Palace and Park of Versailles

Guide to the Palace and Park of Versailles

This comprehensive guide aims to provide valuable insights and practical information for tourists planning to visit the Palace and Park of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of France’s most iconic landmarks.

Overview

The Palace and Park of Versailles is located just 20 km southwest of Paris, in the town of Versailles. The estate was originally a hunting lodge, but it gained prominence as a royal residence when King Louis XIV decided to move the court from Paris in 1682. Over the centuries, it evolved into an opulent symbol of power and luxury.

The Palace

History

The palace is divided into three main sections: the Royal Apartments, the Marie-Antoinette’s Estate, and the Trianon Palaces. Each section reflects a different era in French history.

The Royal Apartments

Constructed between 1678 and 1710, these apartments were the residence of Louis XIV, also known as “The Sun King.” They feature an impressive staircase, the Hall of Mirrors, and numerous salons adorned with gold and marble.

Marie-Antoinette’s Estate

Built in the late 18th century for Queen Marie-Antoinette, this part of the palace offers a glimpse into her private life. The area includes the Petit Trianon, a smaller chateau where she could escape court life, and the Hamlet, a village designed to mimic a typical French village.

The Trianon Palaces

The Grand Trianon is a smaller palace used by Louis XIV and later by Louis XV for informal gatherings. The Petit Trianon was built for Marie-Antoinette as a private retreat. Both palaces are remarkable examples of Baroque architecture.

Highlights

  1. The Hall of Mirrors: This long gallery, adorned with 357 mirrors and 17 windows overlooking the gardens, was the setting for significant events in French history, including the Treaty of Versailles in 1919.

  2. The Royal Chapel: A masterpiece of French Baroque architecture, it serves as the burial place for several French monarchs.

  3. The Gardens of Versailles: The gardens are a testament to the genius of André Le Nôtre, Louis XIV’s gardener. They cover 800 hectares and feature fountains, sculptures, and geometrically designed flower beds.

  4. The Estate of Marie-Antoinette: This area offers insight into the private life of the queen and includes the Petit Trianon and the Hamlet.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

The Palace is open every day except Monday from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM (last admission at 5:30 PM). The Gardens are open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM from April to October, and from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM during the winter months.

Tickets

Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. A combined ticket for the Palace, Gardens, and Estate of Marie-Antoinette is available. For more flexibility, consider the “Versailles Passport,” which allows you to visit multiple times within a week.

Getting There

The easiest way to reach Versailles from Paris is by train. The RER C line runs regularly between Gare Montparnasse in Paris and Versailles-Château-Rive-Gauche station, located just a 10-minute walk from the palace.

Tips for Visitors

  1. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
  2. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
  3. Bring water and snacks, as food and drink options inside the palace can be expensive.
  4. Consider joining an audio guide or guided tour for a richer experience.
  5. Respect the dress code when visiting the royal chapel: shoulders and knees must be covered.