# Palace of Versailles — Versailles, France

> The Palace of Versailles was the seat of French royal power from 1682 until the Revolution of 1789. Louis XIV, the Sun King, transformed a hunting lodge into the largest palace in Europe to project the absolute authority of the French monarchy — a statement of power that inspired royal courts across the continent for a century.

## Visitor facts
- Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (extended to 6:30 PM April–October); Closed Mondays
- Admission: €21 full-day passport (includes palace and gardens); Passport Plus Fountains Show: €30 on show days
- Address: Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
- Time needed: 4–6 hours
- Official website: https://en.chateauversailles.fr/
- Facts verified: 2026-06-30

## Highlights
- Hall of Mirrors — Jules Hardouin-Mansart · 1678–1684
- The King's Bedchamber — Royal craftsmen · 1701
- Marie Antoinette's Petit Trianon — Ange-Jacques Gabriel · 1768
- Latona Fountain — André Le Nôtre · 1666–1689

## FAQ
**How far is Versailles from Paris?**
About 45 minutes from central Paris by RER C train to Versailles-Château-Rive Gauche station, which is a 10-minute walk from the palace entrance.

**Do I need to book tickets in advance?**
Yes — booking online is strongly recommended, especially in peak season (April–September). The palace is one of the most visited sites in France and queues without pre-booked tickets can be very long.

**When are the fountain shows?**
The famous Musical Fountains Show (Grandes Eaux Musicales) takes place on weekends from April to October, and on some Tuesdays in summer. Check the official website for specific dates.

**How long should I spend at Palace of Versailles?**
Plan 2–3 hours for the highlights. Add time for temporary exhibitions, the museum shop, and café.

**What is Palace of Versailles best known for?**
The Palace of Versailles was the seat of French royal power from 1682 until the Revolution of 1789. Louis XIV, the Sun King, transformed a hunting lodge into the largest palace in Europe to project the absolute authority of the French monarchy — a statement of power that inspired royal courts across the continent for a century. Key highlights include Hall of Mirrors — 73 metres of gilt and mirror, scene of the 1919 Treaty of Versailles, The Royal Apartments of Louis XIV — the Sun King's state rooms, Gardens of Versailles — 800 hectares of formal French landscape design.

**How do I get tickets for Palace of Versailles?**
€21 full-day passport (includes palace and gardens); Passport Plus Fountains Show: €30 on show days Tickets are usually available on the day, but booking online saves queue time in peak season. Official site: https://en.chateauversailles.fr/

**Can I visit the Trianon estates on the same ticket?**
Yes — the full-day passport includes the Palace, Gardens, Grand Trianon, and Petit Trianon. Allow an extra 2–3 hours if you plan to see the Trianon area.

**What should I wear?**
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for the gardens. There is no strict dress code, but the palace involves significant walking and standing.

**Is the palace open on Mondays?**
No — Versailles is closed every Monday. Plan accordingly and check the website for any additional closures during state events.


Source: https://worldmuseumguide.org/museums/palace-of-versailles/ — World Museum Guide, independent and ad-free.