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Your Essential Versailles Palace Tickets Guide

Last Updated:  2 May 2024

Having visited Versailles Palace numerous times while residing in the region, we've gained valuable insights and practical tips for this guide.

Our frequent visits to the Palace of Versailles allowed us to discover hidden gems and uncover the best ways to navigate this iconic French landmark.

With each visit, we've honed our understanding of the palace's rich history, magnificent gardens, and captivating stories. Now, we're excited to share our experiences and insider knowledge to enhance your own journey through Versailles.

Palace of Versailles © French moments

Admission in Versailles Palace

Visiting one of the world's greatest monuments may seem overwhelming. The good news is that  preparing for a visit to Versailles Palace  is relatively easy when you know what to see and where you need to go! 

Given the monument's vastness, the only challenge might be deciding which places to explore.  It would take several days to see its grand rooms, garden and park, including the delightful hamlet of Marie-Antoinette and the Trianon Palaces. 

Depending on your schedule, some halls and corridors may be crowded, potentially diminishing the overall experience.

This practical guide aims to  assist you in crafting your Versailles Palace tickets experience  beyond the turnstile.

The Palace of Versailles © French Moments

Plan Your Visit Beforehand

A word of advice: plan your visit before you come to Versailles! It's the best way to find out where you need to go and which entrance fee best suits your exploration needs.

Most importantly, you need to know that the Palace of Versailles comprises four distinct areas:

• Le château (the palace)
• Les jardins (the gardens)
• Le domaine de Trianon (Petit Trianon, Grand Trianon, Hameau de la Reine)
• Le parc (the park which extends beyond the estate proper)

These sites have different admission charges.  You can pay for admission to each of the sites or buy combined admission.

Sun King emblem, Palace of Versailles © French Moments

The "Billet Château"

The "Billet Château" gives access only to the Palace of Versailles proper and the gardens (excluding Musical Fountains Show or Musical Gardens days).

The ticket costs €19.50 (online) for the full price and €14.50 (online) for the reduced price.

The "Billet Passeport"

The Billet Passeport gives access to the entire Versailles estate: the Palace, the Trianon Estate (Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, the Queen's Hamlet), the Gardens and the temporary exhibitions.

The time reservation ticket guarantees access to the estate within half an hour of the chosen time.

It costs €21.50 (online) excluding Musical Fountains Show or Musical Gardens days and €28.50 (online) on Musical Fountains Show or Musical Gardens days (2024 prices).

A reduced rate of €10 is available for people entitled to free tickets.

You can buy this ticket on the estate's online ticketing service or at the Château, Grand Trianon or Petit Trianon ticket offices.

Important notes!

• The Billet Passeport ticket does not give access to the shows or the Musical Fountains. 
• All tickets purchased online do not entitle the holder to skip-the-line access.
• The entire Versailles estate is free of charge to visitors on the first Sunday of the month from November to March. 

The 1-year Versailles Pass

If you're staying in Paris or the Ile-de-France region for an extended period, you might be interested in the 1-year Versailles pass.

The subscription makes a return on your money in just two visits to the estate!

You can choose from two offers (2024 prices):

• The SOLO pass (valid for the subscriber alone) for €55
• The DUO pass (valid for the subscriber and a guest of their choice) for 90€.

This season ticket entitles you to:

• quick entry to the Palace and the Grand Trianon thanks to priority  access simply by presenting your season ticket (excluding security checks).
• unlimited free access to the gardens (even on the Musical Fountains Show or Musical Gardens days), the Trianon domain and temporary exhibitions.
• preferential rates for shops, restaurants and activities on the estate.
• take advantage of a cultural programme (tours, lectures, etc.) reserved for the 1-year pass holders.

Guided Tours Tickets

Our most memorable experience of exploring the Versailles Palace was through a guided tour, made possible with our Versailles tickets .

Embarking on a guided tour at the Versailles Palace offers an enriching and hassle-free experience for visitors eager to delve into the history and grandeur of this iconic French landmark.

With expert guides leading the way, you'll gain unique insights into the opulent interiors, majestic gardens, and fascinating stories behind each room and monument.

From the glittering Hall of Mirrors to the tranquil retreats of the Trianon estate, guided tours ensure you make the most of your time, navigating seamlessly through the vast expanse of Versailles.

