Versailles: Palace Tour & Gardens with Optional Full Access
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Non smoking
History
The Palace of Versailles, originally a modest hunting lodge, was transformed by Louis XIV in the 17th century into a monumental symbol of French royal power and opulence. Its lavish interiors, including the Hall of Mirrors, and expansive gardens became a stage for political and cultural events, notably the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status.
Marie Antoinette’s private estate and Trianon reflect a more intimate side of royal life, showcasing her personal retreat from courtly pressures. Versailles remains a testament to French monarchy, architectural grandeur, and the historical upheavals that shaped modern France.
Highlights
- Explore the splendor of Versailles Palace with a licensed guide for 90 minutes.
- Skip long lines with an exclusive pre-booked time slot.
- Discover the fascinating history of the French monarchy and key historical events.
- Stroll through the stunning royal gardens, admiring fountains and groves.
- Optional access to Marie Antoinette’s estate and the Trianon for a deeper experience.
Full Description
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles with a 90-minute guided tour, starting at the GetYourGuide shop near Versailles Château Rive Gauche Station. With skip-the-line access, bypass long queues and step into the opulent State Apartments, the King’s Bedroom, and the iconic Hall of Mirrors. Your licensed guide will share captivating stories of Louis XIV, Marie Antoinette, and pivotal events like the French Revolution, bringing the palace’s history to life.
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Explore the intricate decor and historical significance of each room, enhanced by headsets for clear commentary. After the tour, enjoy free time to wander the 2,000-acre royal gardens, filled with grand fountains, bronze statues, and manicured groves, offering a serene contrast to the palace’s splendor. If you’ve selected the full-access option, visit Marie Antoinette’s private estate and the Trianon, uncovering the queen’s personal retreat and charming hamlet.
This tour combines structured exploration with the flexibility to linger in the gardens or Trianon at your own pace, ensuring a comprehensive and personalized experience. From royal opulence to tranquil landscapes, Versailles’s legacy will leave you inspired by its historical and aesthetic richness.
Why Choose This Experience?
This skip-the-line tour offers a seamless and enriching way to explore Versailles, blending expert-guided insights with ample time to discover its gardens and optional estates. Perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, or those seeking a glimpse into French royal life, it provides a deep dive into one of Europe’s most iconic landmarks.
The combination of priority access, a knowledgeable guide, and the option to explore Marie Antoinette’s estate makes this tour ideal for a tailored visit. Whether captivated by the Hall of Mirrors or the tranquil gardens, you’ll gain a profound appreciation for Versailles’s cultural and historical significance.
What’s Included
- Skip-the-line entrance ticket to the Palace of Versailles.
- 90-minute guided tour of the palace interior, including State Apartments and Hall of Mirrors.
- Headsets for clear audio commentary.
- Access to the royal gardens.
- Entrance to Marie Antoinette’s estate and the Trianon (if option selected).
- Free time to explore the gardens and additional sites at your leisure.
Itinerary
- Meet at the GetYourGuide shop near Versailles Château Rive Gauche Station.
- 30-minute organization period (security checks, headset distribution).
- 90-minute guided tour of the Palace of Versailles interior.
- Free time to explore the royal gardens.
- Optional visit to Marie Antoinette’s estate and the Trianon (if selected).
- Conclude at your leisure within Versailles grounds.
Pricing
From $58 per person
Meeting Point
Meet at the GetYourGuide shop, across from Versailles Château Rive Gauche Station, next to Café Madeleine. Do not go directly to the palace. Your guide will provide tickets at the shop (Open in Google Maps).
How to Get There
- By RER: Take RER C to Versailles Château Rive Gauche Station, a 2-minute walk to the GetYourGuide shop.
- By Train: From Paris, take SNCF trains to Versailles-Chantiers, then walk 15 minutes or take a short taxi to the shop.
- By Bus: Route 171 from Pont de Sèvres (Metro Line 9) stops near the station, a short walk to the meeting point.
