France

Just 45 minutes outside of Paris lies one of the most iconic palaces in the world : the Château de Versailles. Lavish, grand, and dripping with history, this UNESCO World Heritage site is more than just a quick stop : it’s a full-day experience that transports you straight into the heart of French royal history. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or just want to walk through the famous Hall of Mirrors, Versailles is an unmissable day trip from Paris. This article contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them (at no extra cost to you). I only recommend tours and experiences I personally trust and would use myself. What is the Château de Versailles ? Originally a humble hunting lodge, the Palace of Versailles was transformed by King Louis XIV into a symbol of absolute monarchy and French grandeur in the 17th century. For over a century, it served as the royal residence of France until the French Revolution. Today, it welcomes over 8 million visitors a year, offering a glimpse into royal life through: The Palace itself with over 2,300 rooms The Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces) The vast Gardens of Versailles, complete with fountains, sculptures & groves The peaceful Grand Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s Estate Should you book a tour ? Definitely yes. Versailles is massive and often crowded : having a guide (or at least booking an audioguide) makes a huge difference in your experience. I recommend booking in advance through GetYourGuide, they offer skip-the-line tickets, guided tours, and even full-day packages with transport from Paris. Whether you want a self-paced audio guide or a historian-led walking tour, you’ll find tons of flexible options with free cancellation. Tip : Download the official app before your visit for extra insights on-site. When to visit Versailles ? Best time: Spring (March–June) and Fall (Sept–Nov) for mild weather and fewer crowds Opening hours: Palace: 9 AM – 6:30 PM (closed Mondays) Musical Fountain Shows: Available on select days from April to October : worth it! Tip : Arrive early and visit the gardens first, especially during musical fountain days. Then head to the palace when crowds start to thin out around midday. What not to miss ? The Hall of Mirrors : The most famous room in the palace. Arrive early to enjoy it without huge crowds. The Royal Apartments : See how French kings and queens lived in luxury. The Gardens : Rent a bike or golf cart to explore! Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet : A charming escape from the grandeur, complete with a faux rustic village. The Grand & Petit Trianon : More peaceful, less crowded parts of the estate with stunning architecture. Tip : Don’t miss the Carriage Gallery, it’s free to visit and open on weekends and during the Christmas holidays! What to bring ? Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll walk a lot) Water bottle (refill stations available) Weather-appropriate clothing (lots of time outdoors) Camera or phone with storage : the views are incredible! How to get to Versailles from Paris ? RER C Train: Take the RER C from central Paris to Versailles Château – Rive Gauche (~45 mins). From there, it’s a 10/15 minute walk. Or, book a tour with transport included through GetYourGuide. ✨ A Tip from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨ The Château de Versailles is more than a tourist attraction : it’s an immersive journey through art, history, politics, and luxury. With a bit of planning (and the right ticket), you’ll experience one of France’s greatest national treasures with ease. Book your visit, skip the lines, and walk in the footsteps of royalty : ALL in a day. Click here to browse guided tours, tickets & packages on GetYourGuide BONUS : Admission is free for residents of the EU under 26 years old (student ID required), though the audioguide costs €4.And the palace is also free for everyone on the first Sundays from November to March, but make sure to reserve your ticket in advance on the official website. BISOU