How to Visit Versailles on A Day Trip from Paris – Full Itinerary

Let them eat cake!

A day trip to Versailles from Paris is sure to make Marie Antoinette proud.

This former palace of the Sun King is an exquisite example of 18th-century French architecture, a favorite destination for tourists worldwide.

With a day trip to Versailles, you can get an up-close look at some of France’s most stunning architecture and experience the grandeur of French royalty.

And since it’s so close to Paris and so easy to get to, there’s no excuse not to go.

As a Paris local, I love to visit Versailles and see all the things that make it so special. It’s one of my favorite day trips from Paris, aside from Monet’s Garden in Giverny and the Champagne region of France.

I know the best tips and tricks for visiting Versailles, and the most convenient ways to get to and from the city.

In this article, I will give you an overview of what you can expect as a day tripper to Versailles, how to get there, and some tour options for visiting the palace.

About Versailles

Versailles is a commune in the western suburbs of Paris, France, in the Yvelines department. It is famous for its palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Château de Versailles.

The palace gardens of André Le Nôtre are another of Versailles’ main attractions.

This historic city has a long history that dates back to 1623 when it was built by King Louis XIII. Once the home to the famous Marie Antoinette and King Louis XIV, it was the seat of power in France for over a century.

Today, Versailles is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe with more than 8 million visitors each year.

Visitors flock to the city from all over the world to explore its many sights and get a firsthand glimpse into the life of French royalty.

Planning a trip to Paris? Check out all my Paris articles, recommendations & resources here 👈

The iconic Palace of Versailles

The main highlight is the Château de Versailles, also known as the Sun King’s palace.

It was built by Louis XIV and served as the royal residence until the French Revolution in 1789. Visitors today can tour this impressive palace and explore its many magnificent rooms, such as the Hall of Mirrors, Grand Trianon, and Petit Trianon.

The palace is also home to the Royal Opera, where performances are held regularly, as well as the Queen’s Hamlet and Marie Antoinette’s Estate of Trianon.

What to expect in Versailles

Versailles looks very similar to Paris, except a lot more clean and a lot less chaotic.

The streets are lined with shops and restaurants, and the city is home to many museums, galleries, and churches. The architecture is a blend of traditional and modern, and the city features many parks, gardens, and green spaces.

When visiting Versailles, you can expect a lot less crowds than in Paris. Even during peak season, there won’t be long queues at the ticket office or entrance to the palace (not too long, at least).

You can also use your Paris Museum Pass to get an entrance ticket without paying any additional cost.

Is visiting Versailles worth it?

Visiting Versailles is absolutely worth it! It is one of the most impressive palaces in the world and a must-see for anyone visiting Paris.

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There are so many things to see, including magnificent gardens, the estate of Trianon, Marie Antoinette’s hamlet, and much more. Even if you only have one day to spare, it is definitely worth it to make a day trip from Paris to Versailles.

And since it’s so close to Paris, there’s really no reason not to make a stop in Versailles while visiting the French capital.

⚡ Related read: How to visit London on a day trip from Paris

Things to do in Versailles

Tour the Château de Versailles (Versailles Palace)

The most obvious thing to do in Versailles is visit the iconic Château de Versailles and explore its many rooms, including the Hall of Mirrors and Grand Trianon. You can also take a guided tour for an up-close look at this magnificent palace.

I recommend this guided tour of the Palace of Versailles which includes roundtrip transportation to and from your hotel in Paris. You’ll also get an audio guide to listen to during your tour (available in multiple languages) and have access to the Palace Gardens.

Stroll through the Grand Trianon

The Grand Trianon is another popular attraction in Versailles. Located within the palace grounds, it is a smaller version of the main palace and was built in 1670 for King Louis XIV’s private use. Today, it is open to visitors who can explore its many rooms filled with art and antiques from the era.

Explore the Hall of Mirrors

The Hall of Mirrors is one of my favorite parts of the Versailles Palace. This stunning hall is filled with 357 mirrors and 17 marble arches that reflect the beauty of the palace. It was once used for grand royal ceremonies as well as other state occasions.

Walk around the Gardens of Versailles

The gardens of Versailles are something special, too! You can take a leisurely stroll through the sprawling grounds of the palace and admire its sculptures, fountains, and ponds. The gardens are also home to the famous musical show each summer, which is definitely worth checking out.

