Including a Sintra Day Trip)
  • One Day in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary for History Lovers
  • The Ultimate 4 Days in Rome Itinerary: How to See The Best of Rome
  • Amsterdam Coffeeshops: How to Get Stoned Like a Pro

Table of Contents

Why Visit Versailles From Paris?

Book an organised tour, how to get from paris to versailles with rer c, how to get to versailles from montparnasse, how to get to versailles from saint-lazare, tips for taking the train from paris to versailles, hop on the bus to versailles, how to travel to versailles from paris with uber, what to consider when buying tickets for versailles, buy your skip-the-line tickets in advance, plan to spend a full day here, avoid mondays and tuesdays, have a plan for everything you want to see at versailles, spend a night in the town of versailles, final thoughts.

versailles palace garden

Versailles’ historical and cultural significance and location (it’s only 20km from the city) make it a logical day trip from Paris – if you don’t mind the crowds.

…And there are good reasons why Chateau de Versailles is France’s second most popular attraction.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s considered a great achievement in French 17th-century art and is one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe.

…But it wasn’t always the seat of royal extravagance.

The Palace had humble beginnings as a hunting pavilion for Louis XIII . Over the decades, the kings transformed the grounds, with Lous XIV moving the court and government from Paris to Versailles in 1682.

Today, the Palace contains a ridiculous 2,300 rooms, over 6,000 paintings, 3,000 sculptures, and covers 63,154 square meters.

Imagine living here!

I would 100% need full-time staff to remember how to get back to my room.

How to Get From Paris to Versailles Palace

eiffel tower in paris

On a budget? Feel like splurging and travelling in style?

No problem.

There are 4 ways to get from Paris to Versailles Palace, no matter your bank balance.

versailles palace ticket

When I first began hunting for skip-the-line Versailles tickets on Get Your Guide , I discovered some tour options included transport from Paris.

An aircon bus ride to Versailles?!

It’s exactly what I wanted to hear while melting from the 40-degree heat wave in Paris.

Unfortunately, none of the “transport is included” tours were available for the date I wanted to go.

Luckily, the stars aligned, and I stumbled across a skip-the-line guided tour that included access to the Gardens and had availability.

If you’re obsessed with history, I highly recommend this option:

  • It’s a stress-free experience
  • You don’t wait in any lines
  • It can include transport
  • You get the full rundown on the Palace’s history

The downside?

You don’t have a lot of flexibility with the route unless the guide gives you time to wander around at the end of the tour.

Take the Train From Paris to Versailles

metro in paris

Without a doubt, the train is one of the best ways to get to Versailles from Paris.

  • It’s easy, cheap, and comfortable
  • Zero traffic
  • A 99% chance you won’t get lost

How do you take the train to Versailles from Paris? 

You have three options:

  • N Line from Montparnasse Station
  • Line L from Saint-Lazare Station

The RER C is the best option to get to Versailles if you’re staying in the centre of Paris.

Even though I was staying on the outskirts of the city centre, I took the metro to get to the station, and I’d recommend doing the same.

You can board the train to Versailles from any of the seven stations:

  • Champs de Mars – Tour Eiffel (I got on here)
  • Pont de l’Alma
  • Musée d’Orsay
  • Saint Michel Notre Dame
  • Paris Austerlitz
  • Bibliothèque François Mitterrand.

From the station, make sure to take the train to Versailles Château-Rive Gauche . This is the line that stops the closest to the castle.

Once you arrive at Versailles Château-Rive Gauche, walk across the road, and you’ll see a Starbucks. Follow the road next to the left straight to the castle (it’s about a 10-minute walk), or if you’re meeting a guide, the Get Your Guide offices are to the right of the coffee shop.

  • How Often:  The trains leave every 10-minutes
  • Total Journey Time:  30-minutes
  • Cost:  3.65 EUR per trip per person. Buy tickets at the station ticket machines.

bedroom in versailles

Staying in the south of Paris near Montparnasse? Line L is the best way to get to Versailles.

But once you arrive at Versailles Chantiers station after a 25-minute train ride, you’ll need to walk 20 minutes to the castle. 

If you’re not keen on a longer walk, I’d recommend checking on Google Maps what your journey time would look like if you took the metro to the nearest RER C station.

  • How Often:  The trains leave every 15-minutes
  • Total Journey Time:  45-minutes

Line L at Saint-Lazare train station is the slowest and most expensive train route to Versailles. 

It’s a 40-minute journey to the Versailles Rive-Droite station and a 20-minute walk to the Palace.

I’d only consider this option if you’re staying close to Saint-Lazare and it would take too long / cost more to head into the city centre for the RER C.

  • How Often:  The trains leave every 20-minutes
  • Total Journey Time:  60-minutes
  • Cost:  4.45 EUR per trip per person. Buy tickets at the station ticket machine.
  • Buy a round-trip train ticket:  I did not do this and spent 40 minutes standing in a line while melting from the Parsian heat. Then 15 minutes sitting on a full train, waiting for it to leave the station with no aircon.
  • Summer renovations:  In July and August, the RER C line goes under renovation, and you won’t be able to use the train. Check the notices at the station and Google Maps to find a different route to Versailles. I missed the renovation by one day during my trip.
  • Double-check your route:  If you’re travelling on the RER C, make sure you’re going to Versailles Rive-Gauche and not to Versailles Chantiers.
  • Download the RATP app: The   Paris public transportation app  will give you itinerary options, including the RER trains and updates on route cancellations or service delays.

hall of mirorrs in versailles

The cheapest way to get to Versailles from Paris is by bus.

The best part? 

(Besides the price point, of course)

It stops right in front of the palace entrance.

However, the bus does have the longest journey time. It can also be crowded, and your trip to Versailles will take even longer if there is a traffic jam.

To take the bus, make your way to the Pont de Sèvres station and hop on bus 171.

Warning:  Double check the bus you’re boarding will terminate at Versailles. Other variations of 171 have different terminuses. It’s confusing, I know.

Another thing to keep in mind is the distance to get to Pont de Sèvres. It’s technically outside the city limits. If you’re staying in the city centre, you’ll need to take the metro, and that will increase your total journey time.

Again, it might work out better to skip the bus, take the train, and spend the extra Euros.

  • How Often:  The bus leaves every 10 minutes from 05:50 to 00:50.
  • Total Journey Time:  35-minutes (excluding getting to the station)
  • Cost:  1.90 EUR per trip per person. 

lauren inside versailles palace

Sometimes you’re too fancy for public transportation, and that’s okay.

Take the Uber.

It’s the most expensive option, but at least you have the following:

  • Comfortable seating
  • An aux cable

To get the best price for your trip to Versailles from Paris, compare prices on all the ride-sharing apps (not only Uber):

Total Journey Time:  35 to 45-minutes (depending on traffic)

Cost:  60-80 EUR  

french flag on versailles palace

Not all Versailles tickets are equal.

Some will give you access to the Gardens during the Musical Fountain show. Others give you access to Trianon Estate.

Then there’s choosing a Priority Access ticket with an audio guide or signing up for a guided skip-the-line experience.

With so many options, how do you choose?

Well, it all depends on what you want to see:

  • Do you want to explore the Gardens and see the fountain shows?
  • Do you want a guide, or are you happy to explore solo?
  • Are you fussy about skipping the line or not?
  • How much of the palace grounds do you want to see?
  • Is the Gallery of Coaches on your bucket list? It’s only open on weekends.
  • What temporary exhibitions interest you?
  • Do you want a ticket that includes transport from Paris?

Use your answers to these questions to guide you in finding the best Versailles ticket option for your trip.

Tips for Visiting the Versailles Palace as a Day Trip From Paris

palace of versailles gate

Okay, you’re pretty much sorted about how to visit Versailles from Paris, but before you hop on the train, here are some final words of wisdom to help you plan your trip.

Listen, Versailles is one of the most popular attractions in France. If you’re reading this and thinking you can walk up to the Palace, grab a ticket, and not wait in a long line that will age you by a year, you’re mistaken.

All visitors need to book tickets with a time slot , and a skip-the-line combo makes the whole experience a lot more pleasant than baking in the sun.

I got my tickets a few days before on GetYourGuide (which included a guided tour). This allowed me to bypass all the other people waiting in line, saving time and myself from turning into a lobster.

lauren in front of versailles statue

Versailles is a massive palace. You’re not going to come here, waltz around and leave in an hour.

To avoid rushing and to see as much as possible (gotta get your money’s worth, yo), expect to block out an entire day here on your Paris itinerary.

With that said, there are four important things you don’t want to forget:

  • Wearing comfortable shoes
  • A bottle of water
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat

Okay, that’s six things, but you get the idea.

While there is an on-site restaurant (on the other side of the garden), you’ll have to suffer through the heat to get there, and it’s not going to be cheap.

