Gardens of Versailles: A Royal Retreat
Experience the grandeur of French royalty in these expansive, meticulously designed gardens, a masterpiece of landscape architecture.
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
- Place d'Armes, Versailles, 78000, FR
- +33130837800
- Visit website
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
Discover more about Gardens of Versailles
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Latona Stairs
0.2 km
Explore the Latona Stairs at Versailles, where history, art, and nature converge in breathtaking beauty and elegance.
Fontaine du Soir
0.2 km
Explore the enchanting Fontaine du Soir, a tranquil fountain in the heart of Versailles, surrounded by lush gardens and rich history.
La Loire
0.3 km
Experience the beauty of La Loire, an exquisite sculpture in Versailles, where art and history intertwine in a serene setting.
Royal Courtyard
0.4 km
Explore the Royal Courtyard in Versailles: A magnificent historical landmark showcasing the splendor of French royal architecture and gardens.
Grand Commun
0.5 km
Discover the Grand Commun at Versailles, a stunning architectural marvel showcasing the opulence of French royal history amidst beautiful gardens.
Château de Versailles Spectacles
0.5 km
Experience the enchanting performances at Château de Versailles Spectacles, where history meets art in a breathtaking royal setting.
Aile des Ministres Nord
0.5 km
Discover the splendor of Aile des Ministres Nord, a historical museum within the Palace of Versailles, showcasing exquisite art and royal heritage.
Statue et Place Hoche
0.8 km
Explore the captivating Statue et Place Hoche, a historical landmark in Versailles, surrounded by stunning architecture and lush gardens.
Galerie des Sculptures et des Moulages (Sculptures de Versailles / Gypsothèque du Louvre)
0.9 km
Explore the exquisite collection of the Galerie des Sculptures et des Moulages, a must-see museum in Versailles showcasing French artistic heritage.
Memorial
1.1 km
Discover the serene elegance of the Versailles Memorial, a tribute to history amidst the grandeur of France's royal heritage, ideal for reflection and exploration.
Versal
1.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Versailles, a historical landmark that captures the essence of French royalty and culture.
Temple of Love
1.2 km
Explore the romantic Temple of Love in Versailles, a stunning monument surrounded by exquisite gardens and rich history, perfect for a serene escape.
Monument de la Gendarmerie Nationale
1.4 km
Experience the rich history and tribute of valor at the Monument de la Gendarmerie Nationale in Versailles, a must-visit memorial for all tourists.
Square des Francine
1.5 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical charm of Square des Francine, a must-visit garden in the heart of Versailles.
Saint Anthony Gate
1.6 km
Explore the historic Saint Anthony Gate in Versailles, an architectural marvel that symbolizes the grandeur of French royal heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Latona's Pool and Parterre
0.1 km
Experience the beauty and elegance of Latona's Pool and Parterre in Versailles, a stunning example of French garden artistry and royal history.
Fontaine du Point du Jour
0.2 km
Discover the beauty of Fontaine du Point du Jour, a stunning fountain in Versailles reflecting exquisite French artistry and history.
Bacchus Pool
0.2 km
Experience the opulence of the Bacchus Pool, a symbol of autumn's abundance, within the majestic Gardens of Versailles. A testament to French artistry.
Les petits trains du parc de Versailles (Proxiway)
0.3 km
Discover the splendor of Versailles' gardens in comfort with a scenic ride on the charming mini-trains, offering a unique perspective on the palace grounds.
Colonnade Grove
0.3 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical elegance of Colonnade Grove in the lush gardens of Versailles, a must-visit for every traveler.
Hall of Mirrors
0.3 km
Explore the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles, where history and beauty intertwine in an iconic display of royal elegance.
Star Grove
0.3 km
Discover the serene Star Grove in Versailles, a hidden garden with a star-shaped layout and a rich history of royal entertainment.
Palace of Versailles
0.3 km
Explore the opulent history and breathtaking gardens of the Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of French royal heritage.
Bassin du Miroir
0.3 km
Experience tranquility at the Bassin du Miroir in Versailles, a reflecting pool offering a serene escape amidst the palace's grandeur.
Bassin de la Pyramide
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Bassin de la Pyramide in Versailles, where art, history, and nature converge in a stunning garden setting.
Three Fountains Grove
0.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Three Fountains Grove, a hidden gem in Versailles that captivates with its lush gardens and elegant fountains.
Obelisk Grove
0.4 km
Explore the breathtaking gardens of Château de Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing exquisite French landscaping and royal history.
Galerie des Batailles
0.4 km
Experience 15 centuries of French military history through monumental paintings and sculptures in the Palace of Versailles' largest gallery.
