Versailles, a picture-perfect town.
The royal town of Versailles is definitely the heart of France. World-renowned for its monuments, and gardens, this suburb welcomes more than 10 million tourists per year. Built by Louis the 14th, Versailles is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here is your complete guide to this imperial epicenter.
HOW TO GET THERE
Located at 17 km from Paris, Versailles is accessible by train or by car. The quickest solution is taking public transportation.
There are three train stations in Versailles: Rive Droite, Rive Gauche, and Chantiers. To reach the castle, take the RER C direction Versailles Rive gauche chateau. From Paris Saint-Lazare, the line L, passing by La Défense, will serve Versailles Rive Droite. Finally, from La Défense, the line U, serves the train station Chantiers. From these train stations, everything can be done by foot.
By car, Paris-Versailles is approximately a 40-minute ride, depending on traffic, however, we encourage taking public transports.
SEE
Versailles in itself is a destination. Just strolling around the streets, past the Notre-Dame market, the museums, and the cathedrals; Versailles is nothing other than a work of art. Here is our list of suggestions of the top three things you must do!
Château de Versailles
Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles
This is obvious! The Palace of Versailles is one of the most coveted destinations in the world. It is a difficult job to describe this monument as it is the most beautiful, massive, and fascinating chateau of all time. We recommend visiting it with the group guided tour which can only enhance your experience. Nevertheless, if you wish to visit it independently, we suggest looking at the chateau’s website to prepare your trip.
The chateau of Versailles is a perfect symbol of 17th century French art. Its structure retraces the history of architecture from the 17th to the 18th century. With its famous rooms, such as: La Galerie des Glaces, the royal apartments, the royal Opera, and many more. This chateau is truly a witness to French history. Its garden – designed by André Le Nôtre – is adorned with statues, fountains, canals, and perfectly trimmed trees. It is the perfect spot to walk around or have a picnic! If you are strolling in the park, do not forget to visit the Little Trianon, the Queen’s Hamlet, and the Grand Trianon. If you have the chance to come between June 12th and September 18th2021, do not miss “Les Grandes Eaux Noctures” every Saturday night. The gardens and the chateau lit up with lights and fireworks while the fountains dance to baroque music.
Le Musée Lambinet
54, Boulevard de la reine, 78000 Versailles
This former 18th century hôtel particulier – or private mansion – is located in the center of Versailles, and retraces this town’s history. Built under the rule of Louis the 15th, the mansion was occupied by the Lambinet family until 1929. In 1932, the private hotel was officially converted into a museum where it houses an impressive collection of Renaissance art, including: paintings, sculptures, furniture…etc. This mansion constitutes a true “collector’s museum.” On the first floor, there is a perfect representation of an 18th century apartment, and the third floor is dedicated to the town’s history, and the French Revolution. The impressive edifice is brightened by its French garden, and colorful flowers.
