Versailles Palace and Gardens Tour
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the iconic rooms and rich history of Versailles Palace on a small-group guided tour Access the magnificent palace and discover the Royal Apartments, including the King’s Grand Apartment and the Queen’s chambers. Marvel at the opulent Gallery of Mirrors, renowned for its royal events and breathtaking decor.
Upgrade your experience ( optional ) with a guided garden visit or enjoy the beauty of gardens at your own pace. Wander through the enchanting gardens and admire famous fountains such as Apollo’s. Take your time to enjoy the gardens and visit the Coach Gallery at your leisure.
Available options
Palace Tour Only with tickets
English Semi Private Tour: This option includes guided tour of the Palace, including its iconic rooms and galleries. The garden access is not included.
Palace+Gardens Tour w Tickets
English Semi Private Tour: This option includes a guided tour of the palace and the gardens in a semi-private group of 12 people, including tickets.
Palace Tour +Ticket for Garden
English Semi Private Tour: This option includes a guided tour of the palace with skip-the-line tickets. Explore the gardens on your own with the tickets
What's included
Expert local guide
Guided tour of Versailles palace
Tickets to the Gardens of Versailles (if selected)
Guided tour of the Gardens of the Versailles (if selected)
Small Groups of up to 12 people
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Discover the wonders of the Versailles Palace in an extraordinarily small-group tour of max 12 people led by an expert guide. Enjoy skip-the-line access and learn about the fascinating history of French royalty. Upgrade your experience with a guided garden visit or explore the beauty of gardens at your own pace.
2
Stop 2
Step into the grandeur of Versailles on this immersive tour of the palace and its magnificent grounds. Once a simple hunting lodge, the Château de Versailles was transformed into the opulent seat of French royalty.
Explore the glittering Hall of Mirrors, stroll through the lavish King and Queen’s Apartments, and admire the exquisite artwork and décor that define 17th-century French court life.
Outside, wander the meticulously landscaped gardens with their fountains, sculptures, and hidden groves that reflect the Sun King's vision of perfection. This visit offers a captivating look into the power, artistry, and extravagance of France’s most famous royal residence.
3
Stop 3
Begin your tour in the Grand Apartment of the King, a lavish suite where every room tells tales of monarchs who ruled from this grand palace. Admire the detailed ceiling frescoes and explore the fine artistry in the Throne Room.
Then, visit the Queen’s Apartment, the private chambers where royal queens lived in elegance, surrounded by the luxury and refinement of the 17th century. Explore the meticulously restored rooms, which showcase the exquisite artistry and design of the era.
4
Stop 4
Next, walk through the world-renowned Gallery of Mirrors, where sunlight pours through arched windows, reflecting off shimmering chandeliers and creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Imagine the grandeur of royal events in this hall, where political deals were sealed, and history was made.
5
Stop 5
OPTIONAL UPGRADE: Choose to Include a Guided Visit to the Gardens of Versailles: After exploring the palace, step outside and join your guide to stroll through the expansive gardens. Discover famous fountains like Apollo’s Fountain, a tribute to the Sun King, and Neptune’s Fountain, known for its dramatic water displays. Explore the serene Basins of the Seasons, where sculptures represent the different times of the year.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
OPTIONAL UPGRADE: Choose to Include Access Tickets to the Gardens of Versailles: If you prefer to explore the gardens independently, choose this option to enjoy the beauty of Versailles' gardens at your own pace after your palace visit. Conclude your tour by spending more time in the gardens. You can also explore the Coach Gallery and its exhibitions at your own pace, discovering additional aspects of Versailles’ royal history and the elaborate carriages used by past monarchs.
What's not included
Gratuity/Personal expenses
Transfer to the meeting point
Entrance to Petit Trianon, Grand Trianon, Queen’s Hamlet
Gardens if you only selected the palace option!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
43 reviews
5★
35
4★
2
3★
0
2★
3
1★
3
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The tour is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside the palace.
Food and drinks are not allowed inside the palace.
Clients must arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start of the tour. This is due to the timed entry of the tickets.
It is not possible to join the tour after it has commenced.
Please consider that from November to March, the gardens are under seasonal maintenance.
Please note that The Water Theater is available from April 1st to October 31st, 2025.
Please remember to bring valid identification documents with you, considering monument entrances and security checks within the city.
Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
This tour offers three different options; please choose carefully! If you choose only the Palace then Gardens are not included.
• Some areas of the palace may occasionally be closed by the Versailles administration due to maintenance, but your visit will still include the highlights of the estate.
Meeting point
We will meet in front of the Louis XIV statue, on the porch of the Versailles estate. The tour guide will have a signboard.
Important notes
Your guide will have the necessary pre-reserved tickets with them.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