They even have music festivals here in the summer!

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Visit Eglise Notre Dame de Versailles

Notre Dame is another must-see in Versailles. Located just outside the city walls, this impressive building dates back to 1163 and is well worth a visit. Inside, you will find an impressive altar and stained glass windows.

Tour the Opéra Royal de Versailles

Nearby the Château de Versailles is the stunning Opéra Royal. This impressive building dates back to 1770 and serves as a venue for concerts, plays, and performances throughout the year. It also houses an amazing collection of art and antiques from the royal court.

See Marie Antoinette’s Estate

The spirit of the famous Marie Antoinette lingers in her Estate of Trianon. This delightful estate is filled with pretty gardens, pavilions, and other attractions. It is a great way to spend the day exploring the life and times of Marie Antoinette.

Check out the Queen’s Hamlet

The Queen’s Hamlet is a separate estate located in the gardens of Versailles. It was built by Marie Antoinette as a retreat from court life and is now open to visitors. This charming hamlet includes rustic cottages, barns, and other buildings, making it a great place for a romantic stroll.

Tour the Gallery of Coaches

Located in the Great Stables of the Palace of Versailles is the impressive Gallery of Coaches. This collection features more than 100 royal coaches from the 17th and 18th centuries, making it a great place for history buffs to explore!

Picnic in the Park of Versailles

After touring the palace and its grounds, it is time for a picnic in the Park of Versailles. This lovely park offers plenty of space to spread out and enjoy your lunch or dinner with friends. There are also plenty of benches where you can sit and relax surrounded by nature.

Admire the Fountain of Apollo

Located inside the Parc de Versailles is the iconic Fountain of Apollo. This impressive fountain was built in 1668 and is surrounded by statues of gods and goddesses. It is a great spot to admire the beauty of nature while you are visiting Versailles.

How to get to Versailles from Paris

Getting to Versailles is simple: the easiest and most convenient way to get to Versailles from Paris is by train. You can take the RER C train line from central Paris, which takes about 30-45 minutes each way depending on where you’re coming from.

Alternatively, you can also take the train line L which takes about 1 hour each way. To save time and avoid long lines, it’s best to purchase tickets in advance either online or at the ticket office. A one-way ticket from the Paris city center to the Versailles station will cost you about 4 euros.

If you’ve purchased a Navigo pass or multiple-day transport pass, you can also use them to access the train line.

Once you arrive at the Versailles-Chantiers station, it’s about a 17-minute walk to the Palace of Versailles.

The Ultimate Versailles Day Trip itinerary

To make the most of your day trip to Versailles, consider the following itinerary:

8:00 – 9:00 am: Take the RER line C from Saint Lazare station in Paris. It should take you about 30-45 minutes to get there. Have breakfast on the way or plan a picnic lunch in the gardens. I’d recommend grabbing a quick croissant and a coffee at one of the stands inside the Saint Lazare station.

10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Arrive at the Versailles-Chantiers station and walk to the Palace of Versailles. Upon arrival, start your tour of the palace. Make sure to visit the Hall of Mirrors, Grand Trianon, and Petit Trianon. Don’t forget to take the time to admire the beautiful grounds!

Be sure to check in advance if your ticket includes access to the gardens, because not all tickets include that!

💡 Tip: I recommend this skip-the-line entry ticket that includes admission and a guided tour of the Versailles Palace. You’ll enjoy a professionally guided tour of the Castle and Gardens, as well as roundtrip transportation from Paris.

12:00 pm – 1:30 pm: Grab a bite to eat at one of the cafes or restaurants in town. I recommend Le Bistrot du 11 for some modern French food in a cozy diner. Or head to Restaurant Les Quatre Saisons for a more upscale French food experience.

1:30 pm – 3:00 pm: After lunch, explore the Queen’s Hamlet and Marie Antoinette’s Estate of Trianon. The surrounding nature is stunning and worth a visit! It’s also a chill spot to relax and let your lunch digest a bit.

3:00 pm – 4:30 pm: Admire the Fountain of Apollo and wander around the Park of Versailles. This is also a great spot for a picnic with friends if you brought one! You’ll find a bunch of benches around the park where you can sit, but I recommend finding a spot on the grass to fully enjoy nature.

