A visit to the Château de Versailles and its program

Published by My de Sortiraparis, Cécile de Sortiraparis · Photos by My de Sortiraparis · Updated on April 24, 2026 at 08:49 a.m.
The Château de Versailles, its gardens and grounds, are a world heritage site. The official residence of the kings of France, the Château de Versailles holds the record as the largest château in the world, and of course the most visited in France.

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.

Photos La Petite Venise, restaurant des jardins du Château de VersaillesPhotos La Petite Venise, restaurant des jardins du Château de VersaillesPhotos La Petite Venise, restaurant des jardins du Château de VersaillesPhotos La Petite Venise, restaurant des jardins du Château de Versailles

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.

Les Grandes Eaux Musicales et les Jardins Musicaux au Château de Versailles 2020Les Grandes Eaux Musicales et les Jardins Musicaux au Château de Versailles 2020Les Grandes Eaux Musicales et les Jardins Musicaux au Château de Versailles 2020Les Grandes Eaux Musicales et les Jardins Musicaux au Château de Versailles 2020

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).

Les Grandes Eaux Musicales 2018 au Château de VersaillesLes Grandes Eaux Musicales 2018 au Château de VersaillesLes Grandes Eaux Musicales 2018 au Château de VersaillesLes Grandes Eaux Musicales 2018 au Château de Versailles

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.

La Sérénade Royale au Château de Versailles, les photosLa Sérénade Royale au Château de Versailles, les photosLa Sérénade Royale au Château de Versailles, les photosLa Sérénade Royale au Château de Versailles, les photos

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.

La Maison de la Reine rénovée au Château de VersaillesLa Maison de la Reine rénovée au Château de VersaillesLa Maison de la Reine rénovée au Château de VersaillesLa Maison de la Reine rénovée au Château de VersaillesLa Maison de la Reine rénovée au Château de VersaillesLa Maison de la Reine rénovée au Château de VersaillesLa Maison de la Reine rénovée au Château de VersaillesLa Maison de la Reine rénovée au Château de Versailles

What to discover year-round and in the surrounding area:

Le Parcours du Roi, la visite-spectacle de Noël 2024 du Château de VersaillesLe Parcours du Roi, la visite-spectacle de Noël 2024 du Château de VersaillesLe Parcours du Roi, la visite-spectacle de Noël 2024 du Château de VersaillesLe Parcours du Roi, la visite-spectacle de Noël 2024 du Château de Versailles The King's Route: Versailles' 2026 Christmas Spectacular Tour
Le Parcours du Roi returns to the Château de Versailles from December 12, 2026 to January 2, 2027. This Baroque visit-and-show puts Marie-Antoinette, the queen of fashion, in the spotlight and ends with a meeting with Santa Claus. [Read more]

Exposition Louis-Philippe à Versailles, l'Opéra RoyalExposition Louis-Philippe à Versailles, l'Opéra RoyalExposition Louis-Philippe à Versailles, l'Opéra RoyalExposition Louis-Philippe à Versailles, l'Opéra Royal Christmas at the Royal Chapel 2026: concerts in Versailles
The Royal Chapel at the Palace of Versailles will host sacred music concerts on December 5, 11, 12, 13 and 19, 2026. Charpentier, Bach, Handel and Vivaldi are on the program. [Read more]

Exposition Jardins des Lumières au Grand Trianon du Château de Versailles - photosExposition Jardins des Lumières au Grand Trianon du Château de Versailles - photosExposition Jardins des Lumières au Grand Trianon du Château de Versailles - photosExposition Jardins des Lumières au Grand Trianon du Château de Versailles - photos Visiting the Gardens of the Palace of Versailles: what you need to know for a family-friendly visit
Can you visit the Versailles gardens with a stroller? How far will you need to walk with the kids, are the gardens free, and do you have to push all the way to the Grand Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet? After touring the Chateau, the estate still offers several more kilometers of family-friendly strolls. Strollers, a mini-train, the Grandes Eaux, restrooms, breaks and distances: here’s what you need to know before you set off to explore Versailles with kids and adults alike. [Read more]

Exposition Jardins des Lumières au Grand Trianon du Château de Versailles - photosExposition Jardins des Lumières au Grand Trianon du Château de Versailles - photosExposition Jardins des Lumières au Grand Trianon du Château de Versailles - photosExposition Jardins des Lumières au Grand Trianon du Château de Versailles - photos Visiting the Palace of Versailles: everything you need to know to explore it with your family
Can you visit the Palace of Versailles with a stroller? Where to change a baby? Do you need to reserve a ticket for children, and how can you avoid turning the Hall of Mirrors into a family marathon? Strollers, baby carriers, restrooms, free admission, reservations and routes: here are the practicalities to know before discovering Versailles with children and adults. [Read more]

