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

Paris to versailles day trip.

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

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

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

Are you planning your Versailles trip last minute?

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

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

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

Top Experiences and Tours in Versailles:

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

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

Top Places to Stay in Versailles:

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents:

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

1. Best Time to Visit Versailles

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

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

Best Day to Visit Versailles

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

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

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

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

2. Ways to Travel from Paris to Versailles

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

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

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

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

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

Compare the best Versailles Tickets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Château de Versailles

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

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

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

Gardens of Versailles

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

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

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

The Estate of Trianon

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

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

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

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

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

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

Le Potager du Roi

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

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

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

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

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

The Royal Stables (Gallery of Coaches)

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

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

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

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

6. Best Versailles Garden & Fountain Shows

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

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

Versailles Musical Fountains Show

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

Versailles Musical Gardens Show

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

Versailles Fountains Night Show

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

7. Extend your Versailles Trip

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

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

8. Versailles Tips & Practical Info

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

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

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

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

Versailles Opening Hours – Low Season (November to March)

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

Versailles Opening Hours – High Season (April to October)

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

Versailles Main Access Points

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., we’re elisa, norbert, valérie, and cédric, four travel bloggers and friends living in paris. quirky explorers with a preference for the local side of our city and its lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & our best tips learn more about us.

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Louis XIV transformed his father’s hunting lodge into the monumental Château de Versailles in the mid-17th century, and it remains France’s most famous and grand palace. Situated in the leafy, bourgeois suburb of Versailles, 22km southwest of central Paris, the baroque château was the kingdom’s political capital and the seat of the royal court from 1682 up until the fateful events of 1789 when revolutionaries massacred the palace guard. Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were ultimately dragged back to Paris, where they were ingloriously guillotined.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Château de Versailles

Amid magnificently landscaped formal gardens, this splendid and enormous palace was built in the mid-17th century during the reign of Louis XIV – the Roi…

Château de Versailles Gardens & Park

The section of the vast gardens nearest the palace, laid out between 1661 and 1700 in the formal French style, is famed for its geometrically aligned…

Domaine de Trianon

Northwest of Versailles’ main palace is the Domaine de Trianon. Admission includes the pink-colonnaded Grand Trianon, built in 1687 for Louis XIV and his…

Grand Trianon

In the middle of the park, approximately 1.5km northwest of the main building within the Domaine de Marie-Antoinette are Versailles' two smaller palaces,…

Petit Trianon

Within the Domaine de Marie-Antoinette, the ochre-coloured Petit Trianon, built in the 1760s, was redecorated in 1867 by Empress Eugénie, the consort of…

Hameau de la Reine

Part of the Domaine de Marie-Antoinette, this mock village of thatched cottages, a pond and a photogenic mill was constructed from 1775 to 1784 for the…

Versailles Stables

The Grandes Écuries are the stage for the prestigious Académie du Spectacle Équestre. It presents spectacular Reprises Musicales equestrian shows, for…

Salle du Jeu de Paume

In May 1789 Louis XVI convened the États-Généraux, made up of more than 1118 deputies representing the nobility, clergy and the Third Estate (‘common…

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Art and Culture

Jun 1, 2023 • 3 min read

After a painstaking renovation, Marie Antoinette’s private chambers at the Château de Versailles reopen to the public on June 20.

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The Palace of Versailles: A Complete Visitor’s Guide

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

History of The Palace of Versailles

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Your Trip to Paris: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

• St. Christopher’s Canal
• 3 Ducks Hostel

If you’re looking for more places to stay, here for my favorite hostels in Paris . If you’re wondering what part of town to stay in, here’s my neighborhood breakdown of the city !

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

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Day Trips From Paris To Versailles

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

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

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

About the Versailles Estate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overview: A Day Trip To Versailles Palace

Time you should plan for your visit: 6 Hours

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

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

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

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

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

Dates and Opening Times

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

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

#1 Visit The Palace Of Versailles

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

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

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

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

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

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

#2 Explore The Gardens of Versailles

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

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

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

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

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

#3 Discover The Estate Of Trianon

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

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

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

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

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

How To Get To Versailles?

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

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

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

#1 Join a Guided Tour

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

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

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

#2 Take the Train from Paris to Versailles

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

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

You have three options travelling to Versailles by train: 

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

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

#3 Take the bus to Versailles

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

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

#4 Drive to Paris in your Car

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

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

#5 Take a Taxi (Uber)

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

Best Tips On Visiting Versailles

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

Where To Eat In Versailles

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

Picnic – Free

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

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

Restaurant Angelina – Expensive

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

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

La Girandole – Mid-Range

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

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

Le Dauphin – Budget

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

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

La Petite Venise – Expensive 

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

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

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

In Summary: A Day Trip To Versailles Palace

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You might also like these articles :

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

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Until 31 August, the Estate of Trianon is open from 10am to 6.30pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

Free admission for European Union residents under 26.

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Booking and access

To access the Palace, all visitors must book a time slot . Due to the high number of visitors, admission to the Palace within half an hour of the booked time slot can only be guaranteed for tickets purchased online .

The Palace closes at 6:30 pm, evacuation begins at 6:00 pm. With the last visiting schedule, it is not possible to visit the entire exhibition and the Palace.

It is possible to enter the park by car through the Queen's Gate , without reservation. The entrance fee is 12 euros per vehicle.

If you want to discover everything about Versailles in one day, the Passport ticket is for you ! 

Free and reduced rates

Access to the Palace  and the  estate of Trianon is free for visitors under 18 (or under 26 residing in the EU). However, visitors eligible for free admission must book a time slot via the online ticketing platform .  See every condition for free admission

Some benefit from a reduced rate, also available on the online ticketing platform . 

Entrance to the gardens during the Musical Fountains show, the Musical Gardens or the Night Fountains show is free for children under 5 years of age.

The audioguide is available on the  free mobile app , download it in advance. To enjoy even more of Versailles, choose the “1 Year in Versailles” subscription card for just €55 per year.

Every ticket in one look

A summary of the different tickets to visit the estate of Versailles

Guided tours

During guided tours , a speaker from the Palace invites you into lesser known locations otherwise closed to the visitors. 

Except if otherwise indicated, the meeting point for guided tours is at the welcome desk is in the North Ministers’ Wing , except for Trianon's visite where the meeting point is in front of the Petit Trianon.

Full price : 10 € in addition to the admission price

Reduced rates: 7 € for the holders of « A Year in Versailles » card, the members of Friends of Versailles Society, and the underage from 10 to 17 years old accompanying, disabled visitors and their companion.

Free: for the children under 10.

All year long, concerts, operas, ballets... in famous places of the Palace: the Royal Opera and the Royal Chapel .

From the beginning of April to the end of October, enjoy the Musical Fountains Shows and the Musical Gardens .

Show in the Palace, access through  entrance B .

Shows in the Gardens, access through  the Princes courtyard .

Locate on the map

Fountains shows in one look

A simplified presentation of the tickets allowing access to the Musical Fountains Show, the Musical Gardens, the Royal Serenades or the Fountains Night Show.

This ticket gives access to the whole estate of Versailles (Palace, Estate of Trianon and the gardens). Book online and enter to the Palace in the half hour following the chosen time.

It includes :

• the Palace with timed entry;
• the estate of Trianon ;
• the temporary exhibitions ;
• the  Gallery of Coaches  (every weekend); 
• the  Sculptures and Mouldings Gallery  (every weekend);
• the Musical Gardens or Musical Fountains Show  in the Gardens ;

To make the most of the Estate of Versailles, the Gardens are open from 8am, the Estate of Trianon from 10am. in July and August, the Gallery of Coaches from 12.30pm.

Please note that the opening hours of the groves are different from the opening hours for water and music. Please check in advance on this page .

The Gardens close exceptionally at 5:30 p.m. on days of Night Fountains Shows from June to September as well as Friday July 14, Tuesday August 15 and Saturday September 23. The Passport ticket with timed entry does not guarantee access to the Night Fountains shows.

Ticket valid for one entry into the Gardens, through the Honour Courtyard of the Palace or the gates of Little Venice , the Menagerie , Neptune or the Dragon . Please note that a second entry is possible, but only through a different gate than the one used for the first entry.

Tickets can be purchased on site subject to availability.

Rates on Musical Gardens and Fountains Show days

Palace ticket

This ticket guarantees access to the palace of Versailles . Book online and enter to the Palace in the half hour following the chosen time.

• the Palace with timed entry ;

In order for you to make the most of the Estate of Versailles, the Gardens are open from 8am, the Estate of Trianon from 12pm., the Gallery of Coaches from 12.30pm.

From April 1 st , the Palace Gardens are only accessible on days when Musical Fountains Shows or Musical Gardens are not in session. The Passport guarantees access to the Estate of Versailles (Palace, Estate of Trianon and their Gardens).

Passport + Gourmet Break

This ticket gives access to the whole of the  Estate of Versailles  and a lunch at the restaurant la Petite Venise. Book online and enter to the Palace in the half hour following the chosen time.

Package valid for 2 adults (possibility to add children until 17 years old).

It includes access to:

• the Park  ;
• a lunch for 2 adults at the restaurant la Petite Venise (20 min walk) at 12:00 or 12:30 p.m. From the menu: Starter - Main course / Main course - Dessert + coffee.

To make the most of the Estate of Versailles, the Gardens are open from 8am, the Estate of Trianon from 10 am. in July and August, the Gallery of Coaches from 12.30pm.

Estate of Trianon ticket

This ticket guarantees access to the estate of Trianon starting at 10:00 am in July and August.

It includes access to :

• the estate of Trianon  (including the Grand Trianon , the Petit Trianon , the Queen's Hamlet and their  gardens );
• the tempory exibitions  presented there;

From April 1 st , the Palace Gardens are only accessible on days when Musical Fountains Shows or Musical Gardens are not in session. The Passport guarantees access to the Estate of Versailles (Palace, Estate of Trianon and the Gardens).

Passport + The Palace official guide

This ticket gives access to the whole of the Estate of Versailles (Palace, Trianon Estate and the gardens) and to the book "The official guide" with RMN-GP editions, to be collected from the Librairie des Princes on the day of your visit. It allows access to the Palace in the half hour following the chosen time.

It includes:

• the temporary exhibitions  ;
• the book "The official guide" .

You can add  Passeports to this offer to share your guide with others.

Palace ticket + The Palace official guide

This ticket gives access to the Palace , to the exhibition "Louis XV, passions of a king" and to the book "The official guide" with RMN-GP editions, to be collected from the Librairie des Princes on the day of your visit.

It includes the admission to :

• the Palace with timed entry and visit guide ;
• the temporary exhibitions  (" Louis XV, passions of a king ");
• and the Park .

You can add  Palace tickets to this offer to share your guide with others.

From April 1 st , the Palace Gardens are only accessible on days when Musical Fountains Shows or Musical Gardens are not in session. The Passport + The Palace official guide guarantees access to the Estate of Versailles (Palace, Estate of Trianon and their Gardens).

