Built as a hunting lodge in 1623, the Versailles Palace evolved into the seat of the French monarchy, then a museum, until the French Revolution forced the royal family to leave in 1789. In 1979, the Palace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Sit...
Founded On
1837
Founded By
Louis Le Vau
RECOMMENDED DURATION
4 hours
Timings
09:00–17:30
VISITORS PER YEAR
15000000
TICKETS
From € 12
NUMBER OF ENTRANCES
5
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
1-2 hours (Peak), 30-60 mins (Off Peak)
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE
0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
UNESCO YEAR
1979
Did you know?
The Queen's House, nestled in the gardens, was rumoured to be haunted by Marie Antoinette's ghost, with sightings of her spectral apparitions wandering the premises.
Versailles nurtured a musical heritage as acclaimed composers like Jean-Baptiste Lully and Christoph Willibald Gluck crafted timeless masterpieces, contributing to an unparalleled musical legacy.
During the winter season, the vast Grand Canal at Versailles transformed into an enchanting ice-skating rink, providing the royal court with the exhilaration of gliding across frozen waters.
Step into the iconic Hall of Mirrors that reflects the grandeur of Versailles. Here, 17 mirrored arches reflect dazzling chandeliers and intricate ceiling paintings, creating a spectacle. This historic space has witnessed momentous treaties and opulent celebrations, offering a glimpse into Versailles' opulent past.
Explore the historic Royal Apartments, once home to the kings and queens of France. Walk past and admire the intricate details of the decor and furniture, and learn about the regal lifestyle of the past.
This iconic gallery features French Baroque design, paying homage to the Sun King, Louis XIV. The vaulted ceiling portrays Apollo, the radiant sun god, riding a chariot surrounded by celestial figures. This room exemplifies the grandeur and artistry of the French Baroque style
Step into the historic Royal Chapel, where French royalty once worshipped. Admire the stunning Baroque architecture and the intricate decor details, and imagine the grandeur of royal ceremonies.
Discover the calm beauty of the Grand Trianon, a smaller palace the king used to escape the stress of court life. The pink marble facade and exquisite interiors made it a peaceful retreat for French royalty.
More about the Trianon EstateStroll through the impressive Orangerie, a massive greenhouse housing a large collection of citrus trees. The fragrant citrus trees and the elegant building create a serene and refreshing escape.
The Neptune Fountain is a colossal sculpture that dominates the gardens. This masterpiece depicts the sea god Neptune surrounded by mythical creatures, showcasing the grandeur of Versailles' garden design.
Step back in time and explore Marie Antoinette's idyllic retreat. With its charming cottages and gardens, this historic hamlet offers a glimpse into the queen's private world. This rustic village, complete with cottages, gardens, and a mill, was the queen's peaceful haven, contrasting the opulence of the court.
The museum boasts a diverse collection of over 6,000 paintings showcasing historical and mythological themes. Admire paintings by artists like Jacques-Louis David, whose works capture pivotal moments in French history, including The Coronation of Napoleon. The array of portraits features iconic pieces by Hyacinthe Rigaud, such as his famous portrait of Louis XIV, and Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun, celebrated for her depictions of Marie Antoinette.
Consider a combination of self-guided exploration and guided tours. This allows you to delve into the history and art at your own pace, while also gaining deeper insights from expert guides.
While the Hall of Mirrors is iconic, don't miss the opulent Royal Apartments, the serene gardens designed by Andre Le Nôtre, and the Trianon Estate.
Spring and Autumn are ideal times to visit, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds. However, Versailles is beautiful year-round, with each season offering unique experiences.
Ore by Alain Ducasse is a high-end restaurant serving French cuisine with a modern twist. It's located within the palace grounds and offers stunning views of the gardens. Le Petit Versailles is a bistro a short walk from the palace that offers traditional French cuisine at affordable prices.
You can easily reach Versailles by train from Paris. The RER C train line provides direct access to the Palace. Want to avoid planning the logistics? Simply opt for tickets with round-trip transfers from Paris.
Early mornings or weekdays are less crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Over 1,000 kilograms of gold leaf adorned the gates, sculptures, and interiors, symbolizing opulence during the 17th-century French monarchy.
Yes, Marie Antoinette had a private chamber known as the "secret room," adorned with intimate paintings, offering her solace from court life.
In 1789, the Women's March on Versailles forced the royal family to relocate to the Tuileries Palace in Paris, effectively marking the end of Versailles as the center of royal power. The Revolution also saw the confiscation and auctioning of many of Versailles' treasures.
One popular legend revolves around the "Queen's Hamlet," built for Marie Antoinette. Some visitors claim to have seen apparitions of the queen, lending Versailles an air of mystique.
Yes, the Menagerie at Versailles housed exotic birds, giving the king a tranquil retreat to observe his feathered friends.
The Hall of Mirrors constructed in 1678, contains 357 mirrors that were among the most expensive items at the time.
The Hall of Mirrors is the most famous room in the Palace of Versailles with 3,570 Venetian mirrors and illuminated by 3,000 candles when fully lit.
King Louis XIV's War Room displayed miniature battlefield models, serving as a strategic command center to plan military campaigns.
Yes, the gardens featured a labyrinth, challenging visitors with twists and turns, echoing the intrigue within the royal court.