Is Versailles Worth Visiting? All you need to know

Planning a day trip to Versailles from Paris and wondering if it’s worth it. I asked myself the same question: Is Versailles worth visiting? The palace is one of the most famous places in France, but figuring out if it’s worth your time and money can feel overwhelming.

In this guide, I will share everything you need to know. I’ll explain how to get there, when to arrive, where to start, what to see, how much time you need, and other tips to help you make the most of your trip.

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Where to stay in Paris?

A little bit of history about the Palace of Versailles

If there’s one place that truly captures the grandeur of French royalty, it’s Versailles. 

Versailles started out as something much simpler—a hunting lodge. Back in the early 1600s, King Louis XIII used it as a quiet place to escape Paris and go hunting in the surrounding forests. It was small and modest compared to what it is today.

Later, his son King Louis XIV decided to “update” that little lodge into the extravagant palace, turning it into the symbol of royal power and luxury.

Of course, Versailles is also closely linked to the French Revolution. This was the royal residence of Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette before they had to leave Paris in 1789. Knowing that so much history happened here makes visiting feel almost surreal. It’s not just a palace, it’s a place that truly shaped the future of France.

Today, Versailles is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and millions of people come each year to see its rich history up close. The palace itself is breathtaking, but I was just as amazed by the Versailles Gardens. They seem endless as you walk through. The size and layout are unlike anything else in Europe.

When you walk through the massive grounds, it’s hard not to feel the weight of French history everywhere. 

Is Palace of Versailles worth visiting? 

Because of so much history, culture, and it being one of the most beautiful palaces, I say it is absolutely worth visiting! Versailles is not only home to French kings and queens but is also part of many significant events, like the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919.

What’s nice is that there’s a lot to see. Besides the main palace and the Versailles Gardens, the estate also has temporary exhibitions that showcase different parts of its history and culture. This combination of grandeur and storytelling makes Versailles more than just a tourist stop; it’s a living reminder of France’s past. 

However, with all that information and the size of Versailles, it can feel overwhelming. That’s why many people choose a guided tour of Versailles or hire a tour guide. It’s a great way to learn the stories behind what you’re seeing and to make sure you don’t miss the highlights.

And that is exactly the reason I created this guide. It will help you find the best way to explore Versailles with confidence.

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Check opening hours & closures

Versailles is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. On other days, the opening time for the Palace of Versailles is 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The gardens and park stay open until 6 p.m. Avoid Tuesdays if you can—it tends to be very busy because of the Monday closure.

Also, note that the Trianon Palaces and Marie Antoinette’s Estate open a little later, around 12 p.m., so plan your timing if you want to see those.

The gardens are free to enter on most days, but during the Musical Fountain Show and special events (usually spring through fall), there’s a separate ticket. Lastly, give yourself extra time near closing—staff will start guiding people out about 30 minutes before the official closing time.

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Best way to secure your Versailles ticket

The best way to get your Versailles tickets is to book them way in advance, online. Make sure to get the skip the like ticket. This lets you skip the ticket desk and you can go directly to Entrance A on the day of your visit.

Since you are here, you should get the full access ticket, where you have access to everything; this will cover the Palace, the Trianon Estate, and the gardens. Children under 18 can enter for free.

If you visit between November and March, you can also take advantage of free admission on the first Sunday of the month. However, you must reserve your ticket in advance.

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Best time to visit the Versailles (and how to skip the line)

The Palace opens at 9:00 a.m., and trust me, you’ll want one of the earliest time slots. Book your ticket online in advance and arrive at least 30 minutes before your entry time.

Even with a timed ticket, there’s usually a line, but the earlier you go, the fewer crowds you’ll face once you’re inside. Since you’ll get her early, you’ll have a much calmer visit through the Hall of Mirrors and other highlights before the big groups arrive.

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What is the best day to visit Château de Versailles?

Weekdays are your best bet for a calmer visit. Weekends are always crowded, and Tuesdays get extra busy since the Palace is closed on Mondays.

If you can, plan to visit on Wednesday or Thursday morning when it first opens. That is when you’ll have the best chance of enjoying Versailles before the big crowds arrive.

How long do I need in Versailles?

If you can, set aside a full day for Versailles. The palace, the Versailles Gardens, and the grounds are massive. Giving yourself more time means you can enjoy it without rushing.