- By Taxi/Rideshare: Request a drop-off at the GetYourGuide shop near Café Madeleine.
Good to Know
What to Bring:
- Passport or ID card for adults and children (required for entry).
- Comfortable shoes for walking in the palace and gardens.
- Sunscreen or umbrella, depending on weather, for garden exploration.
Know Before You Go:
- Not allowed: Pets, weapons, sharp objects, food/drinks, luggage, large bags, selfie sticks.
- Arrive 10 minutes early at the GetYourGuide shop; late arrivals cannot be refunded or guaranteed access, with rescheduling fees applying.
- Gardens are free from November to March, with no fountain shows during this period; prices are adjusted accordingly.
- Gardens close at 5:30 PM from October 26 to March 31.
- Expect a short wait at the group entrance during peak season due to safety controls.
Reviews
- The tour guide was kind and shared a wealth of information, making the experience engaging and smooth. The gardens were a highlight!
- Our guide was excellent, with great knowledge and a fun sense of humor. The skip-the-line access made exploring Versailles effortless.
- Our guide was fantastic, always smiling and enriching our visit with detailed history. The tour made Versailles come alive!
Maps
Video
FAQ's
What does the skip-the-line access include, and how much time does it save?
The skip-the-line ticket provides priority entry to the Palace of Versailles, bypassing the often lengthy general admission lines, which can exceed an hour in peak season. It includes access to the palace’s interior (State Apartments, Hall of Mirrors, King’s Bedroom) for the 90-minute guided tour, plus the gardens and, if selected, Marie Antoinette’s estate and Trianon. This saves significant time, though a short wait at the group entrance may occur due to safety controls. The streamlined access maximizes your time exploring Versailles’s key sites. The 30-minute organization period ensures smooth entry with headsets and security checks.
How much time is available to explore the gardens and optional estates?
After the 90-minute guided palace tour and 30-minute organization period, you have unlimited time to explore the 2,000-acre gardens within their operating hours (until 5:30 PM from October 26 to March 31). If you select the full-access option, you can also visit Marie Antoinette’s estate and the Trianon at your leisure. This flexibility allows hours for strolling the gardens’ fountains and groves or delving into the Trianon’s history. Plan 2-4 hours for a thorough exploration, depending on your pace. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate gear enhance your garden experience.
Is the tour suitable for families with young children?
The tour is suitable for families with children who can manage a 90-minute guided tour involving standing and walking, but strollers may be refused at the palace entrance, posing challenges for younger kids. The historical commentary may engage older children, and the gardens offer space for exploration, though supervision is needed on uneven paths. A passport or ID is required for children at entry. Parents should plan for the 2-3 hour total duration, including free time, and ensure kids wear comfortable shoes. The Trianon and estate may appeal to families interested in Marie Antoinette’s story.
What happens if I arrive late to the GetYourGuide shop?
Late arrivals cannot be guaranteed access to the Palace of Versailles and are not eligible for refunds, as the tour adheres to a strict schedule for skip-the-line entry. Rescheduling requires repurchasing the activity. Arrive at the GetYourGuide shop 10 minutes early to meet your guide and collect tickets. If delayed, contact the operator, but groups cannot wait due to timed entry slots. Plan your travel via RER C or taxi, and search ‘Versailles Château Rive Gauche Station’ on Google Maps to locate the shop accurately.
How accessible is the tour for people with mobility challenges?
The palace’s interior includes stairs and uneven surfaces, with limited wheelchair access, making the tour challenging for those with significant mobility issues. The gardens are more accessible but feature gravel paths and large distances, requiring stamina. Marie Antoinette’s estate and Trianon may also have uneven terrain. Contact the operator in advance to discuss specific needs, though accommodations are limited. Those with mild mobility issues should bring a companion and wear comfortable shoes to navigate the palace and grounds comfortably.
