This amazing ornate palace is a UNESCO world heritage sight and a short train ride from downtown Paris (about 50 min). Louis the XIV built this extravagant palace and moved the entire French Court here in 1682. The Hall of Mirrors is justifiably famous but so is the whole palace and grounds. The grounds are huge and should not be missed (we even ventured once in heavy rain because they’re just that pretty). In the gardens is also Marie Antoinette’s “cottage” – ie mini palace. Let’s just say once you’re through marveling at the opulence and sheer amount of gold, you’ll better understand why the poor revolted against the monarchy.
Expect to at least spend a half day here and probably more. It will be crowded – get a museum pass to avoid the lines, get there before the tour bus crowds descend at 9:30 – 10 or after they leave at 3-4 PM. Some people say to skip this site because of the crowds but that would be a mistake. It’s so important to French history and so magnificent we think its a must-see. The gardens and out buildings (Le Petit Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s domaine) are not usually crowded if you need a break.
Hours:
- Daily, 9.00 am – 5.30 pm (closed Monday)
| Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France | |
| http://en.chateauversailles.fr/ | |
| +33 1 30 83 78 00 |