Visiting Paris is already expensive as a South African traveller . To keep costs down, grab snacks before you leave your hotel or stock up at Starbucks before you enter the Palace. 

inside the palace of versailles

For the sake of your sanity and to avoid disappointment, avoid visiting Versailles on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Well, on Mondays, the Palace is closed except for the park and gardens. On Tuesdays, the Louvre and a few other Paris museums are closed for business.

The result?

Everyone heads to Versailles , making it one of the most popular days to visit the Palace, and the crowds are  heaving !

lauren in versailles garden

The Palace of Versailles is MASSIVE.

Honestly, as a first-time visitor who had a guide, I still found the whole place overwhelming.

I had no idea how many rooms I could visit (after the tour ended) and how long it would take to walk the gardens and explore all the nooks and crannies.

In hindsight, while I did see A LOT, I should have acquainted myself with the Versailles estate a bit better before my visit.

This is why I’d recommend getting acquainted with the park before you visit.

bedroom in versailles

Got an extra day on your Paris itinerary? Squeeze in an overnight stay in Versailles.

It’s a charming town and a welcome break from the hectic hustle of Paris.

Here are some Versailles accommodation suggestions:

  • Les Demoiselles à Versailles
  • Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace
  • Hôtel la Residence Du Berry

fountain show versailles

Visiting the Palace of Versailles from Paris is a dream!

It was one of those “pinch me” travel moments. After years of dreaming about the Palace, I was finally there.

Me, a random South African girl, was walking the same corridors as Marie Antionette and the French aristocracy. The stories only these walls could tell!

The opulence of their lives is overwhelming. It puts into perspective how out of touch the nobility was compared to those living in poverty in France.

On a side note, I would hate to wake up inside some of those apartments. The interior design is so in your face, and “look at how much wealth I have” it’s gaudy.

That said, I loved the tour through the Palace. I definitely see myself returning next time I’m in Paris, and I highly recommend coming to Versailles for a day trip if you’re a history nerd like myself.

Have any questions about how to get from Paris to Versailles Palace? Hit ya gurl up in the comments below!

If you like it, then you better put a pin on it!

Travelling to Paris? With plenty of transport options, it's easy to figure out how to get from Paris to Versailles on any budget.

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

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Roundrip transportation Versailles/Paris (half-day)

Roundrip transportation Versailles/Paris (half-day)

You already have your ticket or you wish to book it by yourself, take our shuttle to the castle of Versailles.

Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles with Priority Access from Versailles

Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles with Priority Access from Versailles

Come discover the Palace of Versailles leaving from Versailles. An expert guide will accompany you as you discover the history of French kings by visiting their superb apartments and the incomparable Hall of Mirrors. 

Versailles Half Day Audio Guided Tour of the Palace from Paris with transportation

Versailles Half Day Audio Guided Tour of the Palace from Paris with transportation

Half a day to visit the Palace of Versailles at your own convenience. Audio guides available for the grand apartments of the Palace. Free time in the French-style gardens. Excursion departing from Paris

Audio Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles and Access to the whole Estate Day Trip from Paris with transportation

Audio Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles and Access to the whole Estate Day Trip from Paris with transportation

Day trip to the Palace of Versailles. Free time to visit the King and Queen’s Grand Apartments and reception rooms with an audio guide. Free time to lunch and then discover the French gardens of the Palace of Versailles.

Versailles Essential Tour from Paris (Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles with Priority Access) from Paris with transportation

Versailles Essential Tour from Paris (Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles with Priority Access) from Paris with transportation

Guided tour of the Château de Versailles and its gardens with direct access. Round trip bus transportation from/to Paris, priority access to the interior of the castle.

Versailles Extended Tour from Paris (Palace with guide, gardens, the Trianons and the Queen’s Hamlet)

Versailles Extended Tour from Paris (Palace with guide, gardens, the Trianons and the Queen’s Hamlet)

Guided tour of the Palace of Versailles, including the King and Queen’s grand apartments and the Hall of Mirrors. Lunch in the park of the Palace. Guided tour of the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, as well as the Queen’s Hamlet.

Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles with Priority Access in a Small Group (transportation included 1-15)

Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles with Priority Access in a Small Group (transportation included 1-15)

Small groups or private tours. Discover the Palace of Versailles with a guided tour of the King’s Grand Apartments and the Hall of Mirrors. Take a walk in the French gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. Departure and return by minibus to the Pullman hotel in Paris.

Audio Guided Tour of Giverny Monet's Gardens and the Palace of Versailles Day Trip (lunch and transportation included)

Audio Guided Tour of Giverny Monet's Gardens and the Palace of Versailles Day Trip (lunch and transportation included)

A guided day tour with two must-see destinations close to Paris. Discover the Gardens of Giverny, with free time to visit the studio and House of Claude Monet. Then head to the Palace of Versailles, with free time to stroll through the gardens. Stop for lunch at Moulin de Fourges or Bistrot du Moulin.

All day trip guided tour Giverny Monet's Gardens and Palace of Versailles from Paris with skip-the-line access (lunch and transportation included)

All day trip guided tour Giverny Monet's Gardens and Palace of Versailles from Paris with skip-the-line access (lunch and transportation included)

A guided day tour with two must-see destinations close to Paris. Discover the Gardens of Giverny, with free time to visit the studio and House of Claude Monet. Then head to the Palace of Versailles, with free time to stroll through the gardens. Stop for lunch at Moulin de Fourges.

Guided Tour of Giverny and Versailles in small group (1-15) with Skip-the-Line Access Day Trip from Paris (Lunch and transportation included)

Guided Tour of Giverny and Versailles in small group (1-15) with Skip-the-Line Access Day Trip from Paris (Lunch and transportation included)

In a small group or private tour, go and discover Versailles and Giverny. The Monet Foundation with its magnificent gardens, his house, and the picturesque Norman village of Giverny. And the majestic Palace of Versailles.

Private Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles with Priority Access from Paris with transportation

Private Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles with Priority Access from Paris with transportation

A private tour of 7. Discover the Palace of Versailles with a guided tour of the King’s Grand Apartments and the Hall of Mirrors. Take a walk in the French gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. Departure and return by minibus to your place of residence in Paris.

Private Full Day Guided Tour to the Palace of Versailles and Trianons (Lunch and transportation included)

Versailles tickets, guided tours et priority access

When visiting Paris, it's easy to visit Versailles by booking your tickets in advance with PARISCityVISION. On board a comfortable coach from the centre of Paris or by train, to visit the gardens and the Palace of Versailles with priority access with a guide-interpreter or on your own with an audio guide, choose the tickets that suit you best. Whether you prefer to condense your visit into a morning or an afternoon, or take the time to have lunch in the park near the Grand Canal and stroll over to the Trianon, there are tours and excursions to suit all tastes .

A priority ticket enables you to visit the Grands Appartements royaux and the Hall of Mirrors, with an audio guide to comment on the history of the Palace of Versailles in the language of your choice. You can then wander at your leisure through the gardens laid out by Le Nôtre , while a more comprehensive guided tour will take you to the Petit and Grand Trianon, where you can discover the Queen's domain. Guided tours of the Palace of Versailles and its formal gardens can also be arranged for small groups.

Visit our website to find out about prices and opening times for visitors, and book your tickets in advance. Guided tours, musical performances or both, make the most of the best rates when booking your excursion.

Versailles, a must-see in France

The history of the Versailles Palace is unique and very important in French history. Louis XIV conceived of the Château de Versailles as an expression of his omnipotence, and as a representation of the power of the kings of France . At the height of his power, he made Versailles the epitome of superlatives. Today, this immense palace, surrounded by splendid gardens, is one of the most visited monuments in France, just a few kilometres from Paris.

The Château de Versailles is a must-see if you're staying in Paris to discover the history of Louis XIV and Marie-Antoinette, through historical reconstructions and educational exhibitions. To get an idea of what life was like at Court, you need to have seen the 2,300-odd rooms in the château , admired the Hall of Mirrors and the King's and Queen's flats , and strolled along the paths of the landscaped gardens, as more than 10 million visitors do every year. Slip into the intimacy of Marie-Antoinette at the Petit Trianon and the Queen's hamlet , in a world that is both rural and delicate, less ostentatious and particularly poignant.

To fully immerse yourself in the grandeur of Versailles and its aristocratic history , book your tickets during the spring to catch the Grandes Eaux Musicales show . This aquatic and musical spectacle, set to Baroque music, unfolds in the basins and gardens of Versailles in the afternoon. Alternatively, during the summertime, you can experience an extraordinary show on Saturday nights, culminating with fireworks above the Grand Canal. Ensure you reserve your tickets to witness this captivating spectacle .