Visuel Paris - Galerie des Glaces Chateau VersaillesVisuel Paris - Galerie des Glaces Chateau VersaillesVisuel Paris - Galerie des Glaces Chateau VersaillesVisuel Paris - Galerie des Glaces Chateau Versailles Bal du Siècle 2026 in Versailles, Roaring Twenties edition: ticket sales open in September
Le Bal du Siècle returns to the Château de Versailles for a fourth edition inspired by the Roaring Twenties, this Monday, November 30, 2026. A dance-and-costume soirée with tickets on sale starting September 3, 2026. [Read more]

Les Grandes Eaux Nocturnes du Château de Versailles x Bal Masqué 2024 - les photosLes Grandes Eaux Nocturnes du Château de Versailles x Bal Masqué 2024 - les photosLes Grandes Eaux Nocturnes du Château de Versailles x Bal Masqué 2024 - les photosLes Grandes Eaux Nocturnes du Château de Versailles x Bal Masqué 2024 - les photos The Musical Fountains at the Château de Versailles: Dates for the 2026 Edition
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]

Le Domaine de Trianon et ses sublimes jardinsLe Domaine de Trianon et ses sublimes jardinsLe Domaine de Trianon et ses sublimes jardinsLe Domaine de Trianon et ses sublimes jardins Marie-Antoinette by Sofia Coppola: A Cinematic Exhibition at the Trianon Estate in Versailles
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]

Jean Cotelle, l'exposition au Grand Trianon de VersaillesJean Cotelle, l'exposition au Grand Trianon de VersaillesJean Cotelle, l'exposition au Grand Trianon de VersaillesJean Cotelle, l'exposition au Grand Trianon de Versailles Château de Versailles: discover General de Gaulle's apartments in a Trianon wing
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]

La Galerie des Carrosses de Versailles, le musée gratuit aux Grandes EcuriesLa Galerie des Carrosses de Versailles, le musée gratuit aux Grandes EcuriesLa Galerie des Carrosses de Versailles, le musée gratuit aux Grandes EcuriesLa Galerie des Carrosses de Versailles, le musée gratuit aux Grandes Ecuries The Galerie des Carrosses, the free museum at the Grandes Ecuries of the Château de Versailles
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]

Jeanne du Barry (Maïwenn) et Johnny Depp (Louis XV) dans Jeanne du BarryJeanne du Barry (Maïwenn) et Johnny Depp (Louis XV) dans Jeanne du BarryJeanne du Barry (Maïwenn) et Johnny Depp (Louis XV) dans Jeanne du BarryJeanne du Barry (Maïwenn) et Johnny Depp (Louis XV) dans Jeanne du Barry In the footsteps of Jeanne du Barry, King Louis XV's favorite, from Versailles to Louveciennes
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]

La Galerie des Carrosses à VersaillesLa Galerie des Carrosses à VersaillesLa Galerie des Carrosses à VersaillesLa Galerie des Carrosses à Versailles Good plan: these areas of the Château de Versailles are accessible for free to all
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]

Le parcours des Arbres Admirables dans le domaine du château de VersaillesLe parcours des Arbres Admirables dans le domaine du château de VersaillesLe parcours des Arbres Admirables dans le domaine du château de VersaillesLe parcours des Arbres Admirables dans le domaine du château de Versailles The Admirable Trees of the Domaine de Versailles
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]

Parc et Jardins du Château de Fontainebleau - les photosParc et Jardins du Château de Fontainebleau - les photosParc et Jardins du Château de Fontainebleau - les photosParc et Jardins du Château de Fontainebleau - les photos Which châteaux in Île-de-France can you visit for free this public holiday, November 1, 2026?
Eleven châteaux in Île-de-France are opening their doors for free this Sunday, November 1, 2026, the first Sunday of the month and All Saints’ Day. Two more await just beyond the Île-de-France border, in Oise. [Read more]

Le Domaine de Trianon et Hameau de la ReineLe Domaine de Trianon et Hameau de la ReineLe Domaine de Trianon et Hameau de la ReineLe Domaine de Trianon et Hameau de la Reine The Trianon Estate and the Queen's hamlet
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]

Le Rocher du Trianon : L'antre secret du Petit TrianonLe Rocher du Trianon : L'antre secret du Petit TrianonLe Rocher du Trianon : L'antre secret du Petit TrianonLe Rocher du Trianon : L'antre secret du Petit Trianon The Trianon Rock: The Secret Sanctuary Hidden within the Gardens of the Petit Trianon
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]

