From Palace to Hamlet: Versailles through Marie Antoinette's Eyes

Versailles , France

From Palace to Hamlet: Versailles through Marie Antoinette's Eyes

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(1 reviews)

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

tep back in time and experience Versailles through the eyes of Marie Antoinette, the iconic Queen of France. Your private guided tour begins at the magnificent Palace of Versailles, where you’ll explore the lavish apartments and hear fascinating stories about the Sun King and Queen’s life her tastes, and their legendary role in history.

Then, hop aboard a comfortable golf cart to glide comfortably through the royal gardens, specially designed to reflect Marie Antoinette’s love for nature and elegance.

Finally, discover the Petit Trianon, intimate palace where the Queen sought refuge from the formality of court life. Visit the enchanting Queen’s Hamlet — a charming rustic village created by Marie Antoinette herself as a peaceful escape, complete with quaint cottages, a farm, and a lake, showcasing her romantic and unconventional side.

This exclusive tour offers a unique glimpse into the private world of the Sun king and Marie Antoinette, one of history’s most fascinating queens.

Available options

Private Versailles with Garden

Private Transport<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Golf cart for gardens

Private tour

Licensed local guide

Skip-the-line ticket

Audio system

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Meet you in the hotel or at the meeting point in Paris and enjoy a comfortable ride in the private transport

Stop 2

Step beyond the palace walls and discover the world-famous Gardens of Versailles with golf cart — a masterpiece of landscape design and royal ambition. Covering nearly 2,000 acres, these meticulously manicured grounds feature geometric flowerbeds, grand fountains, sculptures, ornamental lakes, and tree-lined paths that stretch as far as the eye can see.

On your tour, your expert guide will share the fascinating history behind the garden’s creation, the symbolism built into its design, and stories of how French royalty used these grounds for entertainment, politics, and leisure. You’ll also learn about the incredible engineering behind the waterworks that power the fountains, many of which are still functioning today.

From sweeping views of the Grand Canal to the hidden beauty of the Groves (Bosquets), this outdoor masterpiece is just as awe-inspiring as the palace itself.

Stop 3

1. Royal Chapel
Begin your journey in the breathtaking Royal Chapel, where French kings once attended daily mass. Admire the soaring vaulted ceilings, marble columns, and Baroque décor that set the stage for royal life.

2. King’s Apartments
Continue into the King’s Apartments, a suite of richly decorated rooms that reveal the grandeur of Louis XIV’s court. Each chamber highlights the monarch’s personal and ceremonial life, from council meetings to royal audiences.

3. Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces)
Next, step into the iconic Hall of Mirrors — the most famous room in Versailles. With its glittering chandeliers, arched mirrors, and views of the palace gardens, it was the setting for grand receptions, balls, and the signing of the Treaty of Versailles.

4. Queen’s Apartments
Conclude the tour in the Queen’s Apartments, once occupied by queens such as Marie Antoinette. These rooms reflect elegance and refinement, offering a glimpse into the private life of the French monarchy.

Step into the world of Marie Antoinette at the Petit Trianon, her private palace hidden within the Versailles estate. Far from the rigid etiquette of court, this elegant retreat became her sanctuary of freedom and intimacy.

Explore her graceful private chambers, stroll through the gardens she redesigned in a natural, romantic style, and feel the atmosphere of the place where the queen sought simplicity, beauty, and escape from royal obligations.

The Petit Trianon reveals Marie Antoinette not as a queen on the throne, but as a woman seeking peace and personal expression.

What's not included

Snacks

Available languages

Audio guide

RU EN FR ES

Guide guide

RU EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Versailles

Versailles is renowned for its opulent palace, the Château de Versailles, which was the seat of political power in France under King Louis XIV. This grand estate, with its stunning gardens and Hall of Mirrors, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. The city itself offers a charming blend of historical significance and modern attractions.

Top Attractions

Château de Versailles

The Château de Versailles is a grand palace and garden that was the principal royal residence of France under King Louis XIV. It is famous for its opulent Hall of Mirrors, stunning gardens, and historical significance.

Historical/Architecture 3-5 hours €20-€30

Musée de l'Histoire de France

This museum, located within the palace, showcases a vast collection of historical artifacts and paintings that tell the story of France from the Middle Ages to the modern era.

Museum 1-2 hours Included with palace ticket

Grand Trianon

The Grand Trianon is a neoclassical palace built by Louis XIV as a retreat from the formalities of court life. It features beautiful gardens and a serene atmosphere.

Architecture 1-2 hours Included with palace ticket

Parc du Château de Versailles

The extensive gardens of the Château de Versailles are a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring beautifully landscaped lawns, fountains, and sculptures.

Nature 2-3 hours €12 (for Musical Gardens or Fountain Shows)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Croissant

A buttery, flaky pastry that is a staple of French breakfasts.

Breakfast Contains gluten and dairy.

Boeuf Bourguignon

A hearty beef stew cooked in red wine with carrots, onions, and herbs.

Dinner Contains beef and gluten.

Crème Brûlée

A rich custard dessert topped with a layer of caramelized sugar.

Dessert Contains dairy and sugar.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the forest Biking through the gardens Picnicking in the gardens Shopping in the markets Visiting the palace and museums Attending local festivals Boating on the Grand Canal Ice skating in the palace grounds

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Versailles due to pleasant weather and the full blooming of the palace gardens. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the historical sites.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Versailles is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unsolicited offers.

Getting there

By air

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport • 40 km (25 miles)

By train

Versailles Château Rive Gauche

By bus

Versailles Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: G7, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Notre-Dame Montreuil Porchefontaine

Day trips

Paris

20 km (12 miles) • Half day to full day

Paris, the capital of France, offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Giverny

45 km (28 miles) • Full day

Giverny is a charming village known for its association with the artist Claude Monet, who lived and worked there. The village is home to Monet's house and gardens, which are open to the public.

Rambouillet

30 km (19 miles) • Half day to full day

Rambouillet is a charming town known for its beautiful forest and historical sites, including the Château de Rambouillet and the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature.

Festivals

Fête de la Musique • June 21st Versailles Classic • June

Pro tips

Book tickets for the palace in advance to avoid long queues.
Visit the palace early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore the gardens and fountains during the Fountain Shows for a spectacular experience.
Try local pastries and coffee at the charming cafes in the city center.
Take a day trip to Paris or Giverny to make the most of your visit.