Spending a whole day here lets you see everything at a relaxed pace and really appreciate the grandeur. Allocate around 2–3 hours for the Palace and another 2–4 hours for the gardens. Takes breaks in between for lunch or a snack.

That said, I get that not everyone has a full day to spare, especially if your Paris itinerary is already packed. In that case, a half-day visit is still doable—just head out early to make the most of your visit, focus on the main highlights, and you’ll still get a real sense of the palace and its beauty.

How to get to Château de Versailles?

The easiest and most budget-friendly way to get to Versailles is by taking the RER C train. It drops you at Versailles Château–Rive Gauche train station, just a 10-minute walk from the Palace entrance. The ride from central Paris takes about 45 minutes, and trains run frequently throughout the day.

If you’d rather not take the train, you can also get there by tour bus. Transportation is included with either a self-guided palace tour (which includes your entry ticket) or a guided tour with skip-the-line entry. It’s a little pricier, but very convenient if you don’t want to deal with logistics. 

Other options are taxis and ride-shares, though they cost more, and traffic can be unpredictable. For something a bit different, you can even take a bike tour of the Palace of Versailles.

Where to start and how to explore the Palace of Versailles?

To get the most out of your Versailles experience, here are a few key things to know before your visit. These tips will help you tour successfully and make the most of your visit without feeling rushed. 

To maximize your time, begin the tour inside the palace. Make sure to visit the Hall of Mirrors, which is a must-see, as well as the royal apartments, which show what life was like in this royal residence. After that, make your way to the Trianon Palaces and Marie Antoinette’s Estate, which opens at 12 p.m.

Spend the rest of the day exploring the gardens and park. They are huge and stunning and feel like a total escape from the city.

TIP:  With so much walking, make sure to wear comfortable shoes. In summer, dress lightly as it gets hot and muggy.  

Must-See ICONIC places at the Palace of Versailles

Hall of Mirrors

This is the most famous room and one of my favorite places in the palace. The room is absolutely gorgeous! It’s long, bright, and decorated with 357 mirrors that reflect the gardens through tall windows. This creates a beautiful and unforgettable effect.

Another interesting fact is that the Treaty of Versailles was signed here in 1919, and it’s also where the German Empire was declared in 1871.

Royal Courtyard

This is the first big space you’ll walk into when you enter the palace. It has golden gates and beautiful façades, and gives you that first taste of the grandeur to come.

Empire Rooms

These rooms were added during Napoleon’s rule. They have a very different style from the rest of the palace. They’re decorated in the Empire style and show another chapter of French history.

King’s State Apartments

A series of rooms where Louis XIV worked and held ceremonies. Each room is decorated in rich colors and has its own theme.

Royal Chapel

Built in 1710, this beautiful chapel is where the royal family attended mass. The space is tall, bright, and one of the most elegant parts of the palace.

Gardens of Versailles

The gardens are huge and stunning; there are a ton of fountains, sculptures, and long pathways. Visit the Grand Canal, rent a rowboat, and check if the Musical Fountains Show or Musical Gardens are happening.

Queen’s Hamlet

This is a small countryside retreat built for Marie Antoinette. It looks like a small village and was her escape from the strict life of the palace.

Grand and Petit Trianon

These are smaller palaces on the Trianon Estate. The Grand Trianon was Louis XIV’s retreat from court life. The Petit Trianon was Marie Antoinette’s hideaway. Both are a more personal look at royal life.

Where to eat at the Palace of Versailles:

• Ore Restaurant – famous, with fine dining 
• Angelina tearoom – grab pastries and hot drinks
• La Petite Venise – Italian food, nice for sitting outside  
• Grand Café d’Orléans –sandwiches, salads, and pastries
• Vending machines and snack stands – located throughout the palace

Travel Tips/Things to Know Before Visiting Paris

Paris is one of the most magical cities in the world—but like any major destination, it helps to arrive with the right mindset and some preparation. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning again, these tips will help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Make sure to set realistic expectations

Paris is dreamy, yes—but it’s also a real city. That means traffic, noise, crowds, and heat with tourists, especially during the summer. Don’t let that take away from the experience—just be prepared. Bring comfy walking shoes, pack a water bottle, and know that sometimes the Eiffel Tower just might not sparkle exactly on cue. That’s okay. The magic is still there.

