In brief: tickets, prices and how to get there
- Passeport card price for Israelis: 35 euros in high season, April to October, and 25 euros in low season, November to March.
- Europeans pay less: €32 in high season and €22 in low season. The differentiated pricing takes effect on January 14, 2026.
- Free: Every child and teenager up to the age of 18, and residents of the European area up to the age of 26.
- The trick for groups: On a guided tour, you pay 25 euros per person regardless of passport, cheaper than a personal ticket in high season.
- What is included in the ticket: Since the change, the Passeport covers the entire complex: the palace, the Trianon, and the gardens.
- How to get there: RER C train to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station, about a ten-minute walk from the palace gates.
- How much time to allocate: A full day. The palace alone is about two hours, and the gardens and Trianon require the rest of the day.
If I had to choose just one palace during your entire visit to France, I would recommend the Palace of Versailles. It is undoubtedly the most impressive palace, in France in particular and probably in the entire world. It is no wonder that so many kings have tried to imitate it (Schönbrunn in Austria, Peterhof in Russia, Caserta in Naples, Drottningholm in Sweden, and so on), but no one has managed to overshadow it.
The Palace of Versailles is one of the most popular attractions in France , and it is undoubtedly a must-see for anyone visiting Paris for the first time (and the truth is, the palace holds so many secrets that it is also suitable for advanced Francophiles). To help you maximize your enjoyment of visiting the palace, I have put together a comprehensive guide for you that contains everything you need.
This is a practical guide that answers the most important questions every tourist asks, from how to get to Versailles, where to buy tickets, how much time to spend on a visit and what to see, to other fateful questions, such as where to eat there. But along with all this, you will receive my “secret spice”, which is the historical knowledge that will enhance your visit. So let’s get started. It’s not polite to keep Louis XIV waiting…
Tickets to the Palace of Versailles (advance booking recommended!)
Since a good number of you came here to find tickets to the Palace of Versailles (without standing in line of course), let's start with that and then move on to more interesting topics.
On January 14, 2026, Versailles moved to differentiated pricing, like the Louvre and the Sainte-Chapelle. Visitors from outside the European Economic Area, including Israelis, pay more. At the same time, the Passeport card was expanded and now covers the entire complex: the palace, the Trianon, and the gardens.
| Visitor type | Quiet season (November to March) | High season (April to October) |
|---|---|---|
| Israelis and visitors from outside the European Economic Area | 25 Euros | 35 Euros |
| Citizens and residents of the European Economic Area | 22 Euros | 32 Euros |
| Children and teenagers up to the age of 18 | free | |
| Residents of the European area up to the age of 26 | free | |
| Guided group visit | 25 euros per person, regardless of passport | |
Last reviewed: September 2, 2026. For those coming in groups of four or more, it's worth checking out a guided tour: the group rate is cheaper than an individual ticket in high season.
Booking tickets to the Palace of Versailles
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- best seller
Passport Card: Trianon Palace, Gardens and Estate
The complete ticket, and the one most visitors need: the palace, gardens, and Trianon Estate in one booking.
The palace is closed on Mondays. The entrance time is pre-selected and cannot be delayed, so it is worth planning your train time accordingly and adding fifteen minutes for security checks. On the days of the musical fountains, an additional fee is charged for the gardens, and it is included in this ticket.
Ticket for the Gardens of Versailles only
The cheapest ticket, for those who come for Le Notre and not for the Hall of Mirrors.
The gardens are open every day, including Mondays when the palace is closed. Admission is free most days of the year, and a ticket is only required on the days of the musical fountains and musical gardens. Check the schedule before buying.
Guided tour of the Palace of Versailles
Versailles without a guide is a series of gilded rooms. With a guide it's a story about power, money and pretense.
Tours here range from an hour and a half to a full day, and there are versions in English, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and Chinese. Check the duration of the tour when booking, as the difference between short and long is very large.
Skip the line + guided tour + King's Apartments
The tour that enters rooms closed to the regular ticket: the king's private apartments.
The private apartments are the spaces where the king actually lives, as opposed to the state rooms. Groups are small and supplies are limited, so this is not a reservation you should leave for the day before.
Guided tour + transportation from Paris
The most convenient package: we pick you up in Paris, guide you through the palace, and bring you back.