Passport 2 days + equestrian show

This ticket gives access to the whole of the Estate for 2 consecutive days and to the show of the Equestrian Academy of Versailles. Book online and enter to the Palace in the half hour following the chosen time and to the equestrian show on Saturday at 6pm.

• the Palace ;
• the Equestrian Academy of Versailles  show. 

Your visit to the Estate must be made on the date indicated on the ticket. In order for you to make the most of the Estate of Versailles, the Gardens are open from 8am, the Estate of Trianon from 10 am. in July and August., the Gallery of Coaches from 12.30pm.

Palace ticket + equestrian show

This ticket gives access to the Palace at 11:30 am and to the show of the Equestrian Academy of Versailles, depending on the day chosen, on Saturday at 6 pm or on Wednesday and Sunday at 3 pm.

• the  temporary exhibitions ;
• the  Esquestrian Academy of Versailles show. 

Your visit to the Palace must take place on the date indicated on the ticket. In order for you to make the most of the Estate of Versailles, the Gardens are open from 8am, the Estate of Trianon from 12pm., the Gallery of Coaches and the Sculptures and Mouldings Gallery from 12.30pm.

Passport + return trip by little train

This ticket gives access to the whole of the Estate of Versailles (Palace, Trianon Estate and the gardens), to the exhibition "Louis XV, passions of a king" and to a return trip by little train. Book online and enter to the Palace in the half hour following the chosen time.   It includes access to:

• the Estate of Trianon (Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, Queen's Hamletand their gardens);
• to 1 return trip by little train .

To make the most of the Estate of Versailles, the Gardens are open from 8am, the Estate of Trianon from 10 am. in July and August, the Gallery of Coaches from 12.30pm.

Find the little train

Adult over 26

Adult 18-25

The Musical Fountains Show

Musical Fountains Show ticket

In the Gardens , discover the pools,  groves (open for the occasion) and their fountains put in water to the rhythm of the baroque music.

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

The Musical Fountains Show ticket includes only the admission to the Musical Fountain Shows  in the Gardens during the day.

Caution, the musical and water displays timetable differs from opening hours of the groves. Find out all details in advance on this page . 

Reduced rate

Passport + Rowing boat ride

This ticket gives access to the whole of the  Estate of Versailles  and a 1 hour rowing boat ride on the Grand Canal. Book online and enter to the Palace in the half hour following the chosen time.

Package valid for 2 adults (possibility to add children from 6 years old). 2 adults and 3 children maximum per boat.

• to the rental of a rowing boat on the Grand Canal for 1 hour (suggested time 11:30 a.m.).

In order for you to make the most of the Estate of Versailles, the Gardens are open from 8am, the Estate of Trianon from 12pm., the Gallery of Coaches and the Sculptures and Mouldings Gallery from 12.30pm.

Musical Fountains shows or Musical Gardens days

The Musical Gardens Show

Musical Gardens ticket

In the  Gardens , discover the pools,  groves (open for the occasion), to the rhythm of baroque music (no watering pools).

• Every Tuesday, Wednesday,Thursday and Friday from April 4th to 28th 2023 (but on Friday April 7th, Musical Fountains Shows)
• Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from May 3rd to June 30th 2023 (but on Thursday May 18th, Musical Fountains Shows)
• Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from July 4th to October 31 2023 (but on Friday July 14th and Tuesday May 15th, Musical Fountains Shows)

The Musical Gardens ticket includes only the admission to the Musical Gardens  in the Gardens during the day .

Caution, the musical and water displays timetable differs from opening hours of the groves. Find out all details in advance on this page .

Reduced price

The Fountains Night Show

The Fountains Night Show ticket

During the Fountains Night Show , the gardens of Louis XIV offer an astonishing visit with sound and visual effects as night falls. Pools and groves are orchestrated and sublimed, coming to life before the visitor's eyes with fountains and lights and culminating with a dazzling firework display.

• Every Saturday from June 10th until September 23th 2023  (08:30pm to 11:05pm)
• Friday July 14th and Tuesday August 15th

This ticket only gives you access to the Gardens on the evening of the Fountains Night Show . 

Passport + Bike Ride

This ticket gives access to the whole of the  Estate of Versailles  and a 1 hour bike ride in the Park. Book online and enter to the Palace in the half hour following the chosen time.

Package valid for 2 adults (possibility to add children from 6 years old).

• to the  rental of a classic bike  in the Park for 1 hour (bikes are available without an appointment during the opening hours of the rental point, suggested time 11:30 a.m.).

In order for you to make the most of the Estate of Versailles, the Gardens are open from 8am, the Estate of Trianon from 10 am. in July and August., the Gallery of Coaches and the Sculptures and Mouldings Gallery from 12.30pm.

"1 year in Versailles" card

During a year, enjoy unlimited access to the whole estate of Versailles , skip the line access to the Palace , an exclusive cultural program  and benefit from numerous discounts . 

Know more about the subscription

"1 year in Versailles" card

Services on site, support versailles.

Make an online donation to help the Palace of Versailles cope with an unprecedented economic crisis.

The King’s Animals

From its location in the heart of a vast forest in the Ile-de-France region, the Palace of Versailles has always fostered a new relationship with the animal kingdom. From animals as objects to be studied or collected to those used as political attributes and symbols of power, what were the relationships between the Court and the domestic, wild and exotic species of the animal world?

Plan my visit

guided tours

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

Discover the Estate, the history and the collections

Explore an oustanding Estate

What's on

Discover all the current and upcoming events

• Trianon Palaces

Welcome to the Palace

• Don't miss
• Restaurants and shops
• Practical information
• Customize cookies

interactive map of the palace of versailles

Where are the entrances? Where can I buy tickets? Where is the Hall of Mirrors? How do I get to Marie-Antoinette’s Estate? Where are the toilets? etc.

This interactive map will accompany you throughout your visit to the Palace and the Estate . With over 500 points of interest, " Bienvenue" also lets you explore the estate at your own pace and increase your knowledge of Versailles.

start the visit

• change the background
• Gardens Explore
• Park Explore
• Trianon Palaces and Marie-Antoinette’s Estate Explore
• Exterior view
• Garden level
• First floor

Here are a few tips for preparing your visit to the Palace. If you already have your ticket, go directly to Palace Entrance A. From April to October, due to the high number of visitors, admission to the palace can only be guaranteed through online booking .

The Palace is open every day, except Mondays, from 9 am to 6.30 pm during the high season (April to October) and from 9 am to 5.30 pm during the low season (November to March).

Where can I buy a ticket? Which one should I choose?

Where are the entrances to the palace, where are the toilets located, how do i get to the gardens, where is the hall of mirrors, where to book a guided tour.

• How do I get to Marie-Antoinette's Estate?

On the garden level, the Royal Courtyard gives access to the different tour itineraries. We indicate the essential practical points before the start of the tour. Caution, the Palace gets very crowded during the high season. We recommend coming at 9.00 am to visit the Palace when it opens or plan your visit for late afternoon. We advise you to buy online. Due to the high number of visitors, admission to the palace can only be guaranteed through online booking.

Where does the tour begin?

Where can i find a map and audioguides, where are the toilets.

Continue your visit on the 1st floor with the King and Queen's Grand Apartments and the world-famous Hall of Mirrors. On certain days you can also visit the Gallery of Battles. Caution, the Palace gets very crowded during the summer. We advise you to buy online. Due to the high number of visitors, admission to the palace can only be guaranteed through online booking.

We recommend coming at 9.00 am to visit the Palace when it opens or plan your visit for late afternoon.

Where does the visit to the 1st floor begin?

• Where is the King's Chamber?
• Where is the Queen's Chamber?

The Mesdames’ Apartments, Daughters Of Louis Xv

The Mesdames' apartments are symmetrical to the apartments of the Dauphin and Dauphine. Like them, they were turned into museum rooms by Louis-Philippe and recently restored to their state of princely apartments. Mesdames, as the six daughters of Louis XV were referred to, settled there in 1752, but only two of them, Adelaide and Victoire, lived there until the Revolution.

The Empire Rooms

As a contemporary of Napoleon I, King Louis-Philippe was eager to obtain the support of former members of the Empire and the favour of Bonapartist opinion. At Versailles, he gathered most of the large paintings commissioned by Napoleon in the ground floor of the Palace’s South Wing, under the Gallery of Great Battles.

Main Entrance (Honour Gate )

Due to the anti-terrorist security plan, visitors with large baggage items are not admitted on the domain (exceeding 55x35x20 cm)

The Honour gate is the main entrance gate to the Estate. It separates the Honour courtyard  from the Place d'Armes and is surrounded north-side by sculptures of the Victory of France over the Empire, by Gaspard Marsy, and south-side by sculptures of the Victory of France over Spain, by François Girardon.

This gate is open daily from 7:00AM to 7:30PM (from April to October). Last admission: 7PM

This gate is open daily from 8:00AM to 6:00PM (from November to March). Last admission: 5:30PM

Entrance A - Entrance For Individual Visitors

Due to the anti-terrorist security plan, visitors with large baggage items are not admitted on the domain (exceeding 55x35x20 cm).

This entrance provides access to all unaccompanied routes including temporary exhibitions.

To enter the Palace, you must have a ticket with a reserved time slot. Buy your ticket online . Due to the high number of visitors, admission to the palace can only be guaranteed through online booking.

If you are eligible for free admission, you must have booked a free time slot on the online ticketing service.

Entrance B - Group Entrance

Groups with reservations should head directly to entrance B, at the top right of the Cour d'Honneur. It provides access to all unaccompanied routes.

Entrance H - Chapel Courtyard Access

Entrance H will be the entrance for the European Heritage Days.

Access To The Gardens Accès Jardins - Cour Des Princes

To access the garden, head to the left at the top of the Courtyard of Honour. Access is through the courtyard of the Princes, at the left-side of the entrance A.

Main Ticket Office - South Ministers' Wing

Located in the South Ministers' Wing (to the left of the Honour Courtyard), the main ticket office sells tickets for unaccompanied visits to the Estate: 'Passeport', Palace tickets and 'Paris Museum Pass'.

From April to October, due to the high number of visitors, admission to the palace can only be guaranteed through online booking .

Guided Tours And Subscriptions

Located in the North Ministers' wing, this facility offers tickets for guided tours and the annual "1 year in Versailles " pass. It is also the start point for guided tours.

Information Point-Pavillon Gabriel

Having crossed the Royal Courtyard and before you begin your visit, you can pick up information, maps and leaflets at the audioguide kiosk.

Toilets-South Ministers’ Wing

Free toilets are located just beyond the Information desk.

Toilets-Pavillon Dufour

The toilets are accessible in the basement of the Dufour Pavilion after entrance A.

Shop Of The Chapel

In this shop you can purchase a range of themed products, books, guides, postcards, etc.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 4:45 pm

Grand Café D’Orléans

The Grand Café d'Orléans serves eat-in and takeaway food in a restaurant with a contemporary décor that covers over 700 m². It also offers group menus (60 pers. max). It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9.30am to 6pm (10am to 5pm November to March). It is accessible from the Princes Courtyard.

