half day versailles tour from paris

Versailles Palace and Gardens: Half-Day Trip From Paris

• Visit the opulent Grand Apartments , the State Rooms , and the breathtaking Hall of Mirrors inside Versailles while our passionate English-speaking guide marvels you with stories of the excesses of royal life, peaking under the Sun King , Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette .
• The gardens are just as impressive and far larger than the palace itself, after the tour wander them leisurely in a self-guided experience, discovering their elegant statues, fountains, and secret groves. The Musical Fountain Show will bring the fountains to life with classical music when available from April to October.
• With round trip transportation by bus, Skip the Line Access  and headsets we make the trip to Versailles comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.

Enjoy the unique experience of a Versailles Day Trip

What's included.

• Expert, English-speaking tour guide
• Round trip transfers by private air-conditioned coach
• Entrance tickets and reservation fee for the Château de Versailles
• Headsets when appropriate, so you can always hear your guide

Sites Visited

• Palace of Versailles
• Gardens of the Palace of Versailles (Self-Guided)

Indulge in the beauty and excess of the French monarchy's most extravagant palace. Counting some 700 rooms and 2,000 acres of gardens, this dazzling chateau still evokes the same sense of awe that it did over 300 years ago when it reached its apex under the Sun King, Louis XIV. Our Versailles tours from Paris cover the top sights at this famed UNESCO World Heritage Site on a half day visit, including the Grand Apartments, State Rooms and Hall of Mirrors, as well as the most exemplary parts of the Gardens of Versailles.

City Wonders will personally escort you by a private air-conditioned coach from Paris to Versailles, where you will head straight past the long lines to enter the palace. Be mesmerized by its spectacular adornment as you enjoy captivating stories on its history and inhabitants including Louis XIV, XV, and XVI, their queens, and mistresses. Walk in the footsteps of Marie Antoinette and other historical figures to discover the moments that defined their lives, spanning the 'golden age' from the rise of France as one of Europe's most influential powers to the dramatic events of the French Revolution.

Considered among the highest achievements of 17th and 18th century art and architecture, this palace par excellence started with humbler beginnings as Louis XIII's hunting lodge in the early 1600s. Over the century that followed it became an extravagant show of power as the court's official seat from 1682 to 1789.

You’ll also explore, in a self-guided experience, the equally sumptuous Gardens of Versailles. Designed by master gardener André Le Nôtre and court painter Charles Le Brun in the 1660s, this vast French formal garden originally stretched as far as the eye could see. Admire the statues, secret groves and numerous fountains that were designed to extend the palace's interior into nature itself. 

Between April and October, when you visit Versailles, you'll get to experience captivating musical events. These enchanting shows feature fountains choreographed to classical music and delightful tunes playing as you explore some of the most picturesque spots on the grounds. If these events are not scheduled, feel free to wander and enjoy the gardens at your leisure. Afterward, hop on your return coach to Paris.

This tour has been carefully planned so you get in-depth perspective into both must-see sides of Versailles with convenient transportation from Paris. See the top sights of the palace and gardens with an expert guide by your side. Check out our full list of Paris tours.

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Important Notes

• Please note that Paris will host the 2024 Olympics from July 26th to August 11th, followed by the Paralympics from August 28th to September 8th. This may have an impact on our travel plans. While we are committed to minimizing any sort of inconvenience, please be aware that unforeseen issues may arise. We will make every effort to navigate challenges and ensure a smooth experience for you.
• Please note that on some occasions, return transportation to and from Versailles will be provided using a comfortable and modern train, allowing you to travel like a local!
• Entry to the gardens is free of charge from November to March; no ticket is required during this period.
• From April to October, the ticket to the gardens is automatically included in the price, and your representative will provide it on the day of the tour.
• Due to increased security measures at many attractions some lines may form on tours with 'Skip the Line' access. Please note that Musical Gardens and Fountain show may be subject to last minute schedule changes that are not under our control.
• The Music Show is running inside the Versailles Gardens only from April to October.
• We strongly recommend all clients who are traveling with infants to bring their own infant or child seat. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure the safety of their child.

Cancelation Policy

This tour is subject to a 24-hour cancelation policy. If you wish to cancel or amend your booking, you can do so without charge by contacting us up to 24 hours in advance of your expected departure time.

All our half day tours from Paris to Versailles travel by either by train or bus. 

The journey by train or bus takes approximately 35-40 minutes. The train station in Versailles is located 5 minutes by walk from the castle.

Please arrive at least 20 minutes before the start time of the tour.

• Book with Confidence: Free cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience begins (local time).
• Multilingual Customer Service: Talk to us, we are here to help.
• No Hidden Costs: All taxes and fees included.

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The BEST Half-Day Versailles Tour from Paris (5 Top Tours)

Last updated on February 15th, 2024 at 07:29 pm

Table of Contents

Wondering which half-day Versailles Tour from Paris to take and whether it will work into your vacation schedule?

Well, I’ve done several tours of Versailles now, so I’ve created a list of the ones I enjoyed the most to help you choose.

I’m lucky enough to live in France, and Paris is just a two-hour train ride away. I love meeting friends and family here and playing tour guide. And a tour of Versailles is nearly always one we do.

My Top Pick for a Half-Day Versailles Tour from Paris

Half-Day Private Guided Tour Of The Versailles Palace With Skip-The-Line Access

✅ Skip-the-line access saves time and hassle

✅ Personalised tour with an experienced guide

✅ Over 190 five-star reviews ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A tour of the Palace of Versailles is on most people’s vacation lists when visiting Paris, meaning it can get very crowded.

And one of the best ways to avoid the crowds, and to get access to some of the rooms a general admission ticket doesn’t get you, is to book a tour.

Unfortunately, not all tours are created equal, and it comes down to knowing what you want to do and how much time you want to spend.

5 Half-Day Versailles Tour from Paris

No 1 – half day private guided tour of the versailles palace with skip the line access.

This half-day private tour allows you to explore Versailles with the expertise of an art historian as your guide.

⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  4 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!

WHY YOU’LL WANT TO BOOK THIS TOUR

As good as the audio guides are, nothing beats doing a tour with a guide who is passionate about Versailles and knows stories that take you beyond the guidebook.

It’s the perfect blend of history and ease, with skip-the-line access ensuring you soak up more of Versailles and less of the waiting lines. 

What’s Included? Your tour starts at the State Apartments of Louis XIV , where you’ll get an intimate glimpse into the life of the Sun King. From there, you’ll explore the other royal apartments, as well as the breathtaking Hall of Mirrors . 

Your guide, a well-versed art historian, will unveil the layers of history and artistry that line this grand corridor. 

But it’s not all about the Palace as your tour will take you outside to the Gardens of Versailles . Here, you’ll have time to roam among the spectacular fountains and the statues , taking in the splendour of the gardens.

And the best part is you don’t need to worry about getting there and back. Round-trip transportation from your Paris accommodation is covered . And trust me, I had issues with cancelled RER trains on one of my trips, so it was great not to worry about that with the hotel pick-up included.

What I loved about this tour:

• Skip-the-line access saves time and hassle.
• Personalised attention and detailed insights from an art historian guide.
• Convenient round-trip transportation from Paris.

WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID

Absolutely stunning! A can’t miss experience. Our guide, Julien, brought the entire history of beautiful Versailles to life with engaging stories, exceptional knowledge, and a finely tuned private tour. Our entire family learned so much and could not have fully appreciated this immersive tour without Julien’s guidance. Thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon. BELINDA (read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK A PRIVATE HALF-DAY GUIDED TOUR OF VERSAILLES >>>

No 2 – Private Versailles Palace and Gardens Golf Cart Tour

Dive into the heart of French history with this private tour of the Palace of Versailles and its exquisite gardens.

⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  3 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!

This private guided tour is an invitation to explore the opulence of Versailles with a personal touch, led by a historian who’ll reveal the secrets and stories of this grand estate. 

The added perk of skip-the-line access ensures there is no queuing involved.

What’s Included? Your journey begins in the Versailles Gardens , where you’ll be driven in style in a comfortable four-seat golf cart allowing you to cover more ground, possibly catching a glimpse of the spectacular seasonal water shows. 

After your garden exploration, it’s time to go into the Palace itself. The Galerie des Glaces, with its 357 mirrors , is a highlight, reflecting centuries of history and grandeur. But there’s more, the 18th-century Royal Chapel captivates with its vibrant ceiling paintings and historic organ.

The tour doesn’t stop at the public spaces. You’ll also visit the more personal quarters of the king and queen, uncovering intimate stories of royal life and the army of servants that supported it. 

This includes the State Apartment, where the king met dignitaries. You’ll also see the apartments of the King’s sisters, Mes Dames, Victoire and Adélaïde.

What I loved about the tour:

• The four-seat golf cart allowed us to see more of the gardens
• In-depth historical insights from a knowledgeable guide.
• Priority access to the palace, avoiding the long queues.

Claire was an absolutely fabulous guide! Our best guided tour in Paris !!! She was witty and humorous; able to explain the rich history of the Versailles Palace to us. The tour of the garden was thoroughly enjoyable! Highly recommended guide! MICHAEL (read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK THE PRIVATE VERSAILLES PALACE & GARDEN GOLF CART TOUR

No 3 – Château of Versailles and Marie Antoinette’s Petit Trianon Private Tour

Ideal for history enthusiasts and those wanting an in-depth look at Versailles’ opulence this private tour offers a unique blend of grandeur and hidden stories.

⭐️ RATING: 4 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  5 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!

Step back in time with this private guided tour of the Palace of Versailles and gardens . From the luxurious apartments of the king to the intimate retreats of Marie Antoinette, it’s a journey through the heart of French regal history and splendour. 

What’s Included? Your guide will lead you through King Louis XIV’s luxurious apartment , revealing stories of the king’s life and the Dieudonné family. 

