Get a glimpse of the extravagant lifestyle of the French nobility on a tour of the awe-inspiring Palace of Versailles in France.
The Palace of Versailles draws tourists from across the world who come to explore its lavish interiors and formal gardens. The world’s most opulent Château, Versailles was in the 17th century created by Louis XIV (the Sun King) to demonstrate the absolute power of the French monarchy, then at its height.
Louis’ passion for the arts as well as for self-glorification meant that the Palace was decorated on a scale of lavishness unprecedented in France.
The beautiful gardens are almost as impressive as the palace itself. Designed in the formal style, they have marble and bronze statues, fountains and geometrically aligned terraces.
An audio-guide (available in 11 languages) will explain what you are seeing as you tour the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Opera, Marble Staircase, Mars Drawing Room, Venus and Diana Drawing Rooms, and the Royal Chapel.
Marvel at the lavish frescoes, woodwork and marble and gilt embellishments and don’t forget to spend time in the spacious grounds filled with fountains, sculptures, and beautiful gardens.
One of the most famous historical and architectural sights in France, the Palace of Versailles is a must visit.
- Tour information
- Activity schedule
- Itinerary
When does it run?
Daily except Monday
Duration
Approx. 4 hours
Start time
01 Apr - 31 Oct: 0800h (08:00am) & 1400h (2:00pm)
01 Nov - 31 Mar: 0845h (08:45am) & 1400h (2:00pm)
Meeting point
The start point for the tour is 2 rue des Pyramides, 75001, Paris.
The closest metro station is Tuileries (line n°01), Pyramides (line n°14) or Palais Royal (line n°7).
Please arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes before the start time for check-in.
See on map
Ending point
The tour concludes at the original point of departure
- Tour information
- Activity schedule
- Itinerary
Set out from Paris in an air conditioned coach and travel to the Palace of Versailles which was built by Louis the XIV in the mid-17th century. It is the most famous palace in France and served as the political capital of the kingdom.
Versailles was created by Louis XIV (The Sun King) in the mid-17th century when he moved the court from Paris. Many historians believe he did this because there was so much intrigue among the nobility and politicians during his reign that he was afraid to have them out of his sight. He therefore built Versailles large enough to house his entire court and ordered the aristocracy to stay with him there.
Explore the King’s Suite and see lavishly decorated rooms with frescoes, marble, gilt, woodwork and symbols from Roman and Greek mythology. The palace was designed by some of the most talented architects like Le Vau, Mansart and Charles Le Brun. The 75 metre long Hall of Mirrors is particularly impressive with 17 huge mirrors and stucco work showing the monarch in various guises (Louis the XIV was also called the Sun King). Continue to the apartments of Dauphin and Dauphine. An audio guide in 11 languages is available on this tour.
You can also stroll in the formal gardens which were designed by Andre le Notre. Almost as impressive as the palace itself are its ponds, tree lined avenues, marble and bronze statues and fountains.
Return to Paris by coach.