Reservations: +33 (0)1 39 50 29 79

Angelina Tea Room And Restaurant

The Angelina restaurant and tea room offers sweet and savoury fare in a refined and elegant setting, to eat in. There is also a shop and groups are catered for (60 pers. max).

The restaurant is open Tuesday to Sunday:

• from 10am to 5:30pm (November to March)
• from 10am to 6:30pm (April to October)

It is accessible from the Royal Courtyard or at the end of the tour of the Grand Apartments.

Reservations: +33 (0)1 39 20 08 32

Honour Courtyard

The Honour courtyard is located between the Place d'Armes and the Cour Royale. From this courtyard, you can access the Ministers' wings and the entrances to the Palace and Gardens.

Royal Courtyard

The Royal Courtyard is located behind the Royal Gate and is only accessible with a ticket. It gives access to the different visitor routes around the Palace.

Marble Courtyard

The Marble Courtyard is the original courtyard of the palace, built by Louis XIII in 1623. Its black and white tiles come from the castle of Vaux-le-Vicomte.

Apartment Of The Dauphin And The Dauphine

Currently closed

These apartments were always reserved to the leading members of the royal family. Their current decoration corresponds to the period in which they was occupied by Louis XV's son and his second wife, Maria Josepha of Saxony.

The Appartments Of Louis Xv’S Daughters

The Louis XV’s daughters apartments are symmetrical to the apartments of the Dauphin and Dauphine. Like them, they were turned into museum rooms by Louis-Philippe and recently restored to their state of princely apartments. Mesdames, as the six daughters of Louis XV were referred to, settled there in 1752, but only two of them, Adelaide and Victoire, lived there until the Revolution.

See the rooms

Grand Apartments (Hall Of Mirrors, King’S Chamber)

Visitors arrive at the Grand Apartments through the Gallery of the History of the Palace or the sculpture gallery. By taking this tour, visitors can explore the apartments of the King and Queen of France.

Gallery Of Battles

On the mobile app, listen to the audio commentaries of the paintings at the bottom of this screen.

Much larger than the Hall of Mirrors, the Gallery of Battles was the first ensemble chosen by Louis-Philippe for his Museum of the History of France. It presents an important series of historical paintings dedicated "to all the glories of France" and thus constitutes a "national record".

Gallery Of The History Of The Palace

With the main Palace, the Trianon palaces, the gardens and the park, Versailles is a site whose topography and history are rich. Located at the beginning of the Grand Apartments tour, the Gallery of the History of the Palace is an essential introduction to the visit. Under the Ancien Régime, these rooms were the apartments of the royal princes, before Louis-Philippe transformed them to present a brief history of France through works ranging from the Baptism of Clovis to Louis XVI giving La Pérouse his instructions .

Upper Stone Gallery

Following the Gallery of the History of the Palace, this gallery connects to the second part of the tour: the Grand Apartments. Known as the Upper sculpture gallery due to its contents, it contains sculptures by Grand Condé, Turenne and Le Bossuet.

Royal Chapel

The construction of the Royal Chapel lasted between 1689 and 1710. Every day, usually in the morning at 10am, the court would assemble for the King's mass. Every Thursday, an orchestra gives audiences the chance to discover the full range of the European repertoire from the 17th and 18th centuries. The Royal Chapel is accessible as part of a guided tour.

The construction of the Royal Chapel lasted between 1689 and 1710. Every day, usually in the morning at 10am, the court would assemble for the King's mass. Every Thursday, an orchestra gives audiences the chance to discover selections the European repertoire from the 17th and 18th centuries. The Royal Chapel is accessible as part of a guided tour.

Access Grand Apartments (Hall Of Mirrors, King’S Chamber) - Gl

Access To The Gardens - Cour Des Princes

Toilets-pavillon gabriel.

Toilets are located next to the Gabriel staircase in the basement. These toilets are not accessible to the disabled.

Information Desk - South Ministers’ Wing

The information desk dispenses all information relating to visits, along with maps and leaflets. Guided tours can also be booked here.

Marble Courtyard Shop

This large souvenir shop offers a range of products: books, guides, postcards, gifts, etc. It can be found after the tour of the State Apartments, at the foot of the Queen's staircase, or straight after the Royal Courtyard.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5:45pm. From November to March, the shop closes at 4:45pm.

Ladurée is a Parisian patisserie founded in 1862, and visitors are invited to explore their retail outlet. The company offers its fine delicatessen range, not forgetting their famous macaroons. The shop is open every day from 9.30am to 6.30pm in high season (April to October) and from 9.30am to 5pm during low season (November to March). It is accessible from the Royal Courtyard or at the end of the tour of the Grand Apartments, at the foot of the Queen's Staircase.

Built by architect Frédéric Nepveu in the nineteenth century, the Gallery of Battles was the first room commissioned by King Louis-Philippe for his museum of French history. The gallery was designed to represent his desire for national reconciliation, and presents a major series of historic paintings dedicated "to all the glories of France".

Librairie Des Princes

The Librairie des Princes bookshop offers a range of products over 200 m²: books, children's books, postcards, table decoration etc. The bookshop is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10.30am to 6.15pm during high season (April to October) and from 9.30am to 5.15pm during low season (November to March). Although it is not part of the visitor route, it can be accessed from Cour d'Honneur.

The library also presents the cabinet of the King's medals, where are sold medals from the Arthus-Bertrand Versailles collection.

Louis Xiv Rooms ?

Louis XIV Rooms give visitors a vast panorama of the 17th century featuring the King, his family, the court and the major political, military and artistic events that marked his reign.

Information Point- Dufour’S Pavillion

The information desk dispenses all information relating to visits, along with maps and leaflets.

Changing Table-Pavillon Dufour

A baby-changing table is located in the basement near the toilets.

Dufour Pavillion Shop

Located in the basement of the Palace, this large souvenir shop offers a range of products: books, guides, postcards, gifts, etc.

The shop is accessible in the basement after the entrance A or at the exit of the visit.

The shop is open every day from 10.15am to 6pm during high season (April to October) and from 9.30am to 5.15pm during low season (November to March).

Access Dufour Pavillion Shop

This large souvenir shop offers a range of products: books, guides, postcards, gifts, etc.

The shop is open every day from 10.15am to 6pm during high season (April to October) and from 9.30am to 6pm during low season (November to March).

Access Ore - Ducasse Au Château De Versailles

During the day, the restaurant ore is open to the public. An exceptional setting and view to take a break or to eat during the Palace's opening hours. A French inspired menu with classics of our cuisine, alongside light and quick snacks, desserts and gourmet pastries. Children are welcome here with their very own Prince & Princess menu.

You can access the restaurant ore - Ducasse from the vestibule of the Dufour Pavilion, accessible by the door on the left side of the entrance A.

Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10AM to 6:30Pm in high season (April to October) and 10AM to 5:30PM in low season (November to March). Access to the restaurant through the courtyard of Princes independantly of the tour of the Palace.

Reservation: +33 (0)1 30 84 12 96 – [email protected] Groups and events: +33 (0)1 30 84 12 98 – [email protected]

Chapel Gate

The gate of the Chapel is closed.

Located in Léon Gambetta place, the Chapel Gate gives access, on foot, to the Palace (entrances A and B). It is accessible by skirting the Palace on the right, rue Robert de Cotte.

It is advised for groups to enter through the Chapel Gate that is much less used than the Honour Gate. In addition, it will give you direct access to entrance B, where you must present your scheduled booking (self-guided tour). However, the access through the Honour Gate is recommended for people with disabilities.

Open every day except Monday, from 9am to 5.30pm.

Audioguide - Dufour's Pavillon

The audioguide desk is located in the entrance hall of the Pavillon Dufour: every day when the château is open and 30 minutes before the last admission, i.e. 5.30pm in high season and 4.30pm in low season.

The audioguides are returned at the end of the tour, on the ground floor of the Dufour Pavilion.

For the permanent tour, the audio guide is available in 13 languages: French, English, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Korean, Russian, Ukrainian, Polish and Arabic. A children's version is also available in French.

Audioguide - Dufour's Pavilion

Ore - Ducasse Au Château De Versailles

Acces To Dufour Pavilion's Auditorium

Installed on the 2nd floor of the Dufour Pavilion, this 148-seat auditorium is used as a reception area for conferences and seminars organized at the palace.

The access to the auditorium is the same one that of the restaurant ORE - Ducasse: from the vestibule of the Dufour Pavilion, accessible by the door on the left side of the entrance A.

Automatic Deposits

Some automatic deposits (school children only) are available in different information points, and allow you to leave items that do not exceed the limited format (46x43x26 cm maximum).

Parking-Place D'armes (Cars And Coaches)

At the Place d'Armes, parking is offered for cars, minibuses and coaches (charge payable).

Coach parking is only available at the Place d'Armes or at the crossroads of the Grand and Petit Trianon in the park.

Parking is free for disabled visitors on presentation of a valid permit.

Start Of The Tour

Visit the Apartments of the Daughters of Louis XV (entrance 1) before discovering the Grands Appartements (entrance 2).

Drinking Fountain

Open access drinking water supply point.

To access to the Palace, buy a Palace or "Passport" ticket (full access to the Versailles Estate). Buy your ticket online . Due to the high number of visitors, admission to the palace can only be guaranteed through online booking. To buy your ticket on site, go to the Ticket Office on the left, in the South Ministers Wing, then go to Entrance A with your ticket. Visitors eligible for free admission are nonetheless required to book a free of charge time slot on the online ticket office to access the Palace.

If you would like to book a guided tour, buy on line and go to the dedicated area in the North Ministers Wing to the right of the Honour Courtyard.

 From April to October, access to the gardens is subject to a fee from Tuesday to Sunday (days of the Fountain Shows and Musical Gardens). In this case, buy a Passport ticket online (access to the entire estate) or a Grandes Eaux / Jardins Musicaux ticket (at the entrance of the gardens or preferably online ). Buy your tickets on line .

Entrance A is reserved to individual visitors with tickets. Visitors eligible for free admission are required to book a free of charge time slot on the online ticket office to access the Palace.

Entrance B is reserved to groups that have booked their visit.

If you have booked a guided tour, the meeting place is at the North Ministers Wing to the right in the Cour d'Honneur.

For access to the toilets, cross the courtyard and enter the Gabriel Pavilion. The toilets are on your right in the basement by the Gabriel Stairs. Other  toilets, accessible for disabled visitors, are available at the end of the Gallery of Palace History. Caution, there are no toilets on the first floor of the Palace.

Toilets-North Wing

Toilets are available by taking the lift at the end of the Gallery of Palace History.

When you arrive at the Palace, you can go directly to the gardens by going to the top left-hand side of the Cour d'Honneur, then entering the Courtyard of the Princes (left-side of the entrance A).