Book your Versailles tickets online

Buy your Versailles ticket onlin e and discover this extraordinary place at your own pace. Order your tickets for Versailles online and discover every corner of the estate: the palace, the gardens, the two Trianons and the Queen's hamlet all bear witness to the past splendour and now bygone daily life of the French monarchy. Your tickets include an audio guide to the history and secrets of the château.

Don't hesitate any longer, purchase your ticket now for one of the various tours offered by PARISCityVISION and relish the experience of visiting one of the world's most stunning monuments .

Prepare your visit

Journey To France

How To Get From Paris To Versailles (Transport Options)

By: Author Christine Rogador

Posted on Published: July 14, 2022  - Last updated: January 6, 2023

Are you looking for the best ways to travel from Paris to Versailles ?

France is more than its historic capital. The gorgeous buildings alone are not just a Paris thing. Less than an hour from the City of Light ,  the lavish Palace of Versailles and its sprawling estate and gardens is a destination that’s not to be missed.

In the same way that they did when it was “home” to the French monarchy, the Château de Versailles and its surrounding estate still dazzle and enchant visitors today. Everything you see in the Palace today was made possible by previous monarchs, from Louis XIV (“The Sun King”) to Louis XVI (“the Tsar”) and Marie-Antoinette (“The Tsarina”), who fled in disgrace from an angry mob just before the French Revolution.

Fortunately, the chateau is only 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Paris, making it ideal for a day trip .

As far as transportation options are concerned, there are various ways to get to Versailles . Let’s look at all the Paris to Versailles transport options,  from public transportation to guided tours.

Things you'll find in this article

How to Get from Paris to Versailles

Train transport details, bus transport details, car transport details, travel tips and resources.

How To Get From Paris to Versailles -Transport Options

Paris to Versailles by Train

Chateau-Rive Gauche Train Station

The Versailles Chateau-Rive Gauche Train Station is the station that is located the closest to the palace. From Paris, take the RER Line C to the Versailles Chateau Rive Gauche Train Station. This is the route that comes the most highly recommended. The frequency of the train service is approximately once every 15 minutes.

St-Michel, the Musée d’Orsay , Invalides, Pont de l’Alma, and Champs de Mars-Tour Eiffel are the Paris C line stations that will take you to Versailles. Remember to buy round-trip tickets if you want to cut down on the amount of time you spend traveling back.

Route : Gare d’Austerlitz / St.Michel-Notre Dame / Musee d’Orsay / Invalides / Pont de l’Alma / Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel to Versailles-Rive Gauche

Schedule: 5:10 AM to 11:34 PM, train departs every 15 to 20 minutes

Travel Time : 40 minutes

Fare/Ticket Cost: €7

You can book your ticket online here. 

Paris to Versailles by Bus

Paris Bus

You’ll need to get to the Pont de Sèvres station on the city’s western outskirts by metro before taking a local bus to Chateau Versailles Rive Gauche station. Take the #171 bus to Versailles from the outside of the station, and get out at the #171 bus stop.

The ratp.fr website has a schedule for bus number 171.

If you don’t speak French, taking a bus from Paris to Versailles is a bit more difficult than taking the train, but it’s still doable. There’s also the slight risk of getting on the wrong bus, which can be stressful.

There are other ways to get around, but the bus is the most affordable. If you’re on a tight budget, it may be the best option. It’s also a great way to see the suburbs of Paris and the countryside of the Ile de France.

Please download the RATP app to your phone so that you can get directions and a good map to locate the station.

Route: Pont de Sèvres station to Versailles

Schedule: departs every 15 to 20 minutes, available from 6 AM to 12 MN

Travel Time: around 45 minutes

Fare/Ticket Cost : €3

Paris to Versailles by Car

Driving to Versailles is one of the most convenient options if you have a car available to you. Versailles can be reached in less than 45 minutes by car if you avoid rush hour.

Leaving the city center, take the Boulevard Periphérique to the A13, which will take you to Rouen, St. Quentin en Yvelines, and Versailles Keep an eye out for signs indicating that this road is closed at certain times of the day.

Then take Exit 5 toward Versailles-Centre, which is about 7.5 kilometers from the current location. Follow the directions to the Château de Versailles once you’ve arrived at Versailles. On-site parking is available for a fee.

Route : Paris Center to Château de Versailles

Fare/Ticket Cost: Car rental starts at €30 per day

Paris to Versailles by Guided Tour

The majority of tourists find the experience of touring Versailles with a guide to be rewarding. This alternative provides the ease of planned transfers in addition to informative commentary from an experienced guide.

The vast majority of guided excursions to Versailles Palace & Gardens include transportation to and from Versailles on an air-conditioned coach both ways. You have the opportunity to select the hotel pickup serviceCheck ouservic, like in this tour From Paris: Versailles Skip-the-Line Tour & Gardens Access or this From Paris: Palace of Versailles & Gardens w/ Transportation. 

During your journey through the gardens, you can have the opportunity to participate in an event known as Musical Gardens or watch a show called Musical Fountains, depending on the day.

Route: Paris Center to Versailles

Schedule: usually departs Paris Center in the morning at 8 or 9.

Travel Time: 30 minutes

Fare/Ticket Cost : starts at €7

Buy your ticket online here.

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 .

Christine Rogador in the Louvre

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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Wander With Wonder

A Day Trip to Versailles from Paris

Written by judy karnia, destinations | europe | france | travel.

Plan a day trip to Versailles during a trip to Paris for a day of opulence, grandeur, beauty, and fountains fit for a king or queen.

Every visit to Paris should include a day trip to Versailles to explore the beauty and history of the palaces and gardens. My daughter and I rode the train for a brief journey to the playground of the Kings Louis and thoroughly enjoyed the day imagining the life of royalty. The palace and gardens were begun in the 1600s and continue to be an icon of French luxury. Exploring Versailles ensures a day of wonder and amusement. Read on for everything to do when you visit Versailles, and we hope after reading this, you’re ready to book your own France tour package from the USA !

What's in This Article:

Palace of Versailles

From the first glimpse down the street, the Palace of Versailles impressed us with its immensity and grandeur. We entered the chateau after passing the tall golden gates that frame the courtyard. After perusing the galleries explaining the history, we peered into the domed chapel anchored by a marble floor, stone arches, and Corinthian columns. We strolled through the royal apartments, which called our attention to the rich hues covering the walls and furniture.

The main courtyard of Versailles during a day trip to Versailles.

The main courtyard of Versailles Palace. Photo by Judy Karnia

The Room of Abundance presents an excellent example of the palace’s opulence. Gold molding separates the many marble colors on the walls from an enormous mural that spans the ceiling. The room served as an evening gathering place and antechamber for King Louis XIV’s Room of Rare Objects. Overall, the Versailles collections include over 60,000 pieces of art.

Room of Abundance during a day trip to Versailles.

Room of Abundance in Versailles Palace. Photo by Judy Karnia

The most famous room, the Hall of Mirrors, does not disappoint. Over 350 mirrors line the 240-foot-long hall on one side. Multiple French doors on the other side open onto the gardens. Under the painted, vaulted ceiling, elaborate crystal chandeliers reflect in the mirrors to create a luminous space. Golden statues on each side hold crystal candelabras to add to the light. This room hosted the Treaty of Versailles signing on June 28, 1919, ending the First World War.

Hall of mirrors during a day trip to Versailles.

Hall of Mirrors in Versailles Palace. Photo by Judy Karnia

Learn the History of the Many Kings Louis on a Day Trip to Versailles

In 1629, King Louis XIII built a hunting lodge in the open country west of Paris. In 1666, a brick chateau replaced the lodge, and Louis XIV, the Sun King, expanded it over the next 50 years. The additions included grand apartments for the king and queen. He moved the government and court to the property, which then housed almost 10,000 people. In 1684, he replaced a terrace with the Hall of Mirrors and added the Royal Chapel in 1710. King Louis XV redesigned the palace to include smaller apartments for the king and queen, giving them more comfort and privacy. The 1789 Revolution forced the royal family to abandon Versailles and return to Paris. Today, the 2300 rooms cover almost 700,000 square feet.

trip to versailles from paris

  • France, 1682. Louis XIV, the Sun King, is at the height of his power. The court at Versailles is a paradise for privileged young women. Jeanne Yvette Mas Du Bois is unlike other courtiers: her thirst for knowledge often incurs her fathers brutal wrath. But her uncle encourages Jeannes independence, secretly teaching her fencing in the palaces labyrinthine basement.

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trip to versailles from paris

Explore the Gardens on a Day Trip to Versailles

The first time I visited Versailles and looked from the terrace, across the Great Lawn, and over the Grand Canal, I felt like I had stepped into a painting. I could have gazed at the interplay of the symmetry and variety of the groves and fountains for hours. The Royal Way extends from the Latona Fountain to the Apollo Fountain. On either side, winding paths lead through 13 groves and gardens containing all types of fountains. Fountains representing the four seasons sit at the crossroads of the four major paths in the Versailles gardens.