The Hall of Mirrors awaits with its opulent chandeliers and ornate mirrors, each telling a tale of Louis XIV’s ascent.

Next, the gardens. Here, you’ll explore Marie Antoinette’s personal sanctuary, the Domaine de Marie Antoinette , complete with lush gardens and intricate fountains. 

The tour then takes you to the Petit Trianon , offering a glimpse into the life of the iconic French Queen, Marie Antoinette. 

Spend the afternoon wandering through her Hamlet, exploring the farm, windmill, and cottages, remnants of royal leisure and intrigue.

• A comprehensive tour of the Palace, and the private areas of Marie Antoinette, such as the Petit Trianon.
• Personalised experience with a dedicated guide and private transportation.
• Skip-the-line access ensures more time is spent discovering and less waiting.

Myriam is an absolute legend. The tour was educational, fast-paced, and FUN! We really went there to learn about the history and lore of the French monarchy, so this tour was a great choice for us. Do. Not. Miss. The. Trianons. It’s a must. AIMEE (read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK THE CHATEAU OF VERSAILLES AND PETIT TRIANON PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR >>>

No 4 – Versailles Palace Entrance Ticket and Breakfast at Restaurant ORE

Your Versailles experience begins with a luxurious breakfast at Ore, an Alain Ducasse restaurant located within the Palace.

⭐️ RATING: 4 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  6 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!

This is the tour I have done most recently with my daughter, and starting the day with breakfast in the palace itself was a great way to begin our tour. 

One thing to note is that this is a self-guided tour, so there is no guide to take you around. It’s perfect for those who prefer to discover at their own pace with the help of an audio guide for each room.

You do still have skip-the-line tickets which are given to you in the restaurant once you’ve finished your breakfast. You’re then taken down the back stairs and straight into the security area, where there is airport-style security to go through. 

It did feel as though you were a bit of a celebrity being taken through this way, which definitely added a bit of fun.

You also have access to the gardens, which we didn’t do on this trip as it was winter and too cold to wander around.

• A fun start to the tour with a luxurious breakfast at Ore by Alain Ducasse.
• Skip-the-line entrance saves time and enhances the experience.
• Freedom to explore the palace independently

Walking at our own pace thru the castle was a great experience. Viewing the incredible artwork on the ceilings… it’s just not done anymore, was awe-inspiring. Beautiful tour. Breakfast was AMAZING, and filling. Loved all of it. ASHLEIGH (read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK VERSAILLES PALACE TICKETS WITH BREAKFAST INCLUDED >>>

No 5 – Guided Tour of Versailles with Paris Pick-Up in a Deluxe Minibus

This Versailles Tour combines the insight of a professional guide with the freedom to discover at your own pace, including transport from and back to Paris.

⭐️ RATING: 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  2 Hours | ✅ Check Rates & Availability!

This group tour of the Palace of Versailles offers a comprehensive insight into the opulence and history of Versailles, coupled with the opportunity to wander and discover at your own pace. 

The convenience of transportation and the expertise of a professional guide make this an excellent choice for a hassle-free visit to one of France’s most historical sites.

What’s Included? Your guide, well-versed in the palace’s history, will lead you through its most famed spaces: The Queen’s Bedroom, the Great Apartments , and the iconic Hall of Mirrors . You’ll also explore the Gallery of Battles , immersing yourself in the artistic legacy of Louis XIV’s favourite painter, Le Brun, and the portraits of Versailles’ historic inhabitants.

After the guided segment, you’ll have time to wander through the “à la française” gardens, a testament to French landscaping artistry. 

• Expert guidance through the most significant areas of Versailles.
• Opportunity for independent exploration, especially in the gardens.
• Stress-free round-trip transportation from Paris.

Walter did a fantastic job! We ended up having a personal tour with him. His knowledge of the history of France is incredible. Walter answered all of our questions and provided us with an amazing tour. Having the round-trip transportation included was so helpful. If you are questioning whether this is worth the investment, it is! Book the tour. TERRA (read more reviews )

▶︎ BOOK A GUIDED TOUR OF VERSAILLES WITH TRANSPORT INCLUDED !

Compare the best Versailles Half Day Tours

The paris museum pass.

If you like the idea of visiting a few of the museums in and around Paris, I recommend getting the Paris Museum Pass . It includes entry into the Palace of Versailles and the Gardens. However, these will be self-guided tours.

You’ll have access to over 60 museums and monuments and can choose from a 2, 4 or 6-day pass.

Click here to see what’s included >>>

Things to consider when visiting Versailles

• Under 18s go free, and under 26s also have free entry, if they are residents of the EU
• The first Sunday of the month, from November to March, is free entry for everyone
• On days when the musical fountains have a show, you will have to purchase a separate ticket for the gardens
• The Park and the Gallery of Coaches do not require a ticket and are free to visit

FAQS: Booking a Guided Tour of Versailles

Can you do versailles in half a day.

Visiting Versailles in half a day is possible, but it’s a tight schedule. You’ll be able to see the main highlights like the Palace, the Hall of Mirrors, and the gardens. However, exploring the entire estate, including the Trianon Palaces and Marie-Antoinette’s Estate , would be challenging in this timeframe.

Is 2 hours enough for Versailles?

Two hours at Versailles allows for a brief visit. You can tour the main palace, including the main areas like the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments and the Hall of Mirrors. However, two hours isn’t really enough to fully experience the gardens or other parts of the estate.

Can you bring a water bottle into the Palace of Versailles?

Yes, you can bring a water bottle into the Palace of Versailles. It’s advisable to carry a reusable bottle as there are several water fountains on the grounds where you can refill it. However, drinking and eating inside the palace rooms are not allowed.

Can I bring a backpack into Versailles?

Backpacks are allowed in Versailles, but there are size restrictions. Large backpacks may need to be checked into the cloakroom. For a smoother visit, it’s recommended to bring a smaller bag to avoid long waits at the security check and cloakroom.

My Top Pick for a Half-Day Tour of Versailles!

• Personalised insights from your guide
• Round-trip transportation from Paris.

Final Thoughts: Taking a half-day Versailles tour from Paris

As you can see, I’ve been to Versailles five times , and I still feel like I haven’t seen everything there is to see. I still want to see Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet and Petit Trianon.

I highly recommend taking half-day tours as there is so much to see and do that it can be overwhelming trying to squeeze it into one day. 

Plus, with a tour guide, you get to ask questions such as, “Did Marie Antoinette really say, Let Them Eat Cake? ”.

If you can, make enough time to see the gardens, orangery and the Petit Trianon.

Just remember, if you’re making your own way and using the Metro and RER train , make sure to leave yourself plenty of time. Trains get cancelled regularly, and you don’t want to miss the time you have.

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Best Palace of Versailles Tours

• See & Do
• Palace of Versailles
• Versailles Palace Tours from Paris

The 10 Best Versailles Palace Tours from Paris for 2024

Are you planning to visit the Palace of Versailles from Paris?   If so, you may be wondering:  what is the easiest, most stress-free way to get to Versailles, and how can you get the most out of your experience - especially if you want to avoid wasting time in the notoriously long lines at the Chateau's entrance?

Most Popular Paris Day Trips to Palace of Versailles

These top-rated day trips from Paris to Versailles fill up fast, so book early to get the dates you want:

Popular Versailles day trips with transportation from Paris:

• Palace of Versailles & Gardens - Audio tour; choose a full-day or half-day trip
• Versailles Skip-the-Line Guided Tour & Gardens  - Optional garden tour
• Versailles Bike Tour with Palace & Queen's Farm Entrance  - Highly-rated
• Giverny & Versailles Guided Day Trip - See 2 iconic attractions in one day

Traveling to Versailles on your own?  Book a ticket with a reserved time slot for fast entry:

• Versailles Palace & Gardens Full Access Ticket - Includes entire Estate, including 3 palaces, the gardens (including Musical Gardens or Fountain show from April-October), & Marie-Antoinette's Hameau (farm and village)

Fortunately, you can choose from many excellent guided Palace of Versailles tours from Paris that allow you to go through a special priority fast-track entrance gate for use only by group tours.  Some of them also include transportation on comfortable air-conditioned coaches.   For others, you'll meet your guide in Paris and go to Versailles together on the train. 

However, sorting through all the tour choices and options can be challenging, especially if you're planning your first or even your second visit. 

To make choosing the best tour for you easy, we've compiled a list of the 10 best Versailles Palace tours from Paris in 4 different categories:

• Versailles Tours with Included Bus or Train Transport
• Guided Tours of Versailles - You take the train to Versailles on your own
• Guided Bike Tours of Versailles & Its Estate - You meet your group in Paris and travel together to/from Versailles on the train
• Guided Combo Tours of Versailles Plus Giverny or Fontainbleau with transport included

Top photo: A guided tour in the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles, (c) Paris Discovery Guide

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Best Guided Tours of the Palace of Versailles with Transportation from Paris

These guided tours of Versailles departing from Paris eliminate all the guesswork and stress of getting there and back on your own. Plus, you get fast entry through the dedicated tour-only gate. 

These tours are perfect for when you want maximum convenience plus the knowledge and insights of an expert guide.

1.  From Paris: Full Day Guided Tour of Versailles with Lunch & Transportation

The highly-rated Full-Day Guided Tour of Versailles starts with a comfortable trip by air-conditioned coach from Paris. 

Your expert guide will whisk you through a special entrance  and take you on a tour of the most spectacular Palace rooms, such as the magnificent Hall of Mirrors. You'll get to enjoy entertaining stories about the history of Versailles and life at the Royal Palace as you explore the Sun King's home.

After your Palace tour, you'll have free time to stroll through the beautiful formal Palace Gardens, where you'll have lunch at around noon. 

During the afternoon, your guide will show you Versailles' other most important sights: the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Marie Antoinette's Estate including her charming Hamlet before your relaxing return to Paris by bus.