From 29 March to 31 October, access to the gardens is subject to a fee from Tuesday to Sunday (days of the Fountain Shows and Musical Gardens). In this case, buy a Passport ticket (preferably online) or if you only visit the gardens a Grandes Eaux / Jardins Musicaux ticket (at the entrance of the gardens).

After coming in through Entrance A, your tour begins in the Royal Courtyard.

Enter the Cour de Marbre to visit the Apartments of the Daughters of Louis XV. Next, head for the Pavillon Gabriel to visit the Grands Appartements.

The Marble Courtyard

The Marble Courtyard is the original courtyard of the palace, built by Louis XIII in 1623. Its black and white tiles come from the castle of Vaux-le-Vicomte.

Audioguides are located in the Gabriel pavilion.

For a map, go to the Information Centre located on the ground garden at the Dufour pavilion (after entry A).

The Hall of Mirrors is located on the first floor of the Palace and is part of the self-guided tour of the Grand Apartments. After entering, cross the Royal Courtyard and follow the signs to the Grand Apartments.

Access Grand Apartments (Hall Of Mirrors, King’S Chamber) - Gv

After taking the stairs at the end of the Gallery of History, your visit continues through the Galerie de Pierre Haute or the Louis XIV rooms.

Questel Staircase

The Questel staircase gives access to the first floor from the Gallery of the History of the Palace.

The Louis Xiv's Childhood

After 23 years of marriage to Anne of Austria, Louis XIII finally gained his much-longed-for heir in Louis XIV, who was acclaimed as 'Louis-Dieudonné', or 'Louis, the gift from God'. The portraits in this room depict him as a child, heir to the throne of France, who became king at a very young age.

Early Military Campaigns

Louis XIV was a warrior king for whom victory was a means of cementing his authority. After his marriage to Maria Theresa, daughter of the King of Spain, Louis XIV claimed certain Spanish territories in Flanders, thus triggering what is known as the War of Devolution.

The Académie Royale De Peinture Et De Sculpture

The king called upon the artists of the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture to illustrate the glory of his kingdom and its ruler. The academy, which was established in 1648 and overhauled in 1660, was a centre of training in and development of aesthetic principles. To be admitted to it, prospective members had to present a 'reception piece', i.e. a work on a given subject.

The Arts At The Start Of His Reign

Ever since 'La Fronde' (the French civil wars between 1640 and 1650 sparked by a double revolt by parliament and the princes who opposed Louis XIV and his family), Louis XIV mistrusted Paris. He therefore set up and oversaw the court at Versailles, where spectacular parties were organised and to which the great artists of the day were invited.  In this way, Louis XIV contributed to the advancement of the arts.

The Exercise Of Power

Louis XIV was an absolute monarch. He governed alone and relied on counsellors and ministers, whose role was to carry out royal wishes.

Versailles And Europe

Louis XIV turned France into the leading power in Europe and the world. He expanded the kingdom and furthered the reputation of the country beyond its borders.

At The Turn Of The Reign (The 1690S)

In France, the crown passes from father to son according to primogeniture. Of Louis XIV's six children, only his firstborn survived to adulthood. He was given the title of dauphin. However, the succession to the throne was not completely assured…

The King At War

Louis XIV has been portrayed many times as a war commander. These portraits create an image of him as a great and conquering king, and symbolise the military might of France.

Royal Residences

In 1682, Versailles became the seat of government. As an absolute monarch, Louis XIV increased the number of royal residences as a way of extending his power. His successors and the royal family liked to spend time in these places, far from the Palace, often, simply, to get away from life at court.

The Hall of Mirrors is halfway through the Grand Apartments tour in the central section of the Palace.

Hall Of Mirrors

The Hall of Mirrors replaced a large terrace overlooking the garden that was considered too exposed to inclement weather. Its seventeen arches decorated with mirrors face seventeen arched windows, creating a commingling of the interior and exterior. The Hall of Mirrors was  a place for both social events and demonstrating the political might of Louis XIV.

Where is the King's Chamber?

This room adjoining the Hall of Mirrors is in the central section of the Palace. The Chamber can be visited halfway through the self-guided tour of the Grand Apartments.

The King's Chamber

Room currently not open to visitors

This room was used several times a day: for the King's getting-up and going-to-bed ceremonies; for his private meals, i.e. when he would eat alone; and for receiving certain courtiers and ambassadors. The room was therefore subject to strict etiquette. Only Louis XIV ever slept there.

Where is the Queen's Chamber?

This room is in the central section of the Palace. It is located at the end of the Grand Apartments tour, after the Hall of Mirrors and the King's Chamber.

Queen's Chamber

The Queen's Bedchamber is located opposite the Apollo Room. It is where the queen slept, hosted her private audiences and went through the public going-to-bed ceremony. Contrary to the King's Bedchamber, this room was occupied by the various queens up to 1789.

There are no toilets on the 1st floor of the Palace. Take either the Queen's Stairway at the end of the Grand Apartments tour to the garden level and the Royal Courtyard or the Princes' Stairway to the exit and the groundfloor of the Dufour Pavilion

The Queen’S Staircase

Built in 1680, this staircase soon became the busiest in the Palace, as it led to the King and Queen's apartments. It now gives access to the Royal Courtyard before finishing the tour of the Grand Apartments.

Princes’ Staircase

This staircase links the first floor to the garden level of the Midi Wing and to the ground floor of the Dufour Pavilion . Its décor is largely from the 17th century.

Toilets are available in the basement of the Dufour pavilion after entrance A.

After this, for access to the toilets, cross the courtyard and enter the Gabriel Pavilion. The toilets are on your right in the basement by the Gabriel Stairs. Other accessible toilets are available at the end of the Gallery of Palace History. Caution, there are no toilets on the first floor of the Palace.

The reservation desk for guided tours is located in the South Ministers' Wing.

You can also book a guided tour on the online ticket office: https://billetterie.chateauversailles.fr

How do I get there from the Palace?

It is possible to reach the Estate of Trianon from the city of Versailles or from the Palace and its gardens.

From the Palace, there are three ways to reach the Trianon Palaces and Marie-Antoinette's Estate:

• By foot through the gardens (around 30 minutes)  
• With the Little Train: from the Palace stop (North Terrace in the Gardens) to the Grand Trianon stop (around 20 minutes / Admission price : 8.50 €, reduced admission : 6.50 € and to only come back to the Palace : 4.60 €)   
• From the Water parterre by renting electric vehicles (34 € per hour)

Important information: access to the Petit Trianon and to the Queen's Hamlet is through the Grand Trianon only.

Access to the gardens is free of charge, except for Fountain Show and Musical Gardens days from April to October. However, the Passport ticket entitles you to visit the Palace, the Trianon palaces and the Marie-Antoinette's Estate as well as giving you access to the gardens, including Fountain Show and Musical Garden days.

See the dates for Fountains shows, Musical Garden and Fountains Night Show.

Mini Train - Grand Trianon Stop

The little train, leaving from the Grand Trianon, serves the Petit Trianon, then the Palace. Return ticket to the Palace *: €5 * Visitors can get off at each stop and get back on the next train.

It is possible to pay by credit card directly to the drivers.

Opening hours: open every day except Mondays

• January: 11:10am to 5:10pm ( January 1st : 12am to 5pm )
• February: 11:10am to 5:10pm.
• March: 11:10am to 5:10pm
• April to August : 11:10am to 6:10pm (in July and August: 10am to 6.10pm)
• September: 11:10am at 6:10pm
• October: 11:10am to 6:10pm
• November: 11:10am to 5:10pm.
• December: 11:10am to 5:10pm. ( December 25th : 12am to 5pm )

Mini Train - Petit Trianon Stop

The little train, leaving from the Petit Trianon, serves the Palace. Return ticket to the Château: €5

Mini-Train - Grand Canal Stop

The little train, leaving from the Grand Canal, serves the Grand Trianon then the Petit Trianon and the Palace.

Ticket "Retour Château" (Back to the Palace) * : €5 * Visitors can get off at each stop and get back on the next train.

• April to August : 11:10am to 6:10pm

Electric Vehicle Hire - Petite Venise

The electric vehicles with audioguides will help you to discover the park of Versailles at your own pace. Rental is available every day.

April to October, daily from 10am to 6.45pm (last departure at 5.45pm). From March to November, daily from 10am to 5pm (last departure at 4pm).

For the months of February and March, every day from 10am to 5.30pm (last departure at 4.30pm).

Early closure on Fountain shows. Closed in January

In February & March, daily from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm (last departure at 4:30pm)

• 42 € per vehicle per hour,
• 10,50 € per additional 15 minutes.
• Discount for disabled people (-40%) and Subscribers (-30%).

Telephone: +33 (0)1 39 66 97 66 6 have been adapted for wheelchair users.

Mini-Train - Palace Station

The little train, leaving from the Château, serves the Grand Canal, then the Grand Trianon and finally the Petit Trianon, before returning to the Château. From April to October, it is accessible with a Passport, Grandes Eaux Musicales or Jardins Musicaux ticket.

Return ticket* :

• Full price: €9
• Reduced price: €7
• Return to the Château: €5

* Visitors can disembark at each stop and board another mini-train later.

Opening hours : open every day except Mondays

• January: 11:10am to 5:10pm ( January 1st : 12am to 5pm ) .

The Grand Trianon Entrance

The entrance to the Grand Trianon is on the left as you face the building. Open from midday to 6.30pm during high season (April to October) and from midday to 5.30pm during low season (November to March). Gardens open until 7.30pm during high season and until 6pm during low season.

Ticket Office - Grand Trianon

The ticket office is located inside the Grand Trianon, through the archway. 

Petit Trianon Entrance (Via The Swiss Guard House)

For guided tours only (for other visits, access through the Grand Trianon)

The entrance is on the left of the Petit Trianon gate. Open from midday to 6.30pm during high season (April to October) and from midday to 5.30pm during low season (November to March). Gardens open until 7.30pm during high season and until 6pm during low season.

Ticket Office - Petit Trianon

The ticket office is located beyond the information desk and the courtyard.

Electric Vehicle Hire - South Terrace

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

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

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

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

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Why you should visit the Palace of Versailles

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best time to visit Versailles

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

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

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

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

Plan your Paris to Versailles day trip in advance

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

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

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

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

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

Getting from Paris to Versailles

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tickets for Versailles Palace

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

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

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

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

Highlights and must sees

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

Absolute must sees are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Audioguides, apps, maps and tours

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

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

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

Where to eat in Versailles

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

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

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

What not to bring

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

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

You may not use a selfie stick inside the palace.