4:30 pm – 5:00 pm: Head back to the Versailles-Chantiers station and take the train back to Paris. Arrive back in Paris around 6:00 pm and end your day trip with a well-deserved dinner!

With this itinerary, you can make the most of your day trip to Versailles from Paris. Have an unforgettable experience exploring the palace, gardens, and charming town of Versailles.

Best tips for visiting Versailles

Book your tickets in advance: The Château de Versailles is a popular destination for obvious reasons, so the ling here can get long. To avoid the wait and maximize your time here, it’s best to book tickets in advance online or at the ticket office.

Get a tour guide: If you want to get an even more immersive experience, consider booking a guided tour.

Many tour companies offer small-group tours or private tours that include transportation from Paris, skip-the-line entry to the palace, and a knowledgeable guide (or audio guide) who can provide insight into the history of the palace.

🎟️ Tour recommendation: My favorite is this guided Versailles tour which includes skip-the-line entry, a guide, and transportation from Paris.

Explore beyond the Palace: While the Palace is definitely a must-see, there’s much more to discover in Versailles. Take some time to explore Marie Antoinette’s Estate or stroll through the beautiful gardens.

Allow enough time: A day trip to Versailles is more than enough to fully explore the palace and grounds. Plan to spend at least two hours here exploring the palace and the grounds – though I’d definitely recommend spending 3 or 4 hours and seeing what Versailles has to offer outside of the palace.

Where to stay in Versailles

A full day in Versailles is generally enough to see all the main points of interest around the palace, but if you have time and want to explore more, consider staying overnight here.

There are a variety of lodging options to suit every budget and style.

You can search through 50+ hotels, apartments, and vacation homes in Versailles here 👇

Here are a few of my top choices for a comfortable stay near the palace:

Hôtel Le Versailles ($$)

Located in Versailles city center, this hotel is just a 1-minute walk from the palace and offers great value for money. It offers air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TV and free WiFi access. All of the rooms are equipped with a shower or bathtub, a hairdryer, and a work desk. A full buffet breakfast is served either in the dining room or on the hotel terrace. Room service is also available upon request.

You can check current rates and availability on Booking.com here.

Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace ($$$)

Located in the center of Versailles, this luxury property offers a unique experience with its antique furniture and original paintings. The Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace Versailles offers rooms and suites in the historic Palace building or the modern designed Pavilion.

Guest rooms have a fireplace and balcony as well as a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. A minibar and tea and coffee facilities are provided in each room and suite. The hotel spreads over 8 acres of greenery and includes two restaurants and a bar.

Guests here have free access to the Spa Guerlain facilities which offer a swimming pool and fitness room.

The Michelin-starred Gordon Ramsay au Trianon Restaurant offers a fine dining experience and an elegant cocktail bar. The hotel’s brasserie, La Véranda, is open all day and offers a view of Versailles.

You can check current rates and availability on Booking.com here.

Thanks for reading!

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I hope this Versailles day trip itinerary was helpful.

With a day trip to Versailles from Paris, you’ll get a glimpse into France’s royal past and experience some of the country’s most stunning architecture. It’s easy to get to and there’s so much to see, so it really is worth spending a couple hours here while visiting Paris.

So book your tickets in advance, grab a train, and explore one of Europe’s most grandiose palaces!

FAQ

Can you do a day trip to Versailles from Paris?

Yes, it’s super simple and very convenient to do a day trip to Versailles from Paris. You can take the train or book one of our tours, which includes transportation and skip-the-line entry.

Is a day trip to Versailles worth it?

Absolutely! Versailles is one of the most impressive palaces in Europe and it’s worth spending a day here to explore. There’s plenty to do, from exploring the grounds and gardens to visiting Marie Antoinette’s Estate and taking a guided tour of the palace.

What are some good hotels near Versailles?

There are a variety of hotels near Versailles to suit your budget and style. We recommend Hôtel Le Versailles or Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace for comfortable stays near the palace.

How long is a day trip from Paris to Versailles?

A day trip to Versailles from Paris typically takes around 2-3 hours. However, you can easily stay for a full day and explore the palace and gardens at your own pace.

Do I need tickets or reservations to visit Versailles?

Yes, you’ll need tickets to enter the palace. You can buy tickets online or get them at the entrance. To avoid long lines, we recommend booking skip-the-line tickets in advance.

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