Palace of Versailles
★ 4.8🇫🇷 VersaillesSuggested visit 1 dayBest season April to September, when the fountains and parterres are at their best
World HeritagePalaceMuseum
The ultimate expression of French royal power, its Hall of Mirrors and vast gardens defining the European court.
Overview
South-west of Paris, Versailles was enlarged by Louis XIV in the 17th century into the royal palace, and the Treaty of Versailles was signed here in 1919. It has some 2,300 rooms; the celebrated Hall of Mirrors sets 17 large mirrors against arched windows. The gardens cover about 800 hectares with the Grand Canal, the Apollo Fountain and the two Trianon palaces. It joined the World Heritage List in 1979.
History
A hunting lodge for Louis XIII from 1623, it was enlarged from 1661 on Louis XIV's orders, the court moved there in 1682, and the royal family was forced back to Paris in 1789.
Highlights
- •The Hall of Mirrors
- •The king's and queen's apartments
- •The Grand Canal and Apollo Fountain
- •The Grand Trianon and Marie-Antoinette's estate
Practical tips
- •Palace and gardens need separate tickets; book ahead in season
- •The gardens are huge — wear good shoes or rent a cart
Practical information
- Best time
- April-September
- Tickets
- Palace about EUR 21; gardens separate
- Opening hours
- Palace 9:00-18:30 (closed Mondays)
- Local food
- French pastries, crêpes, café fare
- Getting around
- About 40 minutes on RER line C to Versailles Château.
- Visa
- A Schengen visa is required; apply about one month in advance.
Traveller reviews
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