What to wear

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

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

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

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

Click here for the Versailles weather forecast

Visiting Versailles with kids

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Versailles bike tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Versailles Tips: An Essential Guide to Visiting Versailles

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

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

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

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

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

How to Get to Versailles from Paris

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

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

Tickets for Versailles

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

Paris Museum Pass

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

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

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

Passport Ticket

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

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

Individual Tickets

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

Tips for Visiting Versailles

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

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

What to See at Versailles

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

Palace of Versailles: A Glimpse Into History and Grandeur

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

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

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

Discover the Gardens of Versailles

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

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

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

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

The Gallery of Coaches

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

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

Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, & Queen’s Hamlet

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

Exploring the Grand Trianon

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

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

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

Explore the Petit Trianon

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

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

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

The Queen’s Hamlet at Versailles

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

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

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

Special Event Days

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

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

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

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

How to Get Around Versailles

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

Walking at Versailles

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

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

Renting a Golf Cart at Versailles

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

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

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

Renting a Bicycle at Versailles

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

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

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

Best Guided Tours of Versailles

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Versailles

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

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

How Much Time to See Versailles

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

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

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

Hotels Near Versailles

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts on Visiting Versailles

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

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

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

More About France:

7 Days in Paris: The Perfect One-Week Itinerary

3 days in paris on a budget.

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

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Versailles Travel Tips: What to know about visiting Versailles from Paris

April 24, 2018 by Karen Turner 17 Comments

Are you planning on taking a day trip from Paris to Versailles? For fans of history as well as  Marie Antoinette (the movie), Versailles is something that must be included on your Paris bucket list.  Read tips for the best month to visit Versailles, how to avoid the crowds at Versailles, and how to get to Versailles from Paris.

The crowds at Versailles can be quite aggravating, so this guide to Versailles will focus on practical Versailles travel tips as your information packet at Versailles will inform you about the history of the grounds.  I’ve included information about how to skip the lines at Versailles.

• 0.1 The best month to visit Versailles
• 0.2 How to skip the lines at Versailles
• 0.3 What tickets to get for Versailles
• 0.4 Free tickets for Versailles
• 0.5.1 READ MORE  24 hours in Paris: A local's guide to off the beaten path ​Paris​​
• 0.5.2 How to visit Versailles on a budget
• 0.5.3 What to know about bringing food into Versailles & the Versailles bag policy
• 0.5.4 Bring some extra cash
• 0.6 The best time to visit Versailles
• 0.7 READ MORE  The perfect day trip from Paris to Provins, a beautiful medieval town
• 0.8 How to get to Versailles from Paris
• 1 Have you been to Versailles?

The best month to visit Versailles

It’s best month to visit Versailles in the off season and to avoid the busy summer months, in particular July. Spring and fall certainly hold interest, however I felt that the beginning of November was a perfect time as you can enjoy the turning leaves in the gardens if you’re lucky enough.   I absolutely loved visiting Versailles in early November where we could see the leaves turning.  (Spot the cute fat cats on the grounds!)

Similarly, visiting Versailles during winter months and early spring (1 November to 31 March) means that you’ll get access to parts of Versailles that ordinally aren’t free, including the Musical Fountains Shows, Musical Gardens, and the Gallery of Coaches.

How to skip the lines at Versailles

You can buy your Versailles tickets online directly without any extra fees.  Although you will need to come a bit early as security can take a bit, you can skip the line for tickets if you buy ahead!  Similarly, if you buy the Paris Pass, you’ll get access to the palace as well as the estate of Marie-Antoinette (although not some other features).   The Paris Paris allows you to skip the lines at Versailles, however you cannot skip the security line.  I cover some tips for getting through security at Versailles quicker at the end.  If you want to ensure that you can skip the line and get a tour, it’s possible to book in advance with external partners.

Although you can buy tickets outside of Versailles, you’ll generally pay  more for the same ticket.  I’ve heard people extolling the benefits of a private tour, however if you buy your ticket in advance, you also get to skip the ticket line.

Click to buy tickets direct for Versailles! 

What tickets to get for Versailles

Many people skip the estate of Marie Antoinette, however that was one of the highlights of my visit.   If you don’t have much time for Versailles, plan to get the  Passport with timed entry , which guarantees your entry within a half hour of the entry time. It includes most of the major attractions, including the estate of Marie Antoinette, besides the days that the gardens will be closed for the Musical Gardens event.  I missed this event, but I heard that it’s worthwhile.  The normal passport is seven euros cheaper and includes access to the Musical Gardens event, however without the guarantee.

The stunning Petit Trianon

Some people only get access to the Palace [18 euros], however for only two euros more, you can get access to the Estate of Trianon.  I’d recommend the combined tickets if you are planning to take a day trip to Versailles from Paris.

Note: on Tuesdays, the gardens will be closed to the public without a ticket to the Musical Gardens  between specific days during March-May and July-October.  Similarly, this event takes place on Fridays between April and October.

If you live close to Versailles, “A year in Versailles” card may be a worthwhile investment as it allows you to skip the line! Similarly, if you’re already visiting other museums in Paris, consider getting the Paris Pass , which includes both Versailles and Louvre.

Free tickets for Versailles

The estate of Marie-Antoinette at Versailles

Head to Chateau A if you think you qualify for free tickets to Versailles. Click for the full conditions of who gets into Versailles for free . Note: Anyone can get into Versailles for free on the first Sunday of the month between November and March.

You can get free tickets to Versailles if:

• EU residents under the age of 26.
• You’re bringing children under-18s
• Disabled people and their accompanying person
• Check the full list for more conditions!

Travel tips for Versailles

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If you happen to get free tickets to Versailles, you’re most of the way there. However, Versailles isn’t particularly cheap.  The key is bringing your own food and drinks.  That said, you cannot bring them into the palace itself.    We managed to get an affordable lunch at the M&S in La Defense (where we transferred).  Depending on where you’re coming from in Paris, I recommend buying a sandwich and a drink for later!

What to know about bringing food into Versailles & the Versailles bag policy

I recommend minimizing your bags as you cannot bring large bags and backpacks into Versailles palace. I managed to be allowed my larger purse, but I recommend minimizing your bags. Suitcases larger than carry-on size are  not allowed at all. I recommend separating your food and drinks into one bag (that you bring from home) as this bag cannot be brought into the palace.  You’ll find options for food at Versailles, however prices are closer to what you’d pay in Paris.  There are inexpensive options outside of Versailles.

Bring some extra cash

You might be tired after walking around Versailles.  When reading about how Marie Antoinette and other royalty would retreat within Versailles, I wondered how easily it was to get away from the palace.  The grounds are sizable enough that her estate truly feels separate from the rest of Versailles.  There’s a tram that runs around the grounds of Versailles, so it’s good to carry some cash (€4 for a single ride) if you get tired on the way back.  Trust me, we were exhausted after our long walk around the grounds of Versailles.  (The tram runs until a bit after 5pm).

The best time to visit Versailles

I recommend arriving close to opening hours at Versailles (9 am) to ensure that you can see Versailles with minimal crowds.  Head straight for the palace and the Hall of Mirrors, which are best seen without the large tour groups that arrive later in the morning and in the late afternoon. As soon as you’re done, you’ll have enough time to walk towards the Estate of Marie Antoinette, which opens at noon. It’s lovely being able to explore it without anyone else around.

The park of Versailles actually opens up earlier (7-8am) if you’re interested in enjoying the grounds of Versailles without people.  We ended up leaving in the early afternoon, which was when many of the tour groups had begun to arrive.

Avoid going to Versailles on a Tuesday as the rest of the museums in Paris are closed on Tuesdays, so expect massive crowds on these days! Similarly, the Musical Gardens events are held on Tuesdays during peak season, which means that you’ll need a more expensive ticket to access the gardens.

.IRPP_minimalist { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -moz-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -o-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); -webkit-box-shadow: 0 1px 2px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.17); text-decoration:none; } .IRPP_minimalist:active, .IRPP_minimalist:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .IRPP_minimalist { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .IRPP_minimalist .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:inherit; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .IRPP_minimalist .postTitle { color:#000000; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .IRPP_minimalist:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } READ MORE   The perfect day trip from Paris to Provins, a beautiful medieval town

How to get to versailles from paris.

It depends where in Paris that you’re staying in.  You can take the RER C direct from Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame to Gare de Versailles Chantiers .  Check for strikes as they’ll impact your journey from Paris to Versailles.  Alternatively, you can take the N from Gare de Montparnasse towards Gare de Rambouillet until you get to Gare de Versailles Chantiers .  From the station, it’s a twenty minute walk.  Alternatively, you can take a tour if you want to take the guesswork out of it!

Have you been to Versailles?

Click for more travel tips in Paris , including a s elf-guided walking tour of the covering passages , a self-guided walking tour of Montmartre , and day trips from Paris .

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

May 14, 2018 at 12:10 am

Hello! Thank you for this great information. I will be traveling with my 16 year old daughter, and I wanted to double check that we would not need an admission ticket for her. Do we need to bring her passport to prove her age? We will be traveling from the US. Thanks so much!

May 14, 2018 at 9:44 am

Hi Tricia, no problem. You need a proof of an identity document with a photograph indicating date of birth (e.g.passport, long stay visa, residence permit, student card). You can check the Versailles website if you’re nervous about it. 🙂

June 14, 2018 at 7:50 pm

I will be visiting for a day from Paris. Do I need to bring my passport as I am from the United States, for once I get to the train station? Will there be a customs area? I’d rather not bring my passport with me for the day trip if I do not have to. If I do need it, does a copy of my passport suffice? Thanks.

June 14, 2018 at 7:53 pm

Hi Rebeca, Generally when you travel in a foreign country, you need your passport when you’re asked for identification by the police. I was not asked for it once besides when I flew to France at the airport, however it’s generally a good idea to have it. It’s your call of course.

Kind regards, Karen

June 25, 2018 at 7:45 am

My family and I will be traveling to Versailles on August 15 because there will be a fountain show on that day. Will the crowds be unbearable because it is a French holiday, Assumption Day? Also, we are trying to figure out the timed entry ticket. Does the “timed entry” allow you into the entire compound at a given time slot or allow you into the palace itself during that time slot? On the palace website, you must commit to a time. If it is just the time you wish to enter the palace, we would sign up for a later time on our day (to give ourselves wiggle room in case we have any delay.) However, we do not want to go all the way there with a later time slot and have the gate keeper tell us that we cannot enter the compound until that later time slot. Also, I understand that foods would never be allowed into the palace (as it is a museum) but can we bring foods/drinks to enjoy as a picnic before entering the palace? Are there backpack lockers? Thanks for answering all my questions

June 25, 2018 at 2:12 pm

I’d suggest signing up for a time later in the day to ensure you make it. Give enough time for security. The timed ticket only gives you access into the palace at the given time, but once you’re in, you’re fine.

You have to give your bags/food items to security (who stores it for you) before going into the palace. You can pick them up afterwards with the number. A picnic is fine in the gardens or outside, but I think that inside the gardens is nicer. 🙂

I’d expect it to be crowded on a French holiday.

August 8, 2018 at 7:02 am

When you are mentioning about backpacks being checked in, how big of a bag are you speaking about? What about one that is like a large purse? If I am going early in the day to avoid the crowds & I would like to take food along for a picnic later, what is your recommendation for storing it to avoid spoiling?

