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Gardens of Versailles: A Royal Retreat

Experience the grandeur of French royalty in these expansive, meticulously designed gardens, a masterpiece of landscape architecture.

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The Gardens of Versailles, a sprawling extension of the Palace of Versailles, exemplifies French formal garden design. Commissioned by Louis XIV and meticulously crafted by André Le Nôtre, the gardens feature ornate parterres, sculpted fountains, and vast perspectives, reflecting the power and grandeur of the French monarchy.

A brief summary to Gardens of Versailles

  • Monday 8 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast gardens.
  • Visit during the Musical Fountains Show or Musical Gardens for a spectacular display of water and music (note that these events require a separate ticket).
  • Check the official website for the garden's opening hours, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Consider renting a bike or electric vehicle to cover more ground within the gardens.
  • Bring your own water and snacks, especially during the warmer months, as the gardens are expansive and you may not always be near a refreshment stand.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Paris, take the RER C train to the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station. The journey takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, with trains running every 15 minutes. A round-trip ticket costs around €7. From the station, it's about a 10-minute walk to the Palace entrance. Alternatively, the SNCF L train from Gare Saint-Lazare arrives at Versailles Rive Droite station, a 20-minute walk to the Palace; this trip takes 35-40 minutes. A Navigo Easy Pass (€2) can be loaded with the necessary tickets.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    A taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber) from Paris to Versailles costs approximately €35-€60 each way. The journey takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available in Paris and Versailles. Uber fares may vary based on demand and time of day. Booking in advance is recommended.

  • Driving

    Drive to Versailles via the A13 (north) or A86 (south). Several parking options are available. The most convenient is Place d'Armes, located directly in front of the Palace, costing €4.80/hour for the first 4 hours, then €2.40/hour. Parking on the Palace grounds via the Queen's Gate costs €15 per vehicle for all-day access. Free parking is available for disabled visitors with proof of disability.

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Discover more about Gardens of Versailles

The Gardens of Versailles, a magnificent extension of the Palace of Versailles, represents the epitome of French formal garden design. Spanning approximately 800 hectares (2,000 acres), these gardens were envisioned by Louis XIV and brought to life by the landscape architect André Le Nôtre, starting in 1661. The gardens mirror the opulence and power of the French monarchy, featuring meticulously designed parterres, elaborate fountains, and seemingly endless vistas. The gardens are divided into distinct areas, each offering a unique experience. The Water Parterre, located directly west of the palace, provides a stunning view of the Grande Perspective stretching towards the horizon. The Latona Fountain, designed by Le Nôtre and sculpted by Gaspard and Balthazard Marsy, narrates stories from Ovid's Metamorphoses. The Royal Walk, a broad avenue flanked by trees, leads to the Fountain of Apollo. Other notable features include the Grand Canal, a masterpiece of engineering and design, and the groves (bosquets), each with its own theme and history. Throughout the year, the Gardens of Versailles host various events, including the Musical Fountains Show and the Musical Gardens, during which the fountains are activated with music. These events require separate tickets, while access to the gardens is free on Mondays from late March to late October and every day from early November to late March. The gardens have undergone several replantings to maintain their original design, most recently after the devastating storms of the late 20th century. Today, the Gardens of Versailles stand as a testament to the artistic vision of Louis XIV and André Le Nôtre, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the French royal court.

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