Built as a hunting lodge in 1623, the Versailles Palace evolved into the seat of the French monarchy, then a museum, until the French Revolution forced the royal family to leave in 1789. In 1979, the Palace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Sit...
Founded On
1837
Founded By
Louis Le Vau
ADDRESS
Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
RECOMMENDED DURATION
4 hours
Timings
09:00–18:30
VISITORS PER YEAR
15000000
TICKETS
From $14.12
NUMBER OF ENTRANCES
5
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
1-2 hours (Peak), 30-60 mins (Off Peak)
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE
0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
UNESCO YEAR
1979
The Queen's House, nestled in the gardens, was rumoured to be haunted by Marie Antoinette's ghost, with sightings of her spectral apparitions wandering the premises.
Versailles nurtured a musical heritage as acclaimed composers like Jean-Baptiste Lully and Christoph Willibald Gluck crafted timeless masterpieces, contributing to an unparalleled musical legacy.
During the winter season, the vast Grand Canal at Versailles transformed into an enchanting ice-skating rink, providing the royal court with the exhilaration of gliding across frozen waters.
Palace of Versailles Guided Tours
Palace of Versailles Timed Entry Tickets with Optional Access to the Gardens
Combo (Save 5%): Louvre Museum + Versailles Palace Tickets
Passport Ticket to Versailles Palace + Premium Meal option in Versailles' Garden Restaurant La Flottille
The museum boasts a diverse collection of over 6,000 paintings showcasing historical and mythological themes. Admire paintings by artists like Jacques-Louis David, whose works capture pivotal moments in French history, including The Coronation of Napoleon. The array of portraits features iconic pieces by Hyacinthe Rigaud, such as his famous portrait of Louis XIV, and Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun, celebrated for her depictions of Marie Antoinette.
Versailles houses an exquisite array of sculptures, adding a three-dimensional charm to the museum. You can catch the neoclassical wonders by Jean-Antoine Houdon, and marvel at the intricate details of marble sculptures adorning the Palace's grand salons.
Experience the luxury of Versailles through its exquisite decorative arts collection. Ornate furniture, intricate tapestries, and luxurious porcelain reveal the lavish tastes of French royalty. Discover the finest Sèvres porcelain and the iconic furniture designed by André-Charles Boulle.
Explore a treasure trove of ceramic wonders, showcasing the skills of renowned potters from the past. The collection includes dazzling vases, intricate dinnerware, and charming figurines reflecting the artistic elegance of bygone eras
The museum's textile collection features an impressive array of royal garments and tapestries. Highlights include ceremonial robes shot with gold thread, and tapestries such as those from Gobelins and Beauvais manufactories, depicting scenes from mythology and royal life. A real glimpse into the royal past of Versailles.
Discover fascinating artifacts illuminating life in the Court of Versailles. Delve into the personal belongings of Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI, as well as diplomatic gifts and royal souvenirs, offering intriguing glimpses into their extraordinary lives.
Versailles, originally a modest hunting lodge built in 1624, underwent a breathtaking transformation when King Louis XIV chose it as the site for his opulent Palace. The Sun King's vision was realized when he moved his entire court to Versailles in 1682, making it the center of French politics and culture.
The pièce de résistance of the Palace is the Hall of Mirrors, completed in 1684, which witnessed not only grand celebrations but also crucial diplomatic events. However, history took a dramatic turn in 1789 during the French Revolution when the Palace fell under the scrutiny of the Revolutionaries, signaling the end of the monarchy. In 1837, Versailles was reimagined as a museum, welcoming countless visitors annually to admire its extensive art collection. Among the notable historical events that transpired here was the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, formally ending World War I.
Explore regal life and pivotal historical moments at Versailles as you embark on a fascinating journey through the captivating tapestry of French history.
Versailles is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture of the 17th century, a style that celebrates grandeur and drama. The palace's symmetrical layout and towering facade are instantly recognizable, while its opulent interiors, like the Hall of Mirrors, dazzle with intricate details and dancing light. A great example of this work is the Hall of Mirrors, with its 17 arched mirrors and magnificent chandeliers.
The gardens, a work of art in their own right, are a blend of nature and human design. Meticulously designed by André Le Nôtre, they feature geometric patterns, stately walkways, and cascading fountains. As you wander through these stunning landscapes, you'll feel transported to a bygone era of royal splendor.
Consider a combination of self-guided exploration and guided tours. This allows you to delve into the history and art at your own pace, while also gaining deeper insights from expert guides.
While the Hall of Mirrors is iconic, don't miss the opulent Royal Apartments, the serene gardens designed by Andre Le Nôtre, and the Trianon Estate.
Spring and Autumn are ideal times to visit, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds. However, Versailles is beautiful year-round, with each season offering unique experiences.
Ore by Alain Ducasse is a high-end restaurant serving French cuisine with a modern twist. It's located within the palace grounds and offers stunning views of the gardens. Le Petit Versailles is a bistro a short walk from the palace that offers traditional French cuisine at affordable prices.
You can easily reach Versailles by train from Paris. The RER C train line provides direct access to the Palace. Want to avoid planning the logistics? Simply opt for tickets with round-trip transfers from Paris.
Early mornings or weekdays are less crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Over 1,000 kilograms of gold leaf adorned the gates, sculptures, and interiors, symbolizing opulence during the 17th-century French monarchy.
Yes, Marie Antoinette had a private chamber known as the "secret room," adorned with intimate paintings, offering her solace from court life.
In 1789, the Women's March on Versailles forced the royal family to relocate to the Tuileries Palace in Paris, effectively marking the end of Versailles as the center of royal power. The Revolution also saw the confiscation and auctioning of many of Versailles' treasures.
One popular legend revolves around the "Queen's Hamlet," built for Marie Antoinette. Some visitors claim to have seen apparitions of the queen, lending Versailles an air of mystique.
Yes, the Menagerie at Versailles housed exotic birds, giving the king a tranquil retreat to observe his feathered friends.
The Hall of Mirrors constructed in 1678, contains 357 mirrors that were among the most expensive items at the time.
The Hall of Mirrors is the most famous room in the Palace of Versailles with 3,570 Venetian mirrors and illuminated by 3,000 candles when fully lit.
King Louis XIV's War Room displayed miniature battlefield models, serving as a strategic command center to plan military campaigns.
Yes, the gardens featured a labyrinth, challenging visitors with twists and turns, echoing the intrigue within the royal court.