August 8, 2018 at 12:01 pm

Hi Leanne, In terms of backpacks, they ask all backpacks are checked. For purses, it must be smaller than these dimensions according to the website: 55cm x 35cm x 20cm. I saw some ladies with slightly large bags.

I’d recommend being mindful of what you bring. I ended up bringing a sandwich as it didn’t need to be heavily refrigerated.

Best, Karen

January 14, 2019 at 1:13 am

Hi There! I just wanted to clarify the food situation. I noticed another lady asked about the bags. So if you have a back back it will be checked in? Are you able to uncheck the bag and take your food and then picnic in the gardens? Thanks again, I can’t wait to see it all

January 14, 2019 at 1:15 am

Hi Leigh, your backpack will need to be checked in while you see the actual castle. Once you’re finished, you can uncheck your bag with the food as you head out to the gardens. There, you can picnic.

Hope that helps!

March 9, 2019 at 4:29 pm

Hello Karen, I am trying to figure out when I can purchase a passport ticket to Versailles with timed entry- I see it is an option but I can’t find where to purchase it. We are areiving after lunch and want to get a times entry of 1 or 2 pm. Any advice would be appreciated.

March 12, 2019 at 10:28 pm

You can buy it on the official website.

May 27, 2019 at 4:51 am

We just returned with a group of 13 family including a five month old and three kids 9-14. I bought official tickets ahead of time but lines for tickets and security were almost non existent. We went in a Thursday in May around noon. Yes kids under 18 are free and don’t need any proof of age. We couldn’t bring the stroller through the palace. Of course the Kings and Queens chambers were busy but Marie Antoinettes Chateau which we reached by tram was almost free of tourists. The kids fell in love with her Hamlet they said they wanted to live there. We have been often and even if lines look long they have always moved quickly but with this large of group I wanted to avoid the ticket line. I think getting there around noon helped us avoid the lines.

October 3, 2019 at 2:04 pm

Thank you, Madam !

“Oh let the skies thy worthy mirror be! And in dear stars thy shape and image see…”

October 8, 2019 at 1:35 am

I was at Versailles this summer and can contest to July afternoons being insanely busy! BUT we ate at a cafe just across the street from the parking lot for very cheap! My roommate and I both had a cafe’, crepes, and a glass of wine for around 6 euros each.

October 25, 2019 at 7:33 pm

Hi, great post and some very useful tips. I had a question about Paris Pass. If you have Paris Pass, do you need any timed ticket or are required to block a time slot on their website?

October 27, 2019 at 10:47 am

I did not use the Paris Pass myself when I went, but I understand that you get to skip the ticket line (except on days with the water fountain show) although you still need to wait in the security line.

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15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips From Moscow

Is the hustle and bustle of Moscow starting to wear you down? No worries. There are multiple great day trips from Moscow that will let you see a different side of Russia that you won’t find in the metropolitan area. Each day trip I’ve listed below can easily be done by train from Moscow, and there are trains every day of the week.

The area surrounding Moscow is rich in cultural attractions and natural beauty. By traveling only a short distance, one feels far away from the crowds, and lines of the sprawling Russian capital. Since Russia is undoubtedly an expansive country it may take from half an hour to two hours to reach some of the landmarks on this list (by train or car) from the Moscow city center.

You can escape to the picturesque Russian countryside, visit war memorials, battlefields, admire onion-domed churches, and get insight into the local way of life. Easy day trips from Moscow include the incomparable white-stone Trinity Cathedral in Sergiyev Posad, the spectacular Cathedral of the Assumption in Dmitrov, and the Russian military aircraft in Monino. For those who love rural tranquility, Suzdal and Vladimir are a must-see. History buffs will appreciate the Patriotic War of 1812 reenactment that took place in Borodino on the first weekend of September.

Without further ado, here are 15 best day trips from Moscow that are well worth your attention.

The Best Day Trips from Moscow

There’s a reason Moscow is one of Europe’s most enigmatic destinations. It’s got culture, class, food, history, and more, but even better, is that it is the country’s main transport hub with so many attractions within a day trip from Moscow. While you can definitely spend days or even weeks in Moscow, it can, of course, be done in just one week. What can you do in Moscow in seven days ? Well, you can do a lot if you know how to plan a trip to a place you know so little about.

If you’re ready to get out of the city a bit and soak up the culture, fresh air, and enchanting architecture, I’ve rounded up my favorite day trips outside of Moscow. I often get asked: What are the best cities to visit in Russia? And these are places that I’ve been and loved.

My Favorite Easy Day Trips from Moscow:

Dmitrov Kolomna Zvenigorod Sergiyev Posad Yaroslavl Arkhangelskoye Estate Vladimir Suzdal Korolev Borodino Patriot Park in Kubinka Melikhovo Gorki Leninskie Kaluga Monino

1. Day Trip to Dmitrov from Moscow

Dmitrov may not be as popular as other cities in Russia, but the fact that the city was founded only 7 years earlier than Moscow makes for a great day trip. This small city some 90 kilometers from Moscow is particularly beautiful in the summer. As you walk the streets you can see sparkling fountains, charming centuries-old buildings, yachts and boats transiting through the canal and, of course, the Museum-Reserve Dmitrov Kremlin.

The Kremlin (castle) is the city’s main draw. The 10m high and about 1km long earthen rampart remained behind the wooden wall and gives an idea of how the castle looked like 400 years ago. The oldest surviving building on the Kremlin grounds is the 16th-century Assumption Cathedral with a unique five-tier iconostasis.

Not far from the Kremlin there is a compact 15th-century Borisoglebsky convent. Its main building – the 16th-century Cathedral of Sts. Boris and Gleb is open to the visitors only for services of worship. In the 1930s in the convent housed a labor camp, which contained the builders of the Canal named after Moscow.

Getting There: Dmitrov sits an easy hour and sixteen minutes by train from Savyelovskiy Rail Terminal. This cheap day trip from Moscow is a great chance to soak up the historic charm to be found in Moscow Oblast.

2. Day Trip to Kolomna from Moscow

Situated to the south-east of Moscow, Kolomna is a beautiful port city on the Oka River. This is one of the oldest Russian cities in the region. So you can discover the old history in museums and monasteries. Interestingly, the city was a site for important weapon factories under the Soviet Union. Although it was opened up in 1994 Kolomna is not as popular as other day-trip destinations in the region.

Nevertheless, it is a great place to visit with friends and family where you can explore the 15th-century Kremlin made of red brick, try incredibly sweet traditional pastila (marshmallow), and visit some of the cute little churches and 19th-century mansions.

Getting There: Take the express train (commuter line train) from the Kazansky rail terminal to Golutvin station. The trip lasts one hour and forty minutes.

3. Day Trip to Zvenigorod from Moscow

This one is usually a given due to its proximity to and ease of transport from Moscow. It’s one of the easiest day trips from Moscow by train. You can easily hop on the train from the city and land right in the town of Zvenigorod where you can visit the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery and sample the sparkly and refreshing kvass, a Russian specialty beverage that’s enjoyed in the summer months.

Zvenigorod is an adorable little town just under an hour away from the Moscow city and is an amazing place to visit as it will give a relaxing break from the hectic life of Moscow. Check this day trip if you don’t feel like planning.

If you have a sweet tooth, spend some time in the quirky Museum of Russian Desserts, where you can indulge in uniquely delicious treats and explore the intersection of food and culture.

Then you may want to pay the Zvenigorod Museum of History, Architecture, and Art a visit. The museum’s exposition is located on the territory of the Savvino-Storozhevsky monastery, or rather, in the 17th-century Tsaritsyny chambers, built for the wife of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich. Stroll through the museum halls to view the permanent exhibitions, which offer insights into various aspects of Russian history. The intricate museum’s building is adorned with a decorative porch, complex patterned elements, and looks very impressive in general.

4. Day Trip to Sergiyev Posad from Moscow

If you’re looking for cheap day trips from Moscow, Sergiyev Posad is a good choice at just a few dollar train ride away. Known as a major center of pilgrimage and home to one of the largest Russian Orthodox Monastery which has been here for hundreds of years, Sergiyev Posad is a fun day trip from Moscow and can be combined with Abramtsevo Museum Estate. As the only town in Moscow Region which is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities, Sergiyev Posad is an incredible destination for a day trip from Moscow that packs UNESCO-protected Trinity Sergius Lavra, great museums, and gorgeous architecture into one day.

Make sure you see the six-pillared Assumption Cathedral that was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in mid-16th-century and go inside to marvel at the impressive iconostasis that features Simon Ushakov’s masterpiece, the icon of Last Supper. Enjoy a delicious lamb steak with wheat kasha, Ukha fish soup, or hand-made dumplings as you learn a lot about religious and cultural history.

Getting There: Known for its small-town charm and welcoming feel, you can get to Sergiyev Posad by train, by bus, or by car. Trains depart from Yaroslavsky Rail Terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts about an hour and a half. Alternatively, you can hop on a bus at the ‘VDNKh’ metro station. A bus trip to Sergiyev Posad takes two hours on average but can be reached in 90 minutes depending on traffic. If you go by car expect to spend about an hour and a half attempting to traverse the congested Yaroslavskoye highway.

5. Day Trip to Yaroslavl from Moscow

Going from Moscow to Yaroslavl may seem like a really long day trip, but honestly, if you take the comfortable train, it only takes about four hours to reach the city, so making a Yaroslavl day trip is totally doable. Although I do recommend much more than one day in Yaroslavl, especially if it’s your first time.

Cultural tourists visiting Yaroslavl should start their exploration by strolling the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A spacious 100-hectare area enclosed by Sobinova and Republican streets is home to most popular attractions – the 17th-century Church of Elijah the Prophet that survived almost exactly in its original form, and in contrast to it, the white stone Assumption Cathedral, restored in the 2000s.

If you walk a bit further passing the Holy Trinity sculpture and city’s foundation stone, you will find yourself at Strelka, a park on the cape, which offers panoramic views of the spot at the confluence of Volga and Kotorosl rivers. On the way back, there is a pleasant walk along the picturesque Volga embankment to the Governor’s Garden with shadowy alleys and an open-air Sculpture museum.

Getting There: Yaroslavl is about 280 km (173 miles) northeast of Moscow, so the best way to get there is to take a morning train from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal. A tour is also a great way to see the Yaroslavl without having to worry about driving or searching for trains. You can book a tour here.

6. Day Trip to Arkhangelskoye Estate from Moscow

Situated on the outskirts of Moscow and dates back to the late 18th-century, Arkhangelskoye Estate was the domain of the nobility for over a century until the Russian Revolution swept people who owned the estate out of the country. The estate was turned into a museum, which it remains today.

The Arkhangelskoye Estate Museum holds the largest rare-book collection. The exhibition also includes old manuscripts, historical documents, photos from the past, a vast collection of sculpture, paintings, engravings, and exceptional examples of decorative art. These art objects once belonged to Prince Nikolai Yusupov, the former owner of the estate.