View from the terrace of the Versailles Palace during a day trip to Versailles.

View from the terrace of Versailles Palace: Latona’s Fountain leading to the Great Lawn and Grand Canal. Photo by Judy Karnia

Across the front of the palace, the Water Walk, or Infants’ Walk, boasts 14 fountains. Neptune Fountain has 99 jets at one end, which launch a water display every 15 minutes. You can attend the last fountain show of the day at the Neptune Fountain and then exit at the nearby gate.

Triumphal Arch Grove in the Versailles Gardens.

Triumphal Arch Grove in the Versailles Gardens. Photo by Judy Karnia

In the center of the Water Walk, the round Latona Fountain provided the perfect backdrop for our photos with the Grand Canal beyond the fountain. We wound through the groves and gardens , hunting for the various fountains.

trip to versailles from paris

Fountain Shows

Be sure to visit on the days featuring the fountain and music shows. On a rotating basis, certain fountains flow for a limited time. The map shows two routes and the times so you don’t miss any fountain shows. The classical music wafting around the fountains made us feel like we were attending a royal garden party.

During the garden’s creation, engineers designed a system to move pressurized water to feed the fountains. Over 45km of pipe was laid underneath the gardens at that time. Although, at one time, the fountains included over 2000 water jets, only a quarter of those remain.

A few fountains have received updates with modern technology. Timed multiple jets open and close to a 7-minute piece of music at the Mirror pool. It is the perfect place to rest and watch the dancing water.

Fountain show at Mirror Pool during a day trip to Versailles.

Fountain Show at Mirror Pool in Versailles Gardens. Photo by Judy Karnia

Estate of Trianon

A visit to Versailles is not complete without exploring the Estate of Trianon . Although the size and elegance of the Trianon palaces make this difficult to believe, the purpose of building these residences was to provide a more intimate space for the royal family to escape the duties of the court.

Petit Trianon

The Petit Trianon, built in the 1760s, soon became the retreat of Marie-Antoniette. She transformed the gardens into more natural spaces quite different from the formal gardens of the larger palaces. Small bodies of water and winding paths offer a pleasant stroll through trees and flowers. A grotto overlooks the small lake next to the Belvedere, an octagonal building suited for summer parties. The Temple of Love, reminiscent of a round Greek temple, is down a winding path.

A Day Trip to Versailles

Grotto and Belvedere by the small lake in gardens of Petit Trianon. Photo by Judy Karnia

Heading inside the palace, we first toured the ground floor holding the kitchen and storage areas. The rooms in the Petit Trianon were just as opulent as the main palace, with detailed molding and plenty of gold and marble. The rooms, however, were more intimate with pastel and muted colors.

Sitting room in Petit Trianon.

Sitting room in Petit Trianon. Photo by Judy Karnia

Grand Trianon

Built in 1687 for Louis XIV to conduct his affair with Madame de Montespan, The Grand Trianon resembles the main palace more closely. However, sunlight bathes the rooms through large French doors, and the rooms seem more spacious. Emperor Napoleon spent time in this palace in 1809 and refurbished the space. Most of the current furniture dates from his period. My favorite, the garden room, contained the only furniture I saw upholstered in royal purple.

trip to versailles from paris

The main bedroom includes a luxuriously canopied bed behind a low railing with plenty of gold highlights. Corinthian columns, enormous chandeliers, and multiple seating arrangements fill a room as large as many New York apartments, and the Peristyle connects the palace’s two wings. Black and white marble covers the breezeway floor, while pink marble columns provide a frame for the formal gardens.

Peristyle during a day trip to Versailles.

Peristyle at Grand Trianon. Photo by Judy Karnia

Exploring The Estate  

The immensity of Versailles may seem daunting, but it is conquerable in a day. You can rent bikes of various types by the hour outside the main gardens, lock included. My daughter and I rented bicycles to reach the Trianon palaces. We enjoyed the beautiful weather and leisurely explored the area on our schedule.

The gardens map provides a route to see the fountains based on when they are active. Restaurants and snack shops offer pleasant breaks. A crepe and ice cream stand next to the Grand Canal lends the perfect excuse to lounge on the grass and watch the rowboats trying to maneuver.

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Your Day Visit to Versailles

You can easily reach Versailles from Paris by train. Walking just half a mile brings you from the station to the front gates. Today, we peasants can enjoy the palaces and gardens on a day trip to Versailles. Visiting means a day of opulence, grandeur, beauty, and fountains. You can view how royalty lived and enjoy the spacious gardens the Kings Louis created for the royal court. Whether you are traveling to Versailles, France , Europe , or any other exciting place in the world, let Wander with Wonder help pave the way.

Plan a day trip to Versailles during a trip to Paris for a day of opulence, grandeur, beauty, and fountains fit for a king or queen. 

A Day Trip to Versailles

trip to versailles from paris

Cultural Travel | Family Travel | History | Romantic Destinations

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9 Best Versailles Tours from Paris for a Journey into French History

best Versailles tours from Paris

Whether you have an entire week or just 24 hours to spare in the French capital, you won’t want to miss out on the best Versailles tours from Paris .

Wandering the regal halls of the Palace of Versailles is often cited as one of the best things to do in Paris , keeping history lovers, art buffs and sightseeing enthusiasts entertained.

From the extravagant Hall of Mirrors to the Queen’s Hamlet and elaborate palatial gardens, the royal residence is one of the most beloved jewels of Paris , allowing a peek behind the curtain into the privileges, and responsibilities of the kings and queens of France.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

  • Versailles tours from Paris

1 – Palace of Versailles Skip-the-Line Guided Tour with Round-Trip Transfers from Paris

Palace of Versailles Skip-the-Line Guided Tour with Round-Trip Transfers from Paris

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 4473 reviews )

“Everything and everyone was on Time!!! It was exactly as you described in the Page. I highly recommend your services!” Karla, Headout

Encouraging your education and enjoyment of the “City of Lights,” this Versailles tour from Paris transports you on a journey back to the 17th century when the now UNESCO-listed landmark was erected.

You’ll discover the grand Baroque interior of the palace, including its Hall of Mirrors, which was designed to showcase the strength and power of King Louis XIV — also referred to as Louis the Great.

As well as this opulent room, you’ll also explore some of the 60,000 artworks covering the history of France and the surrounding palatial gardens, which serve as a creative masterpiece, brought to life by the respected landscape architect, André Le Nôtre.

This Versailles tour from Paris perfectly combines everything you need for your experience into one neat package. The transportation is arranged efficiently and the guides are both friendly and expertly educated on the former royal residence.

Read more: Versailles Palace Tickets Price

2 – Versailles Bike Tour with Market, Gardens & Guided Palace Tour

Versailles Bike Tour with Market, Gardens & Guided Palace Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 553 reviews )

“This was my favorite experience during my entire trip to Paris! Clara was the most wonderful tour guide…she made everything interesting and fun! I would absolutely recommend this tour to anyone and everyone!” Jason, Viator

If you wish to experience the area surrounding Paris up close, you may instead consider choosing this cycling experience, operated by Boutique Bike Tours .

Leaving the hustle and bustle of the city center behind, you’ll enjoy a high-speed train journey to the historic town of Versailles where you’ll mount a bicycle to explore the area, including its esteemed farmers market filled with residents showcasing a vibrant display of locally-grown produce.

Alongside the main palace, you’ll also visit the Queen’s Hamlet — built for Marie Antoinette in the second half of the 18th century — before ending your experience with a gourmet picnic overlooking the magnificent site.

  • Check offer

While you may not be able to count on the weather for this tour, you can certainly count on the attention of the fantastic group of guides who run this experience. You’ll discover local cuisine, which can be devoured while gazing upon one of the most spectacular architectural landmarks of the 17th century, discover the sheer magnitude of the palace and enjoy a leisurely cycle, all while accompanied by a welcoming and fun local.

  • Versailles bike tours

Read more: Versailles Tours – Which One is Best?

3 – Palace of Versailles & Gardens: Small-group Guided Tour + Roundtrip from Paris

Palace of Versailles & Gardens_ Small-group Guided Tour + Roundtrip from Paris

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 62 reviews )

“Driver was wonderful… informative, engaging, and funny. Transportation was so comfortable. Small group size was ideal. The whole day was amazing! Couldn’t have asked for more.” Britt, Tiqets

Those looking for a more intimate experience can select one of several small-group Versailles tours from Paris. This one, in particular, operated by Paris TRIP , takes care of all transportation, enabling you to simply enjoy sightseeing without worrying over organization details.