2.  Skip-the-Line Versailles Palace Guided Tour by Train from Paris

You'll meet your guide for the Skip-the-Line Versailles Palace Tour by Train in central Paris and travel together to the famous Chateau. 

After passing quickly through the priority entrance reserved for tour groups, your 3-hour journey through the opulent Palace begins.  

Your knowledgeable guide will keep you informed and entertained as you visit the Royal Apartments, Hall of Mirrors, and other opulent rooms, as well as the spectacular gardens.  Depending on the day of the week, you'll see the enchanting Musical Gardens or Musical Fountains show. 

After your tour, you can head straight back to Paris on the train if your schedule is tight.  But if you have enough time for a longer visit, you can linger in the gardens, walk around the Grand Canal, and perhaps even enjoy a delicious French dinner in a nearby bistro before taking the train to Paris.

3.  Versailles Palace & Gardens: Ticket, Audio Guide, & Bus from Paris

If you want the convenience of bus transportation to and from Paris but prefer audio guides or exploring independently rather than taking a guided tour, then the Versailles Palace & Gardens: Ticket, Audio Guide, & Bus from Paris may be an excellent choice for you. 

You can choose a half-day (with morning or afternoon arrival) or a full day at the Chateau.  For the half-day afternoon tour, your ticket will give you access to the Palace and Gardens, where you can experience a Musical Fountains show or Musical Gardens on days when they take place.  When you choose the full-day excursion, you will also get access to the Grand and Petit Trianons, as well as to Marie Antoinette's Estate.  All options include an audio guide.

A host will accompany you on the air-conditioned bus from Paris and make sure you get through the skip-the-line entry to the Palace.  From there, you can spend your time discovering all the exciting wonders of this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site.

More about Visiting the Palace of Versailles

• Top Things to See & Do at the Palace of Versailles - Plus visitor tips
• Best Ways to Get from Paris to Versailles Palace
• Best Hotels & Apartments near the Palace of Versailles

4.  From Paris: Day Trip to Giverny & Versailles

To visit both Claude Monet's home and gardens at Giverny as well as the Palace of Versailles in one day from Paris, this small group Giverny & Versailles Guided Day Trip makes that easy to do, thanks to the included transportation on a comfortable air-conditioned coach.

You'll tour Giverny at your own pace with a self-guided audio app.  After a quick lunch break, you'll head to Versailles where you'll have a guided tour of the Palace's most famous rooms, and then explore the beautiful gardens on your own.

The Giverny portion of the tour includes a ticket to Monet's house and gardens.  At Versailles, your ticket also admits you to the Palace and Gardens. 

Best Skip-the-Line Guided Tours of the Palace of Versailles

For these tours, you'll take the train on your own from Paris to Versailles, and then meet your guide after you exit the station.  Together, you'll walk to the Chateau and because you're with a guide, you get the benefit of entering quickly through the guided tour-only gate. 

5.  Versailles Palace: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour 

The Versailles Palace: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour is perfect if you want to explore the spectacular Palace with an expert and learn a bit about Louis XIV (the "Sun King"), Marie Antoinette, and the leading members of the French monarchy who once lived here. 

After you meet your guide and go into the Palace through the priority entrance, your guide will introduce you to this architectural masterpiece.  Then, as you explore the most important rooms, such as the elaborate King's and Queen's Royal Apartments and the magnificent Hall of Mirrors, your guide will point out treasures you might not see on your own. 

When you book:  You can choose to do this tour with a group or as a private experience.

After your tour, you can continue exploring the Palace on your own, but please note: this tour does not include access to the Gardens.  If you want to also tour the sumptuous Gardens, with or without a guide, during the period when the Musical Garden and Musical Fountains shows take place, you'll need a ticket - so check out the following option below!

6. Versailles Palace & Gardens: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Like the previous tour, the Versailles Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Guided Tour includes fast entry to the Palace through the priority gate used by tour guides.  You also get a fascinating guided tour of the Palace's most important rooms and can choose between a group and a private experience.

But here's the difference:  This offer also includes a ticket to the statue-filled Royal Gardens (on days when they're not free) where you can see beautiful flowers and ornate fountains.  Your ticket to the Gardens also includes Musical Fountains or Musical Gardens, depending on the day.

When you book your ticket, you can include a guided tour of the Gardens - or choose just to get an entry ticket and explore on your own.

When Can You Enter Versailles' Royal Gardens for Free? 

Currently, free entry days include Wednesdays during September and October, and every day from November through March. 

What happens on the other days?   Musical Fountains shows take place on Saturdays and Sundays from late May through October and on Bastille Day (July 14).  Musical Gardens take place on Tuesdays through Fridays during July and August, and on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays during September and October.

When you choose a tour ticket that includes admission to the Gardens on a day when Musical Fountains or Musical Gardens take place, you get to experience these special events.

Best Guided Bike Tours of Versailles

Versailles's mostly flat terrain and expansive grounds makes this the perfect location for bike tours. 

7.  Versailles Bike Tour with Palace & Queen's Farm Entrance

On the Versailles Bike Tour with Palace & Queen's Farm Entrance,  you'll meet up with your guide and the rest of your tour group in Paris and take the train together to Versailles. 

Once there, you'll visit the traditional farmers' market to pick up cheese, fruits, and charcuterie for a picnic lunch later in the day by the Grand Canal.

After a quick stop to pick up your bike (plus rain ponchos, just in case!), you're off to cycle around the Chateau's landscaped parklands and sumptuous gardens.   With over 2,000 acres, the place is enormous - so you'll appreciate having both a guide and a bike! 

Your guide will also take you to see the smaller palaces of the Grand and Petit Trianons as well as Marie-Antoinette's Hameau, her rustic village, and her farm.  Meanwhile, your guide will share lots of information about the incredible places you're seeing as well as the colorful French kings and queens who once lived there.

Finally, you'll visit the Palace of Versailles with the skip-the-line entry ticket included as part of your tour.  This portion of the trip is on your own, so you can use the included audio guide and explore the Hall of Mirrors and other opulent rooms at your own pace before heading back to Paris on the train.

8.  Paris: Versailles Sunset Bike Tour with Fireworks Show (& After-Hours Palace Entrance!)

The seasonal (late spring through early fall) Paris: Versailles Sunset Bike Tour with Fireworks Show  gives you three phenomenal experiences:

1. The spectacular evening Fountains Show in Versailles' Royal Gardens

2. Exclusive after-hours admission to the Palace where you'll see costumed performers and musicians as they sing, dance, and play musical instruments as you explore the Royal Chambers and other famous rooms without encountering crowds of other visitors.

3.  An unforgettable fireworks display over the Grand Canal.

In addition, you'll have plenty of time to ride your bike around the Estate with your guide and see the famous gardens, the Petit Trianon and Grand Trianon, and Marie-Antoinette's Hamlet.  You'll even enjoy a picnic dinner.

Similar to the previous daytime tour by bike, you'll meet your guide in central Paris and go together to Versailles on the train.  Once you reach Versailles and pick up your bike, you'll head to the market square to pick up food for a picnic dinner.

Once you reach the Palace grounds, you'll explore the estate, with stops at Marie-Antoinette's Hameau, the Petit and Grand Trianons, and finally the Grand Canal, where you'll enjoy your picnic dinner. 

Finally, you'll get after-hours entrance to the Palace and Gardens, where the magical evening entertainment unfolds.

After the fireworks, you'll return to Paris by train where your tour ends.

Want to bike from Paris to Versailles?  Find out how

Best Combo Tours of Versailles + Giverny or Fontainbleau

When your schedule allows time for only one day trip from Paris, these guided tours from Paris let you experience Versailles and Giverny or Versailles and Fontainbleau in a single day. 

9. Versailles & Giverny Day Tour with Lunch at Moulin de Fourges

Giverny & Versailles Day Tour with Lunch - Medium (14 or less) group tour in a minibus. 

When you arrive at Giverny, you'll explore Impressionist artist Claude Monet's home, gardens, and the ponds where water lilies inspired his most famous paintings.

After enjoying a delicious 3-course lunch with wine at Moulin de Fourges, a restaurant in a delightful old mill house by a scenic river about 5 miles from Giverny, you'll head to Versailles, where an art historian will lead you on a guided tour of the most famous rooms including the Hall of Mirrors.  Headsets will be provided to enable you to hear the guide. 

This tour also includes access to Versailles' magnificent gardens,  which means you'll get to see the Fountain Show or Musical Gardens on the days when they're available.

Please note: the private option mentioned in the "Includes" section of online description appears to not be available at the current time.

10.  Versailles Palace & Château de Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau, like Versailles, is a magnificent palace which grew from a modest medieval hunting lodge.  The Palace overlooks a large lake and spectacular gardens including the largest formal garden in Europe.  It has served as a residence for numerous French rulers including 34 kings and two emperors from the 12th through the 19th century. 

The best way to see both Versailles and Fontainebleau in a single day is to sign up for a Chateau de Fontainbleau & Chateau de Versailles Private Tour.

Your driver/guide will pick you up at your hotel, will first take you to the Chateau de Fontainebleau for a private tour of the magnificent palace, where you'll also see Napoleon's Throne.  

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Ultimate Palace of Versailles Tour from Paris

Breeze past the lines for the palace and gardens with a friendly english speaking guide.

Looking for an easy way to see the best of Versailles? Versailles is a popular day trip from Paris, but planning ahead to get tickets and transportation organized makes things so much easier! That's why you'll love our half-day small group tour with a local guide who'll take you on roundtrip transportation to Versailles and skip the long lines at the palace! You'll see the palace and garden more quickly and maximize your trip to Versailles from Paris.

