Versailles stands as one of France’s most iconic destinations, renowned globally for its grandiose palace and magnificent landscaped grounds. Whether you're interested in historical exploration, cultural enrichment, or simply unwinding, these are the key attractions to experience when visiting Versailles, this refined former royal residence located just beyond Paris.
What attractions and activities can you experience in Versailles?
Discover the splendors of the Palace of Versailles
A crowning achievement in classical architectural design, the Palace of Versailles stunning due to its magnificent and excessive decoration. This structure features as many as 700 rooms, 67 stairwells, 352 chimneys, and 2,150 panes of glass, all spanning across a vast space of 67,121 square meters! These were crafted by the most skilled artisans from the 17th century onwards. th , 18 th and 19 th For centuries, this has been home to King Louis XIV and his heirs. Within the castle’s vast collection of valuables, make time to explore the Grand Apartments, notably the King's Apartment, the opulent Hall of Mirrors, and the exquisite reception halls.
Palace of Versailles Place d'Armes
78000 Versailles
www.chateauversailles.fr
Discover the marvel that lies within the Gardens of Versailles.
Surrounding the palace lie the estate’s French-style gardens, spanning over 800 hectares featuring impressive fountains, wooded areas, marble sculptures, and floral arrangements. These were designed by André Le Nôtre, Louis XIV’s chief gardener. Visitors may explore this location independently or during the water spectacles held each weekend from late March through October, reviving the opulent aesthetics. jeux d’eau From the Grand Era. By day, the musical fountain shows transform the water into dancers moving rhythmically to Baroque melodies, whereas the evening performances offer a captivating sound and light spectacle every Saturday as twilight falls, culminating in an impressive fireworks show. This only adds to the enchantment of exploring the gardens of Versailles!
Explore the personal life of the Queen at the Trianon Estate.
Heading north within the palace grounds, take the Grand Canal alongside the Allée de la Reine until you arrive at Queen Marie Antoinette’s private domain. This extensive property includes both the Petit Trianon and Grand Trianon palaces, along with the rustic village called Hameau de la Reine and expansive gardens featuring caves and ornamental structures. Known for its romantic atmosphere, these grounds were favored spots for monarchs seeking respite away from official duties. Notably, recent renovations have brought back much of the original allure to the Hameau de la Reine, which can now be visited exclusively through guided tours.
The Estate of Trianon Versailles Palace Park
78000 Versailles
www.chateauversailles.fr/domaine-marie-antoinette
Take a walk through the Notre-Dame and Saint-Louis districts.
Versailles extends beyond just the palace walls! Beyond the perimeter of this regal domain, the city boasts charming façades, expansive boulevards, and elegant structures from both classical and Baroque periods. Near the bustling Notre-Dame market, the winding lanes, passageways, and inner courts within the Bailliage area create a delightful walking district filled with vintage stores and fashionable eateries. Just steps away, along Boulevard de la Reine, you can find the Musée Lambinet which holds a comprehensive assortment focused on the historical narrative of Versailles housed inside an 18th-century building. th In this 18th-century townhouse, upstairs lies a stunning apartment from the Age of Enlightenment era. It features an anteroom, dining room, drawing room, and study within its interiors.
Musée Lambinet 54 Boulevard de la Reine
78000 Versailles
https://www.versailles.fr/51/culture/musee-lambinet.htm
Where to Dine and Stay in Versailles: Our Top Picks for Hotels and Restaurants
La Table du 11
Located within the delightful Cour des Senteurs courtyard, this establishment earned a Michelin star in 2024 for its innovative and sophisticated dishes crafted by Chef Jean-Baptiste Lavergne-Morazzani. Its stylish ambiance and culinary creativity render it an essential dining destination.
La Table du 11 8 Chancellor Street
78000 Versailles
https://www.latabledu11.com/
Chapeau
This restaurant in Versailles, operational since the Age of Enlightenment, boasts a lively ambiance! Following recent renovations, the interior design exudes true regality with shades of royal blue, gold accents, and porcelain dinnerware. These elements beautifully enhance the exquisite bistronomy dishes served here.
Chapeau 7 rue Hoche
78000 Versailles
https://www.chapeau1874.fr/
H o The Residence of Berry
Located midway between the Carrés Saint-Louis and the Potager du Roi, this charming three-star hotel offers cozy, exquisitely furnished rooms within an enchanting 18th-century setting. th -a century-old structure. The employees are delightful, and the breakfast is plentiful.
H o The Residence of Berry 14 Rue d'Anjou
78000 Versailles https://hotel-berry.com/fr/
H o tel Le Versailles
Close to the Palace, this four-star hotel offers vibrant and ample accommodations. The design draws inspiration from the historical chambers and notable figures who have shaped Versailles' legacy, including Marie-Antoinette and landmarks like the Hall of Mirrors.
7 Rue Sainte-Anne
78000 Versailles
hotel-le-versailles.fr/fr/
