Day Trip to Versailles from Paris with a Detailed Itinerary

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Ready for a royal day trip beyond Paris? Then Versailles is a must-visit for you. You will find yourself in the grand palace, where royal history breathes.

Here, you get to wander around this fancy palace and its pretty gardens. You’ll check out its awesome architecture and roam through its huge grounds. It’s like a history lesson, but way cooler.

And the best part is that Versailles is just half an hour away from Paris. So, there is no need to endure a long journey.

In this article, I will share everything that you need to know for a day trip to Versailles from Paris. Scroll down to read on!

Key Takeaways:
For a peaceful trip, pick spring or fall weekdays. Go early or late to beat crowds. Avoid weekends and Mondays.
Plan your day! Start at the palace, then explore the gardens and have lunch. Afternoon, check out other spots like the Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s Estate. It’s a royal adventure!

Planning Your Day Trip to Versailles from Paris

Planning is super important for any trip. If you plan things right, you’ll enjoy double the fun while avoiding wasting time on unnecessary stuff.

So let’s jump right in:

Best Time for the Perfect Day Trip in Versailles

You can go for spring or fall weekdays for a simple and beautiful day trip in Versailles. However, make sure to avoid weekends and Mondays. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer a quieter experience.

Getting to Versailles Day Trip

You can use various modes of transportation, such as train, bus, or rideshare. Below, I have discussed different methods to reach Versailles:

Train: Take the RER C train from Paris to Versailles with a 26-minute journey. Depart from Paris Gare Montparnasse for direct trains to Versailles Chantiers station, running every 30 minutes.

Bus: Reach Versailles by night bus in 40 minutes, with affordable fares. RATP buses operate five times daily—check their schedule online.

Taxi: For the fastest route, take a taxi from Paris to Versailles, offering direct travel without transfers.

Ride Share: Opt for ride-sharing to travel from Paris to Versailles for around $3. Ensure safety by booking through reliable platforms.

Related Post: How to Get Around Paris as a Tourist

Things To Consider When Booking Ticket to Versailles

Booking tickets correctly will help streamline your visit, avoiding unexpected hassles. Let’s take a look at some helpful practical ticket-booking tips:

• Book in Advance: Secure your spot by booking Palace tour tickets online early, especially during peak seasons.
• Check Official Website: Visit the Palace of Versailles’ website for up-to-date ticket prices, time slots, and event info.
• Skip-the-Line Tickets: Save time by opting for skip-the-line tickets when booking.
• Choose the Right Ticket: Select a ticket that matches your interests, whether for the palace, gardens, or additional estates.
• Check for Discounts: Look for discounts if you’re a student, senior, or eligible EU citizen under 26.

The Detailed Itinerary of a Day Trip to Versailles

For a beautiful day trip to Versailles, I’ve prepared a well-organized trip itinerary. Following this approximate schedule will help you make the most of your day tour from Paris.

Below, I have elaborated on notable activities, detailing travel times and ideal moments for each activity for easy understanding. Let’s give it a read!

Morning

Start your day by catching a train from Paris to Versailles. It’s a quick ride.

Once you arrive, you’ll step off the train at Versailles-Rive Gauche train station, close to Versailles itself.

• Palace of Versailles: Step into history with the grand architecture and luxurious interiors, featuring iconic rooms like the Hall of Mirrors and the King’s Apartments.

• Gardens and Grounds: Explore the expansive gardens, designed with lush greenery, stunning fountains, and charming pathways.

Midday Lunch Break

Of course, after all that exploring, you’re bound to get hungry. In this case, you have two ways to enjoy a mid-day meal. First, you can opt for dining at a restaurant or setting up a picnic in a beautiful garden or scenic spot.

• On-Site Dining: Enjoy a variety of cafes and restaurants within the Versailles estate, including Angelina Versailles, La Petite Venise, La Flottille, La Girandole, and Ore – Ducasse au Château de Versailles.
• Picnicking: For a picnic, choose spots like the Grand Canal or Bosquet de la Colonnade. Bring a blanket, snacks, and drinks, and clean up afterward to maintain the garden’s beauty.

Smart Move:
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for protection from the sun.

Afternoon

After a short break, it’s time to explore more royal attractions.

I have liked Marie Antoinette the most. Alongside, the Grand and Petit Trianon are places I really enjoyed. Here’s a quick rundown of them:

• Grand Trianon: Built by Louis XIV in the late 17th century as a retreat from court life, featuring elegant architecture and gardens.

• Petit Trianon: Constructed in the 18th century and associated with Queen Marie Antoinette, showcasing refined architecture and serene surroundings.

• Estate of Marie Antoinette: A retreat for Marie Antoinette, including Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet, a charming village she used to pretend to be a commoner in, and the Petit Trianon, her private residence.

Late-Afternoon

After exploring the above places filled with rich history, it’s now time to get a local vibe. And the best way to do it is by wandering around the locality in the late afternoon.

I’ve shared some useful information that will definitely help you discover the area. So, don’t miss out!

Local Markets of Versailles

Here, you can check out the following bustling local markets. These markets provide an authentic taste of Versailles’s vibrant culture and culinary delights.