Royal Chapel
0.4 km
Experience the opulence of the Royal Chapel at Versailles, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture steeped in history and grandeur.
Opéra Royal de Versailles
0.5 km
Experience the grandeur of the Opéra Royal de Versailles, a stunning opera house rich in history and culture, set in the iconic Palace of Versailles.
Essential places to dine
Brasserie De La Girandole
0.1 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Brasserie De La Girandole in the stunning gardens of Versailles.
Ore - Ducasse au château de Versailles
0.4 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine amidst the grandeur of Château de Versailles at Ore - Ducasse.
La Petite Venise
0.5 km
Discover La Petite Venise: A delightful restaurant in Versailles offering exquisite French and Italian cuisine amidst stunning gardens.
Restaurant Alain Ducasse - Le Grand Controle
0.6 km
Experience culinary artistry at Restaurant Alain Ducasse - Le Grand Contrôle in Versailles, where history meets exquisite French gastronomy.
AZULI
0.6 km
Savor exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at AZULI in Versailles – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
La Table du 11
0.6 km
Experience exquisite modern French cuisine at La Table du 11 in Versailles, where culinary artistry meets elegant ambiance.
Gordon Ramsay au Trianon
0.6 km
Experience culinary excellence at Gordon Ramsay au Trianon in Versailles, where fine dining meets breathtaking elegance.
La Veranda
0.6 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine amidst luxury at La Veranda in Versailles – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and elegance.
Restaurant La Tour
0.6 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant La Tour in Versailles - where tradition meets modern elegance.
Vous restaurant
0.7 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Vous Restaurant in Versailles—where tradition meets modern elegance for an unforgettable dining adventure.
Brasserie du Théâtre Versailles
0.7 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Brasserie du Théâtre in Versailles - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Le Petit Bouillon Versailles
0.7 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Le Petit Bouillon Versailles, where tradition meets flavor in a charming setting.
Sisters' Café
0.7 km
Discover gourmet American burgers at Sisters' Café in Versailles—where comfort food meets French charm.
La Flottille
0.7 km
Discover La Flottille in Versailles: where exquisite French cuisine meets stunning garden views amidst historic splendor.
Chez Georges
0.7 km
Experience the essence of haute French cuisine at Chez Georges in Versailles—where culinary artistry meets timeless elegance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ladurée
0.4 km
Experience the opulence of Versailles with a delightful visit to Ladurée, home to exquisite pastries, chocolates, and gourmet treats.
Boutique Cour de Marbre
0.4 km
Discover French elegance at Boutique Cour de Marbre, a unique clothing store within the historic Palace of Versailles.
Waldorf Astoria Versailles - Trianon Palace
0.6 km
Experience luxury and history at Waldorf Astoria Versailles - Trianon Palace, your gateway to the grandeur of Versailles.
La cour des senteurs
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting La Cour des Senteurs in Versailles, your destination for exquisite fragrances, artisanal crafts, and unique souvenirs.
La Boutique Royale
0.6 km
Explore La Boutique Royale in Versailles for unique gifts and local artisanal treasures that capture the essence of this historic city.
Sajou
0.7 km
Explore Sajou in Versailles for exquisite sewing supplies and unique crafting materials, a true paradise for creative souls and craft lovers.
See You
0.7 km
Explore See You in Versailles for a stylish selection of men's clothing, accessories, and leather goods in a chic boutique atmosphere.
agnès b. boutique Versailles
0.7 km
Explore the chic offerings of agnès b. boutique in Versailles, where French fashion meets contemporary design in a breathtaking setting.
La Boutique des Créateurs
0.8 km
Explore La Boutique des Créateurs in Versailles for unique handcrafted gifts and local artistry, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
ZAPA Versailles
0.8 km
Explore ZAPA Versailles, a chic women's clothing boutique offering stylish dresses and unique pieces that embody modern elegance in the heart of Versailles.
V & V
0.8 km
Discover the enchanting world of fragrances at V & V in Versailles, where every scent tells a story and every item is a treasure.
Pierre & Tim Cookies
0.9 km
Discover the delectable world of cookies and artisanal ice cream at Pierre & Tim Cookies, a sweet spot in the heart of Versailles.
London Versailles
0.9 km
Discover timeless elegance and contemporary style at London Versailles, the ultimate clothing store for fashion-forward tourists in Versailles.
ba&sh - Versailles
0.9 km
Discover chic women's fashion and unique accessories at ba&sh in Versailles, where elegance meets contemporary style.
