Do I need separate tickets for visiting the gardens and fountains of Versailles?

Yes, tickets for the Palace and the Gardens are separate. Standard admission tickets do not include access to the gardens and fountains. However, with the <jumplink title="Passport ticket" targetBlockId="6a70d70aa057c0177ff5ac12" id="Msz0Twk6" />, you will be able to visit the entire estate, including the palace, the gardens, and the fountain shows.

What is the Versailles Passport ticket?

The <experience type="Popup" tgid="7654" title="Versailles Passport ticket" id="44agckIT" /> is a ticket variant that gives you access to all of the estate. With the Versailles Passport, you will be able to visit the Palace with audioguide, the estate of Trianon, temporary exhibitions, the Gardens and the Park, the Musical Fountains Shows or the Musical Gardens and the Coach Gallery.

Can I have a picnic in the palace gardens?

Yes, picnics are permitted only in the designated area near the Water Walk, located in the Marmousets Hall. This area also provides convenient restroom facilities.

Is there a map or guide available for navigating the palace gardens?

Yes, you can refer to the <link linkType="custom" newTab="false" url="https://bienvenue.chateauversailles.fr/en/accueil" id="VRxlODtQ" shortCodeType="link" text="interactive guide" /> "Bienvenue" to help you explore the palace and estate at your own pace.

Do I need to buy a separate ticket just for the Orangery?

No. There is no independent ticket available for the Orangery. It is visited as part of the broader estate grounds.

Can you walk inside the actual Orangery building?

No. The interior vaulted galleries are closed to the general public to protect the overwintering trees, opening only for special events.

When are the orange trees placed outside in the gardens?

The historic citrus trees are rolled out into the parterre from mid-May through mid-October, depending on current weather conditions.

Palace of Versailles gardens & Orangery: Fountains, groves & visitor guide

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Tickets

Palace of Versailles Full Access Tickets

Explore at your pace

Audio guide

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Secure your timed entry to the Palace and gardens and explore Versailles comfortably, without rushing or waiting.

Everything you get: Explore the full Palace of Versailles estate, from the iconic Royal Gardens to the Estate of Trianon. Enjoy the freedom of a self-guided visit, with access to temporary exhibitions, the Gallery of Coaches, and the Royal Tennis Court.
Upgrades: Get an exclusive access to a free audioguide with the Palace of Versailles Ticket or top-up the ticket with Light of Liberty Virtual Reality Experience.
Why choose this: One ticket unlocks the entire Versailles estate, giving you the freedom to explore on your own terms. Linger where you like, skip what you don’t, and shape your itinerary around your interests—from royal history to grand architecture.

Inclusions #

Timed entry to the Palace of Versailles
Access to Gardens and temporary exhibitions
Access to Gallery of Coaches and Royal Tennis Court
Access to the Fountain or Musical show (Apr to Oct only)
Access to the Estate of Trianon (Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, Queen's Hamlet and their gardens)
Immersive audio guide (as per option selected)
Virtual reality experience Light of Liberty (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

Guide

What to bring

Carry a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking in case it is requested at the entrance.

Accessibility

The palace is largely accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms available across most areas, including the gardens and the Trianon Estate.
Wheelchairs are available to borrow, and designated accessible parking spaces are provided.

What’s not allowed

Baby strollers are not permitted inside the palace.
Pets are not allowed inside the venue.
Infants must not sit on laps, and infant seats are not available.
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the palace.
Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment are not allowed; photos without flash are permitted.

Additional information

Please arrive at the meeting point 20 minutes before the start of your tour.
For details on the Musical Fountains Show and Musical Gardens, check the official gardens information link in your voucher.
The gardens close at 6pm from November to March and at 8:30pm from April to October.
Children aged 0 to 5 may enter for free but must be included in your booking.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Guided Tours

Palace of Versailles Guided Tours

Book now, pay later

1 hr 30 mins - 3 hrs

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Experience Versailles beyond the surface with expert-led tours that bring its stories to life while guiding you through all the must-see highlights.