With skip-the-line access and priority entry facilitated by our Versailles tickets, you'll bypass long queues, maximising your time to immerse yourself in the splendour of Versailles.

Moreover, knowledgeable guides bring history to life, offering captivating narratives and anecdotes that enrich your understanding of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Versailles Estate's 4 Areas

Let's learn more about each of the four areas with admission charges and opening times:

Versailles Palace 'proper'

A tour of Versailles Palace includes the Marble Court, the King's and Queen's Grand Apartments, the History Gallery, the Hall of Mirrors, the Battle Gallery and the Royal Chapel.

The Palace ( le château ) is open every day except Monday, from 9am to 6.30pm in high season (April to October) and from 9am to 5.30pm in low season (November to March).

Last admission 30 minutes before closing time.

Where to get your ticket?

Due to the large number of visitors, remember to buy your Versailles tickets online, as only online booking guarantees you access to the Palace.

• If you have a ticket, go directly to Entrance A of the Palace.
• If you still wish to buy tickets on site, go to the ticket office on your left, in the South Ministers' wing ( Aile des Ministres Sud ). Once you have your ticket, proceed to Entrance A.
• If you are entitled to free admission, you will still need to book a free time slot on the online ticketing service to gain access to the Palace.
• If you would like to book a guided tour , book online and go to the dedicated area in the North Ministers' Wing ( Aile des Ministres Nord ), on your right in the Cour d'Honneur.

Allow at least an hour and a half for your visit.

The Gardens

Access to the gardens is free in low season.

During the high season, from 29 March to 31 October, admission to the gardens is subject to a charge on the Musical Fountains Show or Musical Gardens days (Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, as well as on a few additional dates, including public holidays).

The gardens of Versailles Palace © French Moments

In this case, you need to buy a Passport ticket online (access to the entire estate) or a Musical Fountains Show or Musical Gardens ticket (at the entrance to the gardens or preferably online).

Opening times

The gardens are open every day from 8am to 8.30pm in the high season (April to October) and from 8am to 6pm in the low season (November to March), except for exceptional events and the Musical Fountains Show days (closing at 5.30pm).

At Versailles, you should always be aware that the gardens may close for exceptional events at 5.30 pm (last entry at 5 pm).

Good to know!

To get to the gardens, there's no need to go inside the palace first. 

When you arrive in front of the palace, head straight for the gardens by going to the top left of the Cour d'Honneur (via the Cour des Princes).

The Trianon Domain

The site includes the palaces of the Petit Trianon and the Grand Trianon, as well as the Hamlet of Marie-Antoinette ( Hameau de la Reine ).

Petit Trianon © French Moments

The site is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 12pm to 6.30pm in high season (April to October) and from 12pm to 5.30pm in low season (November to March).

How to get there

The Trianon estate is off-centre from the palace proper, which is more than 2 km / 1.3 mi away. There are three ways to get to the Trianon estate from here:

• On foot through the gardens (about 30 minutes' walk)
• Aboard the Petit Train : get on at the Château stop (north terrace of the gardens) and get off at the Grand Trianon stop (approximately 20 minutes' journey - Full fare: €8.50, reduced fare €6.50 and return fare only €4.60).
• By electric car from the south terrace of the gardens (main entrance to the gardens - €34/hour)

Hameau de Marie-Antoinette, Versailles © French Moments

Access to the Trianon estate is only possible via the Grand Trianon entrance. 

To make the most of your visit, allow at least 3 hours.

Good news! The park is free for all visitors coming on foot.

The Park is open free of charge every day from 7am to 8.30pm in high season (April to October). Last admission: 8pm for pedestrians.

The park of Versailles © French Moments

The Park is open free of charge from 8am to 6pm in low season (November to March). Last admission: 5.30pm.

It's an ideal place to go for a walk, hire a boat on the Grand Canal, go cycling...

Visit Versailles Palace for free

The entire estate, including Versailles Palace and the Trianon domain, is open to visitors free of charge on the first Sunday of every month from November to March .

On this occasion, you must reserve a time slot to visit the Palace. As for the Trianon domain, it is accessible without reservation.

Some visitors are entitled to free admission, including :

• those  under 26 residing in the European Union.
• and those under 18 (residing outside the European Union).

Valid proof of identity is required for free admission. 