The wide range of times suggests several options: from a half-day that covers the palace only, to a full day that also includes the gardens and Trianon. Check exactly what is included before paying.
Entrance ticket + round-trip transportation
The entrance ticket and the ride are in one package, but inside you are on your own.
Suitable for those who want to avoid the hassle of the RER but don't want a guide dictating their pace. Note that the return time is fixed in advance, and the bus doesn't wait for latecomers.
Round-trip transportation from Paris only
Just the trip, for those who have already obtained an entrance ticket on the official website.
I recommend it with caution: the rating is very low, mainly due to delays and confusing pick-up points. The RER C from Paris costs less than ten euros round trip and is a ten-minute walk from the gate.
Versailles and Monet's Gardens in Giverny: Full Day from Paris
The two most famous gardens in France in one day: the geometry of Le Nôtre, and the calculated wildness of Monet.
It's a very long day, and not suitable for families with small children. Check the flowering season in Giverny before you buy: between April and October the garden is at its peak, and in winter it is completely closed.
- Combined price
Paris City Card: A city card that includes Versailles
A ticket that combines several major attractions, allowing you to choose between Versailles and the Arc de Triomphe.
Please note that Versailles and the Arc de Triomphe are one choice on the ticket, not both. The ticket also includes the Eiffel Tower, the Orsay, the Pantheon, and a cruise on the Seine. It is only worthwhile if you really take advantage of three or more attractions.
- Combined price
Versailles + Seine Cruise (Beto Moche)
The full ticket to Versailles along with a classic Beto Mosh cruise on the Seine.
The most common combination in Versailles packages, and also the most logical: one day out of town and a relaxing evening on the water. The two tickets are separate in terms of dates, so you can split them up for different days.
- Combined price
Cruise on the Seine (Beto Frisian) + Versailles
Same package, with the cruise company departing from the foot of the Eiffel Tower and not from Pont de l'Alma.
If your hotel is in the 7th or 15th arrondissement, the Beto Frisian boarding point is more convenient for you. The route itself is almost the same.
- Combined price
Seine River Cruise + Two-Day Ticket to Versailles
For those who understand that one day in Versailles is a run: a two-day ticket, and a cruise on the Seine.
The two-day ticket allows you to dedicate one day to the palace and the second day to the gardens and Trianon, which is really the right way to see the estate. The two days do not have to be consecutive.
- Combined price
Seine River Cruise + Versailles with Priority Entrance and Guided Tour
The pampered version: preferred entrance to the palace with a guide, and a cruise on the Seine.
The most expensive package between the Versailles and Seine combinations, and it is especially affordable for those coming to Paris for the first time and want someone else to manage the day.
- Combined price
Versailles + Eiffel Tower
The two great symbols of France in one order, monarchy and engineering.
Don't try to cram both into the same day. Versailles alone is at least five hours including travel, and the tower after it is a recipe for broken legs.
- Combined price
Versailles + Louvre Museum with reserved entrance
The two attractions that are hardest to get tickets for at the last minute.
The Louvre ticket includes a short guided tour of the masterpieces. Both institutions require at least half a day each, and the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, just as Versailles is open.
- Combined price
Versailles + Disneyland Paris
The classic family compromise: one day for the parents, one day for the children.
The two places are at opposite ends of Ile de France, so don't plan them on consecutive days if you are located in central Paris and with small children.
- Combined price
Disneyland Paris + Versailles Fountain Show
The same package, with the Versailles part being the musical fountain show in the gardens.
The fountain show only runs on certain days during the warm season, and is one of the most beautiful things I saw in Versailles. Please note that this ticket does not include entry to the palace itself.
- Combined price
Arc de Triomphe + 2-day ticket to Versailles
A two-day ticket to the Palace of Versailles, and a climb to the roof of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
A logical addition for those staying in Paris for three days or more. A small recommendation: it's worth saving the Arc de Triomphe for sunset, when the Champs-Elysées lights up.
- Combined price
Versailles + Opera Garnier on an independent tour
The two great spectacles of France: the old monarchy and the bourgeoisie that came after it.
The Opéra Garnier is located in the center of Paris and the visit is short, about an hour. A convenient combination for a day when you return from Versailles in the afternoon and want something else to do.
