Versailles

Versailles tours from Paris

If you come to Paris for at least two days, don't miss the Palace of Versailles and its superb park.

It takes half a day and 36 euros to visit Versailles on a tour from Paris. Prefer the full day visit if you can.  Avoid Tuesdays when Versailles is crowded.

If you want to go on your own, consider metro or train for the Paris to Versailles trip or book a taxi.

History of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles, 16 kilometers west of Paris, was built by Louis XIV in the 17th century.

Louis XIV, the almighty King of France, was known as Sun King. He reigned 72 years until 1715. 

In 1668, he commissioned the Palace of Versailles and its Park to the greatest French artists.

Louis XIV wanted to settle far from Paris rebellious inhabitants and close to forests for hunting.

The largest in Europe, the Palace of Versailles housed 20 000 nobles. In 1789, Versailles was abandonned at the outset of the revolution.

Versailles was turned into a museum of French history in 1833. Repair work began in 1925, thanks to donators including David Rockefeller.

Versailles information

The Hall of Mirrors, King's and Queen's bedrooms are the masterpieces of the Palace of Versailles.

If you book long in advance, you can go to a concert in Versailles Palace. More Palace of Versailles facts. Locate Versailles on Paris map.

Web site of Palace of Versailles

Versailles park

The Grand Canal, Petit Trianon, Grand Trianon, the fountains turn Versailles Park into a marvel.

Spend as much time in the park as you can. Rent a boat on the Grand Canal or a bicycle in the park. Go to one of the two good restaurants: La Flotille and La Petite Venise (Lunch at La Petite Venise is included in Versailles full day tour).