• Meet your guide outside Porte d'Auteuil metro station
• Arrive at Versailles
• Palace of Versailles
• Royal Chapel
• Princess' Apartments
• Hall of Mirrors
• King's State Apartments
• Gardens of Versailles
• End your tour at Porte d'Auteuil metro station

You'll meet your guide and small group of fellow travelers at the Porte d'Auteuil metro station in Paris, where you'll receive transportation on a climate-controlled bus to Versailles and back to Paris at the end with ease. Follow your guide's lead as they escort you past the long lines of people entering the palace with your skip-the-line tickets. Once inside, your guided tour will show you the unforgettable art and architecture inside the Palace of Versailles, and you'll learn all about its famous royal residents and the remarkable stories that shaped its past.

You'll be wowed by what you see and learn from your guide as they lead you to the best areas of the palace before heading out to the gardens. At the end of the tour you can choose to continue exploring the gardens on your own, but please note that the bus returning to Paris will depart shortly after the end of the tour.

Versailles Palace from Paris Tour Description

Your 3.5-hour guided tour includes:

Round-trip transportation by coach from Paris to Versailles

Skip-the-line entrance to the Palace of Versailles

Guided tour of the palace

Introduction to the gardens

Optional free time to explore the gardens and Trianon Estate

A local, English-speaking guide

Small group of 18 or fewer people

Experience the Incredible Palace of Versailles

You'll meet your guide at the Porte d'Auteuil metro station, where you will take a comfortable coach bus straight to Versailles. After you've skipped the line to enter the palace, your expert guide will begin to show you all of the most fascinating parts of this historic royal residence. A stunning work to behold from the inside and out, the Versailles Palace encompasses over 2,000 rooms, with about as many windows looking out at the immense gardens. The opulent interior holds countless works of art and precious artifacts, so it's easy to see why over ten million people visit the palace each year.

Formerly the hunting château of King Louis XIII, the stunning Versailles Palace and Gardens were built in the 17th century, and UNESCO have declared this place a World Heritage site. The elaborately decorated and expansive palace became the seat of French power during the reign of King Louis XIV. You'll hear stories of the lavish lifestyles and scandals that became a hallmark of the kings and queens who once called this place home.

The Hall of Mirrors and Grand Apartments

Measuring almost 70 yards long and adorned with 357 mirrors, the Hall of Mirrors is the most famous room in the château. The mirrors in this room were designed to reflect light and protect the walls from smoke, and only a few candles were required in order to reflect candlelight throughout the entire room. 

The Treaty of Versailles, which marked the end of World War I, was signed in the Hall of Mirrors on June 28th, 1919. With thousands of rooms to explore, navigating the Palace of Versailles on your own is a challenge. A guided tour is the best way to cover the must-see highlights of the Palace of Versailles, including the King's State Apartments and the apartments of Louis XV's daughters. 

The Gardens of Versailles and Trianon Estate

After touring the palace, you’ll experience the magnificent Gardens of Versailles as your guide explains the fascinating history of the most famous gardens in the world. You'll receive an introduction to the gardens from your guide. Inspiring other gardens all over the world, the meticulously manicured Gardens of Versailles occupy a total area of almost 2,000 acres with over 400 sculptures and 1,400 fountains. Your ticket also includes access to see Marie-Antoinette's Trianon Estate,.

At the end of the tour you can choose to continue exploring the gardens on your own, but please note that the coach returning to Paris will depart shortly after the end of the tour. In case you do wish to spend more time in the gardens, our guide is happy to advise on alternative ways to get back to Paris.

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What you get with this tour

See what people are saying

506 total reviews

Irina was great!

Irina was a fun guide. She was educational and had detailed and funny stories to tell. We enjoyed the tour thoroughly!

Good tour and guide

Having direct transportation to and from the palace made navigating a breeze. Our guide, Imad, provided great information and made sure to keep everyone together as we toured through the rooms. He also had some good recommendations on where to go and other places to visit following the tour. The time left afterwards to explore some of the gardens was lovely, and if we'd chosen to we could have stayed longer and used the train to return to Paris.

show more reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

We recommend bringing a bottle of water with you. We also recommend wearing a pair of comfortable shoes as there is quite a bit of walking involved, especially if you want to spend more time in the gardens.

What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?

If you have concerns about your mobility, we recommend you take our Private Golden Versailles Palace and Garden Tour so we can better accommodate your needs.

Is a guided tour of the gardens included?

You'll have a 30-minute explanation of what you'll see as you stand at the garden entrance. If you want extra time to explore, you're free to return when you're ready by taking a train instead. Note, if you do stay for extra time to explore, you will need to pay the train fare for your return.

Is a guided tour of the Palace of Versailles included?

Yes, this tour highlights a guided tour of the palace.

Will I be able to see the Trianon Estate?

Yes! Your ticket includes access to the estate, which you can visit self-guided after the tour has finished. Note, if you do stay for extra time to explore, you will need to pay the train fare for your return.

Can I meet my guide at Versailles?

Unfortunately due to the timing and logistics of this tour, it is not possible to meet up with your guide at Versailles. If you are looking for a tour that starts at Versailles, we recommend our From Versailles: Palace and Gardens Tour

How much walking does this tour involve?

Quite a lot. Aside from the bus ride, you’ll be on your feet for most of the tour, and you’ll climb a few sets of stairs too.

Is lunch included with this tour?

Lunch isn’t included, but food can be purchased at Versailles Palace or in town. Your guide will be happy to offer some recommendations.

Where does this tour end?

Your tour will end back at the Porte d'Auteuil metro station in Paris in order to take the coach back to Paris. If you'd like to stay in Versailles and explore more on your own, you will need to purchase a train ticket at your own expense.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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Palace of Versailles tickets tours

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Roundrip transportation Versailles/Paris (half-day)

You already have your ticket or you wish to book it by yourself, take our shuttle to the castle of Versailles.

Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles with Priority Access from Versailles

Come discover the Palace of Versailles leaving from Versailles. An expert guide will accompany you as you discover the history of French kings by visiting their superb apartments and the incomparable Hall of Mirrors. 

Versailles Half Day Audio Guided Tour of the Palace from Paris with transportation

Half a day to visit the Palace of Versailles at your own convenience. Audio guides available for the grand apartments of the Palace. Free time in the French-style gardens. Excursion departing from Paris

Audio Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles and Access to the whole Estate Day Trip from Paris with transportation

Day trip to the Palace of Versailles. Free time to visit the King and Queen’s Grand Apartments and reception rooms with an audio guide. Free time to lunch and then discover the French gardens of the Palace of Versailles.

Versailles Essential Tour from Paris (Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles with Priority Access) with transportation

Guided tour of the Château de Versailles and its gardens with direct access. Round trip bus transportation from/to Paris, priority access to the interior of the castle.

Versailles Extended Tour from Paris (Palace with guide, gardens, the Trianons and the Queen’s Hamlet)

Guided tour of the Palace of Versailles, including the King and Queen’s grand apartments and the Hall of Mirrors. Lunch in the park of the Palace. Guided tour of the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, as well as the Queen’s Hamlet.

Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles with Priority Access in a Small Group (transportation included 1-15)

Small groups or private tours. Discover the Palace of Versailles with a guided tour of the King’s Grand Apartments and the Hall of Mirrors. Take a walk in the French gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. Departure and return by minibus to the Pullman hotel in Paris.

Audio Guided Tour of Giverny Monet's Gardens and the Palace of Versailles Day Trip (lunch and transportation included)

A guided day tour with two must-see destinations close to Paris. Discover the Gardens of Giverny, with free time to visit the studio and House of Claude Monet. Then head to the Palace of Versailles, with free time to stroll through the gardens. Stop for lunch at Moulin de Fourges or Bistrot du Moulin.

All day trip guided tour Giverny Monet's Gardens and Palace of Versailles from Paris with skip-the-line access (lunch and transportation included)

A guided day tour with two must-see destinations close to Paris. Discover the Gardens of Giverny, with free time to visit the studio and House of Claude Monet. Then head to the Palace of Versailles, with free time to stroll through the gardens. Stop for lunch at Moulin de Fourges.

Guided Tour of Giverny and Versailles in small group (1-15) with Skip-the-Line Access Day Trip from Paris (Lunch and transportation included)

In a small group or private tour, go and discover Versailles and Giverny. The Monet Foundation with its magnificent gardens, his house, and the picturesque Norman village of Giverny. And the majestic Palace of Versailles.

5-DAY TOUR IN FRANCE : round-trip airport/hotel transfers + 2-day guided tour of Mont Saint Michel/Chateaux de La Loire + guided tour of Versailles

Enjoy a complete experience combining the discovery of Paris, the rich history of Normandy, the splendor of the Loire castles, and the magnificence of Versailles.

Versailles tickets, guided tours et priority access

When visiting Paris, it's easy to visit Versailles by booking your tickets in advance with PARISCityVISION. On board a comfortable coach from the centre of Paris or by train, to visit the gardens and the Palace of Versailles with priority access with a guide-interpreter or on your own with an audio guide, choose the tickets that suit you best. Whether you prefer to condense your visit into a morning or an afternoon, or take the time to have lunch in the park near the Grand Canal and stroll over to the Trianon, there are tours and excursions to suit all tastes .

A priority ticket enables you to visit the Grands Appartements royaux and the Hall of Mirrors, with an audio guide to comment on the history of the Palace of Versailles in the language of your choice. You can then wander at your leisure through the gardens laid out by Le Nôtre , while a more comprehensive guided tour will take you to the Petit and Grand Trianon, where you can discover the Queen's domain. Guided tours of the Palace of Versailles and its formal gardens can also be arranged for small groups.

Visit our website to find out about prices and opening times for visitors, and book your tickets in advance. Guided tours, musical performances or both, make the most of the best rates when booking your excursion.

Versailles, a must-see in France

The history of the Versailles Palace is unique and very important in French history. Louis XIV conceived of the Château de Versailles as an expression of his omnipotence, and as a representation of the power of the kings of France . At the height of his power, he made Versailles the epitome of superlatives. Today, this immense palace, surrounded by splendid gardens, is one of the most visited monuments in France, just a few kilometres from Paris.

