Formerly a humble hunting lodge, the Palace of Versailles (Chateau de Versailles) is the extravagant creation of Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King. Embellished to epitomize royal decadence, Versailles features 700 rooms replete with frescoed ceilings and carvings, plus the Versailles Gardens (Jardins de Versailles), which brim with geometrically designed walkways and fountains. No visit to France is complete without experiencing the grandeur.
You’ll need at least three hours to get a feel for the Palace of Versailles and its gardens, but it’s worth spending an entire day there to explore at a relaxed pace. For lunch, you can bring a picnic or grab something to eat at one of the many food and drink outlets.
...MoreIf you’re looking to avoid the crowds, the best days to visit the Palace of Versailles and its gardens are Wednesday and Thursday. The palace is closed on Mondays, which leads a lot of early-week visitors to come on Tuesdays instead, while Fridays attract pre-weekend crowds.
...MoreThe best time to arrive at the Palace of Versailles is as soon as it opens in the morning, when it’s the least crowded. If you only want to spend a couple of hours there, arrive later in the afternoon, when the majority of the people have gone.
...MoreThe Palace of Versailles is open from morning until early evening during the low season (November-March) and stays open an hour later during the April-October high season. The gardens, the park, and the Estate of Trianon also stay open later during the high season.
...MoreYes, you can bring backpacks of a certain size into the Palace of Versailles. The maximum bag size you’re allowed is 21.65 x 13.75 x 7.75 inches (55 x 35 x 20 centimeters). If your bag is larger, you’ll have to leave it in one of the free lockers in the South Ministers’ Wing.
...MoreThe Palace of Versailles, the Estate of Trianon, and the Gardens of Versailles are closed on Mondays and on select public holidays (Christmas, New Year’s Day, and May 1). The surrounding park is open daily throughout the year. Note that the palace is sometimes forced to close in severe weather.
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