Please note: if you are eligible for free admission, you will still need to book a free time slot on the online ticketing service to gain access to the Palace.

Versailles Palace from the gardens © French Moments

Versailles Palace: Insider Insights

What is the optimal time to experience Versailles Palace during your Parisian escapades?

With nearly fifteen million annual visitors, navigating the opulent halls can feel daunting.

However, you can make the most of your visit with some strategic planning.

The long queue for the palace © French Moments

Schedule a mid-week visit

Firstly, consider scheduling your trip midweek, preferably from Wednesday to Friday.

These days, there are typically fewer crowds, ensuring a smoother exploration of the palace's grand interiors.

To bypass long queues, purchasing tickets online grants direct access at Entrance A, allowing you to dive straight into your Versailles adventure.

The marble courtyard © French Moments

Arrive early

Arriving early is key. Start your day with a palace tour, then head to the Trianon estate, which opens at 12:30 pm.

Explore the Petit and Grand Trianon before wandering through the Queen's Hamlet.

With the bulk of your day dedicated to Versailles, you'll have ample time to appreciate its beauty and grandeur.

Railings at Versailles © French Moments

Which days are the least crowded?

Mondays witness palace closure but offer free access to the park, while Sundays and Tuesdays tend to be busier.

Wednesdays and Thursdays are optimal days for a visit, with fewer crowds and smoother navigation.

Keep in mind, though, that the garden fountains, a must-see spectacle, operate on alternate days.

For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting in the late afternoon, after 4 pm. Many tourists have departed by then, allowing you to explore the palace leisurely.

Just remember, the last entry is at 6 pm during peak season.

In the gardens of Trianon © French Moments

Share the Versailles Palace!

Did you enjoy reading this post about Versailles Palace? If so, please share it on Facebook or X (formerly Twitter). If you have any more advice regarding a visit to the Palace of Versailles, write a comment below!

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About the author

Pierre is a French/Australian who is passionate about France and its culture. He grew up in France and Germany and has also lived in Australia and England. He has a background teaching French, Economics and Current Affairs, and holds a Master of Translating and Interpreting English-French with the degree of Master of International Relations, and a degree of Economics and Management. Pierre is the author of Discovery Courses and books about France.

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There's no better place to experience the majesty of Louis XIV's France than the royal estate at Versailles — the stunning chateau, magnificent gardens, the fountains, the stunning Hall of Mirrors. It's an experience not to miss. It's also immensely popular. To skip the long lines, we always book a skip-the-line tour with an expert guide who makes the past come alive. Let's look at our top recommendations, all of which include transportation from Paris.

Our Top-Rated Versailles Experiences

1. The Best of Versailles with Priority Access & Gardens… Our #1 choice

2. Versailles Guided Half-Day Tour with Skip-the-Line Entry… With an expert interpreter/guide

3. Full-Day Bike Tour + Skip-the-Line Chateau Access… Visit Versailles on two wheels

4. Visit Versailles + Monet's Gardens at Giverny… On one glorious day trip

1. The Best of Versailles with VIP Entry…

2. Versailles Guided Half-Day Tour…

3. Versailles Bike Tour & Chateau…

4. Visit Versailles + Monet's Gardens at Giverny…

1. The Best of Versailles with Priority Access

This is our number-one choice for a priority-access visit to Versailles. Instead of worrying about trains & tickets, choose to visit Versailles this easy and relaxing way. From central Paris it's a quick ride to the palace, where you arrive refreshed and ready to explore. There, you begin to discover the opulence, beauty, and history of the palace on a skip-the-line guided tour.

What we like about this Versailles activity is that you can include a guided visit to the Queen's Hamlet , Marie Antoinette's fantasy rustic farm. You also visit the Petit Trianon , the mini-palace where Louis XV and Louis XVI liked to relax and escape hectic court life. Be sure to choose the full-day, 9½-hour option to truly experience the best of Versailles,s

1. Palace of Versailles + Marie Antoinette Tour

2. Versailles Half-Day, Skip-the-Line Tour

The day begins in central Paris where you meet your driver for a small-group (maximum eight people), priority-access visit to Versailles. A professional guide introduces you to the best rooms in the chateaux, including Hall of Mirrors and the Royal Apartments. There is still plenty of time for you to explore the amazing gardens.

Features of the Tour

3. versailles by bike.