The Château de Versailles is a must-see if you're staying in Paris to discover the history of Louis XIV and Marie-Antoinette, through historical reconstructions and educational exhibitions. To get an idea of what life was like at Court, you need to have seen the 2,300-odd rooms in the château , admired the Hall of Mirrors and the King's and Queen's flats , and strolled along the paths of the landscaped gardens, as more than 10 million visitors do every year. Slip into the intimacy of Marie-Antoinette at the Petit Trianon and the Queen's hamlet , in a world that is both rural and delicate, less ostentatious and particularly poignant.

To fully immerse yourself in the grandeur of Versailles and its aristocratic history , book your tickets during the spring to catch the Grandes Eaux Musicales show . This aquatic and musical spectacle, set to Baroque music, unfolds in the basins and gardens of Versailles in the afternoon. Alternatively, during the summertime, you can experience an extraordinary show on Saturday nights, culminating with fireworks above the Grand Canal. Ensure you reserve your tickets to witness this captivating spectacle .

Book your Versailles tickets online

Buy your Versailles ticket onlin e and discover this extraordinary place at your own pace. Order your tickets for Versailles online and discover every corner of the estate: the palace, the gardens, the two Trianons and the Queen's hamlet all bear witness to the past splendour and now bygone daily life of the French monarchy. Your tickets include an audio guide to the history and secrets of the château.

Don't hesitate any longer, purchase your ticket now for one of the various tours offered by PARISCityVISION and relish the experience of visiting one of the world's most stunning monuments .

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Local, independent company & high quality tours.

Passionate, fully licensed & fluent in English.

Personalized to your needs in luxury style.

Skip the lines. Save time and enjoy.

Private chauffeur from your doorstep to Versailles.

Just you, your guide and your driver!

Our versailles tour from Paris with hotel pick up

Whether this is your first time to Versailles or you are a returning visitor, Paris To Versailles Private Tours  is here to offer you the best selection of private Versailles tour from paris with hotel pickup. Our tour guide are expert about the Monarchy. Immerse yourself in the French Royal lifestyle and enjoy our unique, and unmissable experience at the world-famous Palace of Versailles.

Led by our team of professionally licensed, dedicated experts, with their unparalleled knowledge and engaging charm, our tours of Versailles are crafted to make your visit to Versailles an unforgettable experience.

Ours private Versailles tours from Paris with hotel pickup are designed alongside our team of experts with the charm, skills and know-how to make your visit to Versailles memorable. You may not come again for a while, that’s why we want your experience to be the best possible!

As Versailles is 17 miles away from the center of Paris, all ours tours include a pick up hotel from Paris unless for a specific reason you prefer to meet us directly at Versailles.

At Paris To Versailles Private Tours  we understand that driving and recounting the history of Versailles both require a very different, specific set of skills. Which is why, to ensure your maximum enjoyment and safety, during your visit to the Palace, you will be guided by one of our expert tour guides, licensed by the French state, with many years of experience and a passion for history. During your journey to and from Versailles you will be driven by a professional chauffeur. That way, you just have to relax and let your driver and guide take charge of everything, so you can enjoy a hassle-free visit of this magnificent chateau.

Exploring Versailles with the Paris To Versailles Private Tours  guides is not simply about ticking this attraction off your list. It is all about learning how to see the castle with its rich its history and vast landscape through the eyes of an expert, all the while uncovering the secrets of the palace, which other visits would pass by.

If you are keen to know more about the extravagant life and personality of France’s last Queen, this is the tour for you.

Price:  145€ / pers for 6 Duration:  4 hrs door-to-door

A perfect taster to Versailles if you are short of time or if you are a first time visitor. A private tour of the Palace and its gardens.

Price: 180€ / pers for 6 Duration:  5 hrs door-to-door

Go behind the scenes with your personal guide with exclusive access to areas closed to the general public.

Price:  220€ / pers for 6 Duration:  9 hrs door-to-door

An hidden gem! A magical place that inspired the construction of the Palace of Versailles. Come with us to see for yourself how the King of France found himself a rival. The largest, still inhabited private estate in France, Vaux le Vicomte will not disappoint.

Price:  180€ / pers for 6 Duration:  5 hrs door-to-door

Residence of the French King before becoming a Museum, who wouldn’t have heard of the most famous art Museum in the world? But with this tour, you will discover a more hidden history of this grandiose landmark. Plus, view and interpret our selection of the best artefacts found at the Museum.

Price:  90€ / pers for 6 Duration:  2,5 hrs door-to-door

Captivating art, impressive history, stunning gardens! Enjoy this and even more with this special tour, visiting two of the most alluring places in France. Learn about Monet & the Impressionist art movement in Giverny then immerse in the life of the French Monarchs in Versailles.

Price:  270€ / pers for 6 Duration: 9 hrs door-to-door

These majestic gardens were the scene of many of King Louis XIV’s splendid balls and shows. Learn more about the significance of the gardens & of how magic came to life!

Price:  145€ / pers for 6 Duration: 5 hrs door-to-door

After closing, Versailles palace opens its doors to allow a privileged few to visit in confidence the ultimate residence of the french Kings.

Price:  on request Duration: customized

Paris: City of light, love & arts. Our private Half Day tour of Paris will offer you a good overview of the best historical sites of Paris.

Price:  155€ / pers for 6 Duration: 4 hrs door-to-door

Visiting The Palace Of Versailles From Paris

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: June 3, 2024

UPDATED: June 3, 2024

The Palace of Versailles is one of the most popular day trip options from Paris. If you have enough time in your Paris itinerary, we highly recommend making the trip because it’s a unique and beautiful experience. However, many others will have the same idea so you can expect the palace to be extremely busy.

There’s much more to see than just the palace complex, including stunning gardens and smaller estates within the grounds. It’s a great place to visit for the entire family with numerous walking trails and activities for kids. In this Palace of Versailles guide, we show you everything you need to know about visiting from Paris.

Our Paris Experience

We personally visited the Palace of Versailles on a day trip from Paris in November 2023. It was a cold and rainy winter day, but that didn’t stop us from enjoying everything the palace has to offer. And even though we visited in winter, Versailles was still very busy and crowded so it’s important to do a little bit of planning no matter what time of year you visit.

For our Versailles trip, we decided to make an entire day out of it so we included the Main Palace, the Gardens, Trianon Estate and the Queen’s Hamlet. It was a lot of walking and it took us 8 hours in total. Below, we’ll show you what’s worth visiting and how to maximize your time at Versailles. Read more  about us .

Palace Of Versailles History

The town of Versailles is located about 12 miles (20 km) southwest of Paris and it was deeply loved by King Louis XIII. In 1623, the king built a small hunting lodge on the current site that is now the Palace of Versailles. His son, Louis XIV spent a lot of time at Versailles as a child and later expanded the original hunting lodge between 1661 and 1715. He transformed it into the large extravagant complex visitors can walk around today.

In 1682, King Louis XIV officially moved the French Court and government to the Palace of Versailles and a succession of kings ruled here until the French Revolution in 1789. Two important treaties were also signed on the palace grounds which play an important part of France’s history.

The Treaty of Paris was signed at the Palace of Versailles in 1783, ending the American Revolutionary War. Then in the 19th Century, Versailles was used once again by Napoleon Bonaparte, Louis XVIII, Louise-Phillippe and Napoleon III as a seasonal residence.

The Treaty of Versailles was signed in the Hall of Mirrors in June 1919, formally ending World War I. In 1979, the Palace and Park of Versailles were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It now welcomes 15 million visitors per year making it one of the world’s most popular tourist attractions.

For the 2024 Summer Olympics , the Palace of Versailles will host equestrian events and the modern pentathlon. All areas of Versailles will remain open to visitors during the games, and public transportation will be provided to help spectators easily get to competition sites.

Need help planning your trip to Paris?

Our popular Paris travel guidebook helps you with planning every aspect of your visit, including must-visit attractions and museums, where to eat and stay, itinerary ideas and map!

Visitor Information

The Palace of Versailles is open every day of the week (except Mondays) beginning at 9:00am . Weekends, especially holiday weekends, are the busiest time of the week so try to visit during the week if possible.

However, the park and the garden are open everyday, and they’re free to visit from November to March. But from April to October, access to the gardens between Tuesday and Sunday may require an additional fee due to the Musical Fountains show. Here are the official opening times for both high and low season:

High season (April 1st – October 31st):

• Palace –   Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00am to 6:30pm
• Estate of Trianon – Tuesday to Sunday from 12:00pm to 6:30pm
• Gardens – Daily from 8:00am to 8:30pm
• Park – Daily from 7:00am to 8:30pm

Low season (November 1st – March 31st):

• Palace –   Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00am to 5:30pm
• Estate of Trianon – Tuesday to Sunday from 12:00pm to 5:30pm
• Gardens – Daily from 8:00am to 6:00pm
• Park – Daily from 8:00am to 6:00pm

There are various ticket options and tours you can book, but we’ll go over this at the end of our guide after we show you everything you can do at the palace grounds.

Things To Do At The Palace Of Versailles

When you visit Versailles, there is more to see than just the main palace. If your itinerary allows, we recommend you spend a whole day here because it’s a fascinating place to explore. Here are a few of our favorite things to do on site:

1. Visit The Palace

The Palace is where the majority of visitors at Versailles spend their time and you should plan for at least 2-3 hours . Inside, there are over 2,300 rooms and you’ll follow a predetermined tour route. If you’re planning to use an audioguide, it might take you longer to get though all the rooms because there are also various displays to read.

Some of the more famous rooms within the palace include the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Apartment, Marie Antoinette’s Bedchamber, the Gallery of Great Battles, the Opera and Coronation Room.

