The Château de Versailles, located at Versailles in the Yvelines, is one of the finest achievements of 17th-century French art. Listed as a World Heritage Site for 30 years, it was the principal residence of the French kings Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI.
From the outset, this château was intended to glorify the French monarchy. Initially built as a hunting lodge for King Louis XIII, the estate became a favorite of the royal family as the royal court moved from Paris to Versailles. The hunting lodge was later transformed into a royal complex with richly decorated rooms, landscaped gardens and magnificent fountains.
For decades, the kings of France succeeded one another, transforming and embellishing the estate. This reign came to an end during the French Revolution, when the royal family was forced to return to Paris. Today, the château is one of the most admired and visited sites in France. Every year, an estimated 5 million people visit the Château de Versailles, and between 8 and 10 million stroll through its gardens (excluding sanitary conditions).
In addition to the sublime gardens, which boast no fewer than 2,300 water features spread over 63,154 m², 400 sculptures and 1,400 fountains, the château is a work of art in its own right, with thousands of remarkable works to discover. If you had to visit just one room, it would undoubtedly be the smoky Hall of Mirrors, which boasts no fewer than 357 mirrors, including seventeen mirror-covered arches reflecting the seventeen arched windows overlooking the gardens.
The Château de Versailles is so large that you'll need several days to visit it. Don't miss the Domaine de Trianon and the famous Hameau de la Reine. The Domaine de Trianon is adjacent to the Petit Parc and houses the Grand Trianon, the Petit Trianon palaces, the Hameau de la Reine and various ornamental gardens. A famous refuge for Marie Antoinette, the gardens and the Maison de la Reine bear her imprint.
What to discover year-round and in the surrounding area:
July 14: Fireworks at the Palace of Versailles, National Day 2026 at the Grandes Eaux Nocturnes
Le Château de Versailles invites us to celebrate Bastille Day once more this year, this time paired with the Grandes Eaux Nocturnes, scheduled for July 14, 2026. On the agenda: a poetic stroll through the historic gardens, punctuated by a stunning fireworks finale! [Read more]
On the occasion of the United States’ 250th anniversary, the Château de Versailles invites you to delve into the saga of the American War of Independence and the diplomatic secrets of the Franco-American alliance, through a mixed-reality journey. [Read more]
Celebrate “Back to Hogwarts”—the marquee annual gathering that brings Harry Potter fans together. For this highly anticipated edition, set for August 29, 2026, an iconic château lends itself to the occasion: by day, in the Orangery of the Palace of Versailles, Potterheads will converge for a free event that requires registration. [Read more]
At the Grand Trianon of the Palace of Versailles, in Yvelines, the exhibition Jardins des Lumières (1750-1800) delves into the art of the landscape garden through nearly 160 works, including paintings, models, drawings, and furniture. Go see it from May 5 to September 27, 2026, and take the opportunity to explore the Trianon gardens and the Queen's Hamlet. [Read more]
The Palace of Versailles marks the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. To celebrate, experience a grand historical reenactment on July 4th and 5th, 2026, at the Trianon Estate. [Read more]
On Sunday, July 12, 2026, the city of Versailles will host its very first Ironman 70.3. This 113-kilometer triathlon will see competitors swimming across the Pièce d’Eau des Suisses, cycling through the picturesque Chevreuse Valley, and finishing with a run through the historic Potager du Roi, culminating in a spectacular finish right in front of the Chateau. [Read more]
The Royal Serenade is one of the highlights of summer in the Île-de-France region. This immersive experience transports visitors to the court of the Sun King, offering a glimpse into the leisure activities of the era. The Royal Chapel, the Hall of Mirrors, the Grand Apartments of the King and Queen, and even the Royal Court come alive with historical scenes featuring baroque dancers, sword fights, and theatrical sketches. Join us on Saturdays from June 6 to September 19, 2026, as well as on July 14 and August 15, 2026. [Read more]
The Nighttime Fountain Shows will be back in 2026. This enchanting evening walk through the gardens of the Palace of Versailles offers the chance to admire illuminated fountains beautifully lit up, all set to a stunning fireworks display. The shows will take place on Saturday evenings from June 6th to September 19th, 2026. [Read more]
The Grand Masquerade Ball at the Château de Versailles is making its highly anticipated return this Saturday, June 27, 2026. An enchanting and unforgettable event to experience this summer. Tickets are selling quickly, so be sure to reserve yours soon! [Read more]
The Musical Fountains and Garden Concerts at Château de Versailles are back, once again transforming the gardens’ pools and fountains into a symphony of water and music for the new season. From April 1 to November 1, 2026, visitors can wander through the groves and along the fountains, all set to the enchanting sounds of Baroque music, creating a magical atmosphere fit for the era of Louis XIV. [Read more]
Starting September 22, 2026, the world of cinema takes center stage at the Trianon Estate with a groundbreaking exhibition dedicated to Sofia Coppola's film "Marie-Antoinette," filmed on the grounds of Versailles. [Read more]
After opening the Salle du Congrès and the apartment of the President of the Congress to the public, the Château de Versailles is now unveiling the apartments of General de Gaulle in the Trianon-sous-Bois wing, from April 5, 2025. [Read more]