This tour is immensely popular with visitors… and with Paris Insiders Guide readers. It starts in Paris, where you meet up with your expert guide and catch the RER urban train to Versailles. There you pick up your bike. First stop — the bustling city market to buy ingredients for lunch. Then you ride through the gardens of the Chateau de Versailles , along tree-lined trails, past fountains, through the forest, leaving walkers behind!

The French royal families used to enjoy picnics by the Grand Canal, and that's exactly what you will do. You're not done yet, there's still the palace itself to explore before you return to Paris on the RER. The 9-hour tour includes everything. This activity runs in most months, with a break from December to February.

4. Your Own Private Versailles

Versailles looks even better when you're on a private tour. Your driver picks you up at your Paris address for a quick trip directly to the royal estate where priority entrance gets you past the long ticket lines. Inside, you'll be guided to areas previously seen only by dignitaries. See the Hall of Mirrors, the king and queen's private residences, and many other rooms. There's even time to explore the magnificent gardens.

More To Know About Visiting Versailles

The Fountains of Versailles

Water has been an important design feature of the royal estate since the very beginning. In its heyday, there were 2,400 fountains operating in the garden and park. Today there are only 50, yet they still contribute to the glory of Versailles. Come with us on a virtual stroll as we visit the most popular fountains as well as other important water features.

Versailles' Gardens & Park

The Versailles estate covers nearly 2,000 acres and includes the chateau (natch), a collection of formal gardens, and a large woodland park. Learn about these gardens and the park in our guide. By the way, did you know entrance to the gardens is (usually) free?

Versailles – Its History & The Top 5 Highlights

Before you hop in the Eurovan and head out for the royal estate, it's nice to know a bit about its history. Like, who built Versailles? And, who lived there? We also share five highlights of Versailles that you don't want to miss.

9 Things We Learned on Our Skip-the-Line Tour

When you don't have to stand in a long lineup you have more time to learn fascinating details about Versailles. Here are nine things we learned on our recent visit.

The Restaurants of Versailles

It really takes a full day to explore Versailles. (For instance, it takes an hour to walk from the chateau to the far end of the Grande Canal. Plus there is the Trianon & Marie Antoinette's toy farm to to explore.) So, you're going to need refreshments, bathroom breaks, and rest. Taking time for a meal in one of the eateries on site will take care of all three of those needs.

On a recent visit to Versailles we had a chance to explore the options — from a high-end restaurant to a tea salon to casual dining. We'll share our findings.

Find Hotel Deals for Your Dates in France

Versailles resources.

View a Large Map of the Gardens and Park …

The chateau itself is open daily (except Mondays) from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Plan for a minimum ninety minutes for your visit. During the summer months, it's certainly recommended to arrive by 9 AM to avoid the crowds. (The crowds are why we recommend skip-the-Line tours .

Trianon Palaces and Marie-Antoinette's Estate

These include the Petit Trianon, the Grand Trianon and the Queen's Hamlet. Hours are noon to 6:30. Always closed on Mondays.

It's the perfect place for a walk, renting a boat on the Grand Canal, going for a bike ride. The Park is open free of charge daily from 7 AM to 8:30 PM. In the winter months the park opens at 8 AM and closes at 6 PM.

The Gardens

The gardens are also free of charge except for days when there are a fountains show or Musical Gardens show. The gardens are open daily from 8 AM to 8:30 PM, closing at 6 PM in the winter months. Sometimes the gardens close at 5:30 for special events. Plan for at least 2 hours for your visit.

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Best Palace of Versailles Tours

• See & Do
• Palace of Versailles
• Versailles Palace Tours from Paris

The 10 Best Versailles Palace Tours from Paris for 2024

Are you planning to visit the Palace of Versailles from Paris?  

If so, you may be wondering:  what is the easiest, most stress-free way to get to Versailles, and how can you get the most out of your experience - especially if you want to avoid wasting time in the notoriously long lines at the Chateau's entrance?

