Discover the Majesty of the Palace of Versailles
Explore the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing France's royal history and breathtaking gardens.
The Palace of Versailles, a masterpiece of French architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the 17th century. Originally a hunting lodge for King Louis XIII, it was transformed by his son, Louis XIV, into a magnificent royal residence that epitomizes absolute monarchy. As you approach the palace, the stunning golden gates and expansive manicured gardens offer a preview of the opulence that awaits inside. Visitors can wander through the Hall of Mirrors, where history was made, and explore the lavishly decorated apartments that showcase the artistry of the era. The gardens of Versailles are equally enchanting, featuring intricate fountains, sculptures, and perfectly trimmed hedges that stretch over 800 hectares. A stroll through these gardens allows you to experience the same beauty that captivated French nobility centuries ago. Don’t miss the Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon, charming retreats that offer a glimpse into the more personal side of royal life. For history enthusiasts, the Palace of Versailles serves as a living museum, where each room tells a story of political intrigue, artistic achievement, and the shifting tides of French history. With guided tours available, visitors can gain deeper insights into the lives of the royals and the events that unfolded within these walls. A visit to the Palace of Versailles is not just a trip to a historical site; it is an immersion into the very essence of French culture and heritage, making it an essential stop for any traveler in France.
Local tips
- Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Consider pre-booking your tickets online to skip the long queues at the entrance.
- Visit the gardens during the Musical Fountain Show for a magical experience with music and water displays.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking through the expansive palace and gardens.
A brief summary to Palace of Versailles
- Place d'Armes, Versailles, 78000, FR
- +33130837800
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, the Palace of Versailles is located at Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles. From central Paris, take the A13 motorway towards Rouen. Follow signs for Versailles and take exit 5 towards Versailles. Once you reach Versailles, follow the signs to the Palace. There is parking available nearby, but fees may apply, so be prepared to pay for parking.
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Train (RER)
To reach the Palace of Versailles via public transportation, take the RER C train from central Paris (for example, from the Saint-Michel Notre-Dame station or the Invalides station). Board a train heading towards Versailles-Rive-Gauche station. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive at the Versailles-Rive-Gauche station, it's a short 10-minute walk to the Palace. Follow the signs to the Palace of Versailles, and you will see the grand entrance.
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Bus
Alternatively, you can take the bus from Paris to Versailles. Bus line 171 departs from the Pont de Sèvres metro station (line 9) and takes you directly to the Palace of Versailles. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Ensure you have a valid ticket for the bus, which you can purchase at metro stations or via the RATP app.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, consider biking to the Palace of Versailles. There are bike rental shops in Paris, such as Velib, where you can rent a bike. The ride is approximately 20 km and can take around an hour, depending on your speed. There are bike paths leading to Versailles, and once there, you can park your bike in designated areas near the Palace.
Attractions Nearby to Palace of Versailles
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Hall of Mirrors
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Les petits trains du parc de Versailles (Proxiway)
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Parterre d'Eau
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Royal Courtyard
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Parterre du Nord
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Royal Chapel
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South Parterre
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Fontaine du Point du Jour
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Galerie des Batailles
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Bassin de la Pyramide
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Latona's Pool and Parterre
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Latona Fountain
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Opéra Royal de Versailles
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Grand Commun
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Aile des Ministres Nord
