Escape the hustle and bustle of Paris and step into the enchanting world of Versailles with this ultimate day trip guide.
As a travel blogger who has visited Paris and Versailles multiple times, I can confidently say that a day trip from Paris to Versailles is a must-do for anyone visiting the city of love. Paris, known for its rich history and stunning architecture, is also a gateway to one of the most beautiful palaces in the world, the Palace of Versailles. The Palace and its gardens have been an inspiration to many, and to truly understand and appreciate the magnificence of this historical gem, a day trip to Versailles is essential.
How to Get from Paris to Versailles:
As someone who has visited both Paris and Versailles multiple times, I highly recommend taking a day trip from Paris to Versailles. The easiest way to get there is by train, specifically the RER C line. The train departs from multiple stations in Paris, including Saint-Michel Notre-Dame, Musée d’Orsay, and Invalides. I recommend taking the train from Saint-Michel Notre-Dame as it is the closest station to the Latin Quarter, which is a great neighborhood to explore before or after your trip to Versailles.
The train ride itself takes approximately 45 minutes, and the ticket cost is around 7 euros for a round-trip. You can purchase your ticket at the train station, and I recommend buying it in advance to avoid any lines or delays.
If you prefer a more private and comfortable mode of transportation, you can also hire a private car or taxHowever, this option tends to be more expensive and may not be necessary for a day trip.
Overall, taking the train from Paris to Versailles is the most convenient and affordable way to get there. Plus, the views from the train are stunning and offer a unique perspective of the French countryside.
What to See:
A. Palace of Versailles
1. I highly recommend taking a guided tour of the Palace. My first time visiting, I opted for the audio tour, but on my subsequent visits, I booked a guided tour and learned so much more about the history and architecture of the Palace.
2. The best time to visit the Palace is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the crowds are thinner.
B. The Gardens of Versailles
1. I’ve spent hours wandering the Gardens of Versailles, and they never cease to amaze me. There are several tour options available, including a golf cart tour or a bike tour, but I prefer to explore on foot.
2. The best time to visit the Gardens is in the spring when the flowers are in bloom, or in the fall when the leaves are changing colors.
C. Other attractions in Versailles
1. I highly recommend visiting Marie-Antoinette’s Estate, which is located a short walk from the Palace. The estate includes several smaller buildings, including the Petit Trianon, where Marie-Antoinette used to escape from court life.
2. If you have time, be sure to take a tour of the Grand Trianon, which was built by King Louis XIV as a retreat away from the Palace. The building has been beautifully preserved and provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of the French monarchy.
My Experiences in Versailles:
A. The Palace Tour
1. I highly recommend the audio-guided tour as it provides fascinating insights into the history and architecture of the palace.
2. My favorite room in the palace is the Hall of Mirrors, with its stunning chandeliers and wall-to-wall mirrors.
B. The Gardens of Versailles
1. I once visited the gardens in the evening during the summer, when they are illuminated with thousands of lights. It was a magical experience.
2. I also suggest taking a picnic and enjoying the gardens from the Orangerie, where you can sit and watch the fountains dance to classical music.
C. Other Attractions in Versailles
1. I was amazed by Marie-Antoinette’s Estate, with its quaint cottages and charming gardens.
2. The Grand Trianon is also a must-see, with its pink marble facade and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Shopping in Versailles:
As I walked around the streets of Versailles, I couldn’t help but notice how many adorable souvenir shops there were. From miniature Eiffel Towers to ornate hand fans, there was something for everyone. One shop that particularly caught my eye was a little boutique that sold handmade soaps and perfumes. The scents were absolutely divine, and I ended up buying a few to bring back home with me.
If you’re looking for more unique and specialty items, there are plenty of shops to explore in Versailles. I stumbled upon a store that sold artisanal cheeses and cured meats, and the samples were so delicious that I had to buy some for a picnic in the gardens later. I also found a shop that sold vintage postcards and prints of Versailles, which made for a perfect souvenir and a unique piece of art to hang in my home.
If you’re short on time and don’t want to spend hours browsing through shops, I recommend heading to the market in Versailles. The market is open on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, and it’s the perfect place to find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and even some delicious pastries to snack on.
In conclusion, shopping in Versailles is a must-do activity during your day trip. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, specialty items, or just want to browse through the local market, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.
Conclusion:
A. Recap of the best day trip options in Versailles
As I reflect on my day trip from Paris to Versailles, I can confidently say that the Palace of Versailles was the highlight of my visit. The grandeur of the palace and its rich history left me in awe. The guided tours provided me with a wealth of information on the palace’s history, architecture, and art. The Gardens of Versailles were also a sight to behold, with its vast expanse of greenery and neatly trimmed hedges. I highly recommend taking a garden tour to appreciate the beauty of the gardens fully.
B. Recommendations for future visits
If you plan on visiting Versailles in the summer, make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes as the heat can be quite intense. If you’re traveling with young children, consider renting a golf cart to explore the vast palace grounds comfortably. Also, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the palace and its surroundings.
C. Final thoughts on the Paris to Versailles day trip
The day trip from Paris to Versailles was a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It was not only a chance to appreciate the beauty of Versailles but also an opportunity to learn more about French history and culture. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and would recommend it to anyone looking to explore the beauty of France.