The Galerie des Carrosses, nestled in the Grande Écurie at the Château de Versailles, opens its doors free of charge every weekend. When visiting Versailles, it's a discovery you'd be wrong not to make. We'll take you on a tour... [Read more]
Did you enjoy the film Jeanne du Barry, starring Johnny Depp and Maïwenn? Let us take you on a tour of the places where King Louis XV's favorite courtesan spent her life in the Île-de-France region! [Read more]
Did you know that? Some rooms and spaces related to the Palace and the Estate of Versailles are open to the public free of charge. Here are the conditions to visit them without paying a penny. [Read more]
The Palace of Versailles unveils a new walk to discover the "Admirable Trees" of the Versailles estate. These trees are full of history and are the living heritage of the estate. By their size, their beauty or their anecdotes, these subjects are a mine of discoveries. [Read more]
Sponsored - At Bonnie, you go from morning coffee to an evening glass of wine without changing the vibe. Just steps from the Château de Versailles and the Notre-Dame market, come for a quick bite, take a coffee & pastry break, share charcuterie and cheese boards, or simply enjoy a good glass with friends. [Read more]
Sunday, July 19, 2026, marks International Castles Day. How will you celebrate? By exploring these magnificent monuments, of course! And we’re lucky: Paris and the Île-de-France region boast some of France’s most stunning castles. Here’s a brief roundup of palaces and royal residences worth a visit this weekend. [Read more]
The French Blood Establishment (EFS) continues to need your blood donations and is launching collection drives across the capital for World Blood Donor Day. Visit the Château de Versailles, the Hôtel de Ville, or Parc des Princes! [Read more]
Nestled within the Anglo-Chinese Gardens of the Petit Trianon, not far from the shimmering golden splendor of the Palace of Versailles, there's a tiny rocky mountain known as the Trianon Rock. Surmounted by an elegant belvedere, this romantic lookout hides cool, shaded cavities along its sides, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the gardens. [Read more]
Looking for a good place to have brunch in Versailles? Head to the Montreuil neighborhood, on Place Saint-Symphorien, to discover La Table d'Alice, a friendly spot offering homemade brunch with its specialty soufflé pancakes every weekend and on public holidays. [Read more]
In the heart of the Château de Versailles estate, we discover Le Grand Contrôle, a 5-star hotel offering a unique experience, transporting us back in time. Opening in spring 2020, this unique venue combines history, refinement and authenticity, offering spectacular views over the Orangerie parterre and privileged access to the Château. [Read more]
Fancy a royal weekend in the countryside, just a stone's throw from Paris? Head for the Waldorf Astoria - Trianon Palace, offering a real change of scenery on the edge of the Château de Versailles park. A truly relaxing experience, especially if you haven't been able to go on vacation abroad due to the health crisis. [Read more]
Why not treat yourself to an all-you-can-eat brunch, even on the terrace, with homemade, local produce? Let's head for the Yvelines, to discover the Cour cachée des Senteurs, home to the Chez Molly tea room, where every weekend we can enjoy a gourmet brunch just a stone's throw from the Château de Versailles. [Read more]
How about a tea time duo at the very heart of the Château de Versailles? We'll take you to the Goûter de la Reine at Ore, the restaurant nestled in the Pavillon Dufour, which now offers a sweet and savory interlude from Tuesday to Sunday. [Read more]
The Salle du Jeu de Paume, famous since the French Revolution, can be visited at weekends near the Château de Versailles, to immerse yourself in history and discover a recently restored national treasure. [Read more]
Few people know it, but every Sunday, Le Grand Contrôle, the Michelin-starred restaurant orchestrated by Alain Ducasse, offers a refined brunch overlooking the Orangerie at the Château de Versailles. How about a royal interlude for a timeless moment? [Read more]
Looking for a good all-you-can-eat brunch in the Yvelines, and in Versailles in particular? We'll take you to the Alcôve in the Hôtel Le Louis, just a stone's throw from the Château de Versailles. It's the ideal place to treat yourself, before or after a stroll through the park, the château or the nearby Galerie des Carrosses. [Read more]
Head to Versailles to discover the Potager du Roi, a production and experimentation site open to the public, which once supplied the King's table at the Château! Here you can find local, natural fruit and vegetables in the open air. [Read more]
Do you know the Unesco World Heritage sites in the Paris region? We reveal 6 jewels to discover in Paris and the Paris region that are well worth the detour. [Read more]
The park at Versailles is home to a little-known garden: "Le Jardin du Parfumeur". Under the patronage of Francis Kurkdjian, the plot envelops the Trianon estate in an elegant floral fragrance. [Read more]
It's in the enchanting, historic setting of Les Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Controle, the hotel located within the Château de Versailles, that we set out to discover Marie-Antoinette's famous afternoon tea, orchestrated by talented pastry chef Aymeric Pinard. Come and slip into the shoes of a queen and king for an enchanted, gourmet interlude. [Read more]
The Domaine de Trianon can be visited separately from the Château. Located two kilometers away, it was once a place of refuge for kings, who found rest and relaxation away from the Court. Created by Louis XV, the estate became the fiefdom of Marie-Antoinette, who modified the grounds and created an entire hamlet, like a small village. [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
Next days
Sunday:
from 09:00 a.m. to 05:30 p.m.