We visited at 9:30am just 30 minutes after the palace opened and it was already extremely busy. We had to wait in a 30 minute line just to enter the palace even with our timed entry reservation. It was raining and there was nowhere to hide from the elements, so we got soaked. If you’re visiting on a hot day or in the rain, make sure you’re prepared if you have to stand outside before entering the palace.

2. Enjoy The Gardens

After visiting the palace, you’ll be lead out to the large gardens . Access is free of charge unless you visit during a Musical Fountain show and Musical Garden day (mostly Tuesdays, Fridays and weekends between March and October). For specific days and tickets visit the official website here .

If you want to see the gardens, you should plan for at least 2 hours. There are over 300 sculptures and some of the popular sites include the Great Lawn, Apollo’s Fountain, Neptune’s Fountain, the Orangery and the Groves.

There are 3 main walking paths you can explore including the Water Walk, the Royal Way or the King’s Garden Grove. We love the Royal Way because it follows the Great Lawn and ends at Apollo’s Fountain. Once you get to the Grand Canal, you can make a right to head towards the Estate of Trianon.

Travel Tip : From the Hall of Mirrors, look out of the large windows for a full perspective of the beautiful gardens from above. The view will stretch all the way to the Grand Canal so we think it’s one of the best views you can see of the gardens.

3. Musical Fountains Show

From March to October every year, you can enjoy the Musical Fountain show and the Musical Gardens. The Musical Fountains perform every weekend while the Musical Gardens can be seen from Tuesday to Saturday. Additional tickets are required and you can buy them here .

Here are the current prices for each option:

• Musical Fountain Show: € 10,50
• Musical Gardens: € 10,00

Entrance is free for children 6 and under.

Unfortunately, the fountains were not playing when we visited in November, but it’s on our bucket list. There is also a Night Fountain Show with fireworks and dramatic lighting effect which occurs over the Grand Canal. For a complete list of shows, click here .

Travel Tip : If you purchase the Palace of Versailles Passport, you’ll have access to the musical shows included in your ticket.

4. Grand Canal

The Grand Canal is one of the most breathtaking scenes at the Palace of Versailles. It stretches an impressive 23 hectares, which took 11 years to complete, and there’s no better place to take in the grandeur of the estate than at the Grand Canal.

Rowing a boat on the Grand Canal is one of the best things to do at Versailles. If you’re visiting with kids, this might be something you want to add to your Versailles itinerary. You’ll find the boat rentals near La Flottille restaurant. Four people maximum are allowed in one boat with a minimum time of 30 minutes.

Travel Tip : The Grand Canal is located within the park of Versailles. It’s always free to enter, making it a very popular spot.

5. Trianon Estate

The Estate of Trianon includes the Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet . It originally comprised of a single estate and was purchased by Louis XIV in 1661. This was where the French royal family would go for walks, hold dinners and put on their famous parties.

For your first stop, head to the Grand Trianon, known for it’s beautiful pink marble columns and pilasters. Inside, you can explore the North and South Wing including the Mirror Room, various Bedchambers, Chapel Rooms, Family Drawing Room, Malachite Room and Map Room. If you have time, you can also take a stroll around the Grand Trianon Gardens which showcase various statues and fountains.

Next, head to the Petit Trianon. It’s a neo-Greek-style building originally used as a small summer dining room that’s completely surrounded by stunning gardens. Not far from the Queen’s Hamlet, this was a quiet place Marie Antionette could escape from the court. You can explore the ground and first floor as well as the Petit Trianon Gardens.

Travel Tip : If you have time to walk through the gardens, check out the Small Lake and Rock Pavilion. It’s a beautiful spot with a unique grotto.

6. Queens Hamlet

The Queen’s Hamlet is technically part of the Trianon Estate, but we think it’s unique and deserves its own section on our guide. This was one of our favorite stops at the Palace of Versailles because it’s so different from the rest of the grounds.

It was originally built between 1783 and 1786 as a rustic getaway featuring several smaller structures for Marie Antionette. The hamlet was where she could escape palace life and enjoy a private life with friends.

While you can’t go inside all of the buildings, you can enter a few of them. You’ll find small informational displays inside as well as beautifully manicured gardens outside of each small complex. The Hamlet is the main centerpiece and it was inspired by the half-timbered houses of Normandy.

7. Small And Great Stables

Located about 10 minutes from the main palace on the town side, you’ll find the Gallery of Coaches and Sculpture Gallery inside the Small and Great Stables.

The Gallery of Coaches is on the ground floor of the Great Stables. It’s free to visit and includes two large galleries showcasing an impressive collection of grand ceremonial Berlin Coaches. Inside the Small Stables, you’ll find the Sculpture Gallery which is home to ancient Greek and Roman statues.

8. Rent A Bike or Ride The Train

The Palace of Versailles is an enormous complex, and if you want to visit the different sections we’ve discussed it will require a lot of walking. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or ride the Petit Train to get around.

Both regular and electric bikes can be rented for €10,00 or €16,00 / hour respectively. The minimum hire period is 30 minutes and you can pay with cash or card. However, a valid ID is required and rentals begin at 10:00am near Little Venice on the banks of the Grand Canal.

Another great way to get around the grounds is the Petit Train . You can board the covered coach train at the north terrace after visiting the main palace. The full circuit ticket price is €8,50 and a return ticket costs €4,50. Children under 11 are free if accompanied by an adult.

9. Grab A Bite To Eat

Depending on how long you plan to spend at Versailles, you might need to grab some lunch. Inside the palace, we found the food prices to be very inflated, but you can eat at Angelina , the Grand Café d’Orléans and the ORE Restaurant .

There are two restaurants in the gardens located between the Apollo Fountain and the Grand Canal, La Petite Venise  and La   Flottille . The  Brasserie de la Girandole is a seasonal option within the Gardens as well.

We had a quick snack at Angelina and then a full sit down meal at La Flottille, a quaint 1900’s brasserie with a set menu or à la carte dishes. We ordered a Crepe Normandie for €10,00 and a royale pizza for €14,00. The prices seemed to be a little cheaper outside of the palace if you can wait.

Travel Tip : Picnics are allowed in the park between the Palace and the Trianon palaces. However, you can not picnic in the gardens and you can not bring food into the palace.

How To Get To Versailles From Paris

• Address : Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles
• Location : Google maps

The best way to get to Versailles from Paris is by train . Use the RER Line C to Versailles Château Rive Gauche train station because this is the closest option to the palace. It will take about 30 to 45 minutes by train depending on where you start in Paris. From Versailles train station, it’s about a 10 minute walk to the palace. Here are the official time tables .

We used the train and thought it was a very efficient way to get to Versailles. It was clean and on time, and once we arrived at the train station, it was very clear how to get to the palace. If in doubt, all you need to do is follow the crowds straight to Versailles.

If you want to use the bus, the RATP bus line 171 runs between Pont de Sèvres and the Palace of Versailles. It takes about 30 minutes without traffic. Or you can use a ride share app such as Uber, but we wouldn’t recommend that option because it’ll be far more expensive.

Travel Tip : Purchase a return ticket when you first arrive at the train station to avoid the long lines coming back into Paris after your visit. All trains leaving Versailles Château Rive Gauche will go through Paris.

Here are a few photos to help you picture where you need to go:

Getting Versailles Tickets + Avoiding The Line

You can buy tickets for Versailles on site at the ticket office in the South Minsters’ Wing which is to the left of the Honour Courtyard. The lines to purchase tickets can be extremely long, we’re talking 1-3 hours and you’ll risk not being able to visit the palace because tickets can sell out.

There are many tickets options for Versailles and it can be confusing. Here are the most common ticket options:

• Versailles Palace Ticket – Palace only with audioguide included
• Garden Ticket – Free entry on days without a fountain or music show
• Passport Ticket –   Palace, Gardens and Estate of Trianon

Due to the high number of visitors everyday, admission to the Palace of Versailles can only be guaranteed by securing a ticket through online booking in advance. You should only purchase through the reputable websites we list below and you’ll need to choose a timed entry slot on the day of your visit.

We recommend avoiding the long ticket line on site and booking your ticket online in advance . There are many platforms you can purchase a ticket from including:

• Official website
• Get Your Guide

We visited with Tiqets’ Paris and Versailles bundle . It included the Louvre, Palace of Versailles and a Seine River Cruise. We could reserve a timed entry reservation for all 3 attractions and it was a little cheaper than buying all the attractions individually. Our ticket included access to the Palace of Versailles, Trianon Estate and Gardens so it’s equivalent to the Passport Ticket.

Even with a timed entry ticket, you’ll have to wait in a line with all of the other visitors who have the same time slot. After gaining entry into the palace, you’ll then have to wait in the security line which took us another 20 minutes during our visit. Unfortunately, both lines are unavoidable.

Travel Tip : If you can not purchase a ticket online in advance for the day you want to visit, you should book a guided tour to avoid the long ticket line and secure your spot. Browse tours below.

Best Tour Options

Now that you know everything you can see at Versailles, here are the top rated tour options:

• Palace and Gardens Guided Tour – This 90 minute tour utilizes a separate entrance and includes garden access.
• Half Day Palace Tour with Transport – Explore at your own pace with audioguide with roundtrip transportation.
• Full Day Tour with Gardens, Trianons + Hamlet – See everything at Versailles on this guided tour including fountain show (when applicable).
• Versailles Bike Tour – A full day bike tour of Versailles including the Palace and Trianon Estate. Entrance ticket and round trip train fares included.
• Private Golf Cart Tour – A private tour of the Versailles gardens in your own golf cart with knowledgeable guide.

Travel Tip : When buying tickets or a tour, make sure you read the fine print and understand which sections of the palace will be included.

Our Recommendations For Versailles

The top recommendation we have for Versailles is taking your time touring the palace and walking through the gardens. This should take you around 3-4 hours.

Personally, we thought it was worth visiting the Trianon Estate including the Queen’s Hamlet because the crowds were much thinner, but it will add another 2-3 hours to your visit and requires a lot of walking.