Most Popular Paris Day Trips to Palace of Versailles

These top-rated day trips from Paris to Versailles fill up fast, so book early to get the dates you want:

Popular Versailles day trips with transportation from Paris:

• Palace of Versailles & Gardens - Audio tour; choose a full-day or half-day trip
• Versailles Skip-the-Line Guided Tour & Gardens  - Optional garden tour
• Versailles Bike Tour with Palace & Queen's Farm Entrance  - Highly-rated
• Giverny & Versailles Guided Day Trip - See 2 iconic attractions in one day

Traveling to Versailles on your own?  Book a ticket with a reserved time slot for fast entry:

• Versailles Palace & Gardens Full Access Ticket - Includes entire Estate, including 3 palaces, the gardens (including Musical Gardens or Fountain show from April-October), & Marie-Antoinette's Hameau (farm and village)

Fortunately, you can choose from many excellent guided Palace of Versailles tours from Paris that allow you to go through a special priority fast-track entrance gate for use only by group tours. 

In case you're wondering if the priority fast-track entrance is worth the extra cost, this is what the lines can look when you're waiting to go through the regular non-priority entrance:

Some of the priority fast-track entrance options from Paris include transportation on comfortable air-conditioned coaches.  

For others, you'll meet your guide in Paris and go to Versailles together on the train. 

However, sorting through all the tour choices and options can be challenging, especially if you're planning your first or even your second visit. 

To make choosing the best tour for you easy, we've compiled a list of the 10 best Versailles Palace tours from Paris in 4 different categories:

• Versailles Tours with Included Bus or Train Transport
• Guided Tours of Versailles - You take the train to Versailles on your own
• Guided Bike Tours of Versailles & Its Estate - You meet your group in Paris and travel together to/from Versailles on the train
• Guided Combo Tours of Versailles Plus Giverny or Fontainbleau with transport included

Top photo: A guided tour in the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles, (c) Paris Discovery Guide

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Best Guided Tours of the Palace of Versailles with Transportation from Paris

These guided tours of Versailles departing from Paris eliminate all the guesswork and stress of getting there and back on your own. Plus, you get fast entry through the dedicated tour-only gate. 

These tours are perfect for when you want maximum convenience plus the knowledge and insights of an expert guide.

1.  From Paris: Full Day Guided Tour of Versailles with Lunch & Transportation

The highly-rated Full-Day Guided Tour of Versailles starts with a comfortable trip by air-conditioned coach from Paris. 

Your expert guide will whisk you through a special entrance  and take you on a tour of the most spectacular Palace rooms, such as the magnificent Hall of Mirrors. You'll get to enjoy entertaining stories about the history of Versailles and life at the Royal Palace as you explore the Sun King's home.

After your Palace tour, you'll have free time to stroll through the beautiful formal Palace Gardens, where you'll have lunch at around noon. 

During the afternoon, your guide will show you Versailles' other most important sights: the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Marie Antoinette's Estate including her charming Hamlet before your relaxing return to Paris by bus.

2.  Skip-the-Line Versailles Palace Guided Tour by Train from Paris

You'll meet your guide for the Skip-the-Line Versailles Palace Tour by Train in central Paris and travel together to the famous Chateau. 

After passing quickly through the priority entrance reserved for tour groups, your 3-hour journey through the opulent Palace begins.  

Your knowledgeable guide will keep you informed and entertained as you visit the Royal Apartments, Hall of Mirrors, and other opulent rooms, as well as the spectacular gardens.  Depending on the day of the week, you'll see the enchanting Musical Gardens or Musical Fountains show. 

After your tour, you can head straight back to Paris on the train if your schedule is tight.  But if you have enough time for a longer visit, you can linger in the gardens, walk around the Grand Canal, and perhaps even enjoy a delicious French dinner in a nearby bistro before taking the train to Paris.

3.  Versailles Palace & Gardens: Ticket, Audio Guide, & Bus from Paris

If you want the convenience of bus transportation to and from Paris but prefer audio guides or exploring independently rather than taking a guided tour, then the Versailles Palace & Gardens: Ticket, Audio Guide, & Bus from Paris may be an excellent choice for you. 

You can choose a half-day (with morning or afternoon arrival) or a full day at the Chateau.  For the half-day afternoon tour, your ticket will give you access to the Palace and Gardens, where you can experience a Musical Fountains show or Musical Gardens on days when they take place. 

When you choose the full-day excursion, you will also get access to the Grand and Petit Trianons, as well as to Marie Antoinette's Estate.  All options include an audio guide.

A host will accompany you on the air-conditioned bus from Paris and make sure you get through the skip-the-line entry to the Palace.  From there, you can spend your time discovering all the exciting wonders of this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site.