Everything you get: Guided tour of the Palace with a professional multilingual guide. See the full estate, including the main palace, Trianon Estate, Gardens and Park, and temporary exhibitions. Your experience also includes access to the Fountain Show or Musical Show if you visit between April and October.
Upgrades: A deeper dive into the Versailles Palace's history, architecture, and role in World War I and the French Revolution, brought to life with expert storytelling.
Why choose this: Choose between exclusive guided access to the King’s Private Apartments or a private guided tour of the Palace.

Inclusions #

Guided tour of the Palace of Versailles
Access to Gardens and temporary exhibitions
Access to Gallery of Coaches and Royal Tennis Court
Access to the Fountain or Musical show (Apr to Oct only)
Access to the Estate of Trianon (Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, Queen's Hamlet and their gardens)
Professional English, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, German and Mandarin-speaking guide (as per option selected)
Guided tour of the Grand Apartments and the Hall of Mirrors (as per option selected)
Private guided tour of the Palace of Versailles (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

Transportation
Meals

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking for entry verification.
Carry your booking confirmation, printed or digital, for smooth check-in.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the palace and gardens cover extensive grounds.
Consider bringing a bottle of water, especially during warmer months.

What’s not allowed

Baby strollers are not permitted inside the palace.
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the palace for security reasons.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment are not allowed inside the palace.
Food and drinks are not permitted inside the palace.

Accessibility

The palace is largely accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms available across most areas, including the gardens and the Trianon Estate.
Wheelchairs are available to borrow, and designated accessible parking spaces are provided.

Additional information

The Passport ticket grants access to the Palace, Trianon Estate, Gallery of Coaches, Royal Tennis Court, temporary exhibitions, and the gardens.
From 1 April to 31 October, the Passport ticket includes entry to the Musical Fountains shows.
For details on the Musical Fountains Show and Musical Gardens, check the provided information link in your ticket.
Late arrivals may be considered a no-show and are not eligible for a refund or rescheduling.
Guided tours are available with professional English, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, German, and Mandarin-speaking guides, as per the option selected.
The main palace guided tour lasts 90 minutes or 2 hours, depending on the option selected.
Small-group tours have a maximum of 20 guests, as per the option selected.
Some options include a 90-minute exclusive guided tour of the King's private apartments, Royal Chapel, or Royal Opera, as specified when booking.
Some options include a self-guided tour of the gardens from 1 October to 31 March; check your selected ticket for details.
Some options include access to the Fountain or Musical show between April and October; confirm this in your chosen ticket details.
Access is not allowed without a valid ticket or if you do not meet the eligibility criteria for free entry.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Tickets

From Paris: Round trip Transfers & Versailles Palace Tickets

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

4 hrs - 9 hrs

Audio guide

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Skip the logistics, savor Versailles with convenient round-trip transfers from Paris.

Everything you get: Set off from Paris in a bus or minibus with round-trip transport included both directions. Arrive for your timed entry and use your ticket to enter the Palace of Versailles and its gardens, exploring rooms and manicured grounds before heading back to the city. Your visit includes access to the Musical Gardens or Fountain Show.
Upgrades: Choose a ticket with pickup from your preferred location—Eiffel Tower, Le Louvre, Champs-Élysées, Porte Maillot, or Opéra, or upgrade to a guided Palace tour with exclusive access to the King’s and Queen’s Apartments.
Why choose this: Round-trip transport takes care of every detail, so you can enjoy Versailles without planning, queues, or stress.

Inclusions #

Timed entry to the Palace of Versailles
Round-trip transport from Paris to Versailles
Access to Gardens and temporary exhibitions
Access to Gallery of Coaches and Royal Tennis Court
Access to the Fountain or Musical show (Apr to Oct only)
Half-day or full-day tour from Paris to Versailles (as per option selected)
Access to King's and Queen’s grand apartments (as per option selected)
Access to the Hall of Mirrors (as per option selected)
Guided tour of the Palace of Versailles (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

Food and drinks

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking if requested at the entrance
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the Palace and gardens require extensive walking.