You’ll gain priority entrance to the Palace of Versailles and enjoy a guided tour, hosted by a qualified expert. Wander in the footsteps of royalty as you discover the history of several monarchs, including Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, both of whom were beheaded during the French Revolution.

Gain a broad overview of life at the palace as you wander through state apartments, chapels, gardens and grand halls, all while listening to an entertaining commentary.

From royalty to architectural styles, you’ll gain a wide array of knowledge surrounding French history by embarking on this Palace of Versailles tour from Paris. If you wish to experience the site at its most serene, choose the early morning tour to beat the crowds.

  • Versailles guided tours

4 – Versailles Palace and Trianon Guided Day Tour from Paris

Versailles Palace and Trianon Guided Day Tour from Paris

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 161 reviews )

“This was the most incredible tour I have ever been on. Our guide Claire was funny, informative and an absolute delight to spend the day with. I have wanted to go to Versailles for years and she absolutely made in a memorable experience.” Shelley, Viator

One of the best Versailles tours from Paris is hosted by Paris City Vision and covers numerous landmarks, arming travelers with a plethora of insider knowledge on the French monarchy.

Alongside popular features of the Palace of Versailles, such as the Hall of Mirrors, you’ll also have the opportunity to discover the Gallery of Battles, which depicts almost 1,500 years of the country’s military victories, including the Battle of Tolbiac and the Battle of Wagram.

Stroll through the tranquil gardens at your leisure before reassembling with your group to explore the Trianon estate, which served as a refuge for the kings and queens of France away from their royal duties, as well as the Queen’s Hamlet where you’ll dive into the history of Marie Antoinette.

The perfect option for those who wish to combine a guided experience with independent exploration. The palace complex is enormous and those who choose a tour that lasts all day, like this one, should have a moderate level of fitness to enjoy the experience fully.

  • Versailles tours with Trianon Palace

5 – Versailles Palace and Giverny Monet House Guided Visit with Lunch from Paris

Versailles Palace and Giverny Monet House Guided Visit with Lunch from Paris

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 1709 reviews )

“The gardens at Monet’s house were stunning. The place for lunch was charming and the lunch and wine were great! (…) Versailles was spectacular. It was a very fun day!” Carol, Viator

Those whose interests lie in the artistic endeavors of France can combine the Palace of Versailles’ colossal collection of paintings with the garden that served as a source of inspiration for the 19th-century impressionist mastermind, Claude Monet.

You’ll visit the home of the esteemed painter and the peaceful haven he created in his own backyard, which art lovers may recognize from the artists’ “Nymphéas” series.

After wandering these famed gardens, you’ll travel to the Palace of Versailles where you’ll gain an insight into the extravagant lifestyle of France’s elite through history, learning plenty of fascinating tidbits of information along the way from your Paris City Vision guide.

Those who are short on time to experience Paris can enjoy this fast-paced tour that covers several of the area’s most significant historic landmarks. You’ll pack plenty of sightseeing and information into just one day, ensuring you leave Paris as an expert on its art scene.

  • Versailles and Giverny tours

6 – Versailles Palace and Gardens Tour by Train from Paris with Skip-the-Line

Versailles Palace and Gardens Tour by Train from Paris with Skip-the-Line

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 206 reviews )

“Amazing experience! Our tour guide was great and went at a great pace! We were able to fully enjoy our tour and take pictures.” Angela, Viator

If you’re seeking flexibility, one of the best options for exploring the Palace of Versailles is this tour from Memories France , which operates several times per day, ensuring every traveler can experience this lavish landmark.

You’ll enjoy skip-the-line access to the palace, enabling you to spend your precious vacation time exploring instead of queueing, and discovering the rooms that, while luxurious, contributed to Marie Antoinette’s hatred of Versailles.

Those who wish to delve further into the history of the site can upgrade to explore the Trianon, where the Austrian princess-turned-French queen found respite from the routines and expectations of the main palace.

Travelers rave over how well-organized and paced this tour of the Palace of Versailles is. From traveling to the site via train to ambling through some of the palace’s impressive rooms, you’ll always be expertly guided by a lively and passionate individual keen to show you their city.

  • See price & reviews

Read More: Versailles Palace Last Minute Tickets

7 – Morning tour of Versailles Palace and Gardens

Morning tour of Versailles Palace and Gardens

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 14 reviews )

“Katherine our tour guide was absolutely phenomenal! She was friendly, helpful and very knowledgeable about everything having to do with Versailles. The bus ride was quick and comfortable, and we found it was just the right amount of time to explore Versailles – highly recommend!” Musement

The early hours of the morning are undoubtedly the best time to explore the Palace of Versailles before an influx of tourists swarms upon the landmark.

With fewer crowds than at other times of day, you’ll be able to take in the details of the paintings that line the walls, the gilded walls of the state apartments and the glistening chandeliers located in the Hall of Mirrors.

This Paris City Vision tour also gives you ample opportunity to stroll through the palace gardens, admiring countless statues, fountains and floral displays.

This excursion is well-planned to ensure you spend the perfect amount of time exploring the Palace of Versailles without tiring. Discovering the palace so early in the day leaves you the afternoon free to embark on a tour of the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, allowing you to optimize your time in the French capital.

8 – Private Half-Day Trip to Versailles from Paris with Macarons

Private Half-Day Trip to Versailles from Paris with Macarons

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 53 reviews )

“Our Viator tour with Claudio was excellent. We learned so much and he really brought the chateau experience to life!” Natasha, Viator

Enjoy the ultimate French experience with this excursion that combines the artistic and historic wonders of the Palace of Versailles with the luxury of delicate macarons, which you can feast on decadently throughout the rest of the day.

Provided by Paris to Versailles Private Tours , this trip is ideal for those who wish to enjoy a more personalized experience than can be attained on a group tour. With a private guide, you’ll enjoy chatting one-on-one about the various points of interest you see, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions along the way.

You can tailor this experience to the topics that fascinate you most and after your exploration, you’re bound to enjoy the sweet taste of a pastel-colored macaron.

You’ll benefit from convenient touches on this private tour, including a hotel pickup service, which enables you to relax, put your feet up and enjoy the experience. The guides are attentive to your needs and you’ll feel as though you’ve made a friend as you discuss the most notable events in French history together.

  • private Versailles tours

9 – Helicopter Flight over Paris and the Château de Versailles

Helicopter Flight over Paris and the Château de Versailles

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 5 reviews )

There are several bucket list moments to experience in Paris. However, there is no adventure more memorable than gliding over the city’s skyline in a helicopter, discovering its many arrondissements from above with Helipass .

Alongside the city center, you’ll also gain a birds-eye view over the Palace of Versailles before landing next to the exquisite landmark where you can admire its architectural details in all their glory.

Then, climb back on board and enjoy an engaging flight back to Paris, passing over the ornate fountains of the Trocadéro and the Montparnasse Tower, which stands alone more than 200 meters above the city streets.

This excursion can only be described as remarkable and is without a doubt one of the best Versailles tours from Paris. Whether you wish to surprise a loved one with a once-in-a-lifetime experience or simply enjoy a view of Paris that other tourists aren’t privy to, you’ll find yourself boasting about your trip as soon as your feet touch down back in Paris.

  • Versailles Palace helicopter tours

How to book Versaille tours from Paris?

There are an abundance of companies offering Versailles tours from Paris across several travel websites. However, by using the Tourscanner search engine, you can view all of your options in one place, compare prices and deals, and even choose combination experiences, such as a Paris & Versailles Bundle .

You’ll also be able to read reviews from real travelers, ensuring that you select the tour best suited to your needs.

  • compare Versailles tours from Paris

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Day Trips From Paris

P aris is a wonderful city to travel to, but the little pieces of history outside of the city are worth seeing while on vacation. France is the cornerstone for inspiring wine and cheese and is rich in historical landmarks.

Photo Credit: Deposit Photos

Day trips make it possible for you to have a hotel in a central location while having the opportunity to see the true lifestyle of the people of France. As many know, France can be costly; therefore, these five-day trips are a comfortable distance from central Paris.

Paris is a city like no other. Home to the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and more, Paris is well known worldwide for its beauty, history, and charm. Whether you have lived in Paris all your life or have plans to visit, you should know that there are some amazing day trips from Paris, France , to be enjoyed by you and your loved ones. Read on for five amazing day trips from Paris, France, for a vacation your family will never forget.

Revel in the grandeur, majesty, and glory of beautiful Versailles. Young and old alike will delight at the amazing spectacle that is Versailles. Stroll the magnificent gardens, tour the palace and Petit Trianon, and follow in the footsteps of French royals such as Marie Antoinette. Versailles offers many tours of the grounds and buildings, fountain shows, and ample room for picnicking. Expect a total travel time of 35 minutes to Versailles from Paris, France.

