Versailles Palace is the symbol of the power and dignity of the French emperors, attracting over 10 million visitors yearly. After the Eiffel tower, the Palace of Versailles is the most popular attraction in France. If you plan a trip to Paris, the Palace of Versailles should be on your list.
This guide shows you how to book your ticket for Versailles, the best places to visit, and things to avoid during your tour.
Before getting into the tour guide section, here is a sneak peek into the history of Versailles.
The Palace of Versailles – History
Until the French revolution, Versailles palace was the prime residence of the Kings of France, located 20 km from Paris. Louis XIII transformed the hunting lodge into a proper chateau by buying the surrounding land and extending his gardens and parks.
Louis XIV is known to transform the simple living chateau into a lavish country estate. He defined the estate as a way to escape Paris and lessen the power of French nobility.
It took twenty years for the expansive construction and intricate interior to complete starting from 1661. King Louis XIV shifted his court to the palace in 1682. This act forced the nobility to spend more time in the court away from their homes.
The Palace of Versailles is over 67,000 sq. m. land and has 700 rooms and 2153 windows. You can learn more about it by visiting https://versaillestickets.com/
Versailles Ticket Options
Some visitors prefer roaming around solely, while others prefer group tours with a tour guide to know more about the place. There are three options available;
All-in-one Selection:
This option is best for those new to Paris & who need tour guides. This ticket helps you skip waiting in lines and get started at the entrance gate. With this ticket, you will get transport from and to Paris. Besides, you will get an entry to the Chateau to explore the French-inspired interior and the living lifestyle of the Kings of France.
Versailles Tours:
This option is best for those who love group traveling and knowing more about the place. With this ticket, you will get a tour guide who will explain the history of French emperors, which you will miss out on by exploring yourself. Moreover, you won’t be bored since you will have the company of fellow visitors.
You can roam around the 250 acres of gardens, visit the Hall of Mirrors, and learn more about the personal life of King Louis XIV. A passport is mandatory for this ticket as it will allow you to visit the Chateau of Versailles.
Entrance Ticket:
If you are from Paris and can manage transport alone, opt for the entrance ticket. You have two options for booking: standing in long waiting lines or booking online. It will take 15 minutes to reach the Versailles Palace from the gate.
Travel Tips for Versailles:
This section highlights tips to enjoy the most from your visit to the Palace of Versailles.
- Avoid visiting the palace on weekends due to large gatherings. Nearly 10 million people visit the Versailles palace yearly; you will need help to cope with the crowd.
- Ensure to reach the location at your earliest. Getting on time will help you avoid large queues and travel buses. If you can’t make it to the palace early, reach at the last entry time.
- During the low season, March-November, admission to gardens is free. Besides, entry is free when no Musical Gardens and Musical Fountains occur.
- Avoid eating at the palace since the restaurants available are pricey. However, if you can afford it, enjoy the taste.
- Instead of exploring on your own, consider hiring a tour guide to dive deeply into the Versailles palace.
- Avoid following groups. If they reverse, you can lose your way or either get pushed by the crowd.
- Buy Paris museum passes so you won’t have to stand in the security line and get priority access inside.
Final Thoughts:
The Palace of Versailles is a must if you are visiting Paris. The intricate interior and expansive construction will take you back to the French emperor’s times. Remember, visitors under 18 (EU citizens under 26) have free entry, while disabled persons also have free admission. Ensure to bring your ID card.
