Versailles: the château closed but the gardens and park open free of charge on May 1, 2025

Published by My de Sortiraparis · Photos by My de Sortiraparis · Updated on May 1, 2025 at 01:53 p.m.
This Thursday, May 1, 2025, the gardens of the Château de Versailles, the park and the Marly estate will be open to the public free of charge. A great opportunity to enjoy the landscape heritage of the Sun King, while the Château and the Trianon estate will remain closed for this public holiday.

Thinking of taking advantage of May 1st to visit the Château de Versailles? You'll have to forget it, as the monument will be closed. However, the formal gardens of the Château de Versailles, as well as the surrounding park and the Marly estate, will be accessible free of chargeon May 1, 2025, from 7am to 8.30pm. The Trianon gardens, however, will remain closed. With the fine weather ahead of us, a stroll through the gardens and along the canal looks like a very good idea.

Why free entry on May 1, 2025?

May 1st does not coincide with any special events such as Grandes Eaux Musicales or Jardins Musicaux, for which admission is generally charged. In the absence of such events, entry to the gardens is free for all, in accordance with the usual conditions laid down by the Établissement Public du Château de Versailles.

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Which locations will be open free of charge?

  • The gardens of the Château de Versailles: bosquets, flowerbeds and emblematic pathways.
  • The Parc de Versailles: vast avenues, wooded areas and canals, accessible on foot or by bike.
  • The national estate of Marly: Louis XIV's summer residence, often quieter than the main site.

Feu d'artifice du 14 juillet 2022 dans le parc de Marly Feu d'artifice du 14 juillet 2022 dans le parc de Marly Feu d'artifice du 14 juillet 2022 dans le parc de Marly Feu d'artifice du 14 juillet 2022 dans le parc de Marly

How can I access the site?

No reservation is necessary. The gardens, park and Domaine de Marly will be open to the public from 7am to 8.30pm. We recommend you come early to avoid crowds, especially if the sun is shining.

What to see

Even if the fountains aren 't in use, you'll be able to fully appreciate the estate's rich landscaping: royal perspectives, ornate groves, sculptures and architectural settings. The more intimate Domaine de Marly is ideal for a quiet stroll in the heart of nature, or a picnic on its immense lawn.

Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
On May 1, 2025

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.

    Location

    Château de Versailles
    78000 Versailles

    Route planner

    Accessibility info

    Prices
    Free

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