More about Visiting the Palace of Versailles

• Top Things to See & Do at the Palace of Versailles - Plus visitor tips
• Best Ways to Get from Paris to Versailles Palace
• Best Hotels & Apartments near the Palace of Versailles

4.  From Paris: Day Trip to Giverny & Versailles

To visit both Claude Monet's home and gardens at Giverny as well as the Palace of Versailles in one day from Paris, this small group Giverny & Versailles Guided Day Trip makes that easy to do, thanks to the included transportation on a comfortable air-conditioned coach.

You'll tour Giverny at your own pace with a self-guided audio app.  After a quick lunch break, you'll head to Versailles where you'll have a guided tour of the Palace's most famous rooms, and then explore the beautiful gardens on your own.

The Giverny portion of the tour includes a ticket to Monet's house and gardens.  At Versailles, your ticket also admits you to the Palace and Gardens. 

Best Skip-the-Line Guided Tours of the Palace of Versailles

For these tours, you'll take the train on your own from Paris to Versailles, and then meet your guide after you exit the station.  Together, you'll walk to the Chateau and because you're with a guide, you get the benefit of entering quickly through the guided tour-only gate. 

5.  Versailles Palace: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour 

The Versailles Palace: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour is perfect if you want to explore the spectacular Palace with an expert and learn a bit about Louis XIV (the "Sun King"), Marie Antoinette, and the leading members of the French monarchy who once lived here. 

After you meet your guide and go into the Palace through the priority entrance, your guide will introduce you to this architectural masterpiece.  Then, as you explore the most important rooms, such as the elaborate King's and Queen's Royal Apartments and the magnificent Hall of Mirrors, your guide will point out treasures you might not see on your own. 

When you book:  You can choose to do this tour with a group or as a private experience.

After your tour, you can continue exploring the Palace on your own, but please note: this tour does not include access to the Gardens.  If you want to also tour the sumptuous Gardens, with or without a guide, during the period when the Musical Garden and Musical Fountains shows take place, you'll need a ticket - so check out the following option below!

6. Versailles Palace & Gardens: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Like the previous tour, the Versailles Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Guided Tour includes fast entry to the Palace through the priority gate used by tour guides.  You also get a fascinating guided tour of the Palace's most important rooms and can choose between a group and a private experience.

But here's the difference:  This offer also includes a ticket to the statue-filled Royal Gardens (on days when they're not free) where you can see beautiful flowers and ornate fountains.  Your ticket to the Gardens also includes Musical Fountains or Musical Gardens, depending on the day.

When you book your ticket, you can include a guided tour of the Gardens - or choose just to get an entry ticket and explore on your own.

When Can You Enter Versailles' Royal Gardens for Free? 

Currently, free entry days include Wednesdays during September and October, and every day from November through March. 

What happens on the other days?   Musical Fountains shows take place on Saturdays and Sundays from late May through October and on Bastille Day (July 14).  Musical Gardens take place on Tuesdays through Fridays during July and August, and on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays during September and October.

When you choose a tour ticket that includes admission to the Gardens on a day when Musical Fountains or Musical Gardens take place, you get to experience these special events.

Best Guided Bike Tours of Versailles

Versailles's mostly flat terrain and expansive grounds makes this the perfect location for bike tours. 

7.  Versailles Bike Tour with Palace & Queen's Farm Entrance

On the Versailles Bike Tour with Palace & Queen's Farm Entrance,  you'll meet up with your guide and the rest of your tour group in Paris and take the train together to Versailles. 

Once there, you'll visit the traditional farmers' market to pick up cheese, fruits, and charcuterie for a picnic lunch later in the day by the Grand Canal.

After a quick stop to pick up your bike (plus rain ponchos, just in case!), you're off to cycle around the Chateau's landscaped parklands and sumptuous gardens.   With over 2,000 acres, the place is enormous - so you'll appreciate having both a guide and a bike! 

Your guide will also take you to see the smaller palaces of the Grand and Petit Trianons as well as Marie-Antoinette's Hameau, her rustic village, and her farm.  Meanwhile, your guide will share lots of information about the incredible places you're seeing as well as the colorful French kings and queens who once lived there.