• Marché Notre-Dame: Offers fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delicacies.
• Marché aux Fleurs: Ideal for flower enthusiasts with vibrant blooms and plants.
• Marché Notre-Dame: Features cheese stands, while Marché du Parc offers diverse international cuisine.

Last-Minute Visits and Photo Ops

For spontaneous visits and stunning photo opportunities in Versailles, consider the following:

• Capturing sunset views at the Grand Canal
• Strolling through lesser-known corners
• Snapping shots of intricate architectural details
• Posing amidst the beautiful landscapes of the gardens
• Exploring charming alleyways and quaint streets

Optional Activities

Make your visit to Versailles even more special with some additional activities.

You can rent a rowboat on the Grand Canal for a peaceful ride. Or, hop on a bike and explore the garden paths at your own pace, surrounded by nature’s beauty.

These experiences offer a relaxed way to enjoy Versailles, creating memorable moments in this enchanting setting.

Evening

I know it’s sad, but it’s time to wrap up the tour and return with beautiful and memorable moments. But wrapping up doesn’t need to be boring at all.

Here is how you can conclude your Versailles trip and turn it into the best day.

Back to Paris

By 6 pm, you can book your train or bus, which is the ideal option for you. Make sure to plan your departure time and book tickets in advance. You can have some small talk with your fellow passengers to have a friendly time.

Dinner Time

As I said, you can give a beautiful ending to the day trip. So, it’s a good idea to plan a wrap-up dinner after returning to Paris. Besides, if you get late or feel hungry, then it’s also a good idea.

Here are some popular options to consider:

• L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon
• Chez Janou
• Le Grand Colbert
• Le Train Bleu

Extending Your Visit to Versailles  

If you want to extend your stay at Versailles for further exploration, it’s essential to keep the following points in mind. Take a quick read:

Events and Exhibitions in Versailles

In Versailles, there are always various art exhibitions, musical performances, and cultural events happening. In short, there’s never a dull moment at Versailles.

So, feel free to take a look at the event agenda at Versailles anytime. There’s a wealth of exciting events to explore if you’re interested.

Top Attractions Near Versailles 

Some of the top attractions near Versailles that you can explore during your time there include:

• Palace of Fontainebleau: A stunning royal château located about an hour’s drive from Versailles. It is known for its rich history and exquisite architecture.
• Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte: A masterpiece of French classical architecture, this château is renowned for its gardens and grandeur. It’s located approximately 50 minutes from Versailles.
• Musée d’Orsay: Situated in Paris, this museum is about a 40-minute drive from Versailles. And houses an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
• Palace of Saint-Germain-en-Laye: About 30 minutes from Versailles, this former royal residence now hosts the National Museum of Archaeology. It showcases artifacts from prehistoric times to the medieval era.
• Parc de Sceaux: A beautiful park with formal gardens and a grand château, located about 30 minutes from Versailles by car. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
• Lambinet Museum: Situated in Versailles itself, this museum offers a glimpse into the local history and art. It is housed in a charming 18th-century mansion.

Accommodation Options for Night Stay 

Here are five accommodation options for a night stay near Versailles, each offering comfort and convenience:

• Hotel Le Louis Versailles Château: It is located close to the Palace of Versailles – offering elegant rooms and excellent service.
• Trianon Palace Versailles, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel: A blend of historic charm and modern luxury. It has spacious rooms and top-notch amenities.
• Hotel Pullman Château de Versailles: Contemporary hotel with stylish rooms and a convenient location. It is situated near the palace and other attractions.
• A l’Hôtel des Roys: Charming boutique hotel in the heart of Versailles – offering cozy rooms and a warm ambiance.
• Hôtel Versailles Chantiers: Budget-friendly option with comfortable accommodations. It is absolutely perfect for travelers seeking affordability without sacrificing quality.

Extra Notes:
Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.

Practical Tips for a Memorable Day Trip From Paris to Versailles

Versailles Palace makes it easy for everyone to visit by offering accessibility options. So, to skip the lines, make sure to buy your tickets online in advance.

Here are some extra tips to make your trip even better:

• Maximize your time by planning which attractions to visit and in what order.
• Utilize local transportation options like buses, taxis, and rideshare to move between attractions efficiently.
• Wear comfortable attire and shoes suitable for walking and exploring.
• Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and other necessary items for a day trip.
• Follow guidelines and rules to preserve the historical integrity of Versailles.
• Take time to explore the breathtaking gardens surrounding the palace.
• Visit other attractions, like the Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s estate, for a full experience.
• Choose from various dining options, including picnicking in the gardens or dining at nearby eateries.
• Plan your visit to ensure you have enough time to see everything before attractions close for the day.

Related Post: Best Day Trips From Paris by Train

Closing Notes

Finally, I hope your day trip to Versailles from Paris will be extremely enjoyable, especially with the right planning and assistance from the above tips.

However, I recommend you note down where you’ll eat, where to visit, and what kind of transportation to take. And if you plan to stay overnight, be sure to book in advance.

Consider hiring a tour guide for a better sightseeing experience. Additionally, explore the local area during your spare time, like markets or streets. You can also turn it into a social experience by inviting a friend along for a coffee.

May your journey be filled with wonderful memories, all beautifully recorded in the pages of your diary.

Happy Traveling!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)