Palace of Versailles travel guide

The Palace of Versailles, a symbol of absolute monarchy and artistic grandeur, is a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture.

Commissioned by Louis XIV, the 'Sun King' in 1661, it was transformed from a hunting lodge into a splendid palace by architect Louis Le Vau and decorator Charles Le Brun.

The palace was continually embellished over the decades, with the iconic Hall of Mirrors and the royal chapel added during the reign of Louis XV.

The Palace became the heart of the French court and government by 1682, until the royal family was forced to return to Paris in October 1789 during the French Revolution.

Today, the Palace of Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to admire its architectural beauty, opulent interiors, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Discover Palace of Versailles, a prime feature of Versailles, in the vibrant Versailles. Palace of Versailles is situated at Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France, just a short distance from Hall of Mirrors and Opéra Royal de Versailles, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Palace of Versailles, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Versailles, a town in France rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this town from the comprehensive Versailles travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Palace of Versailles is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Versailles, France. If you're flying in, Charles de Gaulle Airport is approximately 24 miles (38.7 km) away from the town center. From there, you can easily reach Palace of Versailles by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Versailles, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Palace of Versailles, which is located 0.3 miles (0.5 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Palace of Versailles!

To truly enjoy your visit to Palace of Versailles, joining a guided tour of this renowned palace in Versailles is highly recommended. As one of France's most iconic attractions, Palace of Versailles draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Versailles, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Palace of Versailles starting at just 35 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

The best time to explore Palace of Versailles is during the mid-spring (April to June) and early autumn (September and October). Temperatures during these months are mild and the gardens are in full bloom or displaying vibrant fall colors, respectively. Additionally, these periods usually see fewer crowds, allowing you to explore the palace and its gardens at a leisurely pace. During summer, while the weather is warm and the gardens are lush, the palace can be crowded with tourists. However, this is when the famed Night Fountains Show and Musical Gardens events take place, offering a unique, mesmerizing experience. In winter, the palace is less crowded but the gardens are less impressive. Therefore, considering weather, crowd levels, and special events, spring and early autumn emerge as the best time to explore Palace of Versailles. Remember to check the palace's official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on opening times and any special events.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Palace of Versailles, perfectly planned travel packages to Versailles make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Versailles, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Palace of Versailles.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic palace in France.

Upon arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the town of Versailles.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Versailles.

Choosing the right accommodation near Palace of Versailles from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Versailles can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Palace of Versailles, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Palace of Versailles, Versailles boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to museum, the top attractions in Versailles offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Versailles is Gardens of Versailles, located at Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France. This well-known park enhances your time in the town.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, The Grand Trianon is worth seeing when you're in Versailles. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Porte Saint-Antoine, 78000 Versailles, France.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Gallery of Coaches completes any trip to Versailles. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at 1 Av. Rockefeller, 78000 Versailles, France, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The town's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Versailles below to discover even more incredible places to explore.