Finally, you'll visit the Palace of Versailles with the skip-the-line entry ticket included as part of your tour.  This portion of the trip is on your own, so you can use the included audio guide and explore the Hall of Mirrors and other opulent rooms at your own pace before heading back to Paris on the train.

8.  Paris: Versailles Sunset Bike Tour with Fireworks Show (& After-Hours Palace Entrance!)

The seasonal (late spring through early fall) Paris: Versailles Sunset Bike Tour with Fireworks Show  gives you three phenomenal experiences:

1. The spectacular evening Fountains Show in Versailles' Royal Gardens

2. Exclusive after-hours admission to the Palace where you'll see costumed performers and musicians as they sing, dance, and play musical instruments as you explore the Royal Chambers and other famous rooms without encountering crowds of other visitors.

3.  An unforgettable fireworks display over the Grand Canal.

In addition, you'll have plenty of time to ride your bike around the Estate with your guide and see the famous gardens, the Petit Trianon and Grand Trianon, and Marie-Antoinette's Hamlet.  You'll even enjoy a picnic dinner.

Similar to the previous daytime tour by bike, you'll meet your guide in central Paris and go together to Versailles on the train.  Once you reach Versailles and pick up your bike, you'll head to the market square to pick up food for a picnic dinner.

Once you reach the Palace grounds, you'll explore the estate, with stops at Marie-Antoinette's Hameau, the Petit and Grand Trianons, and finally the Grand Canal, where you'll enjoy your picnic dinner. 

Finally, you'll get after-hours entrance to the Palace and Gardens, where the magical evening entertainment unfolds.

After the fireworks, you'll return to Paris by train where your tour ends.

Want to bike from Paris to Versailles?  Find out how

Best Combo Tours of Versailles + Giverny or Fontainbleau

When your schedule allows time for only one day trip from Paris, these guided tours from Paris let you experience Versailles and Giverny or Versailles and Fontainbleau in a single day. 

9. Versailles & Giverny Day Tour with Lunch at Moulin de Fourges

Giverny & Versailles Day Tour with Lunch - Medium (14 or less) group tour in a minibus. 

When you arrive at Giverny, you'll explore Impressionist artist Claude Monet's home, gardens, and the ponds where water lilies inspired his most famous paintings.

After enjoying a delicious 3-course lunch with wine at Moulin de Fourges, a restaurant in a delightful old mill house by a scenic river about 5 miles from Giverny, you'll head to Versailles, where an art historian will lead you on a guided tour of the most famous rooms including the Hall of Mirrors.  Headsets will be provided to enable you to hear the guide. 

This tour also includes access to Versailles' magnificent gardens,  which means you'll get to see the Fountain Show or Musical Gardens on the days when they're available.

Please note: the private option mentioned in the "Includes" section of online description appears to not be available at the current time.

10.  Versailles Palace & Château de Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau, like Versailles, is a magnificent palace which grew from a modest medieval hunting lodge.  The Palace overlooks a large lake and spectacular gardens including the largest formal garden in Europe.  It has served as a residence for numerous French rulers including 34 kings and two emperors from the 12th through the 19th century. 

The best way to see both Versailles and Fontainebleau in a single day is to sign up for a Chateau de Fontainbleau & Chateau de Versailles Private Tour.

Your driver/guide will pick you up at your hotel, will first take you to the Chateau de Fontainebleau for a private tour of the magnificent palace, where you'll also see Napoleon's Throne.  

More Articles about Visiting the Palace of Versailles

• Where to Stay near the Palace of Versailles
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• Skip the Line Tickets - Where to get them
• Easy Day Trips from Paris - Versailles, Giverny, Mont Saint Michel, D-Day Normandy Beaches, Disneyland Paris, Champagne tastings, Loire Valley castles, London, Bruges, & more!

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The BEST Tours of Versailles

Surrounded by peaceful countryside and beautiful gardens just outside of Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a 16th-century masterpiece. It began as the hunting lodge of King Louis XII before being expanded massively by Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King, who was known to use the palace as a refuge for his many lovers. The magnificently manicured Gardens of Versailles, designed by André Le Nôtre, are just as impressive and were once a playground for famous kings and queens before the estate was reclaimed by the people after the French Revolution in 1789. Walk in the footsteps of Marie Antoinette at her Trianon Estate, see the Hall of Mirrors where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, take a peek at the Grand Apartments once home to royalty, and discover hidden groves to relax in as you explore the vast Versailles Gardens. Just book your ideal date and let our passionate Versailles guides do the rest!

