Planning a trip to the gardens of Versailles

Visiting the Palace of Versailles is a must-do for anyone interested in French history, art, and architecture. The palace is known for many famous entities, including the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s and Queen’s Apartments, and the Royal Chapel. But perhaps the most impressive feature of Versailles are the sprawling gardens.

The Versailles gardens feature meticulously manicured lawns, stunning fountains, and tranquil lakes. Exploring the gardens, renting a boat, or enjoying a picnic in one of the many scenic spots are a great way to spend a day/

The Palace and gardens of Versailles are a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Paris or the surrounding region.

How to get to Versailles

Versailles is located in France, just outside of Paris, and is easily accessible from the city center by train or bus. There are several options for public transportation from Paris to Versailles:

• Travel by Train: The RER C train runs from several stations in Paris to Versailles. The trip takes approximately 35 minutes each way to and from the city center, and runs often throughout the day.
• Travel by Bus: The Versailles Express bus runs frequently from the city center of Paris to Versailles. The bus route takes roughly an hour each way, depending on traffic.
• Travel by Car: Taxis and car services will also get you from Paris to Versailles, and renting a car is also an option. However, traffic can be quite heavy depending on the time of day. Prepare for delays.

I recommend taking the train from Paris to Versailles. It is the most convenient, most cost effective, and least likely to experience delays.

How long does it take to walk the gardens of Versailles?

It takes several hours to walk through and explore the entire gardens of Versailles. But timing will depend on how fast or slowly you go. The gardens cover a vast area of land – stretching over 800 hectares – and there are many hidden gems to uncover.

I would recommend planning to spend half a day strolling through the Versailles gardens, and another few hours to explore the palace. There is so much to explore in the gardens, and it is important to plan enough time to make sure you are getting the most out of your visit.

When is the best time to visit the garden of Versailles?

Spring and summer are the best times to visit the gardens of Versailles. During these months, the flowers are in full bloom, and the multitude of fountains are running throughout. The gardens are most beautiful at this time – but also the most crowded.

How do you buy a ticket to the Versailles gardens?

You can purchase Versailles tickets online ahead of time, or at the entrance. I recommend purchasing the tickets ahead of time, as lines can get extraordinary long during peak season. 

The gardens are free on the first Sunday of every month between November and March. Although these months fall outside of peak tourist season, lines can get extremely long on free days. Prepare for crowds, and try to arrive early to be one of the first in line.

What should I wear to Versailles?

Make sure that you wear comfortable footwear and weather appropriate clothing when you are visiting Versailles. The gardens are extensive, and you will certainly be doing a lot of walking – so sneakers would be best! Check the weather ahead of time to make sure that rain is not in the forecast. Wearing light layers is best to avoid any surprises.

Versailles Bag Policy

Versailles allows guests to bring bags on the property. However, bags may be subject to security screenings – and oversized luggage may have to be checked at the gate. I recommend bringing only a small bag or backpack to avoid delays. 

When is the fountain show at Versailles?

The Versailles fountain show typically takes place between April and October on weekends. The fountain jets are synchronized with music, adding extra layer of magic. If you are able to visit during these times, it is absolutely worth it!

Check the Versailles website for specific guidelines before embarking on your trip.

Are the Versailles Gardens worth a visit?

Yes. The Versailles Gardens are absolutely worth visiting – and are even, in my opinion, more spectacular than the Palace itself. The gardens are some of the most famous in the world, and are well maintained. Given their sprawling size, there are many different sections to explore, including fountains, sculptures, and manicured lawns.

That’s all, folks!

Hopefully this guide gives you a good idea of how to explore the Versailles gardens. Check out my Paris Guide and Top Free Things to Do in Paris Guide for more.

Have you visited Versailles? Add a commend below with your favorite things to see and do!