Chez Bonnie à Versailles : Coffee Shop et bar à vin près du ChâteauChez Bonnie à Versailles : Coffee Shop et bar à vin près du ChâteauChez Bonnie à Versailles : Coffee Shop et bar à vin près du ChâteauChez Bonnie à Versailles : Coffee Shop et bar à vin près du Château Chez Bonnie in Versailles: a coffee shop and wine bar near the Palace
Sponsored - At Bonnie, the vibe carries through from morning coffee to an evening glass of wine without missing a beat. Just steps from the Château de Versailles and the Notre-Dame market, come by for a quick lunch, a coffee-and-pastry break, shared charcuterie and cheese boards, or simply a good glass with friends. [Read more]

Le brunch de la Table d'Alice à Versailles - 78, les photosLe brunch de la Table d'Alice à Versailles - 78, les photosLe brunch de la Table d'Alice à Versailles - 78, les photosLe brunch de la Table d'Alice à Versailles - 78, les photos Brunch and tea room at La Table d'Alice in Versailles, homemade food just the way we like it
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]

Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle - hôtel - chambreAirelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle - hôtel - chambreAirelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle - hôtel - chambreAirelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle - hôtel - chambre Le Grand Contrôle, the magical hotel at the Château de Versailles that goes back in time
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]

Le Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace, un écrin royal au cœur du parc de Versailles - façadeLe Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace, un écrin royal au cœur du parc de Versailles - façadeLe Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace, un écrin royal au cœur du parc de Versailles - façadeLe Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace, un écrin royal au cœur du parc de Versailles - façade The Waldorf Astoria - Trianon Palace, a royal setting in the heart of the Parc de Versailles
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]

Le brunch à volonté de Chez Molly à Versailles dans les Yvelines - 78Le brunch à volonté de Chez Molly à Versailles dans les Yvelines - 78Le brunch à volonté de Chez Molly à Versailles dans les Yvelines - 78Le brunch à volonté de Chez Molly à Versailles dans les Yvelines - 78 All-you-can-eat brunch at Chez Molly in Versailles, Yvelines
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]

Le Tea Time de la Reine d'Ore à VersaillesLe Tea Time de la Reine d'Ore à VersaillesLe Tea Time de la Reine d'Ore à VersaillesLe Tea Time de la Reine d'Ore à Versailles The Queen's Tea Time at the Château de Versailles at Ore
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]

La salle du Jeu de Paume, un trésor de la Révolution française à découvrir en visite guidéeLa salle du Jeu de Paume, un trésor de la Révolution française à découvrir en visite guidéeLa salle du Jeu de Paume, un trésor de la Révolution française à découvrir en visite guidéeLa salle du Jeu de Paume, un trésor de la Révolution française à découvrir en visite guidée A guided tour of the Jeu de Paume room, a treasure trove of the French Revolution
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]

Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle - hôtel - restaurantAirelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle - hôtel - restaurantAirelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle - hôtel - restaurantAirelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle - hôtel - restaurant The confidential brunch at the Grand Contrôle Château de Versailles
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]

Le brunch de l'Alcôve au Louis à VersaillesLe brunch de l'Alcôve au Louis à VersaillesLe brunch de l'Alcôve au Louis à VersaillesLe brunch de l'Alcôve au Louis à Versailles All-you-can-eat royal brunch at L'Alcove in Versailles
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]

Potager du RoiPotager du RoiPotager du RoiPotager du Roi Le Potager du Roi, a historic fruit and vegetable garden near the Château de Versailles
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]

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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]

Le Jardin du Parfumeur, le nouveau jardin du Château de Versailles avec la Maison Francis KurkdjianLe Jardin du Parfumeur, le nouveau jardin du Château de Versailles avec la Maison Francis KurkdjianLe Jardin du Parfumeur, le nouveau jardin du Château de Versailles avec la Maison Francis KurkdjianLe Jardin du Parfumeur, le nouveau jardin du Château de Versailles avec la Maison Francis Kurkdjian The Perfumer's Garden, the garden of the Château de Versailles and the House of Francis Kurkdjian
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]

Les Délices de Marie-Antoinette - le tea time des Airelles Château de Versailles Grand ContrôleLes Délices de Marie-Antoinette - le tea time des Airelles Château de Versailles Grand ContrôleLes Délices de Marie-Antoinette - le tea time des Airelles Château de Versailles Grand ContrôleLes Délices de Marie-Antoinette - le tea time des Airelles Château de Versailles Grand Contrôle We tested the fabulous tea time at Les Airelles Château de Versailles - Le Grand Contrôle
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]

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Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
Next days
Friday: from 09:00 a.m. to 05:45 p.m.
Saturday: from 09:00 a.m. to 05:45 p.m.
Sunday: from 09:00 a.m. to 06:30 p.m.
Tuesday: from 09:00 a.m. to 04:45 p.m.
Wednesday: from 09:00 a.m. to 04:45 p.m.
Thursday: from 09:00 a.m. to 04:45 p.m.

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

    Location

    Château de Versailles
    78000 Versailles

    Route planner
    Accessibility info

    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
    www.chateauversailles.fr

    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.

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