Devernois Versailles
0.9 km
Explore Devernois in Versailles for exclusive women's fashion, stunning dresses, and stylish accessories that capture the essence of French elegance.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Galerie
0.6 km
Experience the elegance of Versailles at Bar Galerie, where fine dining meets exquisite drinks in a stunning historical setting.
Chez Les Filles - Bar à Vin, Cocktails & Tapas
0.7 km
Experience a vibrant blend of fine wines, exquisite cocktails, and delicious tapas at Chez Les Filles, the ultimate bar in Versailles.
Le Bar du Château
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Le Bar du Château, a must-visit bar and restaurant in the heart of Versailles, offering exquisite dishes and local brews.
O'Paris
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Versailles at O'Paris, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await you.
Les Badauds
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Versailles at Les Badauds, where delicious drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
No Water - Bar à vins
0.9 km
Discover the charm of No Water, a cozy wine bar in Versailles offering exquisite wines, craft beers, and delicious tapas in a welcoming atmosphere.
Le Baradoz
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Le Baradoz in Versailles, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Bar Tabac Ó Versailles Brasserie
0.9 km
Discover the charm of French café culture at Bar Tabac Ó Versailles, the perfect retreat for tourists exploring the historic city.
L'Equilibre - Bar à vins et Tapas
1.1 km
Discover L'Equilibre, a cozy wine bar in Versailles offering exquisite wines and delicious tapas in a relaxed atmosphere.
L’ Alto
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at L’Alto, a premier live music bar in Versailles, where local talent and karaoke unite for unforgettable evenings.
Le Franco Belge
1.1 km
Experience the essence of French cuisine at Le Franco Belge, where traditional meets contemporary in a cozy Versailles setting.
Le Cocorico
1.1 km
Experience the charm of Versailles at Le Cocorico, a cozy bar offering exquisite drinks and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Chez Bichette
1.1 km
Experience the charm of Chez Bichette, a must-visit bar in Versailles offering a delightful ambiance and a fine selection of drinks.
Au Rendez Vous Des Touristes
1.2 km
Experience the charm of Versailles at Au Rendez Vous Des Touristes, a cozy bar perfect for unwinding after exploring the iconic Palace.
La Pirogue
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at La Pirogue, a must-visit cocktail bar and restaurant in the heart of Versailles.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
A la trichette champêtre
0.8 km
Experience the unique blend of craft brewing and rustic charm at A la trichette champêtre in Versailles, where delightful flavors await.
Versailles - Karaoké Au Duc de Bretagne
1.0 km
Discover the joy of karaoke and taste the best crepes at Versailles - Karaoké Au Duc de Bretagne, where music and flavor come together.
Les Caves Du Roi Soleil bar club discotheque
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Les Caves Du Roi Soleil, a unique disco club and Irish pub in the heart of Versailles, perfect for a memorable night out.
marion sammut
2.5 km
Discover the exhilarating nightlife at Marion Sammut in Versailles, where vibrant music, stylish ambiance, and unforgettable experiences await.
Versailles Swing Danse
3.1 km
Experience the joy of dance at Versailles Swing Danse, the heart of rhythm and movement in Versailles, offering salsa, rock, and ballroom lessons.
King burger
3.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and delicious burgers at King Burger, the ultimate night club experience in Viroflay, France.
Pacha Club
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Pacha Club in Louveciennes, where electrifying music meets stylish ambiance for an unforgettable night out.
L'escale club discothèque
7.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at L'escale Club, Louveciennes' premier disco club and bar for an unforgettable night of dancing and fun.
Palais Maillot
14.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Paris at Palais Maillot, a premier disco club and event venue, renowned for unforgettable parties and electrifying music.
Le Speakeasy Paris, Festive Restaurant & Club, Night Club, Discothèque, Boîte de Nuit, Piano Club
15.0 km
Experience the ultimate fusion of dining and dancing at Le Speakeasy, Paris's premier nightclub and restaurant for a night to remember.
L'Arc
15.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Paris at L'Arc, an upscale disco club offering an unforgettable party experience in the heart of the city.
The Red Room Club Paris
15.1 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at The Red Room Club Paris, where music, dance, and vibrant energy create unforgettable experiences.
Raspoutine
15.3 km
Experience the opulence of Raspoutine, a premier night club in Paris blending luxurious decor with vibrant nightlife.
Bubble Up
15.3 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Paris at Bubble Up, a vibrant nightclub blending music, dancing, and a lively bar atmosphere.
Mirage Paris
15.5 km
Discover the heart of Parisian nightlife at Mirage Paris - a disco club where great music and unforgettable experiences come together.