Arkhangelskoye Estate is often referred to as the Russian version of Versailles because of the intricately manicured garden and beautiful 18th-century park. Famous Russian writers and poets such as Pushkin, Herzen, Mayakovsky loved to spend their free time here making long excursions in the surrounding area. Arkhangelskoye is a perfect place to appreciate the terraces decorated by delightful statues, exquisite vases, and busts.

Visitors can take tours, which introduce them to vibrant examples of Russian art and culture.

Getting There: To reach the estate it’s best to take a bus or a privately-owned minibus that departs from Tushinskaya metro station.

7. Day Trip to Vladimir from Moscow

Situated only two hours east of Moscow, Vladimir is absolutely one of the best places to visit near Moscow for a day trip. This splendid city dates back to the 12th century and has a very rich history. If magnificent Orthodox cathedrals and traditional white-stone architecture entice you, then this place is perfect for a day trip with your significant other.

First things first, you need to see the Golden Gate, which indicates the entrance into the old town. This 12th-century medieval masterpiece of military architecture is associated not only with Vladimir but with the Golden Ring tourist route itself. At the top of the gate, where once was the Church of the Deposition of the Robe, there is the Museum of Weapons. Great looking arrowheads and spear points date back to the Grand Principality of Vladimir, while the exhibition in an impressively majestic setting features a number of Batu-Khan related artifacts.

There’s a variety of attractions to put on your must-see list: the Old Believers Trinity Church right behind it, the Cathedral of St Demetrius, and Dormition (Uspensky) Cathedral. If you plan on shopping for souvenirs like birch-bark masterpieces of Kunov’s masters, drawings, carving, embossing, figures of people and animals, stop by the Lacquer Miniature, the Museum of Crystal, and the Gingerbread Museum. Many of the local attractions were added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

Getting There: The best way to visit this area is to catch an early train from Moscow and book a full-day tour of Vladimir in advance. This one includes the town of Suzdal as well.

8. Day Trip to Suzdal from Moscow

This gem of a little medieval town perched on a hill just a 30-minute ride from Vladimir is one of those places I’ve visited and could move there permanently and be happy! It’s a charming little piece of history that also has a Kremlin and visiting it feels like stepping back in time. if you’re a culture enthusiast you’ll be glad to know there are numerous churches, five monasteries, including Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery in Suzdal. Check them out if you want to get a real taste of the country!

pend some time shopping at the Torgovaya ploshchad (Market Square), where you can buy baskets made of birch bark, ceramic handmade plates, honey or souvenirs and, of course, grab some afternoon tea!

Getting There: Trains leave regularly from Moscow’s Kurskiy Rail Terminal to Vladimir where you can hop on a bus to Suzdal. You can also take a bus from Moscow. In this case, it might take longer and you’ll probably encounter infamous traffic jams. If you go by express train the trip takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. There are slower trains of course, but I’d recommend going with the fast one and save a lot of time!

9. Day Trip to Korolev from Moscow

Located some 30 kilometers northeast of Moscow, Korolev has become arguably the most important space research center with skilled workers from across the Soviet Union who came here to expand the space program.

It became a leading institute dedicated to aerospace research in the country. Today, that tendency can still be clearly seen on the streets and in the buildings. When the Soviet Union collapsed, the city retained its status as the headquarters of Russia’s space surveillance network and now it hosts the Russian Mission Control Center, an analogue of the American Mission Control Center at NASA’s Space Center in Houston.

If you want to learn more about Mission Control Center and the former Russian Mir space station, book a tour with a knowledgeable guide who can clearly tell the history of this place.

If you’re not into space exploration there is also a Memorial Apartment Museum of Marina Tsvetaeva in Bolshevo. With a picturesque park next to the museum, it’s a great place for walking in the fresh air. The highlight of the park is memorial stones with quotes from Tsvetaeva’s poems.

Getting There: I’d recommend going by train. Catch one at Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal that departs every 30 minutes to reach Bolshevo station.

10. Day Trip to Borodino from Moscow

The historic Battle of Borodino on September 7, 1812, took place just outside the small village of Borodino, about 140 km west of Moscow, and about 15 km from the nearest town of Mozhaysk. Although the French won the Battle of Borodino and went to capture Moscow, it was one of the bloodiest battles of the pre-twentieth-century that is also predetermined Napoleon’s defeat.

While it was a battlefield back then, not much remains today. It’s mostly a green and grassy field now with a few monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to 19th and 20th century, and fortification facilities scattered throughout the area. The largest of these is the 27-meter high obelisk located right at the heart of the former battlefield.

Every year the military and patriotic festival and theatrical performance take place in Borodino. Early September is considered to be the best for visiting. But if you just want to feel the spirit of the battle, it’s better to go at any other time of the year.

Getting there: Hop on a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, disembark in Mozhaysk, and then take a bus to the museum. The whole travel time is about 2 hours.

11. Day Trip to Patriot Park in Kubinka from Moscow

Once a Red Army tank training ground, now it’s a military Disneyland with history, structure, guns, and armored vehicles! The tank museum originally housed one of the world’s largest and rarest collections of tanks. In 2016 they combined the training grounds with the newly-created Patriot Park. Since then, some of the notable and rare items have been moved to the Patriot Park site, so you may want to combine both sites into one tour (only about 20 minutes apart).

The exhibition grounds include some very rare specimens that are must-see for any military enthusiasts out there. The staff is friendly, helpful and kind, while the museum has a small shop. As this site is part of an operating military base, they may ask you to show your passport, or provide them with a photocopy of the front pages. There are vending machines for snacks and drinks, and there are bathroom facilities. There’s plenty to see, so I recommend setting aside an entire day!

Getting there: Situated halfway between Borodino and Moscow, the best way to reach Patriot Park in Kubinka is by car. Alternatively, if you don’t want to rent one, consider car-sharing apps like Gett or UBER. The price of ride-sharing services is cheap enough to make them a viable proposition for choosing them.

12. Day Trip to Melikhovo from Moscow

Located some 80 km from Moscow, Melikhovo is one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov. This renowned Russian writer and playwright acquired Melikhovo in 1892. He lived there with his parents and close relatives for 7 years before moving to the Crimea in 1899. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “The Man in the Case” and “The Seagull”.

The estate faded into oblivion right after the Revolution but in 1939 Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew established a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. The museum opened its doors to the public in 1941.

Today museum’s exhibition reveals the legacy of a celebrated writer and shows his path not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. The collection also features some of the best-known paintings by famous artists like Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends. When it comes to fun and educational day trips from Moscow, Melikhovo is a nice place for learning more about Chekov’s life and work.

Getting There: You can reach Melikhovo by train from Kurskiy rail Terminal. Disembark in the town of Chekhov and hop on a minibus that will get to the estate. Alternatively, hop on a bus that departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station.

13. Day Trip to Gorki Leninskie from Moscow

Once the realm of Russian nobles, Gorki Leninskie was turned into Lenin’s museum some 25 years after his death. The estate sits some 30-minute bus ride from the Domodedovskaya metro station and houses Soviet-era memorabilia and Lenin’s memorial flat recently transferred from the Kremlin, as well as his vintage Rolls-Royce.

Most people only associate this place with the name of the first communist leader. In fact, the name of the estate was first mentioned in documents dating back to the 16th-century. Throughout its history, the estate was owned by a number of prominent figures. It’s in fact one of the best museums that holds the country’s finest collection 19th-century furnishings and a unique collection of domestic items owned by nobles. Plus, ancient Vyatichi native tribe or East Slavs who inhabited a part of the Oka basin’s burial mounds and a few notable sculptures are hidden behind the avenues of lime trees in the park.

Getting There: You could, of course, hop on a bus from Domodedovskaya metro station. But it would be much easier just to use UBER or Gett. The estate isn’t that far from the Moscow Circle Road but going there by bus may involve some navigating.

14. Day Trip to Kaluga from Moscow

If you’re looking for an educational day trip from Moscow, look no farther than Kaluga! This beautiful city could really entertain you for more than just a day, but to get a taste of science, be sure to visit the Tsiolkovsky State Museum of the History of Cosmonautics. Or in other words, the Space Museum.

Visitors to the museum will learn more about the history of space exploration. In fact, this is one of the largest Space Museums in Russia, which opened its doors in Kaluga in 1967. Here you can see a prototype of the iconic MIR space station and a duplicate of the Voskhod rocket. The very same rocket that took the first man to space. There’s also a planetarium, which from the outside resembles a spaceship.

Kaluga is a totally walkable city. Make sure to spend some time strolling Teatralnaya street with the authentic 19th-century pavement that now marks the Kilometer Zero. Then walk across the 18th-century Kamenniy Most (the Stone Bridge) that somewhat resembles a Roman aqueduct. If you’re an architecture buff marvel at the Church of St. Cosmas and Damian.

It is assumed that the church was erected by one of the followers of Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli in 1794. The church resembles the Smolny Convent in St. Petersburg. With five church towers directed upward and six tiers of oblong windows give the exterior a sense of lightness and airiness.

Getting There: Trains from Kiyevsky Rail Terminal to Kaluga leave every 90 minutes. The trip takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes.

15. Day Trip to Monino from Moscow

Are you looking for great family & kid-friendly day trips from Moscow? If so, consider visiting the Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino. This unique military open-air museum is home to over 180 Russian aircraft and 100 aircraft engines and the perfect place to go when your crowd is looking for a break from hectic city life. Check this tour if you don’t feel like planning.

This site was formerly an operational airbase from 1932 till 1956 and many of the Russian aviation Design bureaus have made a contribution to the operation and maintenance of the museum. Along with aircraft from the Second World War, there are the TU-95 Bear four-engine turboprop-powered strategic bomber and the TU-144 Charger a Soviet supersonic passenger airliner (which resembled the Concorde). The museum also has exhibits related to military aviation history such as the uniform of captured U2 pilot Gary Powers.

Getting There: This museum is located at Monino Town, about 30 km from Moscow. It is open on all days from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Mondays and Tuesdays. To get there take a train departing from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal and disembark at Monino station. Alternatively, hop on a bus from Schelkovskaya or Partizanskaya metro station.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Moscow

I hope this post has helped you discover some amazing day trips from Moscow. From imposing cathedrals, mighty fortresses and monasteries, there are a lot of incredible places to visit the Russian capital, and the best part is that getting there is always ways to get around on the cheap.

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Great article for visitors in Moscow , thanks for sharing

Marie Hernandez

I hadn’t considered traveling to Moscow until NOW! Fantastic post and ideas for visitors! Thanks!

Graham Marsden

Nice to see so many options outside of Moscow, but I have to say I wish this list had a recommendation for a hike or a beautiful natural areas or national parks. Maybe the next list!

I have to admit that I knew nothing about the area surrounding Moscow. This is definitely an inspiring list of places to go.

When I read this article about Moscow. I wanted to pack my bags and get there sooner. thank you for the great write up.

