Have you ever wished to visit a place with stunning beauty, rich in history, and extremely royal? The Palace of Versaille should be one of the places you consider visiting, as it takes the top spot in the list of France Travel Map for most traveled places. So let’s explore the top things to do in the Palace of Versailles.
As someone eager to visit this place listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, I can proudly say it has lived up to all my expectations. The place is no longer regarded as just one of the beautifully constructed places in France, but a deeply cherished gateway into the lavish lifestyle of a French King. With so many expectations, the Palace of Versaille does live up to some features not just for architecture tacklers but something for everyone, irrespective of age or field of interest.
First Impressions: Royals Welcome and Royal Treatment
A wave of joy hit me when I got off the train at the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station. It felt almost otherworldly to know that I was about to set foot in the very palace where France’s most powerful kings and queens had resided. The garden leading from the station to the palace was beautifully astonishing, and soon enough, I was met with the unparalleled and unforgettable sight of the golden gates of the Palace of Versailles.
All of this came with the first impression of the Palace: the outrageous amount of space that it covers. The sheer size of the Palace is what truly shocked me. The Palace of Versailles without a doubt is one of the most breathtaking places in the world, and it is easy to see why. It is not simply a house, but rather a true work of art with sprawling gardens that seem to go on forever.
The Gardens: A Walk Through Time
Do not neglect the gardens when going to Versailles. The Palace of Versailles Gardens is over 800 hectares and is a masterpiece of landscape architect André Le Nôtre. As I strolled around the gardens, I became integrated with the serenity of fountains and sculpted shrubs. The way sunlight twinkles on the flowers is fascinating, and I had to put my camera out and take a few Palace of Versailles photos. Just think of holding an Eiffel Tower Art Tote Bag and clicking pictures in the garden, really a special moment for travel lovers.
The Grand Canal was a Grand Basin of Versailles and one of my best visited. Being encircled with trees and reflecting the clouds made it feel like you stepped inside a piece of art. Here in a corner I was taking a cup of coffee which was in a special Eiffel Tower Printed Mug.
If you are into history, the design of the garden gives a glimpse of the power and glory which was Louis XIV’s reign, an example of absolutism and visually depicting him as the Sun King conquering nature itself.
The Hall of Mirrors: A Glimpse Into Royal Life
I was super excited to see Hall of Mirrors, and believe me, it met all my expectations. This is the place where history was forged – most known for the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, which virtually ended World War 1. The 357 mirrors that encircle the walls of the Hall and capture its essence, is a breathtaking magic. As I stood there, the Hall of Mirrors isn’t only beauty, but the point where power, politics and opulence blend.
The golden chandeliers and the impressive murals on the ceiling made me feel as if I was traversing across the frames of noble stories. Even though the Hall was filled with tourists, I could distinctly sense the historical value of the room.
The Royal Apartments: A Glance at the Life of Kings and Queens
Later, I checked out the Royal Apartments. As I passed the rooms, I began to think about how the court must have experienced life in these surroundings. The Palace of Versailles was not simply a palace; it served as a setting for the elaborate performance of absolute monarchy. Velvet-draped walls, gilded furniture, and exquisite tapestries adorned each room.
Richly furnished The King’s Grand Apartment gave me insight into how Louis XVI lived in private. But perhaps the most fascinating part was Marie Antoinette’s private chambers. It was quite clear why this queen captivated so many imaginations. She seemed to have designed her spaces to showcase both her sophistication and her suffering.
My Recommendations
Hôtel Le Louis Versailles Château – It is Located just a short stroll from the palace, this elegant hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms and modern amenities. It’s perfect for those who want a blend of classic French charm and contemporary comfort.
Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle For a truly regal experience, consider staying at this exclusive five-star hotel nestled within the palace grounds. The Airelles Château de Versailles offers an experience unlike any other, with rooms that exude historical elegance and a luxury spa to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace Just a stone’s throw from the palace, this luxury hotel is set in a sprawling estate with beautiful gardens. The Waldorf Astoria Versailles combines opulent décor with world-class amenities, including a renowned spa.
A Royal Feast: France’s Versailles Cuisine
After all the exploration, I was eager to indulge in some mouth watering French dishes. Fortunately, there are many nice cafes and eateries around the Palace of Versailles. I chose a delightful cafe around the Orangerie where I enjoyed the traditional quiche Lorraine alongside some delectable pastries. After that a coffee in a Paris art mug was so fascinating for me actually.