What’s not allowed

Food and drinks are not allowed inside the Palace of Versailles.
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted inside the Palace for security reasons.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Smoking, alcohol, and illegal substances are strictly prohibited on the premises.

Accessibility

The palace is largely accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms available across most areas, including the gardens and the Trianon Estate.
Wheelchairs are available to borrow, and designated accessible parking spaces are provided.

Additional information

Entry is by timed ticket, allowing you to skip the line at the Palace and gardens.
Access to the Musical Gardens or Fountain Show is included from April to October, if you select this option.
Cafés and restaurants are available near the Palace for meals, but these are not included in your ticket.
Security checks may delay entry, so please allow extra time for this process.
Children of all ages are welcome, but all guests require a booked ticket.
Your visit can be a half-day tour or a full-day tour from Paris, depending on the option you select.
Some options include a small-group minivan tour from Paris with an official palace audio guide.

Get full refund if you cancel 72 hours before the experience start time.

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Tickets

Palace of Versailles Musical Fountains Show Tickets

Explore at your pace

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Check availability

Water, music, and royal gardens come alive in three unforgettable Versailles experiences.

Everything you get: Stroll through the Gardens of Versailles with access to one of its signature seasonal events. Depending on your ticket, watch fountains dance to Baroque music, wander musical groves usually closed to the public, or experience illuminated fountains and fireworks after dark.
Why choose this: These special-access events transform the gardens beyond a standard visit, letting you experience Versailles as it was designed to impress the royal court.

Inclusions #

Entry to Versailles Gardens event
Access to selected show variant
Access to fountains or groves
Baroque music throughout route
Fireworks display (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

Palace of Versailles entry
Trianon Estate entry
Guided tour
Hotel transfers
Food and beverages

What to bring

Valid ticket and photo ID

What's not allowed

Professional photography equipment without authorization

Accessibility

Most main garden pathways are accessible, though some groves feature uneven surfaces.

Additional information

The Musical Fountains Show and Musical Gardens Show operate on different dates. Please check your selected date carefully before booking.
The Night Fountains Show takes place in the evening and requires a separate ticket selection.
Fountain displays and event schedules may be adjusted due to operational or weather-related reasons.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Guided Tours

Exclusive King’s Private Apartments Guided Tours

Book now, pay later

1 hr 30 mins - 2 hrs 45 mins

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Elevate your estate visit with exclusive access to the private quarters of the kings.

Everything you get: Led by an expert guide, go beyond the ceremonial grandeur of Versailles and step into the private quarters of the kings. Hidden behind the State Apartments, these intimate “small apartments” reveal a more personal side of royal life, with refined décor and beautifully preserved spaces such as the Clock Cabinet, the recently restored Corner Cabinet, the library, and Louis XVI’s Games Room.
Upgrades: Choose between exclusive guided access to the King’s Private Apartments available in 6 languages or a semi private guided access to the King’s Private Apartments with access to the Palace and Gardens.
Why choose this: A deeper dive into the Versailles Palace's history, architecture, and role in World War I and the French Revolution, brought to life with expert storytelling.

Inclusions #

Timed entry to the Palace of Versailles
Guided tour of King's apartments and the Hall of Mirrors
Access to Gardens and temporary exhibitions
Access to Gallery of Coaches and Royal Tennis Court
Access to the Fountain or Musical show (Apr to Oct only)
Access to the Estate of Trianon (Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, Queen's Hamlet and their gardens)
English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian or German-speaking guide (as per option selected)
Semi-Private guided tour of King's apartments and the Hall of Mirrors (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

Guided tour of the Versailles Palace

What’s not allowed

You cannot re-enter after leaving the Palace and Garden premises.
Animals are not allowed in the palace, gardens, or Trianon Estate.
Weapons and sharp objects are not allowed on the premises.

Accessibility

The palace is largely accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms available across most areas, including the gardens and the Trianon Estate.
Wheelchairs are available to borrow, and designated accessible parking spaces are provided.

