Palace of Versailles

The Palacio de Versalles, or Château de Versailles, is a French château that served as the Royal residence from 1682 to 1789. It stands as a living testament to the grandeur of French architecture of the 17th and 18th centuries.

Its gardens are a true landscaping gem, adorned with statues, flower parterres, temples, and fountains.

It is located on the outskirts of Paris. About 35 minutes away by train. At the bottom of this page you will find more information on how to get there.

History of the Palace of Versailles

It was built by Louis XIV, the Sun King. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country, designated Patrimonio de la Humanidad by UNESCO more than thirty years ago.

In 1661, construction of the gardens began — a project that would take around 40 years and involved grueling work, as the land was covered by forests and marshes. Today, music shows, fireworks, and fountain displays are held there during the summer.

The residence of Louis XIV from 1678, after he expanded the hunting lodge of his father Louis XIII, alberga una excepcional colección de muebles, tapices y cristalería.

Until the French Revolution, the palace was home to various monarchs who continued to embellish it and add new facilities and structures.

In 1789, Versailles ceased to be the official residence of the monarchy, and it would later become the Museo de la Historia de Francia, under King Louis-Philippe, in 1830.

What to See at the Palace of Versailles

Inside the palace, visitors can explore its many rooms and admire their decoration, beauty, and artistic richness; it features 700 habitaciones, más de 2.500 ventanas, 352 chimeneas y 67 escaleras.

Hall of Mirrors

Louis XIV wanted to leave his mark with the palace, and envisioned a grand gallery connecting the apartments that would dazzle visitors with its decoration.

This is how the most famous room in the Palace of Versailles came to be, the Galería de los Espejos, stretching over 70 meters in length and featuring 375 mirrors, connecting the north wing to the south wing; it was here in 1919 that the Tratado de Versalles was signed, bringing the First World War to an end.

Queen's Bedchamber

Another of the most visited spots in the Palacio de Versalles is the bedroom of  María Antonieta, the most important room in the series of chambers that make up Los apartamentos de la reina.

It was in this room that the queen slept and gave birth to her children, with doctors, ladies-in-waiting, the governess, princesses of the royal family, and select members of the clergy present as witnesses.

Royal Chapel

Another remarkable space is the Capilla Real. Dedicated to San Luis, featuring Gothic and Baroque elements and reminiscent of the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris.

Also not to be missed on your visit is the Ópera Real, un teatro  one of the greatest works by architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel, which was in its time the largest concert hall in Europe.

Gardens of the Palace of Versailles

You can enjoy a stroll through the majestic gardens spanning more than 800 hectares, where you can also admire two smaller palaces, the Grand Trianon, designed by Mansart, and the Petit Trianon, built for Madame de Pompadour, the French courtesan and mistress of King Louis XV.

Toward the end of spring, the musical fountains show begins in the gardens, with water and music performances every Saturday and Sunday.

Useful Information about the Palace of Versailles

Here you'll find all the essential information, including updated opening hours and prices, to make the most of your visit without any hassle.

Prices

• From €21 buy here.
• Free for European citizens or residents of Europe under 26 years of age. A reservation is still required.
• Access to the Park and Gardens of Versailles is free, except on days when the fountain shows take place.
• The Palace of Versailles is free with the Paris Pass.

Opening Hours

• The Palace of Versailles is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM. Closed on Mondays.
• The Grand and Petit Trianon open from midday, and the Carriage Gallery opens from 12:30 PM.

Address

• Place d'Armes, Versailles

Getting There

• RER: Line C, Versailles Rive Gauche
• More details at How to Get from Paris to Versailles

From the impressive Mont Saint-Michel to the vast Disneyland Paris resort, there are many more day trips from Paris that can make your trip much more interesting.