Don’t try to do everything

Trying to cram every museum, landmark, and photo op into four days is a fast track to burnout. Prioritize a few must-sees each day, and leave time to simply wander, relax at a café, or sit by the Seine with a baguette in hand. 

Book major attractions in advance

We all know that Paris is very busy, especially in peak seasons. Which means, booking in advance is not optional, but essential. Some spots sell out months ahead, especially timed entries.

I really recommend getting tickets ahead of time for the below to avoid them being sold out or having to wait in a long line:

• The Orangerie Museum
• Versailles Palace and Gardens Skip the Line
• The Louvre Museum
• Musée d’Orsay
• Arc de Triomphe
• Sainte Chapelle
• Notre Dame Cathedral Tour
• Top of the Eiffel Tower
• The Picasso Museum

Travel tip: I started looking for Louvre tickets three months ahead of my trip, and some time slots were already gone. Plan early!

If you are a museum lover, a great way to make the most of your visit is getting the Paris Museum Pass for 2, 4, or 6 Days. It gives you skip-the-line access to over 60 museums and monuments in and around the city, including the Louvre Museum, Orsay Museum, and Centre Pompidou. It’s especially useful if you’re planning a 4 Days Paris Itinerary, since it fits perfectly with the highlights most visitors want to see.

When is the best time to visit Paris?

Paris is always a good idea—but depending on what kind of experience you’re after, some seasons might suit you better than others. There’s really no wrong time to go, but here’s a breakdown to help you decide the best time to plan your trip:

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Paris is truly magical. The city starts to bloom—cherry blossoms decorate the streets, gardens come to life, and the weather is mild and fresh. It’s a wonderful time to stroll through neighborhoods, picnic in parks, and sip coffee outside a café. This is one of the best times to visit if you want that romantic, postcard-perfect Paris vibe without the summer crowds.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the high season and brings warm temperatures, longer days, and lots of energy. The city has many outdoor events, riverside pop-ups along the Seine, and people everywhere enjoying the sun. It’s also peak season, so popular spots like the Louvre Museum and Eiffel Tower will be busier. Since its busy, watch out for pickpockets, especially when in the metro station! If you don’t like the crowds and city heat then summer may not be the best time for you.

Fall (September to November)

Great time to visit! Fall in Paris is cozy and golden. The trees change color, the air is crisp, and the city feels a little calmer after summer. It’s a lovely time for museum-hopping, wine bars, and scenic walks through gardens like the Jardin des Tuileries. Early fall, especially September, is a sweet spot—fewer crowds but still great weather. The city becomes a great place to slow down and take it all in.

Winter (December to February)

Winter brings a quieter, more local side of Paris. It gets chilly, but there’s something so charming about the city lit up for the holidays. Christmas markets, cozy cafés, and fewer tourists make this an underrated but beautiful season to visit. If you’re looking for fewer lines (except the holiday season) and a more relaxed vibe, this could be the best time for you.

How to get to Paris?

From the airport

If you’re flying into Paris, you’ll most likely arrive at Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY). Both airports are well-connected to the city center.

From CDG, the easiest options are the RER B train, it will take around 35 minutes to central Paris for€13 or Uber 55–65€.

From Orly, you can take the Orlyval light rail and connect to the RER B, or hop in a taxi (around 35–45€).

If you’re arriving with lots of luggage or after a long flight, a taxi or Uber might be worth the splurge—especially if you’re heading straight to your hotel or apartment.

Getting to Paris by train

Paris is incredibly well connected by train. If you’re coming from cities like London, Brussels, or Amsterdam, you can book here the Eurostar or Thalys high-speed trains which are super convenient and drop you off right in the heart of the city at Gare du Nord or Gare de Lyon. Train travel in Europe is often faster and more relaxing than flying—plus, no airport hassle.

How to get around Paris?

Paris is a great place to explore on foot. You’ll find so many cute streets, hidden courtyards, and little surprises around every corner. That said, the city is huge, and your feet will feel it. Mix walking with the metro (super efficient) or a short Uber when needed.

