Chateau De Versailles

By patrick

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The gardens

A symbol of pleasure and civilization, The Chateau de Versailles is a super Baroque palace and should be on every visitor's list. Everything about the palace is spectacular, from the lavish interiors to the humongous gardens.

The Palace of Versailles was the official residence of the Kings of France from 1682 until 1790. Although originally a hunting lodge, the palace was expanded by King Louis XIV into the largest palace in Europe housing 20,000 servants.

Every room is exquisite, although visitors will love the Hall of Mirrors, an elaborate room with 17 mirrors and arched windows. Other attractions include the Chapelle Royale (a Baroque Chapel with columns and murals) and Musee des Carosses (a museum of royal coaches).

The Gardens are colossal as well, so expect to spend some time wandering through. Besides fountains and statues, there are two smaller palaces in the gardens for Louis' mistresses.

To enjoy your visit, arrive early. Also, take your time through the palace -- you cannot really retrace your steps without waiting in line again, and once you enter the gardens you cannot re-enter.


Versailles is about 30 minutes outside of Paris.
Take RER line C from Paris to Versailles.

The best way may be the Paris Museum Pass, which includes access to 60 museums including Versailles. The pass also allows you to bypass the lines, which can be up to an hour long.

You can also purchase tickets online at the Versailles website.
Official Versailles Website

Note: There used to be a discount ticket to Versailles including the train that you could buy at train stations, but it is no longer available.




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