The Palace of Versailles is not only one of the most famous landmarks in France but also the most famous Palace in the world and the symbol of the kings’ luxury and the history of France. Said to be about 20km from Paris to the northwest, this breathtaking Palace was the heart of political power in France and is now a museum and a world heritage site by UNESCO. Featuring beautiful architecture, large gardens and being part of the country’s history, Versailles is a must-visit for any tourist to France.
Location and How to Get There
Located in the city formally known as Versailles, the Palace is relatively close to Paris. Tourists can take this RER C train from other stations, including Champ de Mars, Saint-Michel, and Musée d’Orsay, and they will reach Versailles Château Rive Gauche station in about 40 minutes. On arriving at the station, the Palace is on the other side of the road, about ten minutes walk away. There is parking for those who use their cars, but the number of parking spaces is limited with the busy season being very busy.
Hut History of the Palace of Versailles
Initially, it was a hunting chateau erected by Louis XIII in 1623 Later, the Palace was enlarged to a marvellous royal castle by the king’s son, Louis XIV, the Sun King. Since 1682, the Palace was belonging to the royal French family. The Palace remained the image of royal monarchy power until the Formation of the French Revolution. The Palace of Versailles became a museum in 1837 with the efforts of the King Louis Philippe.
What to See at the Palace of Versailles
1. The Hall of Mirrors
The Hall of Mirrors is a 240 ft long gallery covered with 17 mirror arches that repeat the shape of the windows that open onto the palace gardens. It has previously provided its grounds for the royal rite of passage and jubilations, and it is also the location where the Treaty of Versailles was signed in 1919 to signify the end of World War I.
2. The King’s State Apartments
These seven rooms, which boast paintings, tapestries and gold trims, were the ones that Louis XIV used to entertain his guests and receive the public.
3. The Queen’s Apartments
Greater than any of the chambers are the Queen’s Apartments which are most famously associated with the Marie Antoinette and which consist of her Bedchamber and Salons as well as the room in which the Queen tried to escape during the French Revolution.
4. The Royal Chapel
An outstanding example of Baroque architecture built in 1710, this chapel is for royal weddings, baptism, and other religious affairs.
5. The Gardens of Versailles
Measuring about 800 hectares in size, the Gardens of Versailles encompasses fountains, sculptures and manicured lawns. Created by the famous André Le Nôtre, these gardens are one of the significant attractions of a tourist’s program. One should not also visit the place without watching the Musical Fountains Show, particularly during summer season.
6. The Grand Trianon
This is a much smaller pink marble palace situated on the grounds of the estate and was constructed by Louis XIV for him to escape the many formalities of the royal court. It is less formal than the main Palace we visited earlier.
7. The Petit Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet
The royal couple Marie Antoinette and Archduke Francis came here because of the strict Court etiquette at Versailles. One can freely visit her private apartments and the Hameau de la Reine, the mock rural village in which Marie Antoinette loved to live as pepprette de Cocagne.
How Long Does It Take to Visit Versailles?
Therefore, spending a full day here or 6-8 hours will be recommended to see what Versailles offers. Here’s a breakdown:-
Palace tour: The primary Palace covering the areas of the Hall of Mirrors, King’s Apartments, and Queen’s Apartments take approximately, 2-3 hours to visit.
Gardens: At least 1-2 hours to have a leisurely walk or to watch the Musical Fountains.
Trianon Estate: Literally spend 1-2 hours to discover the beauty of the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Royal Castle of Versailles– Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet.
When Can One Visit the Palace of Versailles?
Versailles is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences.
Spring and Summer: The gardens look beautiful with flowers in full bloom, and one can watch the Musical Fountains Show. This is also coincident with the very busy period in the year:-
Fall and Winter: The Palace receives fewer visitors during these months, so it is easier to take time to see some of the places you may lack time for. The gardens are never as vivid, but there is something lovely about them.
Opening Hours: Palace: Monday closed, Tuesday-Friday 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.- Gardens: 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM. Visiting the gardens is free of charge except on the days of the Musical Fountains Show.
Tickets and Pricing
Tickets can be booked online in advance, and several ticket options are available.
Palace Admission: Ahead of it are the sections of the palace’ visiting, which costs at least €18.
Passport Ticket: Cross the Palace and Gardens, Trianon Estate, and the musical fountains show at €20.
Guided Tours: To get a bit of a guided tour, prices start at €10.
Free Entry: Vehicles available FOR EU UNDER 26 FOR NON-EU UNDER 18
Nearby Attractions
1. Versailles Market
The Versailles Market, located just 10 minutes away from the Palace, is a quaint place to check out, here you can find typical French items products, local made handicrafts and a real flavour of life in France.
2. Versailles Cathedral
An underappreciated, grand baroque cathedral, Versailles Cathedral is a hidden gem for visitors to the area who are seeking a bit of serenity amidst the bustling city.
3. Parc Balbi
As Trianon Estate recently got popular, Parc Balbi is a much smaller garden that can be recommended for those who like to be alone walking around the Palace.
4. Musée Lambinet
Near the Palace, Musée Lambinet is open to visitors to look at Versailles of the 18th century and its art, furniture, and main objet d’art.
Useful Recommendations to Follow on Your Trip
Arrive Early: Paris welcomes tourists all year round, and Versailles is among the most visited places in France, so it is advisable that one gets to Versailles early in the morning.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: We’ll be spending a lot of time on our feet, and the Palace, gardens, and Trianon Estate are vast.
Bring Snacks and Water: A word of caution has to be made: although there are cafes, the biggest crowds can sometimes lead to big queues and often we come here [to the summer stage], so it’s always good to bring water and snacks with you in summer.
Accessibility: The Palace is easily accessible; wheels for people with disabilities are free of charge. However, garden paths with some gravel may pose some challenges on how they should be used.
FAQs
1. What is the transportation route from Paris to the Palace of Versailles?
From Paris, one has to take the RER C train heading to Versailles and the station to be reached is Versailles Château Rive Gauche station. This trip is an average of 40 minutes and the Palace is around the corner from the station.
2. For how many hours should I actually set aside to dedicate to the areas of Versailles?
Spending no less than 6-8 hours will allow you to have a profound acquaintance with the Palace, the gardens and the Trianon Estate.
3. Can I visit the gardens for free?
Yes, the gardens are free, but if you come on the days when the facility hosts the Musical Fountains Show, you will be required to pay an entry fee.
4. Two questions come to mind for anyone planning a visit to this historical Palace and garden: How accessible is Versailles for disabled or visitors who use wheelchairs?
Of course, the Palace is accessible for wheelchairs, and wheelchairs are provided free of charge. It should be noted that some of the gardens and the Trianon Estate may be somewhat challenging to locate.
5. When should one visit Versailles?
It’s better to go in the early morning, but don’t go there during spring or summer if you don’t like crowds.
The Palace of Versailles gives an interesting insight into the royal history of France, and the place’s majesty and aesthetics attract hundreds of thousands of people. Whether you are preferably walking through the Grand Hall of Mirrors, taking a tour through the massive gardens, or even visiting Marie Antoinette’s Estate, a visit to Versailles is like a time trip. Do not leave this fantastic site out from your Paris to-do list if you want to have an amazing experience.
