A Regal Escape: Exploring the Grandeur of Versailles
Versailles is 22 miles from Paris. The Palace of Versailles offers travelers to step into a world of opulence, history, and unparalleled beauty. From the lavish palace interiors to the meticulously maintained gardens, a visit to Versailles offers a glimpse into the lives of French monarchs and a journey through the centuries past.
We decided to rent vespas for our trip from Paris to Versailles. If you are not experienced or have not driven a Vespa in big cities, I don’t suggest this. Instead get an Uber, bus or train to take you here. It is illegal to ride your vespa on the highway. I have to say that getting there via Vespa was an experience in itself. We got lost and did end up inadvertantly on the highway. We frantically made our way off the highway as cars honked at us. I’m sure they were thinking, ‘Typical tourists,’ completely annoyed.”
Once were arrived at the Palace of Versailles, I was completely relieved, but at the same time exhilarated at the experience we had of just getting here. Thats what makes core memeories.
The benefit of driving a Vespa is that we were able to skip the parking lots full of tour buses and cars and park our vespas up front at the palace entrance.
The Palace Unveiled: A Glimpse of Royal Grandeur:
As you approach the Palace of Versailles, its golden gates and imposing façade transport you to an era of monarchs and courtly extravagance. If you choose to tour the Palace, you will explore the opulent halls, adorned with chandeliers, intricate tapestries, and ornate frescoes of bygone royalty.
Hall of Mirrors: A Jewel in the Crown:
The Hall of Mirrors, undoubtedly the most famous room in the palace, is a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. Gaze upon its mirrored walls and the amazing crystal chandeliers.
Gardens of Versailles: Nature’s Masterpiece:
When I was looking into visiting Versailles, I read how other tourists expressed that you definitely need to visit the gardens. Explaining how absolutely beautiful they are. I thought, it’s just a garden. What can be so incredible about a garden. Let me tell you, this is a MUST SEE for you to go make the trip here and plan on spending the whole day!
When you arrive at the Palace of Versailles, you have a choice to explore the Palace or explore the gardens or do both. Beyond the palace lies a sprawling oasis of meticulously maintained gardens that seem to stretch into infinity. 1,976 acres to be exact. Walk along tree-lined pathways, admire the perfectly manicured lawns, and discover hidden fountains, statues, and charming groves where you will just want to sit and take a moment. I thought this walk through the gardens would take a couple hours once I saw how grandiose it was. However, not realizing that as you keep walking you find another path that leads you to a hidden water feature and statues. We ended up spending all day here. It is truly amazing. There is a lake where you can rent a boat or a canoe. There are small restaurants to stop at and grab a bite to eat, sit down and take in all the beauty that this place has to offer. I was envisioning Marie Antoinette riding her horses through these sprawling gardens while I ate my simple but amazing baguette sandwich.
Marie Antoinette’s Domain: A Glimpse of Simplicity:
The Queen’s Hamlet and the Petit Trianon offer a striking contrast to the grandeur of the palace. These intimate retreats were created for Marie Antoinette to escape the formalities of court life and embrace a simpler existence, providing insights into her personal tastes and desires.
Fountain Shows and Musical Gardens:
During the warmer months, the gardens come alive with fountain shows and musical performances that transport you back to the era of Louis XIV. Watch as water dances to the melodies of classical music, adding an enchanting dimension to your visit.
Practical Tips for Your Versailles Adventure:
- Tickets: Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
- Guided Tours: Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the history and stories behind Versailles.
- Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the expansive palace and gardens.
- Timing: Plan your visit early in the day to beat the crowds. Summer is Busy!
- Best time to come is spring or fall. There will be less crowds.
- Getting there: Train, bus, Uber or Vespa. If you take the train, purchase a roundtrip ticket in Paris. There are 3 Versailles stops so make sure you purchase for the correct stop >> Versailles Château-Rive Gauche station. It will take 30-60 minutes. Once you arrive in Versailles, It is a 10 minute walk to the Palace from the train station. Look for signs to direct you where to go.
“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” – Gustave Flaubert
Versailles
A visit to Versailles is more than a sightseeing excursion—it’s an immersive journey through history, architecture, and the essence of a bygone era. As you walk in the footsteps of kings and queens, you’ll be transported to a world of unimaginable luxury and sophistication. From the gilded halls of the palace to the serenity of the gardens, Versailles offers a regal escape that’s as awe-inspiring as it is humbling, a true testament to the enduring legacy of French royalty.
Palace of Versailles Entry Fees:
- Adults (ages 18-64): €18 (€20 if visiting the Musical Gardens or Fountains Shows).
- Reduced Rate (ages 6-17, students under 26 from the European Union): €13 (€14.50 with access to gardens).
- Free Admission: Children under 6, disabled visitors and one accompanying person, EU residents under 26 on Fridays.
Paris Museum Pass:
If you plan to visit multiple museums and monuments in the Paris area, consider the Paris Museum Pass, which includes access to the Palace of Versailles, among other attractions. Prices for this pass start at around €52 for a 2-day pass.
GET YOUR GUIDE AND VIATOR HAS TOURS AVAILABLE. YOU CAN BOOK A TOUR FOR YOUR TRIP TO PARIS AND VERSAILLES,