Walking

Paris is a very walkable city, and honestly, one of the best ways to take it all in is on foot. Each neighborhood (or arrondissement) has its own feel, and you’ll notice charming details you might miss otherwise—like hidden courtyards, small bakeries, or art tucked into the streets. Pack comfy shoes because you’ll be doing plenty of walking on your 4 days Paris itinerary!

Taking the metro

The Paris Metro is efficient, affordable, and easy to use once you get the hang of it. It can take you pretty much anywhere in the city.

Tickets can be bought individually, but it’s cheaper and easier to grab a carnet (a pack of 10) or use a Navigo Easy card.

Google Maps works well for metro directions, but I also like the Bonjour RATP app to help with routes and live updates.

Taking uber or taxis

Uber works pretty well in Paris and is often more affordable than traditional taxis. It’s especially great late at night or when your feet are completely done for the day (which, trust me, happens fast in Paris!).

That said, be prepared for a little patience—sometimes it takes a while for a driver to accept your ride, and it’s not uncommon for your request to be canceled mid-wait, which can be frustrating if you’re in a rush. This happened to us a couple of times, especially early in the morning or during busier hours.

Travel tip: If you’re heading to the airport or need to be somewhere at a specific time, request your ride early to allow time for delays or cancellations (if any). We booked an Uber to the airport for an early morning flight and gave ourselves extra buffer time—definitely recommend doing the same!

Also worth noting: while taxis are always an option, they tend to cost more, and there is a chance of getting ripped off.  I would use Uber to be safe.

Is Paris safe to visit? What’s the story with pickpockets & scams?

Unfortunately, like many major European cities, pickpocketing and tourist scams are pretty common in Paris—especially near popular landmarks like the Musée du Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, and busy metro stations. Stay aware and don’t let your guard down just because you’re caught up in the beauty of it all.

A lot of these scams are well-rehearsed, and some even work in groups—while one person distracts you, another is already going through your bag or slipping your phone from your pocket.

Common scams to watch out for:

• The Petition Scam: Someone asks you to sign a petition (often pretending to be deaf or working for a charity). While you’re distracted, someone else may pickpocket you—or they’ll demand a “donation” after you sign.
• The Bracelet Trick: Someone grabs your wrist and quickly ties a friendship bracelet on it—then asks you to pay for it. Sometimes it’s just a distraction while someone else checks your bag or pockets.
• Dropped Ring Scam: A person pretends to find a gold ring on the ground and tries to convince you it’s real, offering it to you and asking for money in return.
• “Found” Wallet or Lost Item Scam: A stranger points out a wallet or item “you dropped,” making a scene—again, it’s often a distraction technique.
• Street Games or Performers: While not all are scams, many use crowds to create opportunities for pickpockets to get close unnoticed.

Being aware doesn’t mean being paranoid—just stay alert, trust your instincts, and enjoy the city without the stress. A crossbody bag, worn in front, with a zipper is a simple but powerful defense!

Language, do I need to speak French?

While some Parisians, especially those in restaurants, hotels, museums, etc.. speak English, making an effort to speak French goes a long way. Even a simple bonjour, merci, or parlez-vous anglais? can completely change the interaction. It shows respect and helps break the stereotype that visitors expect locals to adjust to them. Also, everyone was very nice and polite, we didnt get any negative attitude or unpleasant vibes. 

How many days do you need in Paris?

If you’re wondering how much time to spend in Paris, the honest answer is—as much as you can. The ideal time to truly experience Parisian lifestyle is at least a week. That gives you enough time to explore beyond the big landmarks, linger at outdoor cafés, wander through quiet neighborhoods, and enjoy the slower moments that make Paris so magical.

That said, I know most travelers don’t always have a full week to spare—especially first time visitors trying to fit in other European cities. On average, people spend around four days in Paris, which is actually a great amount of time to hit the highlights while still getting a feel for the city’s charm. That’s exactly why I put together this 4 Days Paris Itinerary—to help you experience the best of Paris in a short trip without feeling rushed.

In four days, you’ll be able to visit iconic spots like the Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, and Musée d’Orsay, catch a sunset at the Eiffel Tower, walk through Montmartre, and maybe even see a show at the Moulin Rouge.

You might not see everything, but with the right plan, you’ll see the best things and still have moments to pause, take it in, and fall in love with Paris—just like I did.

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