- Combined price
Versailles + the Catacombs of Paris
A combination of the two extremes: the brilliance of Louis XIV above, and six million bones below.
The catacombs require descending 131 steps and ascending 112, and the temperature down there is 14 degrees all year round. This is not a place for strollers or those who suffer from claustrophobia.
- Combined price
Trianon Palace + Musical Fountain Show
The private world of Marie Antoinette, in conjunction with the fountain show in the gardens.
This package does not include entrance to the palace itself, and is suitable for those who have already visited it before and want the quiet and beautiful part of the estate this time. A fifteen-minute walk from the palace.
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Information for visitors to the Palace of Versailles
🚆 How to get to Versailles?
There are two main ways to get to Versailles: by public transportation and by private vehicle (rental car or taxi).
Public Transportation (Update 2025/2026)
The best and easiest way to get to Versailles is by the RER C suburban train . The train passes through major stations in Paris (such as Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame, Musée d'Orsay, Invalides), and the line takes you straight into history.
Let me tell you a secret that will save you a headache: As of January 2025, the complicated zone system has been abolished! The price of a train/RER ticket to any destination in Ile-de-France (including Versailles) is now flat – just €2.50.
- Drive to the station. Versailles Castle Left Bank – This is the closest station to the palace (about a 10-minute walk).
- Local tip: No need to queue at the ticket machines. Download the app Hello RATP, purchase a ticket over the phone, and use it (via Wallet) to go through the gates.
- If you have a NAVIGO card (free monthly/weekly), the trip is of course included.
The RER C train branches off into several branches (like a complicated Bourbon family tree). Make sure you get on a train marked Versailles Château Rive Gauche (most train names start with VICK). Otherwise, you'll end up with an unplanned trip to the suburbs.
Private car
- If you have decided to take a taxi to Versailles and are looking for a Hebrew-speaking driver, I highly recommend Ovadia Transportation.
- Of course, you can also order a ride to Versailles via Uber (the price is around 50 euros one way, depending on the time).
- A final option is Rent a car in ParisThis is especially suitable if you are combining Versailles with a longer trip. Take the N118 (about 40 minutes). Paid parking lots (such as Place d'Armes) are located right in front of the palace.
🕰 When can you visit the Palace and Gardens of Versailles?
Versailles changes and changes shape according to the seasons. So you know what to expect, here is the updated schedule:
❄️ Calm season (November – March)
- The palace: Open every day (except Monday), 9:00-17:30.
- The gardens and park: Open free to everyone! (8:00-18:00).
- Bonus: On the first Sunday of the month – admission to the palace is free.
- Tip for advanced users: A fascinating exhibition on the “Grand Dauphin” (son of Louis XIV) is on display until February 15, 2026. Highly recommended for those who want to get to know the characters behind the splendor.
☀️ High season (April – October)
- The palace: Longer opening hours, 9:00 a.m.-18:30 p.m.
- The genes: Open until 20:30 PM (unless there are evening events).
- Fountain shows: Held on weekends (Saturday and Sunday) from April 5 to October 26, 2025. On these days (and also on “Musical Gardens” Tuesdays), admission to the gardens is free.
Between us? In August the palace can feel like a royal sauna (there is no air conditioning in most rooms!). If you are coming in the height of summer, do yourself a favor and arrive early in the morning or late in the day.
How much time should you spend visiting the Palace of Versailles?
If I had a euro for every time I was asked this question, maybe I could buy the Palace of Versailles and move in 🙂
As you will see in the next part of the article, there is quite a bit to do and see in the palace and the surrounding area. If you want to do the bare minimum (a tour of the main palace plus a tour of the gardens), I would allocate at least half a day (a full day is much better). If you also want to visit the two Trianons and the Queen’s farm, then this question is automatically solved, since they determine the itinerary of the trip.
What to see in Versailles
There is quite a bit to see in and around the palace, so I have divided this topic into two parts. The first part deals with the must-see sites when visiting Versailles for the first time. The second part provides a few more options for “advanced Francophiles,” those returning to the palace for the second or third time.