Tuesday:
from 09:00 a.m. to 05:30 p.m.
Wednesday:
from 09:00 a.m. to 05:30 p.m.
Thursday:
from 09:00 a.m. to 05:30 p.m.
Friday:
from 09:00 a.m. to 05:30 p.m.
Saturday:
from 09:00 a.m. to 05:30 p.m.
Location
Palace of Versailles
Château de Versailles
78000 Versailles
Prices
Billet Domaine de Trianon: €12
Billet Château: €18
Billet complet hors Grandes Eaux: €20
Billet complet avec Grandes Eaux: €27
Official website
www.chateauversailles.fr
Booking
Book your tickets with Paris je t'aime here
More information
The Château and the Trianon estate are open every day except Monday. The Château opens at 9 a.m.; the Trianon estate opens at noon.
The Park and Gardens are open every day. The Gardens are subject to a charge on the days of the Grand Eaux Musicales.
July 14: Fireworks at the Palace of Versailles, National Day 2026 at the Grandes Eaux Nocturnes
Light of Freedom: American Independence in Virtual Reality at the Palace of Versailles
Back to Hogwarts: more details on the free event at the Château de Versailles and its registration date
Jardins des Lumières: an exhibition on the art of garden design at the Grand Trianon, Palace of Versailles
A grand historical reenactment at the Palace of Versailles celebrates American independence
Ironman 70.3: A regal triathlon set against the Château of Versailles this summer 2026 — tickets now on sale
Royal Serenade 2026 at the Palace of Versailles: an immersive journey into the Sun King's courtyard
The Grand Masquerade Ball at Château de Versailles 2026: An Unforgettable Evening of Celebration
The Musical Fountains at the Château de Versailles: Dates for the 2026 Edition
Marie-Antoinette by Sofia Coppola: A Cinematic Exhibition at the Trianon Estate in Versailles
Château de Versailles: discover General de Gaulle's apartments in a Trianon wing
The Galerie des Carrosses, the free museum at the Grandes Ecuries of the Château de Versailles
In the footsteps of Jeanne du Barry, King Louis XV's favorite, from Versailles to Louveciennes
Good plan: these areas of the Château de Versailles are accessible for free to all
The Admirable Trees of the Domaine de Versailles
Chez Bonnie in Versailles: a coffee shop and wine bar near the Palace
International Day of Castles 2026: the must-see châteaux to visit in Île-de-France
World Blood Donor Day: Blood drives at Paris's monuments in June 2026
The Trianon Rock: The Secret Sanctuary Hidden within the Gardens of the Petit Trianon
Brunch and tea room at La Table d'Alice in Versailles, homemade food just the way we like it
Le Grand Contrôle, the magical hotel at the Château de Versailles that goes back in time
The Waldorf Astoria - Trianon Palace, a royal setting in the heart of the Parc de Versailles
All-you-can-eat brunch at Chez Molly in Versailles, Yvelines
The Queen's Tea Time at the Château de Versailles at Ore
A guided tour of the Jeu de Paume room, a treasure trove of the French Revolution
The confidential brunch at the Grand Contrôle Château de Versailles
All-you-can-eat royal brunch at L'Alcove in Versailles
Le Potager du Roi, a historic fruit and vegetable garden near the Château de Versailles
6 Unesco World Heritage sites to discover in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
The Perfumer's Garden, the garden of the Château de Versailles and the House of Francis Kurkdjian
We tested the fabulous tea time at Les Airelles Château de Versailles - Le Grand Contrôle
The Trianon Estate and the Queen's hamlet