If you only have a half day to see the Palace of Versailles, you should plan to visit the Palace and some of the gardens. You won’t have enough time to see the Estate of Trianon or Queen’s Hamlet and the palace is where you should focus your time. The Estate is similar to the Palace, but on a smaller scale.

We did not visit the Gallery of Coaches or the Sculpture Gallery because we ran out of time. We wanted to see the Trianon Estate and Queen’s Hamlet since they are unique to Versailles. So if you have extra time, we’d recommend prioritizing the other estates on the grounds unless you’re interested in seeing the carriages previously used by the royals.

Tips For Visiting

After visiting ourselves, we’ve compiled a small list of helpful tips to help you make the most of your trip to Versailles:

• Buy tickets in advance online . Don’t wait until you’re at the palace to buy tickets because lines are long and they might sell out.
• Visit during the week . Weekends are the busiest times at Versailles so visit on a weekday to avoid the larger crowds.
• Audioguides are available . Offered in 12 different languages, this is a great option of you want to learn about the palace, but don’t want to book a tour.
• Plan to spend a whole day at versailles . There is so much to see, we recommend making an entire day of it.
• Free admission is granted the first Sunday of every month from November to March . However, you’ll still have to book a time slot to visit the palace.
• Guided tours give you access to closed rooms . Most visitors follow the general tour route, but you can visit lesser known locations often closed to visitors by booking one of these tours .
• Wear comfortable shoes . Your visit to Versailles will include a lot of walking so make sure you wear shoes that won’t hurt your feet.
• Prepare for the weather . When waiting in line for the palace, you’ll be exposed to the elements so plan accordingly.

Our Versailles Photos

We spent an entire day at Versailles and tried to see as much as possible. Here are a few of our favorite photos:

More Paris Guides

• How to spend a weekend in Paris
• What’s the best Paris attraction pass?

Want more France content? Head over to our France Travel Guides to explore Paris and beyond.

We hope our guide to visiting the Palace of Versailles as a day trip from Paris helps with planning your itinerary!

Please let us know if you have any questions about Versailles in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy this Versailles guide? Pin it for later!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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How to Plan a Girls' Trip to Paris

T he French capital might be nicknamed the City of Love, but it’s the perfect place for a girls’ weekend with your best friends from high school or college or a mother-daughter trip. Just ask  Gossip Girl  and  Emily in Paris ! With iconic landmarks, rooftop cocktail bars, incredible shopping boutiques, and a busy international airport, a girls’ trip to Paris is the best way to reconnect with friends near and far. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a longer stay (one week is perfect) in the beautiful City of Light, this travel guide has got you covered.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Where To Stay in Paris on a Girls’ Trip

The city center is the best area of Paris to stay in on a girls’ trip. Neighborhoods like the 7th arrondissement, Le Marais, the Latin Quarter, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés are ideal places. It’s a good idea to find a hotel that suits everyone’s budget so you have more to spend exploring the city. 

Assuming high-ticket options like Hôtel de Crillon are out of the question but you still want a little luxury, check out Hotel Brighton and Le Narcisse Blanc Hôtel & Spa .

Hotel Brighton teams elegant decor with modern amenities and is in a prime location near Place de la Concorde and Jardin des Tuileries. Le Narcisse Blanc Hôtel & Spa is a five-star boutique hotel and the perfect way to squeeze in some spa time.

Some mid-range options without compromising on comfort are the Chouchou Hotel and Hôtel Duquesne Eiffel . They’re both modern, stylish, and centrally located. Hôtel Duquesne Eiffel even offers an Eiffel Tower view!

How To Get Around Paris on a Girls’ Trip

Some attractions are only a short walk away, but Paris is a big city with unpredictable weather in the off-season. Luckily, Paris has efficient and convenient metro and regional train services.

There are also buses and trams but you shouldn’t need to use those. Tickets are currently €1.90 per single journey across the Paris metro system, bus network, and local trains.

Although hopping in a taxi isn’t always the best option considering the city’s traffic, it might not be as expensive as you think. Especially if you’re a big group on a girls’ trip to Paris! It’s a great way to arrive in style at the opera house and to avoid walking on the cobblestoned streets of Paris in your best heels. Grab a cab recommendation from your hotel and keep their business card in your purse. 

Things To Do on a Girls’ Trip to Paris

1. check out the famous paris museums.

Let’s face it, you can’t miss visiting the top museums in Paris if it’s your first time in the city. Regardless of whether you’re visiting with girlfriends or your entire family! The museums and galleries in Paris contain some of the most valuable and important artwork and artifacts in the world.

The Louvre Museum is a must-visit. Housed in a former palace with an iconic pyramid-shaped entrance, you can see the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, the Venus de Milo sculpture, and 380,000 other historic exhibits. However, the Louvre suffers from super long lines year-round. Unless you and your besties want to stand and wait, a better way to visit the Louvre is to book a skip-the-line tour of the highlights.

Another essential museum stop is the Musée d’Orsay . It’s a 19th and 20th-century European art museum located in a former railway station. Check out works by Van Gogh, Manet, Monet, and more as well as stand on the other side of the museum’s famous big clock.

If you have a little bit of time to spare, some other museums to check out on your girls’ trip to Paris include Musée Rodin or Musee de l’Orangerie . 

2. Shop at the Top Paris Malls and Boutiques

Paris is a great place for shopping (perhaps the best, aside from Milan and New York). It’s a rite of passage to spend the last day of your girls’ trip to Paris struggling to fit all of your new purchases in your suitcase. There’s something for everyone in Paris whether you love haute couture or hunting for bargains.

On the high end of the spectrum, there are the French fashion houses on the Champs-Élysées. This street runs from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Bastille and is where you’ll find Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior.

You should also check out the beautiful Art Nouveau Galeries Lafayette department store which sells everything from skincare to toys, and designer brands. It’s a must-visit during the holiday season for its spectacular decorations!

Fans of local fruit and vegetable markets which also sell antiques and flowers should head to Marché Monge or Marché d’Aligre. Rue Mouffatard known for al fresco shopping stalls. The Le Marais neighborhood is filled with retro boutiques like The Parisian Vintage and Tragic Vintage Store.

3. Join a Paris City Tour With Context Travel

On the first day of your girls’ trip to Paris, book a city tour with a local tour guide from Context Travel. This  perfect half-day city tour  is an informative yet fun way to get to know the city and see lots of top attractions like the Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame Cathedral, bridges like Pont des Arts, and neighborhoods like the Latin Quarter.

By traveling as a group, booking a private tour can be pretty cost-effective. Next time you all visit on a girls’ trip to Paris together, you’ll know the city like locals!

Other private tours we recommend

• City walking tour WithLocals
• Private Paris Segway Tour with Fat Tire Tours
• Paris City Highlights by Vintage Sidecar with Get Your Guide
• Private City Tour with Driver and Official Guide with Viator
• Highlights of Paris with Tours by Locals

4. Evening Dinner Cruise on the River Seine

Another tour to make time for on your Paris girls’ trip is a Seine River Cruise. This storied river stretches right through the heart of Paris and the only thing that could make it more enjoyable is by  booking a dinner cruise  with a glass of wine or champagne at the end of the day around sunset. 

Paris is gorgeous at night, particularly with the Eiffel Tower lit up. You’ll also be able to sail under Paris’s famous bridges like Pont Neuf and Pont Alexandre III and the islands of île Saint-Louis and île de la Cité.

5. Day Trip to Versailles

Versailles is only a stone’s throw from Paris and another must visit on a girls’ trip to Paris. The 17th-century Palace of Versailles is one of the most opulent, extravagant, and famous royal residences in the world, but there’s so much more to see in this beautiful city.

You can take a regional RER trail from several Paris stations including Gare du Nord to Versailles and then join a tour. Book a private tour or a  Fat Bike Tour  if you’re visiting Versailles any time from spring to fall.

Traveling through Versailles by bike is so much easier than you might think, so don’t worry if one or two of you haven’t ridden a bike in years! You’ll get to visit way more places than if you were on foot the entire day.

The Fat Bike Tour includes the Notre Dame Market, Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet, the Trianon pleasure palaces, and, of course, the Palace of Versailles and a chunk of its 2,000+ acres.

6. Witness the Iconic Views of Paris

Paris is beautiful whether you’re walking along its quaint streets with 19th-century townhouses or from a viewpoint. And Paris has some amazing viewpoints that you should all check out during your girls’ weekend!

One of the most obvious views is from the top of the Eiffel Tower which is the highest structure in Paris. But all the best vistas in Paris  include  a view of the Eiffel Tower which is impossible when you’re standing on it!

Head to the Arc de Triomphe, Montparnasse Tower, the Ferris Wheel at Place de la Concorde, or the Sacre Coeur Basilica in the Montmartre neighborhood which is one of the highest points in the city for epic photos. 

7. Take a French Cooking Class

Indulging in French cuisine, wine, and sweet treats is one of the best parts of visiting Paris with your friends! One of the best ways to sample the best food the city has to offer is to take a food tour, patisserie lessons, or cooking classes. Luckily,  La Cuisine Paris  offers all three. 

If you’re all chefs in the making, take a technical class on mastering French sauces. But if you’re more adept at the art of dining than cooking, choose a class where you can shop for seasonal products at a market or grocery store and turn them into a four-course meal you eat afterward. Bon appétit!

8. Day Trip to the Loire Valley or Champagne or Giverny

Spending a week or more in Paris with your besties? Lucky you! If you’ve already visited Versailles and don’t have anything planned for the next day, you have lots of options. You could visit the Loire Valley wine region, the Champagne region outside of Reims, or the village of Giverny. There are plenty of private tour options for all three of these top Paris day trip destinations.

Enjoy wine tastings with nibbles and tours of vineyards and wine cellars in the Loire Valley or in the Champagne region. Make sure you have enough room in your suitcase to bring back a bottle of wine or five! Or, explore the gardens where Monet painted his famous waterlilies in Giverny and the Museum of Impressionism.

