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Chateau de Versailles

How to get to the Palace of Versailles ?

Visiting the Château de Versailles is a fascinating experience for lovers of history, architecture and art. Located approximately 20 kilometers west of Paris, the Château de Versailles is one of the most iconic monuments in France. Here’s an overview of what you can expect during a visit:

 

  1. The castle :
    • The tour usually begins with the interior of the castle itself, which was once the residence of the kings of France, particularly Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI. You can explore the ornately decorated royal apartments, including the famous Hall of Mirrors.
  2. The Hall of Mirrors (Galley of Mirrors) :
    • The Hall of Mirrors is one of the highlights of the visit. It is decorated with mirrors, chandeliers and sumptuous paintings. It is here that historic treaties were signed, including the Treaty of Versailles ending the First World War in 1919.
  3. The Gardens of Versailles :
    • The castle gardens are vast and magnificent. They are laid out in the French style and feature flower beds, fountains, sculptures, and even a canal where you can go boating.
  4. The Estate of Marie-Antoinette :
    • At the back of the castle you will find the Petit Trianon and the Hameau de la Reine. The Petit Trianon was a private residence for Queen Marie Antoinette, and the Hameau was a rustic village she had built to escape the court.
  5. The Grand and Petit Trianon :
    • These buildings offer a glimpse of court life at the time of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette. The Grand Trianon is an elegant pink marble pavilion, while the Petit Trianon is more intimate and refined.
  6. The Domaine de Trianon :
    • This estate, consisting of the Grand and Petit Trianon, as well as their gardens, is an important part of visiting Versailles and allows you to experience the private lives of royalty.
  7. Temporary exhibitions :
    • The Palace of Versailles often offers temporary exhibitions, including art, history and culture exhibitions that add an extra dimension to your visit.

Be sure to check opening times and get your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak tourist season. Visiting the Château de Versailles is an unforgettable experience that will immerse you in the history of royal France.