Loire Valley

Another amazing place that is just a short drive from Paris, France, is Loire Valley. Loire Valley is famous for its wine, gardens, and agriculture. Tour a Muscadet winery, enjoy the beautiful gardens of Chateau de Chenonceau, or delight in the magnificent local architecture displayed in local buildings such as the Chateau de Villandry. While in Loire Valley, dine at one of their amazing restaurants, such as Auberge du XIIe Si¨cle. Loire Valley is roughly 2.5 hours from Paris, France.

Mont St. Michel

Aside from Paris, Mont St. Michel is one of France's most visited locations by tourists. Every year Mont St. Michel manages to welcome a staggering 3.5 million guests. Mont St. Michel looks like something out of a fairy tale, set in the middle of a bay with picturesque buildings such as the abbey, the parish church, and the museum of Mont St. Michel. Mont St. Michel also has plenty of shopping, dining, and lodging. While you are visiting Mont St. Michel, be sure to dine in one of their quaint restaurants, such as Cafeteria la Bella Normandie. You can expect a 3.5-hour drive from Paris, France, to Mont St. Michel.

A trip to Normandy is a must for any visitor to France. While Normandy is most famous as a World War II landmark, it is also well known for its beautiful scenery, orchards, and seaside serenity. View Omaha beach, take a stroll along the seaside, and bask in all that Normandy has to offer. While visiting, be sure to check out some of their finer restaurants, such as L'Essentiel. You can expect a 4-hour drive from Paris, France, to Normandy.

Fontainebleau

Another great adventure to embark upon you are in France is a day trip to Fontainebleau, France. Fontainebleau has much to offer, including tours, sightseeing, dining, and more. Take a tour of the fabulous Fontainebleau Castle, meander through the Barbizon village or delight in fine dining at one of Fontainebleau's restaurants such as Restaurant Letroubadour. You can expect to travel for 1 hour from Paris, France, to Fontainebleau.

Ile-de-France Wine Region

The idea of French wine conjures up pictures of the famous Champagne and Bourdeaux regions, but little known Ile de France grows the most superb grapes in the countryside. For travelers to Paris, this means that one doesn't have to spend a fortune traveling to the better-known wine regions since this is just an hour or two(depending on where you choose to go) outside of Paris.

Clos Montmartre, a remarkable vineyard in the region, has 1,900 vines with twenty-eight grape varieties. The popular varieties are Gamay and Pinot Noir and the vineyard is said to produce over 1,700 bottles of delicious wine each year. Call the winery to set up a tasting and consider yourself a lucky soul- the winery does not sell the wine commercially. And there is no need to search for a hearty meal; the winery serves platters alongside the wine tasting for an additional fee.

The can't-miss bistro in the region is Moulin de Ponceau, located on 21 rue de la Tannerie in Chartres. The restaurant offers majestic views of the River Eure, so be sure to ask for a table with a window. The menu changes regularly, but one can guarantee that rabbit terrine and foie gras to always be on the menu.

Reims, the champagne capital of France

The French love wine, so much so that they store up to 75 million bottles of Champagne under the streets of Reims. Just an hour and forty-five minutes outside of the city lies the Champagne capital of France. The city is beautiful and modern, yet antiquated, and a must-see for any lover of French culture.

Be sure to visit the House of G.M. Mumms, which stores 25 million bottles of Champagne under the streets and in the city's caves. Tourists should set up a walking tour in advance. The tour includes several tastings and a delightful experience in the world of the Champagne king.

Monet's Gardens at Giverny

One cannot go to France without peering into Claude Monet's life's inspiration and final moments. Monet's Gardens is a tribute to the impressionist's beautiful life and the paintings that he contributed to the art realm. Visitors can walk through the gardens, dine at bordering restaurants, and enjoy a calm, serene walk before returning to the bustle of Paris.

France is far too expensive to see in one trip, but one can fill their vacation with many day trips without ever having to stay anywhere but Paris. Day trips give visitors the flexibility to see French culture, and beautiful scenery, sip on French's delightful wine, and avoid the need to book several hotels. The outskirts of France can make any trip memorable.

Day Trips From Paris

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Paris in 4 Days: A Journey Through Romance and History

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February 26, 2024 · 2 min read

Paris 4 Days Itinerary

Embark on a 4-day Parisian adventure that promises a blend of history, culture, and fun. Begin your journey at the iconic Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile, a symbol of French pride, where you'll spend an hour marveling at its grandeur. Stroll down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere of this characteristic neighborhood. Next, cruise along the Seine River, a perfect way to witness the city's beauty from a different perspective. Conclude your first day with a visit to the majestic Eiffel Tower, where the observation deck offers breathtaking views of Paris. Day 2 is dedicated to the opulent Palace of Versailles, where you'll spend the day exploring its lavish halls and gardens. On Day 3, immerse yourself in art and history at the Louvre Museum, home to countless masterpieces, followed by an hour at the exquisite Palais Garnier opera house. Your final day is a fairy tale ending at Disneyland Paris, where enchanting attractions and shows await. This itinerary is curated to ensure you experience the essence of Paris, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

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  • Day 1: Parisian Panache - From Triumph to Twinkling Tower

Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile

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Begin your Parisian adventure with a visit to the iconic Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile, a symbol of French pride and history. Standing majestically at the Place Charles de Gaulle, this monumental arch honors those who fought for France. Spend an hour marveling at its grandeur and intricate sculptures, and if you're up for it, climb to the top for a sweeping view of the bustling city below.

Attraction Info

  • Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 04/01-05/07,10:00am-11:00pm;Open 12:00pm-11:00pm on 05/08;Open from 05/09-07/13,10:00am-11:00pm;Open 12:00pm-11:00pm on 07/14;Open from 07/15-09/30,10:00am-11:00pm;Open from 10/01-11/10,10:00am-10:30pm;Open 12:00pm-10:30pm on 11/11;Open from 11/12-01/25,10:00am-10:30pm;Closed all day on 01/26,Fri;Open 11:30am-10:30pm on 01/30,Tue;Open 11:30am-10:30pm on 02/29,Thu;Open from 01/27-01/29,10:00am-10:30am;Open from 01/31-02/28,10:00am-10:30pm;Open from 03/01-03/31,10:00am-10:30pm,Opening hours may vary, please refer to the actual business status on the day

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Avenue des Champs-Élysées

Stroll down the world-renowned Avenue des Champs-Élysées, known for its theatres, cafés, and luxury shops. This characteristic neighborhood is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Parisian lifestyle. Spend an hour people-watching, shopping, or simply enjoying the ambiance of one of the most famous streets in the world.

  • 75008 Paris, France
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
  • Open 24 hours

Seine River

Next, let the serene flow of the Seine River capture your heart as you embark on a two-hour journey along its banks. The river is the lifeblood of Paris, lined with historic monuments and offering a tranquil escape from the city's hustle. A walk or a boat cruise here provides a unique perspective of the City of Lights and its architectural marvels.

  • La Seine, Paris
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour

Eiffel Tower

Conclude your day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower, the iron lattice tower that is the emblem of Paris. An observation deck awaits you, offering breathtaking views of the cityscape. Spend an hour soaking in the panoramic sights and watch as the tower sparkles under the night sky, a magical end to your first day in the enchanting capital.

  • Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, Paris 75007
  • Open from 01/08-02/29,9:15am-11:45pm

Where to Stay Tonight

Résidence charles floquet, pullman paris tour eiffel, miss eiffel tower, mercure paris centre tour eiffel.

  • Day 2: A Royal Retreat to the Palace of Versailles

Palace of Versailles

Kicking off the second day with regal splendor, the Palace of Versailles awaits as our first destination, promising a full day immersed in the grandeur of French royalty. Nestled in the city of Versailles, just a short journey from the heart of Paris, this opulent palace is a testament to the lavish lifestyle of the kings and queens who once walked its halls. As you step through the gates of the Place d'Armes, prepare to be transported back in time. The Palace of Versailles is not just a historical landmark; it's an experience that encapsulates the essence of aristocratic elegance. From the intricate gold leaf details that adorn the palace's facade to the meticulously landscaped gardens that seem to stretch into infinity, every aspect of Versailles is designed to awe. Inside, the Hall of Mirrors glints with sunlight, reflecting the ambition and artistry of the Sun King, Louis XIV, while the expansive grounds invite you to wander and ponder the opulence of an era long passed.

  • Place d'Armes, Versailles 78000, France
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
  • Open on Tue-Sun,9:00am-5:30pm;Closed on Mon

Pizzeria Cesar by Simone Zanoni

Hôtel les Lumières

Hotel le versailles, hôtel d'angleterre versailles, hôtel du jeu de paume versailles.