Additional information

You cannot leave valuable items or clothing in the left-luggage office.
You must collect left luggage before 6pm from April to October and before 5pm from November to March.
To join your guided tour, you must show an admission ticket for the same day along with your tour ticket.
The guided tour of the King's private apartments lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
You will use a dedicated waiting line for the tour, which is shorter than the regular palace entry line.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Quick Overview

Designed by André Le Nôtre beginning in 1661
Home to more than 50 fountains, ornamental groves, and sculptures
The Orangery sits below the South Parterre and was designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart
Most gardens are open daily; some areas require paid access during Fountain and Musical Garden Show days
Accessible with Palace Passport ticket and selected guided tours
Allow 2–4 hours to comfortably explore the gardens

Louvre Museum with gardens and flowers in Paris.

Highlights of the Versailles Gardens

André Le Nôtre's masterpiece

Commissioned by Louis XIV, André Le Nôtre transformed the palace grounds into a masterpiece of symmetry, perspective, and geometric design. The gardens were carefully planned to extend the grandeur of the palace into the landscape.

The King's Garden (Jardin du Roi)

Originally reserved for Louis XIV, this intimate garden offered the king a quieter retreat away from the formal avenues. Its secluded setting contrasts beautifully with the scale of the surrounding gardens.

Water Theater Grove

Located on the western side of the gardens, this area combines sculptural pools with modern artistic installations inspired by the historic Water Theater.

The Orangery

Situated beneath the South Parterre, the Orangery protected thousands of citrus trees during winter. Today, visitors admire its monumental staircases, elegant architecture, and seasonal displays while overlooking one of Versailles' most impressive garden spaces.

Must-see fountains in the Gardens

The Four Seasons fountains

The monumental Four Fountains, dedicated to the seasons, mark the entrance to the Royal Way. The Spring and Summer Fountains grace the northern side of the alleys, while Autumn and Winter adorn the south.

Fountains of the Fight of the Animals

The fountain demonstrates a fight between animals. A lion is shown defeating a wolf and wild boar, a tiger defeating a bear and a bloodhound bringing down a stag. Water jets sprout out of the animal's mouths, with the jet of the victorious animal falling into the upper basin and the jet of the victim falls into the lower basin.

Dragon fountain

A majestic piece of art, the Dragon Fountain represents an episode from the legend of Apollo, where young Apollo shot and killed a serpent Python with an arrow. This is the tallest fountain in the Gardens of Versailles, with the main water jet reaching a height of 27 meters.

Neptune fountain

Made between 1679 and 1682, the construction of the Neptune Fountain was overseen by André le Nôtre and officially opened by Louis XV. Admired for its size, the fountain is also an extraordinary hydraulic system featuring 99 jets.

Latona's fountain

Illustrating the story of Apollo's mother Latona, the fountain depicts her protecting her children from the insults of peasants and pleading with the gods to avenge her. The gods oblige and turn the peasants into frogs and lizards. The fountain features figures of peasants in mid-transformation with 24 frogs surrounding the fountain.

Apollo's fountain

Built between 1668 and 1670, the fountain is based on the legend of Apollo, the sun god. Designed by Charles Le Brun, It features Apollo rising from the sea on a four-horse chariot, surrounded by tritons and leaping dolphins.

Discover the Versailles Orangery

Built by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, the Orangery was designed to shelter the palace's prized citrus collection during the colder months. Hidden below the South Parterre, its grand stone staircases, vaulted galleries, and elegant proportions make it one of the finest architectural features within the gardens. During warmer months, many of the orange and citrus trees are displayed outdoors, while the surrounding lawns provide some of the estate's most picturesque views.

Why visit the Orangery?

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Monumental architecture

Its sweeping staircases and classical design are among Jules Hardouin-Mansart's finest works at Versailles.

Seasonal citrus collection

Originally created to protect thousands of orange trees, the Orangery continues this historic tradition.

Panoramic viewpoints

The South Parterre and Orangery terraces provide some of the best perspectives of the palace gardens.

Peaceful atmosphere

Compared with the busiest parts of the estate, the Orangery offers a quieter setting to appreciate Versailles' landscape design.

