Paris to Versailles Palace and Gardens Small Group Day Trip

Paris , France

Paris to Versailles Palace and Gardens Small Group Day Trip

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(122 reviews)

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

Experience the glory of Versailles on this tour of the palace and its grounds. Your tour begins in the center of Paris where you'll meet your guide and board a train to Versailles. Once there, you'll enter the palace where your guide will show you some of the most important rooms, including the stunning Hall of Mirrors. Book the VIP King's Apartments Option and gain exclusive access to the King's Private Apartments—an area normally closed to the public.

Available options

Versailles + King's Apartments

VIP Option: Go beyond the public path at Versailles with a fully guided tour and private access to the King’s Private Apartments.

Versailles Day Trip Tour

What's included

Local English-speaking guide

Small group of 15 or fewer

King's Private Apartments (VIP King’s Apartments Option)

Roundtrip train ticket to/from Versailles

Ticket for Palace of Versailles

Expertly guided walking tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your tour begins in the center of Paris where you'll meet your guide and small group of travelers. You'll board a train together for a short ride into the countryside, so you don't have to worry about making your way to Versailles all by yourself.

Stop 2

Once at Versailles, you'll skip the line and head right into the Palace. Alongside an expert guide, you’ll visit the incredible gilded palace chapel and the King and Queen’s private apartments. As you walk your guide will bring the palace to life with stories of courtly intrigue and royal plots, while also giving you insight into the everyday lives of the people who lived here.

Stop 3 Pass by

On your guided tour, of course you'll see the most famous room at the Palace: the phenomenal Hall of Mirrors. This iconic space pays tribute to France's political, economic, and artistic success through exquisite paintings that line the hall.

Stop 4

Book the VIP King's Apartments Option and gain exclusive access to the King's Private Apartments at the Palace of Versailles—an area normally closed to the public. These private chambers were where the French Royal Family resided, retreating from the grandeur of public life. Accompanied by your expert guide and an intimate Walks tour group, you'll explore opulent rooms like the King's Bedroom and Library.

Stop 5

With your guide leading the way, they'll give you an introduction to the extravagant Palace Gardens and allow you to wander them on your own. Depending on the day you’ll see either the Fountains Show, where the beautiful fountains come to life to music, or the musical Gardens Show. You'll say goodbye to your guide here. With a roundtrip train ticket to Paris included, enjoy the flexibility of returning to the City of Lights when you wish.

Stop 6 Pass by

Use your free time to explore the secluded side of Versailles where the royals went for privacy and relaxation. Marie Antoinette frequented this space, in particular the Petit Trianon and the Queen's Hamlet.

Please note: If you select the VIP King's Apartments Option at booking you will not have enough time to explore the royal domain including Trianon Estate, Petit Trianon, and the Queen's Hamlet.

Admire an impressive collection of lavish coaches used by French royals, including small coaches used for Marie Antoinette's children. Open on weekends and public holidays.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

41 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.6

81 reviews

5★

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.

Areas visited during this tour are subject to closure. Your guide may need to modify areas visited on the day of the tour.

This tour is in English.

This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.

VIP King’s Apartments Option only: Exclusive visit to the King's Private Apartments, the innermost chambers at Versailles few visitors see.

Meeting point

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour, your guide will be holding a green Walks sign. This tour meets in front of the Saint-Lazare train station at 1 Cour de Rome, 75008 Paris. Your coordinator will be standing between the metro entrance and the modern statue of suitcases.

Important notes

• Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour start time for check-in. Out of courtesy to other guests, we’re unable to wait for latecomers. No refunds can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
• We ask all guests (including children) bring ID on the day of their tour.
• Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
• Security measures are enforced at Versailles. Only small handbags and backpacks are allowed inside. No item larger than 55 x 35 x 20 cm will be allowed.
• Areas visited during this tour are subject to closure. Your guide may need to modify areas visited on the day of the tour.
• Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
• Walks and Devour comply with all local government regulations. Please refer to local government guidelines for the most up to date information.
• Suitcases, luggage, and larger bags are not allowed inside. Only bags smaller than 55 cm x 35 cm x 20 cm are permitted. Please accept our apologies for any delay or inconvenience caused by extra security checks.
• VIP King’s Apartments Option only: Exclusive visit to the King's Private Apartments, the innermost chambers at Versailles few visitors see.

About Paris

Paris, the capital of France, is a city steeped in history, art, and romance. Known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods, Paris offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and modern vibrancy. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, the city is a treasure trove of cultural and historical gems.

Top Attractions

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is Paris's most iconic landmark and a symbol of France. Built in 1889 for the World's Fair, it offers breathtaking views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours €17.10-€26.80 (depending on the level)

Louvre Museum

The Louvre is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. It houses thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

Museum 3-4 hours €17 (full price), free for under 18s and EU residents under 26

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. It has been undergoing restoration since the 2019 fire.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (towers and crypts may have reopening fees in the future)

Montmartre

Montmartre is a historic and artistic district known for its bohemian past, charming streets, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

Cultural Half-day Free to explore (Sacré-Cœur dome visit €6)

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790.

Historical Full day €18-€28 (depending on the pass)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Croissant

A buttery, flaky pastry made from laminated dough. Best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.

Breakfast Contains gluten and dairy

Baguette

A long, thin loaf of French bread with a crispy crust and soft interior. Often served with cheese or ham.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains gluten

Steak Frites

A classic French dish consisting of steak and French fries, usually served with a side of salad and béarnaise sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains gluten (if served with fries) and meat

Crêpes

Thin pancakes that can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, such as Nutella, cheese, or ham.

Snack/Dessert Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hot air balloon rides Rock climbing in Fontainebleau forest Kayaking on the Seine Picnicking in the Luxembourg Garden Boat tours on the Seine Spa day at a luxury hotel Visiting museums and galleries Attending a cabaret show

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris, with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Paris is generally safe for travelers, but pickpocketing and petty theft can be a problem in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Charles de Gaulle Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
Orly Airport • 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center

By train

Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon

By bus

Bercy Seine, Porte Maillot

Getting around

Public transport

The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient and extensive subway systems in the world, covering all major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, G7

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Le Marais Montmartre Latin Quarter Saint-Germain-des-Prés Champs-Élysées

Day trips

Versailles

17 km (10.5 miles) from Paris • Full day

The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790 and is famous for its opulent interiors and vast gardens.

Giverny

75 km (47 miles) from Paris • Half day to full day

Giverny is a charming village known as the home of the famous impressionist painter Claude Monet. The village is home to Monet's House and Gardens, which inspired many of his most famous works.

Château de Fontainebleau

55 km (34 miles) from Paris • Full day

The Château de Fontainebleau is a grand royal château and park located just outside of Paris. It was a residence of the French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III and is known for its beautiful architecture and vast forests.

Festivals

Fête de la Musique • June 21st (annual) Paris Fashion Week • February and September (annual) Nuit Blanche • First Saturday in October (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic French phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
Use public transport, walk, or bike to get around the city and avoid traffic and parking issues
Consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass or a multi-day public transport pass to save money on attractions and transport
Explore the city's many neighborhoods and hidden gems, not just the major tourist attractions
Try local specialties and enjoy the dining experience slowly and leisurely