A day trip to Versailles is a must-do for anyone visiting Paris. The Palace of Versailles is a stunning example of French architecture and history, and its gardens and fountain shows are breathtaking. In this article, we’ll explore the best things to see and do on a day trip to Versailles.
Getting to Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is located about 12 miles southwest of Paris. The easiest way to get there is by train, which takes about 30-40 minutes from the Montparnasse station in Paris. You can also take a guided tour or drive there, but the train is the most convenient option.
Palace Tour
The Palace of Versailles is the main attraction in Versailles, and it’s a must-see. The palace was built in the 17th century for King Louis XIV and is a stunning example of French architecture. You’ll want to spend at least a few hours exploring the palace and its opulent interiors.
Some of the highlights of the palace tour include:
- The Royal Chapel: a beautiful chapel with stunning stained glass windows and intricate carvings
- The King’s Bedroom: a lavish bedroom with a massive bed and intricate furnishings
- The Hall of Mirrors: a stunning hallway lined with mirrors and chandeliers
Gardens and Fountain Shows
The gardens at Versailles are some of the most beautiful in the world. You’ll want to spend at least a few hours exploring the gardens and admiring the stunning fountains and statues. The gardens are especially beautiful during the summer months when the flowers are in bloom.
Some of the highlights of the gardens include:
- The Orangery: a beautiful building with stunning views of the gardens
- The Fountain of Apollo: a stunning fountain with intricate carvings and statues
- The Royal Walk: a beautiful walkway lined with statues and fountains
Trianon Palaces and Gardens
The Trianon Palaces are a must-see on a day trip to Versailles. The Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon are two beautiful palaces that were built for King Louis XIV and his mistresses. The palaces are stunning examples of French architecture and are surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Some of the highlights of the Trianon Palaces and Gardens include:
- The Grand Trianon: a beautiful palace with stunning interiors and gardens
- The Petit Trianon: a charming palace with beautiful gardens and a stunning fountain
- The Hameau de la Reine: a charming hamlet built for Queen Marie Antoinette
Hameau de la Reine
The Hameau de la Reine is a charming hamlet that was built for Queen Marie Antoinette. The hamlet is a stunning example of French architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. You’ll want to spend at least a few hours exploring the hamlet and admiring its stunning views.
Some of the highlights of the Hameau de la Reine include:
- The Queen’s House: a beautiful house with stunning interiors and gardens
- The Mill: a charming mill with stunning views of the gardens
- The Temple of Love: a stunning temple with intricate carvings and statues
Conclusion
A day trip to Versailles is a must-do for anyone visiting Paris. The Palace of Versailles, gardens, and fountain shows are breathtaking, and the Trianon Palaces and Hameau de la Reine are stunning examples of French architecture and history. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to make sure to plan your day trip carefully to get the most out of your visit.
