There are many beautiful parts of Paris to explore and discover. But, perhaps one of the most stunning places in the region would have to be Chateau Versailles, the palace that was home to the French court for about 100 years. The gorgeous palace can be visited year round and guests can experience what it was like to live like royalty in the 18th century. Wander down the Hall of Mirrors and through the many acres of gardens and step back into history. Maybe you’ll even run into Marie Antoinette.
A Visit To Versailles
A Little Bit Of Background
The palace officially became the seat of the Parisian government in 1682. It remained this way until the French Revolution, 100 years later. Prominent rulers who lived at Versailles were Louis XIV who extended the Chateau to become a palace. After his death, this was paused. Versailles picked up notoriety again when Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette wed there. The couple lived there for many years before the French Revolution began.
Tips For Arrival
Make sure you arrive early to see the grandeur of the Chateau as it gets crowded as the day goes on. If you plan to be there when the gates open, you most likely will not have to wait in line. If the line is very long, I would visit the gardens first (if you feel like you’ll have enough time to visit the Palace afterward) as there is never a line.
How To Get There From Paris
Getting to Versailles from Paris is quite simple! All you have to do is take the RER C train. When you’re figuring out how to get to the RER C, look at a map of the metro to figure it out. You may not have to get on the metro to get to the RER C train. It may leave from a stop near your hotel. The train costs about 7 Euro roundtrip, which not only makes it easy but fairly cheap.
Once you arrive at the Versailles station, you’ll have to walk about 15 minutes to the Palace. It’s an easy walk and my best suggestion is to just follow the crowds around you.
Tips On Visiting Versailles
Visiting Versailles can be a breeze or it can be stressful. You’ve already read the tips for arrival, but what about general tips?
Tickets
Buy your tickets ahead of time so you don’t have to stand on the very very long line. There are several types of tickets you can get. I’d spring for the audio guide and the skip the line ticket if you’re visiting during a busy time of year. If you want to visit every part of the palace and the grounds, you’ll need to get a passport ticket! These are more expensive, but if you’re going to spend the entire day at Versailles, it’s worth it.
You can also purchase tickets just for the palace or for the gardens.
If you go during the summer be sure to check out the fountain show in the garden as it is a real treat to see them turned on.
Avoiding Crowds
Avoid crowds by arriving very early. Arrive before the doors open so you can be at the front of the line and experience the inside of Versailles without bumping into a million people. If you hate crowds, then don’t visit the inside of the main palace. Instead visit the gardens, Marie Antoinette’s Estate, and more.
The Prettiest Room In The House
The Hall of Mirrors is by far the most popular room in the Palace of Versailles and you’ll definitely be able to see why. The room is detailed and ornate and the mirrors and chandeliers create a magical ambiance that will bring you back in time to the days of Marie Antoinette’s wild parties. If you want to get a photo in here without other people in it, it will be nearly impossible, but again, if you arrive very early you might be able to get something.
Visiting The Gardens
