The entrance fee for visiting Versailles Palace in 2025 is set at 21€ for adults, with discounted options available for children, students, and senior visitors. Summer hours extend from 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., while winter hours typically run until 5:30 p.m. The palace remains closed on Mondays. These details reflect the situation on January 3, 2025, when we toured the palace in person and obtained the most up-to-date information.
About Versailles Palace
Versailles Palace stands as one of the most remarkable testimonies to French architectural splendor and historical grandeur. Its origins date back to the 17th century, when Louis XIII established a hunting lodge that his successor, Louis XIV, would transform into a symbol of absolute monarchy.
Versailles Palace
We advise beginning your exploration in the Main Courtyard, where the intricate façade sets the tone for the opulent interior. Highlights include the Hall of Mirrors, famous for its large arched windows and ornate chandeliers, as well as the lavish Royal Apartments that once served as the personal quarters of the French royal family. In our experience, allowing at least half a day for the palace interiors is essential to appreciate the details of its décor and the fascinating historical narratives tied to each room.
We recommend continuing your visit by strolling through the expansive palace gardens, meticulously designed by André Le Nôtre. The geometric layouts, ornamental fountains, and symmetrical flowerbeds demonstrate a unique fusion of nature and art. For those with additional time, the Estate of Trianon—comprising the Grand Trianon, the Petit Trianon, and the Queen’s Hamlet—offers a quieter glimpse into royal life. We find this side of the property less crowded and perfect for experiencing a more intimate aspect of Versailles’ history.
Versailles Gardens
Once you have explored the palace and its grounds, we suggest discovering other points of interest in the vicinity. The nearby town of Versailles features charming streets lined with cafés and boutiques, providing an excellent opportunity to purchase souvenirs or enjoy a relaxed meal. For those who wish to dine in a memorable setting, La Flottille near the Grand Canal serves a refined menu with views of the water. Afterward, a short walk around the town center reveals classic French architecture, open-air markets, and local pastry shops that capture the essence of regional flavor.
We recommend arriving early to make the most of your day and secure a convenient spot in the admission lines. Comfortable footwear is advisable, as the palace complex and its landscaped gardens span a vast area. Additionally, scheduling your visit outside peak hours can help you avoid the largest crowds and better admire the artwork, furnishings, and historical displays.
Thanks to continuous restoration efforts, Versailles Palace has maintained its original grandeur, allowing visitors to sense the atmosphere of royal life under the ancien régime. We encourage devoting ample time to explore each section of the palace and gardens, as every corner reveals a unique chapter in France’s regal past. If you appreciate grand architecture and wish to immerse yourself in a defining period of European history, this palace will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.