  • Day 3: Masterpieces and Melodies in the Heart of Paris

Louvre Museum

Starting your third day with a visit to the world-renowned Louvre Museum sets a high bar for cultural enrichment. Nestled in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, the Louvre is not just a museum; it's an architectural marvel that houses an unparalleled collection of art. As you wander through its expansive galleries, you'll encounter everything from ancient civilizations to the Renaissance masters. Allocate a full day to truly appreciate the breadth of art on display, including the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa and the graceful Venus de Milo. The Louvre is a place where every corner holds a story, and every visit promises new discoveries.

  • 75001 Paris, France
  • Closed on Tue;Open on Mon, Wed-Thu, Sat-Sun,9:00am-6:00pm;Open on Fri,9:00am-9:45pm;Closed during New Year's Day,Labour Day,Christmas

Restaurant le Meurice Alain Ducasse

Palais Garnier

After immersing yourself in the artistic wonders of the Louvre, a short journey will lead you to the grandeur of the Palais Garnier. This opulent opera house is a spectacle of extravagance and elegance, with a history as dramatic as the performances it hosts. Spend an hour marveling at the intricate frescoes, the grand staircase, and the magnificent chandelier that presides over the auditorium. The Palais Garnier isn't just a venue; it's a testament to the love for the arts that resonates through Paris. Whether you're an opera aficionado or simply an admirer of beautiful spaces, this theater is sure to leave a lasting impression.

  • Pl. de l'Opera, 75009 Paris
  • Open from 10:00am-5:00pm;Closed during New Year's Day,Labour Day,Christmas,The attraction may close early on days with afternoon performances, exceptional closures or during summer period. Please check the official website in advance to avoid affecting your trip

Sofitel le Scribe Paris Opera

Milestay opera lafayette - serviced apartment, hotel indigo paris - opera, an ihg hotel, kimpton st honore paris, an ihg hotel.

  • Day 4: Enchanting Finale at the Magical Kingdom

Disneyland Paris

As the grand culmination of our Parisian adventure, we're stepping into a world where fairy tales come to life at Disneyland Paris. Nestled in the picturesque town of Coupvray, this beloved theme park promises a full day of enchantment and excitement. From the moment you pass through the gates of Disneyland, you're transported into a realm of wonder, with thrilling rides, captivating shows, and beloved characters around every corner. Whether you're seeking the adrenaline rush of Space Mountain or the nostalgic charm of It's a Small World, there's something here to ignite the imagination of every traveler. Don't miss the chance to create unforgettable memories, indulge in whimsical dining experiences, and perhaps even catch a dazzling fireworks display as the perfect endnote to your Parisian journey.

  • Boulevard de Parc, Coupvray 77700,France
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.9-1 day
  • Open from 12/19-12/22,9:00am-6:30pm;Open from 01/02-01/07,9:00am-10:00pm;Open from 12/23-12/31,9:00am-10:00pm;Open 9:00am-1:00am on 01/01;Open 9:00am-9:00pm on 01/08;Open 9:30am-8:00pm on 01/09;Open from 01/11-01/13,9:30am-8:00pm;Open from 01/16-01/20,9:30am-8:00pm;Open from 01/23-01/27,9:30am-8:00pm;Open from 01/30-02/02,9:30am-8:00pm;Open from 02/05-02/09,9:30am-8:00pm;Open 9:30am-8:00pm on 03/22;Open 9:30am-7:00pm on 01/10;Open 9:30am-10:00pm on 01/14;Open 9:30am-10:00pm on 01/21;Open 9:30am-10:00pm on 01/28;Open from 02/03-02/04,9:30am-10:00pm;Open from 02/10-03/10,9:30am-10:00pm;Open from 03/16-03/17,9:30am-10:00pm;Open from 03/23-03/24,9:30am-10:00pm;Open 9:30am-9:00pm on 01/15;Open 9:30am-9:00pm on 01/22;Open 9:30am-9:00pm on 01/29;Open from 03/11-03/15,9:30am-9:00pm;Open from 03/18-03/21,9:30am-9:00pm;Open from 03/25-03/29,9:30am-9:00pm;Open from 03/30-04/01,9:30am-11:00pm

Le Cercle

Disneyland Hotel

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Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile

· Securing this ticket and you can climb to the top of the magnificent Arc de Triomphe and overlook the stunning city views of Paris

·V isiting the pictures, models, and historical relics in the exhibition hall to learn about the history behind them

· Enjoying the unique view of the Champs Elysées in Paris at night

trip to versailles from paris

This attraction is one of the four representative buildings in Paris and is currently the largest round arch on the Champs Elysées. It was built to commemorate Napoleon's victory at the Battle of Austerlitz in 1806. The four sculptural groups at the base of the Arc es represent "Departure", "Victory", "Resistance" and "Peace" respectively.

trip to versailles from paris

△ T he 12 streets in Paris are centered on the Arc de Triomphe and radiate to the surroundings. They are majestic and set models for the design of European cities.

trip to versailles from paris

△ Below the Arc de Triomphe is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, built on November 11th, 1920, to pay tribute to the 1.3 million French soldiers who died in World War I.

trip to versailles from paris

△ Magnificent night view of the Champs Elysees

Eiffel Tower

·Climb the Eiffel Tower-a cultural symbol of France and one of the landmark buildings in Paris

·Overlook the beautiful city scenery of Paris, the whole Paris is at your feet, like a huge map in front of you

·Learn about the tower’s more than 100-year history through objects, posters, photos, sculptures, paintings and videos at the observation deck on the ground floor

trip to versailles from paris

△ A new cultural path(1st floor): Screens, touch screens, displays, digital albums, reproductions of items, etc. allow you to find out about all aspects of the Eiffel Tower, many little known.

trip to versailles from paris

△ Your arrival on the 2nd floor is marked by amazement: Paris in all her splendour greets your incredulous eyes. You will enjoy clear views of all of the French capital's monuments: the Louvre, Gran Palais, the bends in the Seine, Montmartre, Invalides, Notre Dame, etc.

trip to versailles from paris

△ After a spectacular ascent in glass-walled lifts, you're finally here. 276m up with only the antennae above you, Paris lies at your feet. The noise of the boulevards can't reach you here, but the wind catches you and your heart begins to race.

Louvre Museum

·Enjoy the charm of the locations where the movies "Phantom of the Louvre" and "The Da Vinci Code" were filmed

·Appreciate the gorgeous treasures of ancient Greece, ancient Rome, ancient Egypt and other civilizations

·Visit the giant glass pyramid that combines classical palaces with modern architectural styles

trip to versailles from paris

The Louvre Museum was founded in 1204. The castle has undergone many expansions and was converted into a museum after the French Revolution. It is also known as the three major museums in the world together with the British Museum in London and the Metropolitan Museum in New York. Today, the Louvre Museum has a collection of 400,000 items spanning more than 1,500 years. The Louvre Museum usually displays 10% of its total collection which will feast your eyes.

"Three Treasures of the Louvre": "Venus de Milo", "Mona Lisa" and " The Winged Victory of Samothrace".

trip to versailles from paris

△ The Louvre’s gallery of antiquities, which replaced the royal apartments, displays masterpieces of Greek sculpture – including the famous Venus de Milo. You would need a heart of stone not to be moved by her grace!

Aphrodite or Amphitrite?

When she first arrived at the Louvre, it was suggested that her missing arms should be restored, but the idea was eventually abandoned for fear of changing the nature of the work.

The lack of arms made it hard to identify the statue. Many depictions of Greek gods and goddesses contain clues to their identity in the form of ‘attributes’ (objects or natural elements) held in their hands, so this sculpture poses a problem: is she the sea goddess Amphitrite, particularly worshipped on the island of Melos? Or is she Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty, as might be suggested by her sensual, half-naked body? This second argument, and the jewellery she once wore, tipped the scales in favour of Aphrodite (‘Venus’ for the Romans). Another possible clue was found near the statue: a hand holding an apple – an attribute of Aphrodite – carved from the same Parian marble.

trip to versailles from paris

△ This is the most famous portrait in the world. It shows Lisa Gherardini, wife of the Florentine silk merchant Francesco del Giocondo – hence her Italian name La Gioconda and her French name La Joconde. Painted against a distant landscape, she stares out at us with her famously enigmatic smile...

The theft of the century

On 21 August 1911, panic broke out at the Louvre…the Mona Lisa had disappeared! The news spread like wildfire and generous rewards were promised for her return – but all in vain. Nothing was heard of the painting for over two years. Then one day, Vincenzo Peruggia, a glazier who had worked at the Louvre, tried to sell the world’s most famous painting to an Italian art dealer...who alerted the authorities. So the Mona Lisa was recovered – and her fame was all the greater.

trip to versailles from paris

△ She seems to float through the air! Placed at a height, people could see her from afar. It was made as an offering to the gods for a sanctuary on the Greek island of Samothrace. Placed at a height, people could see her from afar. That is why, in a nod to her original lofty home, she now adorns the top of the Daru staircase. Nike, the winged goddess who heralds victory, is seen just as she is about to alight on a ship.

