Top Things to do in Versailles
Top 5 Castles in Versailles, Ile-de-France
This former unofficial capital of France sits just 10 miles from Paris and is easily reachable by train. Even though the Chateau de Versailles has been known as the epitome of indulgent luxury for centuries, seeing it in person is a jaw-dropping experience. The chateau's magnificent gardens are free, but it's worth shelling out for a day ticket to see the interior—although it does make going back to even a fancy hotel seem rather humdrum.
Restaurants in Versailles
1. The Trianons & The Hamlet
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,981 reviews
Reviewed By chrislN392IZ - Sumter, United States
The Grande Trianon was a stunning “little” house that is worth visiting while at the Palace of Versailles. You can walk there, rent a golf cart, rent a Segway, even run there if you choose. This place has a very homey feel, like you could picture yourself sitting there enjoying a book and some coffee. Well worth the visit.
2. Le Grand Trianon
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 334 reviews
Reviewed By jaywalkingaroundtown - Calgary, Canada
The Grand Trianon is a French Baroque style château situated in Versailles castle area. It was built as a retreat for Louis XIV and his lover, the Marquise de Montespan. When there, Louis was way more relaxed with guests and strict court étiquette.
3. Le Petit Trianon
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 173 reviews
Reviewed By nickd18 - Calgary, Canada
after the crowds of the Chateau and the Gardens it was nice to take a leisurely stroll to the quieter area of the Petit Trianon. A much smaller more peaceful area with adjoining gardens including an English garden. Much more natural beauty.
4. Hameau de la Reine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 27 reviews
Reviewed By glennm921 - San Francisco, United States
Tucked away at a back corner of the palace grounds is this delightfully restored hamlet that the queen regarded as her retreat from the hectic life of palace activities. It is truly a peaceful retreat and a complete departure from the opulence of the palace. We soon tire of grandiose rooms, halls and paintings and fully appreciated the peace and serenity of the hamlet. Make certain that you include this on your visit to Palace of Versailles
5. Palace of Versailles
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 26,254 reviews
Palace, Trianon Palace, and the estate of Marie-Antoinette: open daily except Mondays and certain public holidays. Gardens and park: open daily.
Reviewed By ATravellingSquirrel
The Palace and Gardens of Versailles cover an area of over 800 hectares. It would be beneficial to plan ahead if you want to visit the palace, the trianon palaces and enjoy some time in the gardens. I would recommend arriving early and getting the "skip the line" tickets as the queue can be a couple of hours long. The audio guide is very informative. We spent the entire day there and managed to cover the following areas: The main palace + The Private Apartments of the Kings - allocate about 2 hours Le Petit Trianon Some parts of Le Grand Trianon The Queen's Hamlet (recommended) Some parts of the garden (consider using the Little Train to save some time getting from the main palace to the Trianon Palaces) Walked through the Musical Gardens on the way back to the main palace And enjoyed the Musical Fountain Show before heading back to Paris Plan your lunch in advance as the restaurants and cafés can be rather crowded. A picnic in the park is a great way to enjoy the surroundings. Consider wearing comfortable shoes.