Plan your visit to the Gardens & Orangery

Best time to visit

Visit early in the morning for quieter pathways or during the Musical Fountain Shows to experience the gardens at their liveliest.

How long to spend

Set aside at least 2–3 hours to see the major fountains and gardens. Visitors exploring the Orangery, groves, and Grand Canal should allow closer to 4 hours.

Suggested route

Palace → South Parterre → Orangery → Swiss Guard Lake → Apollo Fountain → Grand Canal → Neptune Fountain

Crowd tips

Weekends and Fountain Show days are the busiest. Arriving early provides the best opportunity for photography and a more peaceful visit.

If you're short on time

Prioritize the South Parterre, Orangery, Latona Fountain, Apollo Fountain, and the Grand Canal for a rewarding visit.

Planning your Palace visit?

Here's everything you need to know →

Best tickets for the Gardens & Orangery

Ticket	Best for
Palace Passport	Access to the palace, gardens, park, and Orangery
Palace Guided Tour	Expert insights plus access to the gardens after your tour
Gardens -only Ticket	Ideal during Fountain or Musical Garden Show days

History of the Gardens & Orangery

Statue in front of the Palace of Versailles with reflecting pool and building facade.

1661 – André Le Nôtre begins designing the formal gardens for Louis XIV.

Late 17th century – Jules Hardouin-Mansart constructs the Orangery beneath the South Parterre.

17th–18th centuries – Additional fountains, groves, and sculptures expand the gardens into one of Europe's greatest royal landscapes.

Today – The gardens remain one of Versailles' most visited attractions, hosting the Musical Fountain Shows while the Orangery continues to preserve its historic character.

Know before you go

The Orangery is located beneath the South Parterre and is reached via the grand staircases.
Access to the gardens is included with many Palace tickets, though Fountain and Musical Garden Show days may require specific admission.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the estate covers a large area.
Photography is permitted throughout most outdoor areas.
Allow extra time if visiting the Grand Canal or attending seasonal fountain performances.

Frequently asked questions about Palace of Versailles Fountains and Gardens

The gardens are open to the public every day of the year.

Palace of Versailles gardens & Orangery: Fountains, groves & visitor guide

Select your experience

Palace of Versailles Full Access Tickets

What to bring

Accessibility

What’s not allowed

Additional information

Palace of Versailles Guided Tours

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

From Paris: Round trip Transfers & Versailles Palace Tickets

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Palace of Versailles Musical Fountains Show Tickets

What to bring

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Exclusive King’s Private Apartments Guided Tours

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

Quick Overview

Highlights of the Versailles Gardens

André Le Nôtre's masterpiece

The King's Garden (Jardin du Roi)

Water Theater Grove

The Orangery

Must-see fountains in the Gardens

The Four Seasons fountains

Fountains of the Fight of the Animals

Dragon fountain

Neptune fountain

Latona's fountain

Apollo's fountain

Discover the Versailles Orangery

Why visit the Orangery?

Monumental architecture

Seasonal citrus collection

Panoramic viewpoints

Peaceful atmosphere

Plan your visit to the Gardens & Orangery

Best time to visit

How long to spend

Suggested route

Crowd tips

If you're short on time

Best tickets for the Gardens & Orangery

History of the Gardens & Orangery

Know before you go

Frequently asked questions about Palace of Versailles Fountains and Gardens

What days are the gardens closed?

Do I need separate tickets for visiting the gardens and fountains of Versailles?

What is the Versailles Passport ticket?

Can I have a picnic in the palace gardens?

Is there a map or guide available for navigating the palace gardens?

Do I need to buy a separate ticket just for the Orangery?

Can you walk inside the actual Orangery building?

When are the orange trees placed outside in the gardens?

More reads

Versailles Palace tickets

Things to do in Versailles

Grand Canal

André Le Nôtre's masterpiece

The King's Garden (Jardin du Roi)

Water Theater Grove

The Orangery

The Four Seasons fountains

Fountains of the Fight of the Animals

Dragon fountain

Neptune fountain

Latona's fountain

Apollo's fountain

Best time to visit

How long to spend

Suggested route