Must-see sites in the Versailles area
Visit to the main palace
Naturally, the first place you'll visit will be the main palace, built mainly by Louis XIV and XV (with a few later additions). There's quite a bit to see in the palace itself, but here are a few rooms you simply can't miss if you're visiting for the first time.
Hall of Mirrors
This is undoubtedly the most famous room in the entire palace and was built during the reign of Louis XIV to host royal banquets and ceremonies. Several important historical events later took place here, including the declaration of Germany (1871) and the signing of the Treaty of Versailles (1919), which saw the residence undergo changes and some rooms “moved” (for example, the king’s bedroom was moved to the central wing, so that it would overlook the courtyard paved in black and white marble).
As this is the official residence of the King and Queen, each room is more magnificent than the previous one and was designed by the best artists of the 17th century onwards, such as Charles Le Bern. After you have finished visiting the King and Queen's residence, don't forget to go down one floor and visit the Crown Prince's residence and the residences of Louis XV's daughters.
The Chapel of Versailles
The last place inside the palace itself that I consider a must is the Royal Chapel, whose extensive renovation was recently completed.
This is a beautiful Baroque creation that can be seen both from the ground floor, as can be done in other churches, but also through the royal balcony, from which you can view from above. Furthermore, the acoustics in this chapel are simply wonderful and if you happen to listen to the rehearsals held there, in honor of a concert, then you have earned it twice.
Here's an example of what you might hear when you're there:
Gardens of Versailles
In my opinion, this is the most beautiful and enjoyable part of your entire visit to Versailles, and you should not miss it under any circumstances. It is a masterpiece of garden architecture, created by André Le Nôtre and contains statues, fountains, impressive tree-lined avenues and much more. In the following video you can see some of the attractions in the Gardens of Versailles, which are definitely not to be missed.
Since there is quite a bit of walking involved, I highly recommend wearing comfortable shoes. If you get tired, you can use the miniature train that runs around the gardens and can take you from place to place. If you have difficulty walking, go to this link and read about accessibility and wheelchair rentals on site.
The Grand Trianon
This palace was built in the late 80s, on the site of a village called Trianon, which stood there, and its purpose was to provide Louis XIV with an intimate place to come to rest from his busy schedule at the main palace. It was not for nothing that Louis XIV said, “I created Versailles for the royal court, the Château de Marly for my friends, and the Trianon for myself.”
Since the Trianon is located about 2 km from the main palace, there is a free shuttle that will take you from the palace to the Trianon.
The Petit Trianon and Marie Antoinette's Village
The Petit Trianon was built for Madame de Pompadour , the famous mistress of Louis XV, but she died before construction was completed and so it passed into the possession of Madame du Barry, an equally iconic mistress. When Louis XVI came to power, he gave the palace to his wife Marie Antoinette, where she created a sort of refuge from the intrigues of the king's palace.
Here is a short video that takes place inside the Petit Trianon and will allow you to visit some of its rooms:
After you have finished visiting the palace, you are invited to go and see the Queen's Village (Le Hameau de la reine). This is an imitation of a village, similar to the one found in Normandy , created at the request of Queen Marie Antoinette. You will find small houses, a cowshed, an artificial lake and more. Contrary to rumors, it was not the Queen who was involved in the milking and gardening, but rather professional farmers who were brought to the place for this purpose.
You can see what the Queen's farm looks like by watching a clip from Frances Ford Coppola's film "Marie Antoinette" below:
Advanced sites in Versailles
You've visited all the "must-sees" and now that you're returning to Versailles for the second (or twentieth) time, are you looking to see a few more places you haven't seen and that not all tourists know about? Here are some options.
The King's Private Kittens
This is not the king's official residence, where all the daily ceremonies of Versailles took place, but a small and intimate wing, whose windows face a small and secret courtyard, where the king preferred to spend his free time with his close friends (there were quite a few courtiers who lived their entire lives in Versailles and never set foot there).
You cannot enter these rooms independently and can only do so with a guided tour. You can read more about this and book tickets at this link.
If you are like me, and are not satisfied with “what everyone else sees,” I highly recommend you read the article by my dear friend Ronen Sass. He takes you on a virtual “behind the scenes” tour of the palace and reveals secrets that even the guides don’t always know. A must-read for advanced readers.