Don’t miss the epic palace and gardens of Versailles, with easy transport from Paris, skip-the-line entry & top-rated guides!

7 Tours Found

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Ultimate Palace of Versailles Tour from Paris

Breeze past the lines for the palace and gardens with a friendly English speaking guide

Versailles Gardens Tour from Paris with Skip the Line Palace Access

Guided tour of the gardens and the château, and round-trip transportation from Paris

Private Golden Versailles Palace and Garden Tour

Travel to Versailles from Paris for a private tour with free time in the gardens and Trianon Estate

Versailles Palace Skip-the-Line Tour

Delve into the history of France's opulent monarchy with an expert, friendly guide

Versailles Bike Tour from Paris

See the best of the palace and gardens & enjoy a picnic with Parisian delicacies

Monet’s House and Palace of Versailles Day Trip

Trade Paris' bustling streets for the tranquil village of Giverny and the Palace of Versailles

Beat the Traffic Half-Day Versailles Tour by Sidecar Motorcycle

Ride through Paris to visit the Palace of Versailles grounds, Marie Antoinette’s Temple, and more

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Guided tours upon request

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The tours upon request explained below give you :

 A  time slot for direct access to the Palace,

 Speaking rights for your guide.

Consult the every ticket in one look.

See conditions for free admission

Please don't forget to check our pratical guide about Speaking zones for self-guided groups. 

+33 (0)1 30 83 04 05 or [email protected] 

Conditions of sales

Self-guided tours of the State Apartments

• With your own guide (including speaking rights)
• Access to the main circuits: the State Apartments, the Dauphin’s Apartment, Louis XV’s Daughters’ Apartments, the Palace Police Room, the Captain of the Guard’s Apartment, the Hall of Mirrors, the Gallery of Coaches, the Gallery of Sculptures and Casts, and the exhibitions
• During public opening hours

View the general conditions of sale .

Bookings at: +33 (0)1 30 83 04 05, on site or on the online ticket office.

All groups of 5 or more (except for school groups and special audiences) must be equipped with audiophones , whether inside the palace or in the grounds. If you don't have your own equipment, you can hire it on site, by phone or by selecting the Audiophone product in the online ticket office.

€21 per person 30 people maximum

Passport Add-on

In addition to the Self-Guided tours of the State Apartments  ticket, this offer will give you access to:

• The Estate of Trianon: Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet
• The Gardens, including on Musical Fountains Show and Musical Garden days

Information on prices and bookings on site or by phone at: +33 (0)1 30 83 04 05 .

All groups (except for school groups and special audiences) must be equipped with audiophones , whether inside the palace or in the grounds. If you don't have your own equipment, you can hire it on site, by phone or by selecting the Audiophone product in the online ticket office.

30 people maximum

Self-guided tours of the Private Apartments

• With your own guide, specially trained for these tours
• Visit the Private Apartments of Louis XV – Louis XVI, the Royal Opera House and the Royal Chapel (not open to the public on unaccompanied tours)
• Admission to the main circuits: the State Apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, Louis XV's daughters Apartments, the Coach Gallery and exhibitions

Access new guidelines for reception of groups

See the terms and conditions of sale  and the practical guide for self-guided tours .

Booking by email  [email protected] .

600 € for groups of 8 to 25 people

300 € for groups of 7 people or less

Guided tours

• Led by a tour guide from the Palace of Versailles
• Tours of different parts of the Palace depending on the theme, such as the State Apartments or the Hall of Mirrors, and areas not open to the public on unaccompanied tours.
• After the tour, visitors have access to all the sites of the Estate.

Book online

Consult the practical guide for guided tours .

Tour : 1h30 600 € per group 25 people maximum per group

Private Tours

• Customized tours of areas that are not open to the public on unaccompanied tours
• After the tour, visitors have access to all the areas of the Estate + the Fountain Shows depending on the day of their visit.

Tour : 1h30

1000 € per group

25 people maximum

Prestige Tours

• An exceptional visit with a tour guide from the Palace of Versailles
• Access to the main areas of the Palace : the State Apartments, the Hall of Mirrors ...
• Outside of public opening times

Reservation request by e-mail at:  [email protected]

Price on request

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