Luxury Versailles Escape: Private Tour of the Palace & Gardens

Embark on a remarkable private full-day trip to explore the Palace of Versailles, its exquisite gardens, and the charming Trianons Palaces, including the renowned Marie Antoinette Hamlet. Our convenient pick-up and drop-off service will be provided from your accommodation in the heart of Paris. Meet your expert guide/driver and step into our comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that will whisk you away to the enchanting world of Versailles.

Château de Versailles Palace & Gardens

Discover the unparalleled allure of Château de Versailles, a must-visit destination unlike any other in France. As a distinguished 3-star Michelin travel guide site, it stands as the epitome of classical architecture, representing perfection in every detail.

This magnificent palace, the largest known in the world, was an ongoing construction site from the late 17th century until the French Revolution. Symbolizing the power and grandeur of French royalty, from Sun King Louis XIV to Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, it gradually regains its original splendor through extensive restoration efforts.

Departing from Paris, embark on an enjoyable private full-day trip in one of our premium air-conditioned vehicles. Upon arrival at the Château de Versailles, you'll benefit from skip-the-line access, granting you fast-track entry and saving you precious time.

Guided by your accompanying expert guide, you'll swiftly begin your immersive tour of the palace, delving into its rich history and captivating stories. Traverse the lavish State apartments, marvel at the beautiful chambers of the King and Queen, admire the grandeur of the Royal Chapel and the iconic Hall of Mirrors, and uncover numerous other hidden treasures. You'll also have ample free time to leisurely explore the meticulously designed French-style Gardens, a true embodiment of formal garden architecture, conceived by the visionary André Le Nôtre.

The Hall of Mirrors

No visit to the palace is complete without a visit to the renowned Hall of Mirrors. Originally built to replace a terrace, this spectacular room was designed by architect Louis Le Vau and completed by his successor, Jules Hardouin-Mansart, in 1684. Its purpose was to offer a more suitable space for grand events. Today, it stands as a shining example of architectural brilliance, boasting mirrors and providing breathtaking views.

The War Room

In 1678, Hardouin Mansart initiated the construction of the War Room. Its decoration, finalized by Le Brun in 1686, pays homage to the military triumphs that led to the peace treaties of Nijmegen. Adorned with marble panels embellished with six trophies and gilded bronze weapons, the walls showcase the glorious victories. An oval stucco bas-relief adjacent to the Apollo Room depicts Louis XIV astride his horse, symbolically trampling his adversaries.

The Peace Room

Symmetrically situated opposite the War Room, the Peace Room shares the same marble panel decoration and features chased trophies of arms in gilded bronze. However, Le Brun took a different approach by adorning the cupola and arches with themes highlighting the benefits of peace brought to Europe by France. Initially separated from the hall by a movable partition, this room was considered part of the Queen's Apartment, serving as the final space after the Queen's Chamber, since the beginning of Louis XIV's reign.

Explore the Gardens

Gaze through the central window in the Hall of Mirrors to behold the magnificent Grand Perspective extending into the horizon from the Water Parterre. Originally established before Louis XIV's reign, this unique east-west perspective was expanded and enhanced by gardener André Le Nôtre, who widened the Royal Way and excavated the Grand Canal.

Creating these extraordinary gardens was an immense undertaking. Vast quantities of soil were moved to level the terrain, create parterres, construct the Orangery, and carve out fountains and the Canal, transforming meadows and marshes. Trees were carefully sourced from diverse regions of France, and thousands of workers, including entire regiments, contributed to this monumental project.

Enjoy Lunch which is included (drinks not included)

Delight in a delectable three-course lunch at the "La Flotille" restaurant, nestled at the foot of the Grand Canal. This majestic setting allows you to savor the beauty of the estate while relishing a satisfying meal. After lunch, your guide will accompany you to the Petit Trianon, a charming chateau within the Versailles grounds that was used by Marie Antoinette for intimate gatherings and as an escape from the formalities of the court.

The Petit Trianon

Architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel constructed the Petit Trianon under the reign of Louis XV, providing the royal family with a more intimate retreat. Later, King Louis XVI gifted the palace to his young bride, Marie Antoinette, earning the estate its association with her name. Napoleon subsequently restored the palace and gardens, and in 1867, Empress Eugénie transformed the Petit Trianon into a museum dedicated to Marie Antoinette. While exploring, you can also visit the Queen's Hamlet, a picturesque Norman village and farm that Marie Antoinette had built in 1783 to escape the confines of the Versailles court.

The Queen's Hamlet

Discover the captivating Queen's Hamlet, an idyllic Norman-style village and farm intended for Marie Antoinette's enjoyment with her closest companions, embracing a simpler and more rustic way of life. Completed just before the French Revolution, the Hamlet serves as a testament to the Queen's desire for tranquility amid the grandeur of the main palace's cold marble halls.

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Versailles and make lasting memories of this extraordinary journey. Please note that lunch is included in this tour, and we offer both private and group options to cater to your preferences. Book your private full-day tour to the Palace of Versailles and indulge in the splendor of French history and culture.