A monumental staircase

The Daru staircase is the perfect setting for this extraordinary display. It is one of six grand staircases built during the Second Empire in the 19th century by the architect Hector Lefuel.

During the 1850s and 1860s, major works were underway to expand the Louvre and make it more modern. The former palace had already been partially transformed into a museum. The emperor Napoleon III had a new wing built to make more room to showcase more art. The old staircase built by his uncle Napoleon I was no longer adequate to access all the galleries. The only things left from that time are the ceilings leading to the Italian painting collections and the name Daru, a minister under Napoleon I.

Hector Lefuel took up the challenge to design a new monumental space on three levels leading in four different directions. Visitors could choose themselves which way to go!

The Winged Victory of Samothrace was placed in her new home on the upper landing in 1883, some 20 years after the statue was discovered.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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IMAGES

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

    trip to versailles from paris

  2. Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Versailles from Paris [2023]

    trip to versailles from paris

  3. Visiting Versailles: 2021 Paris to Versailles day trip guide

    trip to versailles from paris

  4. Palace of Versailles Half-Day Trip including transportation from Paris

    trip to versailles from paris

  5. A Day Trip to Versailles from Paris

    trip to versailles from paris

  6. Guided Half Day Tour of the Palace of Versailles

    trip to versailles from paris

VIDEO

  1. PARIS TOURISM

  2. Trip in Versailles France

COMMENTS

  1. Visiting Versailles: Things to Do, Tours & Tips for a Paris Day Trip

    Learn how to visit Versailles, one of the most popular day trips from Paris, with tips on how to avoid the lines, tour the rooms, and explore the gardens. See photos, maps, and information on the palace, the fountain show, and the Trianon Estate.

  2. Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Versailles from Paris [2023]

    A local's guide to visiting Versailles on a day trip from Paris, with tips on the best time, ways to travel, skip-the-line tickets, tours, shows and more. Find out how to plan the perfect day trip to Versailles with this comprehensive guide.

  3. How to Get from Paris to Versailles Palace

    Learn the advantages and disadvantages of six ways to travel from Paris to Versailles, including tours, train, bus, car, Uber and bike. Find out how to book tickets, skip the line and enjoy the Palace and Gardens.

  4. 10 Best Versailles Palace Tours from Paris in 2024

    2. Skip-the-Line Versailles Palace Guided Tour by Train from Paris. Apollo Fountain and Grand Canal at Versailles, attractions seen during a guided tour of the Palace gardens. You'll meet your guide for the Skip-the-Line Versailles Palace Tour by Train in central Paris and travel together to the famous Chateau.

  5. Paris to Versailles by train

    Depending on where your hotel is located, it will take you between 60 to 90 minutes to travel from Paris to Versailles by train (including the walking distance). Most of the time you reach the train station of Versailles in 1 hour. Follow this step by step guide to get safely to the Versailles chateau.

  6. Ultimate Palace of Versailles Tour from Paris

    Paris in a Day Tour with Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Seine River Cruise. See the Mona Lisa, Sacre-Coeur, and Moulin Rouge with organized transportation and an expert guide. (242) as low as $143.54. Up to 30% off.

  7. A Day Trip To Versailles: Complete Guide & Visitor Tips

    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. The RER is the suburb train ...

  8. The Ultimate Paris Day Trip to Versailles Itinerary & Guide

    Learn how to plan a Paris to Versailles day trip with this guide and itinerary. Find out the best time, way, and ticket options to visit the palace of Versailles, as well as the best shows, tours, and places to stay nearby. Discover the history and architecture of this iconic French attraction.

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

    A complete guide to planning a day trip to Versailles from Paris, including tips on how to get there, when to go, what to do, and how to book a guided tour. Learn about the history, architecture, and attractions of the palace and the gardens of Versailles.

  10. From Paris to Versailles: 5 Best Ways to Get There

    Learn how to visit the UNESCO-listed Château de Versailles, the most emblematic castle in France, from Paris by train, car, bus, or guided tour. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of each option and find the best one for your preferences and budget.

  11. Paris to Versailles

    Located in the western suburbs of the French capital, 17.1 km from the centre of Paris, Versailles is a wealthy suburb of Paris with a service-based economy and is a major tourist destination. According to the 2017 census, the population of the city is 85,862 inhabitants, down from a peak of 94,145 in 1975. - Wikipedia. Things to do in Versailles

  12. How to Visit Versailles from Paris in 2023: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

    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.

  13. Versailles Day Trips from Paris: Itinerary & Best Guided Tours

    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.

  14. How to Get From Paris To Versailles: 5 Options!

    If you take the RER C train from Paris to Versailles, you can disembark at the Versailles Château Rive Gauche, the closest station. The Palace of Versailles is a 10-minute walk away on a pleasant and easy pathway. A one-way ticket on the RER C Line will cost you €3.65, or about $4 per person.

  15. From Paris: Full-Day Guided Tour of Versailles

    The highlight of my time in Paris. Versailles is worth every penny. Some musts: definitely wear comfy shoes, definitely do the full day tour, definitely check out the Trianon. My tour guide was really knowledgeable and the trips was a top 10 things to do.

  16. How to Get to Versailles from Paris: Ultimate Transportation Guide

    To travel from Paris to Versailles, the most common and convenient option is to take the RER C train. This train crosses Paris from east to west and takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Versailles, depending on the timetable. The train frequency is every 15 minutes, making it easily accessible for travelers.

  17. How to Get From Paris to Versailles & Plan The Perfect Day Trip

    Doing a day trip from Paris to Versailles is one of those bucket list experiences I've had on my list since Grade 10 history class. For those unfamiliar, Versailles is the Palace of the French kings. It's where Marie Antoinette and her husband, King Louis XVI, spent their days until the bloody French Revolution. Once a hunting lodge for the royals, it became their seat of power in the 19th ...

  18. Palace of Versailles Tour ticket from Paris

    All day trip guided tour Giverny Monet's Gardens and Palace of Versailles from Paris with skip-the-line access (lunch and transportation included) A guided day tour with two must-see destinations close to Paris. Discover the …. Read more…. Duration : 9:45 hour (s) From. 239,00 €.

  19. How to Plan the Best Day Trip to Versailles From Paris

    Public Transit. The most economical and convenient way to travel from Paris to Versailles is by public transit. There are several modes of public transportation to choose from: Train: Take the train from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers, which takes approximately 12 minutes and costs between €3 and €10.

  20. How To Get From Paris To Versailles (Transport Options)

    Paris to Versailles by Bus. You'll need to get to the Pont de Sèvres station on the city's western outskirts by metro before taking a local bus to Chateau Versailles Rive Gauche station. Take the #171 bus to Versailles from the outside of the station, and get out at the #171 bus stop. The ratp.fr website has a schedule for bus number 171.

  21. From Paris: Versailles Full-Day Trip by Train

    Full description. Discover the secrets of Versailles Palace on this day trip from Paris. Travel by train and enjoy pre-booked entrance tickets that guarantee you direct access. Take a guided tour to uncover all that this stately palace has to offer. Meet your guide in downtown Paris and relax on the ride to Versailles aboard a local train.

  22. A Day Trip to Versailles from Paris

    Plan a day trip to Versailles during a trip to Paris for a day of opulence, grandeur, beauty, and fountains fit for a king or queen. Every visit to Paris should include a day trip to Versailles to explore the beauty and history of the palaces and gardens. My daughter and I rode the train for a brief journey to the playground of the Kings Louis and thoroughly enjoyed the day imagining the life ...

  23. 9 Best Versailles Tours from Paris for a Journey into French History

    Versailles tours from Paris; Read more: Versailles Palace Tickets Price. 2 - Versailles Bike Tour with Market, Gardens & Guided Palace Tour. Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 (553 reviews) "This was my favorite experience during my entire trip to Paris! Clara was the most wonderful tour guide…she made everything interesting and fun!

  24. Day Trips From Paris

    Versailles offers many tours of the grounds and buildings, fountain shows, and ample room for picnicking. Expect a total travel time of 35 minutes to Versailles from Paris, France.

  25. Paris in 4 Days: A Journey Through Romance and History

    Conclude your first day with a visit to the majestic Eiffel Tower, where the observation deck offers breathtaking views of Paris. Day 2 is dedicated to the opulent Palace of Versailles, where you'll spend the day exploring its lavish halls and gardens.

  26. shay miranda on Instagram: "Which is Versailles, and which is the Met

    9 likes, 0 comments - writtenbyshay on February 20, 2024: "#history #frenchrevolution #wealthgap #wealthinequality #historygirlie #storyteller #historylesso..."