Here, Croissants are the typical French simplicities, but they manage to be transformed into something artistic. The soft, buttery filling with the flaky crust was so amazing, I had to force myself to not order another one!
My Recommendations
Ore – Ducasse au Château de Versailles For a truly unique dining experience, head to Ore, a restaurant run by world-famous chef Alain Ducasse, located within the palace itself. This elegant eatery serves refined French cuisine, making it a fantastic spot to indulge after a day of royal exploration.
La Table du 11 If you’re looking for a more intimate and modern French dining experience, La Table du 11 is the place to go. This bistro is known for its innovative dishes and cozy atmosphere, offering a delightful departure from the more formal settings of other Versailles eateries.
Gordon Ramsay au Trianon For those with a taste for Michelin-starred cuisine, Gordon Ramsay au Trianon offers an exquisite dining experience just a short walk from the palace. The restaurant’s elegant setting and expertly crafted French dishes will make for an unforgettable meal in a truly luxurious atmosphere.
Exploring the Trianon Palaces: An Unheard of Place
The Trianon Palaces might be surprising for anyone who visits for the first time. set a bit far from the main palace, the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon serve as calm, more private retreats for the royal family. Marie Antoinette’s Petit Trianon is what caught my attention. it was a calm, graceful space that is far away from the main palace’s grandeur. Most of the attractions in the Palace of Versailles are well known, however the Trianon Palaces provide a nice contrast for those in need of a peaceful escape from heavy crowds.
The Basics of Visiting Palace of Versailles
- Tickets: The amount for admission changes with what you want to see. As an example, a general admission ticket for the Palace of Versailles and the gardens costs around €20. If you wish to avoid the lines, think about buying tickets ahead of time.
- Transportation: Traveling from Paris to the Palace of Versailles is hassle-free. The trip is approximately 40 minutes by train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Versailles Château Rive Gauche, after which the Palace is a short walk away.
- Best Time to Visit: If you can, visit during the spring or early fall when the weather is nice and the gardens are at their best. To minimize encounters with other tourists, an early morning arrival works best.
- Things to Remember: Do not forget your comfortable shoes! You will be walking a lot and the grounds are expansive. And be sure to have your camera as the Palace of Versailles has a lot of scenic places that are picture perfect.
Reasons to Go the Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is not simply a place to go for a tour, it is something to be experienced. The gardens are breathtaking, the rich history is awe-inspiring, and the architecture is awe-inspiring. Each part of Versailles showcases their history, and so if art or history is your thing, it is worth your time.
Final Thought on Palace of Versailles
Each iconic royal’s legacy is a must see – and it shows how world renowned they are. Leaving Versailles, I felt that I entered a reality where there was power, a bit of tragedy, and pure splendor. No matter if,”you enjoy the amazing rooms, the serene gardens, or the interesting royal family tales, there are many astounding things to be seen in Versailles and most of them will give you memories for a lifetime.
If you go with your partner and give your partner a unique You and Me Travel Tote Bag and take a romantic walk through the Palace, it will be unforgettable memories for you. So why postpone? Prepare yourself for a trip to the Palace of Versailles and enjoy and discover its beauty in person.
FAQs
How much time should I plan for visiting the Palace of Versailles?
It’s best to allocate at least 5 to 6 hours to explore the palace, gardens, and the Trianon estates. If you’re passionate about art, history, or photography, you may want to spend the entire day there.
Can I visit the Palace of Versailles for free?
Yes, entry is free on the first Sunday of the month from November to March. Additionally, EU residents under 26 and children under 18 often qualify for free admission, but be sure to carry ID or proof of residency.
Are guided tours worth it at the Palace of Versailles?
Absolutely. A guided tour offers deeper insights into the palace’s history, royal residents, and hidden areas not accessible with general tickets. Audio guides are also available for self-paced exploration.
What should I wear when visiting the Palace of Versailles?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. The gardens and estate are massive, so be prepared for a lot of walking. In spring and summer, a hat and sunscreen are also recommended.
Can you bring food and drinks into the Palace of Versailles?
Food and drinks are not allowed inside the palace buildings, but you can bring snacks to enjoy in the gardens or picnic areas. There are also several cafés and restaurants available on-site.