Suggested day tours

• Day trip to Loire Valley
• Day trip to Champagne
• Day trip to Giverny

9. Catch a Burlesque or Opera Performance

Pack your best dresses and head out for a night on the town. Make it extra special by booking tickets for the  Féerie Revue Show  at the Moulin Rouge Cabaret or a performance at the Palais Garnier Opera House. Prepare to be whisked back in time and enjoy French history through song, dance, and spectacle!

10. Stroll in the Beautiful Paris Parks

If you think Parisian streets are pretty, you haven’t seen anything until you’ve strolled through a park or two. They are the perfect place for you to all enjoy a casual, al fresco lunch in warm weather courtesy of a nearby boulangerie and delicatessen! 

Sprawling 17th-century parks like Jardin des Tuileries, Jardin du Luxembourg , and Parc Des Buttes-Chaumont are perfect for picnics. Enjoy strolling through Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris, along the Canal Saint-Martin, or next to the Left Bank of the Seine.

11. Book a Professional Photoshoot with Flytographer

Let’s be honest, this girls’ trip to Paris has probably been a long time coming! Everyone has such hectic lives these days that it can be difficult to plan a trip together, so you want to make this one count. While selfies and photos taken by strangers are okay for most trips, you should hire a professional photoshoot for special vacations like this one.

Book a professional vacation photographer in Paris  via Flytographer, a database of skilled photographers around the world. They know all the best places to take photos near the Eiffel Tower and all the most photogenic spots around Paris. They will ensure you have stellar photos to post on social media and for you to look back on over the years. 

12. Sip Cocktails in the Best Parisian Bars

No weekend in Paris with your girlfriends is complete without tasting all the best French cocktails in all the best Parisian bars. Le Perchoir , Terrass Hotel ‘s rooftop bar, and Le Louxor are three of the best rooftop bars in the city. But for the tastiest drinks, Cambridge Public House, Sister Midnight , and Bar Nouveau are the hot spots.

13. Join a Haunted Tour of the Catacombs

Descend 131 steps and head 65 ft underground to experience a unique tour of the Paris Catacombs. It’s a labyrinthine burial ground filled with human remains built for religious practices although it’s now open to the public. Book a group ticket for an hour-long semi-private tour of this haunting place and see a different side to the glitz and glam of Paris above ground.

14. Visit Sainte-Chapelle (Near Notre Dame)

With Notre Dame Cathedral closed until the end of 2024, you and your girlfriends should check out another of Paris’s most beautiful and historic churches only a 10-minute walk away. Sainte-Chapelle is a 14th-century Gothic chapel with the most impressive panels of stained glass windows. 

15. Explore Les Passages Couverts

If the stores on the Champs-Élysées or in Galleries Lafayette aren’t enough to satiate the shopping habits of you and your besties, check out Les Passages Couverts. These are 19th-century covered shopping arcades which are now mostly home to antique, vintage, and small gift stores. 

With tiled floors and wrought iron gates, they’re also incredibly pretty! There are 25 Les Passages Couverts remaining, but some of the best are Passage du Grand Cerf, Passage des Panoramas (the oldest), and Passage Jouffroy. 

Where To Eat in Paris on a Girls’ Trip

Paris is the best city for delicious meals and bottles of incredible French wine shared with girlfriends. Whether you’re in the mood for a quintessential French tasting menu, cute local cafés and boulangeries, or something different then you’ll find it all and more.

Pink Mamma is your go-to place for Italian cuisine, although you’d be forgiven if you thought it was a greenhouse from the exterior. It pairs first-class dishes with high windows and a homey feel.

Le Train Bleu at Gare de Lyon is a hot spot for classic French cuisine complete with gilded chandeliers and frescoes that wouldn’t look out of place in a cathedral. 

Le Refuge des Fondus is a popular place for meat and cheese fondue which has a cozy communal cellar feel, whereas Girafe Paris is the polar opposite. It’s an upmarket seafood restaurant with a terrace offering stunning views of the Eiffel Tower during spring and summer. 

And if you’re celebrating a special occasion on your girls’ trip to Paris, you have to dine at Origines . It’s a Michelin-starred restaurant near the Champs-Élysées serving contemporary French dishes.

If you’re used to winging your meals when you travel, it’s a good idea to make reservations on your girls’ trip to Paris. It’s always harder to find tables for bigger groups. Most restaurants have booking forms on their website or reach out via Facebook or Instagram if you don’t want details to get lost in translation over the phone. 

Book a Fun and Unforgettable Girls’ Trip to Paris

Booking a girls’ trip to Paris is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your besties while exploring this incredible, bustling city. There’s no better place to visit with girlfriends because there are endless things to do in Paris to guarantee that you have a fun time!

You will have a good time baking macarons, sipping French 75 cocktails, and shopping for Parisian souvenirs whether you book a short trip or a one-week vacation. Hopefully, you’ll find lots of inspiration from this list of my favorite places in Paris and things to do on a girls’ trip.

From ‘The Crown’ to ‘Franklin,’ How France Has Become TV’s New Sought-After Backdrop 

By Hunter Ingram

Hunter Ingram

• Kurt Russell and Son Wyatt on Hesitating to Work Together, Bringing ‘Different Energies’ to ‘Monarch’ and Needing a ‘F—ing Break’  9 hours ago
• From ‘The Crown’ to ‘Franklin,’ How France Has Become TV’s New Sought-After Backdrop  4 days ago
• What ‘The Morning Show’ and ‘The Girls on the Bus’ Learned From Fox News to Craft Right-Wing Media 6 days ago

France has never had trouble getting people to fall in love with its many pleasures: the Eiffel Tower, the Palace of Versailles, the Louvre, and the island majesty of Mont Saint-Michel. It sells itself, which is probably why it is such a sought-after backdrop for television series.

But in the last year, France has been shown even more love than usual, as more than half a dozen shows, all vying for Emmy attention this season, explored the country through the ages. And no, this wasn’t some elaborate promotion for the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

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“Mary & George”

While much of Starz’s lusty lesson in palace intrigue takes place in England, the series begins with a pivotal trip to the French countryside in 1612. A teenage George (Nicholas Galitzine) is sent away by his calculating mother Mary (Julianne Moore) to be trained in the ways of etiquette and royalty, as a means of weaseling their family’s way into a place of importance among the court of King James I (Tony Curran). This is a fateful encounter with France’s amorous legacy for George, as he is educated in the quietly accepted sexual fluidity of the time. In the embrace of aristocrats, his first taste of experimenting with men is intoxicating, not just for the pleasure but for the power it can offer him in James’ bed. The landmark staples of France may not make an appearance on his trip, but the aura of the country offers him something home just couldn’t — the freedom to find himself.

“Franklin”

“all the light we cannot see”.

The first of the three World War II series to feature France during one of its darkest chapters is largely confined to the walled city of Saint-Malo, which became the battleground for a 1944 months-long fight between the Allies and Germany. Netflix’s adaptation of Anthony Doerr’s novel, which was shot in the city, features breathtaking views of the fortress and some idea of the occupied world of its main character, Marie-Laure (Aria Mia Loberti), a blind French girl who broadcasts secret messages for the French resistance.

“We Were the Lucky Ones”

Hulu’s World War II entry this season hops all over Europe as it charts the miraculous journey and survival of the Kurc family, who lived in Poland at the start of the war. In early episodes of the series, Addy (Logan Lerman), one of the family’s male siblings, is living in Paris working as an aspiring musician. He is celebrating his first radio hit when war breaks out and news of his scattered family trickles in. With the threat of German forces pushing into the country, Addy tries desperately to flee the City of Love as so many real Parisians did. While the French days of the series are frontloaded, Addy’s story is a great reminder of the cultural scene in Paris that was disrupted but not silenced by war. Speaking of…

“The New Look”

The fashion giants of Christian Dior (Ben Mendelsohn) and Coco Chanel (Juliette Binoche) have very different World War II experiences in Apple TV+’s tale of the cost of creativity in the midst of war. The series’s exploration of Chanel’s ties to the Nazis during the war received plenty of press as episodes rolled out earlier this year. But the real spectacle is creator Todd A. Kessler’s focus on what happened after the war was over, as the residents of a wounded France came to terms with the scope of its loss. As traumatized and emaciated people got off trains to meet their families, the long-term effects of war began to sink in, and it defined the next decades of recovery for cities like Paris. It also fueled creative stories of people like Dior, who found beauty and innovation in the aftermath.

“The Crown”

A trip to France was inevitable for Netflix’s seminal portrait of the royal family during its sixth season. The series’s final episodes rely heavily on the last days of Princess Diana (Elizabeth Debicki), following her with an almost voyeuristic intent of understanding who she was at the end. The photorealistic recreation starts out with Diana’s infamous 1997 holiday in Saint-Tropez with her sons, where she was photographed sitting lonely on the end of a diving board on the stern of a yacht. The media firestorm surrounding her over the last two months of her life turned the world’s attention to Paris, where she was killed in a car accident, which punctuated the first part of show’s swan-song season.

“The Veil”

“the walking dead: daryl dixon”.

The first spinoff in “The Walking Dead” universe isn’t likely to inspire any tourism campaigns for France. Having managed to survive the flagship series, Daryl Dixon (Norman Reedus) finds himself washed ashore in France, the patient-zero country for the zombie apocalypse that single-handedly revolutionized the genre on television. But in its dystopian future, “Daryl Dixon” actually pays France quite a compliment. Perhaps more than any show on the list, this one revels in every chance to show off the hallmarks of France and remind viewers why they are sturdy enough to survive the apocalypse. From the island-bound abbey at Mont Saint-Michel to the Place du Panthéon in Paris’ Latin Quarter, the road-trip series imaginatively dresses the country for destruction.

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