The Palace of Versailles: A Day Trip to France’s Iconic Royal Palace
Versailles, France ✈
The Château de Versailles, or Palace of Versailles, is located in the town of Versailles, France, about 12 miles (20 kilometers) southwest of Paris. I visited Versailles while staying in Paris, making it a convenient day trip. It is one of France’s most well-known landmarks and was the royal residence of French kings before the French Revolution. Getting there from Paris is straightforward, with the RER C train being a common choice. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus, a guided tour, or even drive, though parking near the palace can be limited. The ride takes about 40 minutes, and from the station, it’s a short walk to the entrance.
Originally a hunting lodge built by King Louis XIII in the early 17th century, the chateau was transformed into a grand palace by his son, Louis XIV. He hosted lavish parties and theatrical performances here, solidifying Versailles as a center of culture and politics in France.
Book a Tour: Palace of Versailles
“The combination of the palace’s history, detailed interiors, and expansive grounds makes it one of the most interesting places to visit near Paris.”
One of the most notable events at Versailles was the “Day of the Tiles” in 1789, when revolutionaries stormed the palace, signaling the beginning of the French Revolution. It’s called the “Day of the Tiles” because of a dramatic moment when residents of Grenoble, in protest against the royal government, threw roof tiles from their homes at soldiers sent to quell the unrest. Louis XIV expanded it significantly, turning it into the seat of political power in France.
Versailles remained the royal residence until 1789, when the revolution forced Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette to leave. Before their departure, they attempted to escape in the Flight to Varennes, but were captured and brought back to Paris. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major tourist attraction.
Walking through the palace, I explored several rooms, each with elaborate decorations. The Hall of Mirrors is one of the most famous areas, lined with 357 mirrors that reflect the light from the tall windows facing the gardens. This room was also where the Franco-Prussian War ended in 1871, with the proclamation of the German Empire. This room was used for ceremonies and important events, including the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, which ended World War I.
Other sections of the palace include the King’s and Queen’s apartments, which provide a look at the extravagant lifestyle of the monarchy. The King’s State Apartment consists of several rooms, each with unique decor, including painted ceilings and detailed furniture. The Queen’s Apartment mirrors the layout of the King’s but has a more delicate touch. Marie Antoinette’s bedroom is particularly well-known, featuring ornate designs and a hidden door she used to escape during the revolution.
The Royal Chapel and the Royal Opera House are also worth seeing. The chapel witnessed the marriage of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette in 1770, a grand event attended by the court. The chapel, completed in 1710, has a high ceiling and impressive artwork, while the opera house, built for special performances and royal gatherings, showcases detailed woodwork and fine acoustics.
Outside, the gardens cover nearly 2,000 acres. Designed by André Le Nôtre, they feature structured pathways, sculpted hedges, and several fountains. Even in winter, they are worth visiting. The trimmed trees and open spaces still maintain their structure, and though some fountains were not running, their sculptures remain impressive. The Grand Canal stretches into the distance, and on a clear day, it offers a peaceful walk.
Further into the grounds, the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon provide a more personal side of Versailles. Napoleon later used the Grand Trianon as a residence, appreciating its relative simplicity compared to the grandeur of the main palace. The Grand Trianon was built as a retreat for Louis XIV, away from the formal court life of the main palace. It has pink marble columns and a quieter atmosphere. The Petit Trianon was later given to Marie Antoinette, who used it as her private escape. Nearby, the Queen’s Hamlet, a small, rustic village designed for her, is a stark contrast to the grandeur of the main palace. Marie Antoinette used this retreat to escape the pressures of court life, and it remains one of the most curious aspects of her legacy at Versailles.
Despite visiting in winter, the experience was still enjoyable. The palace sometimes hosts seasonal events, such as holiday-themed decorations or exhibitions, which add a unique touch to the visit. While the gardens might be more colorful in spring or summer, the lack of large crowds made it easier to take in the details without feeling rushed. The crisp air and quiet paths added to the atmosphere, allowing for a more relaxed visit.
A visit to Versailles requires several hours, if not a full day, to see everything properly. Visitors need tickets to enter the palace and gardens, and it is recommended to book them online in advance to avoid long lines.
The palace is accessible to visitors with mobility issues, with ramps, elevators, and wheelchairs available on-site. Some areas of the gardens, particularly the more remote sections, may be difficult to navigate due to uneven paths, but the main sections, including the central axis and fountains, have accessible routes.
There are different ticket options, including access to just the palace or a full pass that includes the Trianons and the gardens. The first Sunday of the month from November to March offers free entry, but it can be crowded. Audio guides are available, and guided tours provide deeper insights into the history of Versailles. For those with limited time, prioritizing key highlights such as the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s and Queen’s Apartments, and a quick walk through the gardens can provide a fulfilling experience.
The combination of the palace’s history, detailed interiors, and expansive grounds makes it one of the most interesting places to visit near Paris. Additionally, the town of Versailles itself has other points of interest worth exploring. The Notre-Dame Market, one of the best markets in the region, offers fresh produce, cheeses, and local specialties. The Church of Notre-Dame, built in the late 1600s, is another historical site, as it was the royal parish during the reign of Louis XIV. For art enthusiasts, the Musée Lambinet provides a glimpse into 18th-century life with its collection of paintings, furniture, and artifacts. Walking through the historic streets of Versailles also allows visitors to see charming cafés and boutiques, making it a pleasant addition to a trip to the palace. Whether in peak season or during the colder months, there is always something to take in.
Book a Tour: Palace of Versailles
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