In addition, Ronen recommends two rare guided tours: a visit to the rooms of the king's concubines and a visit to the queen's private rooms.
Battle Gallery
This is a must-see for history buffs like me and, in my opinion, is a kind of continuation of a visit to the Carnival Museum. Here you will find pictures painted by the best French painters of the first half of the 19th century (the most famous of which is Delacroix). These pictures depict a series of historical battles in which the French won and whose purpose was to unite the French nation.
Visit to the town of Versailles
When Louis XIV built the Palace of Versailles, not all of his courtiers and servants could live within the palace grounds. As a result, a town was built near the palace, which later became a city and is definitely worth a visit. I highly recommend not missing the Church of Saint-Louis, built during the reign of Louis XV, and the neighborhood next to it that bears the same name.
Visit to Madame Elisabeth's Palace
If I have to recommend one place in the town of Versailles, which is not the palace itself, it is the municipal estate of Madame Elisabeth, sister of Louis XVI. The estate is not near the palace and you have to go there especially, but in my opinion it is definitely worth the effort. Address : 73 Av. de Paris. Opening days and hours : Every day from 11:00-18:00. Link to the estate's website.
Want to upgrade your visit to the palace? Let me highly recommend you read the article about its history. It will transform your visit from “just walking the halls” into an enriching experience that will make you say “wow.”
Is it worth living in Versailles and if so, where?
Versailles is not only a magnificent palace but also a charming town that can be a great base for a trip to Ile-de-France. If you have the money and want a royal experience, I recommend staying at the Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace. This is a 5-star hotel, built in the early 20th century and located on the grounds of the palace itself. You will find a spa, a Gordon Ramsay restaurant, and a host of other treats.
Waldorf Astoria Versailles
A luxury hotel within the palace grounds. A once-in-a-lifetime experience with a spa and gourmet dining.
Additional options
Looking for a more reasonably priced hotel? I have a whole list of recommendations in Versailles.
Recommended restaurants in the Versailles area
You've walked, you've seen, you've been impressed, and now you're probably hungry. Here are some recommended places to eat in the city of Versailles and also inside the palace itself.
La Flottille
An elegant restaurant adjacent to Grand Canal Park. A varied menu: Caesar salad, burgers and pizzas.
Little Italy Versailles
Italian restaurant 10 minutes drive away. Great pastas and pizzas, also suitable for vegetarians.
Lucette
Seafood bistro. Calamari, shrimp, oysters and fish and chips. 10 minute drive.
The Alcove
A royal restaurant with an intimate atmosphere. Classic French cuisine with modern twists.
Positive Café
Healthy, vegetarian and vegan food. Pad Thai, falafel, fish and fresh juices.
angelina
Tea house and restaurant inside the palace (elegant). Famous for its hot chocolate and patisserie.
Grand Café d'Orléans
A cafeteria for fast food in the palace, sandwiches and desserts. Suitable for those who want to grab something.
ORE (Alain Ducasse)
An elegant cafe by chef Alain Ducasse. Overlooking the royal courtyard. Expensive but worth it.
Fascinating and interesting article. It sounds like you've had some challenging experiences, especially given the fact that you claim your French is broken. It takes courage. Take a breath.
I would love to find a picture of King Louis XVI's private library.
Wow, what a fascinating article!!! Thank you very much for sharing.
Interesting despite the length and familiarity with this labyrinth. I wonder how the French, who are so jealous of knowledge of their language, received you.
Excellent article – and especially special! What are the chances that an ordinary mortal would invest so much in studying the place? I'm missing about 7 million photos of all the rooms I'll never get to.
A fascinating and inspiring article. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn about the “behind the scenes” of a palace steeped in history and art. Wonderful and fascinating writing. In the end, I even envy you for the extraordinary opportunity that came your way.
Thank you, very interesting.
Very very interesting
Thank you, I have visited there before, studied the period and still gained a lot of organized knowledge in your article. CHAPEAU
Hello Zvi,
Regarding the article about the Palace of Versailles: Since I don't speak French, I use Google Translate (not always successful) and asked:
Grand appartement de la Reine, Chambre de la Reine – which term is the official room and which is the private room?
Thanks
Shmuel Shoval
The grand appartement is the official room while the other is the private room.
Thank you