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See all that Moscow has to offer by choosing one or more of our incredible Moscow day tours. Visit Red Square , St. Basil’s , the Kremlin or perhaps a vodka museum and the fantastic Moscow metro system , we have it all. Our expert, informative and fun guides will help you get to know Europe’s largest city. Please click on the day tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page.  You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous Bolshoi Theatre, and the former KGB headquarters...

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Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will escort you on a route that includes Vorobyevi...

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This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious life of different Jewish families, as well...

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The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened to two and a half times its original size,...

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to the victims of the repression. You will then...

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the street’s many craftsmen....

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury and the workplace of the Russian President....

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This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and 19th century including works by Rublyov, Karavak,...

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Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure served as a convent for women of noble birth...

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The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians themselves and for visitors from abroad....

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The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was here that Donskoi celebrated his victory over...

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Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra) was built in the first half of the 1340s by...

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic gothic style. The complex includes a landscape...

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The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history dates back to 1715, when the village of Kuskovo...

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Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone centuries. You will get to know the story...

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Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy and his family including books and personal...

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This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's collection includes more than three thousand...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12:00 - 19:00 Thursday 14:00 - 21:00

Express to Russia specializes in Moscow city excursions, an essential part of your Moscow travel itinerary. We offer a large variety of day excursions throughout Moscow and its suburbs. From  Red Square  and the  Kremlin  to a city tour of Moscow’s  Old Arbat Street  or the  Moscow metro , an excursion specializing in Stalin and the KGB and much more. No travel to Moscow is complete without taking a few of our day tours that most meet your interest in Russia.

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Our Moscow day excursions can be organized on foot or with transport. All of our excursions are led by an experienced guide, specializing in the subject matter of the tour. Excursions are privately run and can be booked for 1 traveler all the way up to large groups of travelers. We run our Moscow city tours in every season. This is because travel to Moscow is excellent in any season. In the summer take a stroll through  Gorky Park  or take a riverboat tour along the Moskva River. In the winter, see Moscow’s winter wonderland of ice and snow and then settle in for a cozy lunch or dinner with a hot bowl of borsht. In winter, spring and fall, you can beat the crowds at all of Moscow’s main attractions and museums. Regardless of when you come, Express to Russia will make sure that your trip is one of your best vacations ever.

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DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Moscow Paperback – March 18, 2013

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You'll find detailed listings of the best hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops for all budgets in this fully updated guide, plus insider tips on everything from where to find the best markets and nightspots to which attractions appeal most to children.

This DK Eyewitness Travel Guide 's in-depth coverage of unforgettable sights is completed by the free pull-out city map, clearly marked with sights from the guidebook and an easy-to-use street index. The map has detailed street views of major areas, plus transportation maps, a chart of walking distances between major attractions, and other information on getting around the city.

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Moscow shows you what other guidebooks only tell you.

• Print length 264 pages
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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ DK Eyewitness Travel; Revised edition (March 18, 2013)
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Luckily for flyers, it’s gonna be May very soon.

“May and September are great months to travel, as they’re before and after peak summer here in the US,” flight attendant Bernice Padilla, 29, confided to SWNS .

“You have less crowds and more affordable prices, but the weather is still nice,” she continued. “Every country has their specific shoulder season, so I recommend doing some research before booking.”

Padilla, a flight attendant for six years who has visited 44 countries, is sharing tricks of the travel trade — from flights to book to countries to explore.

The Dallas-based flight attendant , who boasts 144,300 followers on TikTok , said that while Europe is a hot destination for American travelers, it’s best to book holidays in “overlooked” destinations.

“Everyone loves to go to London, Rome, Paris and Barcelona,” she explained. “ I am going to Argentina in a few weeks, for example. I think it is good to book places that aren’t as popular with tourists.”

She added: “Even [if] people are still wanting to visit Europe, there are so many places that aren’t as popular, like Albania and countries on the coast.”

Padilla also revealed her preference for booking the earliest possible flight to avoid delays.

“ If there are any delays , it ends up being a domino effect. Say there is a delay in California due to the weather — then my flight here can’t take off until that flight takes off,” she reasoned. “Everything trickles down, whereas if you fly early, your plane will be there from the night before.”

And when it comes to packing, Padilla recommends traveling with carry-on luggage , especially in the summer.

If that’s not possible, she relies on compression packing cubes .

“I still have a problem with overpacking, but I try not to overpack as much,” she confessed. “I always travel with compression cubes — that way you can fit more into your suitcase.”

Her travel must-haves include a reusable water bottle , a sweater or blanket , a pen to fill out any forms that might be needed at arrival, noise-canceling headphones , and a portable charger .

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Spirit's Latest Sale Has Flights Across the U.S. Starting at $49 — but You'll Have to Book Fast

The airline's sale, which ends on Tuesday, is in celebration of Earth Day.

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Spirit Airlines is celebrating Earth Day with a sale that has one-way flights starting at just $49.

The deal , which ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on April 23, is available for travel on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays from April 30 to June 19 and then again from Aug. 6 to Oct.16, Spirit shared with Travel + Leisure . The sale is not available during several blackout dates, including May 28, May 29, Sept. 3, and Sept. 4.

“The opportunity to travel and explore nature is impactful and helps us better appreciate our planet,” Lania Rittenhouse, the vice president of guest experience, brand and communications at Spirit Airlines, said in a statement shared with T+L. "We hope this offer makes it easier for our Guests to discover a new national park or beach this summer with family and friends.”

Fly between Atlantic City and West Palm Beach, between Atlanta and Baltimore, between Nashville and Boston, between Charlotte and Dallas, between Newark and Pittsburgh, and more starting at just $49 each way. On the West Coast, travelers can fly between Los Angeles and San Antonio, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, and more also starting at just $49, or splurge and fly from the City of Angels to New Orleans starting at just $77 one-way.

Travelers can also fly cross-country for less with travel between Miami and Chicago starting at just $69 each way and travel between Philadelphia and Los Angeles starting at just $81 each way.

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A millennial Lyft driver who used the gig to explore all 50 states explains his strategies for maximizing earnings and tips

• Kreskin J. Torres, a Lyft driver, has traveled across all 50 states, documenting his dining experiences.
• Torres is working on a book, an app called Rideshare Foodies, and is organizing a national potluck.
• He said gig driving is just temporary and has helped him achieve his larger goals.

Kreskin J. Torres, 35, has eaten his way through all 50 states — including Alaska and Hawaii. His ticket to doing so? Driving for Uber and Lyft .

The Army veteran and Baltimore native has documented his dining on his blog Rideshare Foodie . After seven years, he's learned the most profitable times of day to drive, the best locations to find riders in each city and the optimal strategies for maximizing tips .

"You just got to work smarter, not harder," Torres said. "From my experience, I've been in every state, so I know how every city works now."

At the same time, he's been able to pursue his foodie passions. Torres is now working on a book called "Taste of the States," his recommendations app called Rideshare Foodies, and planning a series of events to honor dishes from various states and their history.

While driving for ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft can be a flexible way to earn money for people like Torres who have more than one hustle, it can also be a recipe for burnout. Among the dozens of drivers Business Insider has spoken with over the past few months, many are already dreaming of what's next — starting a business or finding new modes of employment .

And that's Torres' main career advice for those considering it. After all, he's not planning to do the job forever, as he hopes to transition away, though it helped him jump-start new paths for his future.

"Do not make this the end all be all," Torres said, noting how Uber and Lyft have threatened to pull out of Minneapolis. "When it started, it was advertised as a gig, a side hustle."

Traveling the country as a gig driver

As a veteran, he said this job has been relatively stress-free and helpful for not feeling lonely, a similar sentiment he's heard from veterans with PTSD.

"I enjoy meeting and connecting with different people and getting to see different places," Torres said.

He decided to spend his next few years on the road using driving to fund his adventures and to meet locals who could point him to the best restaurants and experiences.

"The great thing is you get to learn about different cities and how everything operates," Torres said.

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He moved to San Antonio , though he works mainly around the more-profitable Austin area, and has explored the South and Southeast.

While he doesn't make much money from his blog, he said driving has allowed him to try everything from Navajo tacos in Arizona to biscuits in chocolate gravy in Arkansas to huckleberry swirls in Montana. Driving has led him to some of his favorite restaurants like I693 Red Zone Grill in Jackson, Mississippi; Strawberry's BBQ in Holcomb, Missouri; and Rice & Roll by Xing Xing in Wichita.

Learning the most profitable places and times to drive

Torres noticed he would get more profitable rides driving around suburbs, airports, and sports stadiums, locations coveted by drivers as they get more tips and sometimes elevated fares.

He learned New Year's will always be profitable , though rides slow down around February before picking up in mid-March. It's led him to be more methodical about the types of rides to take, as well as planning when to save more of his earnings and when to splurge a little on food and travel.

"After seven years, I'm a lot more experienced. It depends on the time of the season, so I usually can do a lot more business in college towns," Torres said. "I would visit a city, see what they're known for, a little history behind it."

Torres was making enough to comfortably travel the country, though he's always been careful since he said passengers are sometimes confused by his out-of-state license plate. He also faced a permanent deactivation from Uber last year over a dispute over the color of his car.

He doesn't have a wife or kids, nor does he have an apartment, as he mainly lives out of his car to save money. He acknowledges that growing competition on the road and lower earnings could put a greater dent in savings for people with families or permanent residences.

Torres has transitioned to driving full-time for Lyft , and he typically is online for 12 hours a day but only actively drives five to six hours in between waiting around airports.

He said he's increasingly put himself in his passengers' shoes to determine the best places and times to drive — he likely won't put in the effort to drive during rain, and he's more likely to do later trips around concert venues or bars.

To continue supporting his travels, he said he sometimes does airport rides at 3 or 4 a.m., as well as rides between 6:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. during the morning rush. He also said being online around noon is fruitful for corporate workers, while 3 p.m. is right when schools let out. He usually tries not to drive around evening rush hours but sometimes resumes later at night.

He also devotes more time to driving between Wednesday and Sunday, when rides are more frequent, whether for "whiskey Wednesdays" or Friday afternoon happy hours. This is also when he can best network with passengers and hear their stories, as he said he occasionally gets to drive famous people.

Torres said drivers should consider this a short-term opportunity while working toward long-term goals. As he eases off the app, he has his eyes set on more international travel in the coming months. He's also investing more time in his food app, a local recommendation tool that functions like a Facebook group in which people ask questions about, for example, the best bartender in the area or where to go for particular dishes. It has launched on Android and set to be released on Apple by the summer.

"The most positivity that you can get out of it, do whatever you can and get the most out of it," Torres said. "The next few months will probably be my last time doing this because I'm focusing on other things, so I always had a plan for the things I was going to do."

Are you a ride-hailing driver who's struggling to pay bills or has had recent success? Have you recently pivoted to a new career from driving? Reach out to  [email protected] .

Watch: How 'Grand Theft Auto' actually works, according to a former car thief

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