Most people visit Versailles the same way. They board a train in Paris, spend a few hours touring the palace, stroll through the gardens (maybe,) and then head back to the city by dinner. But I promise this is one of the BIGGEST travel mistakes made when exploring this slice of adult heaven!
Versailles isn’t a day trip. It’s an entire destination. The palace may be what brings people here, but it’s the hidden pathways, charming village streets, and beautiful history that’ll let you fall in love with it.
This is a place that deserves its own packed itinerary because if you only stay for a few hours, you miss the very things that make Versailles so magical.
Top Picks Summed Up:
-A walk to the Petite Trianon (stop at Angelina outside the gates for a matcha, wine or pastries)
-A stroll to the Grand Trianon to check out the new garden art exhibition- stop at a gelato cart or baguette station on the way.
-Picnic: I love the water basins surrounding the palace. Grab a blanket (ask your hotel) and some fresh produce and head over!
Of course touring the Palace of Versailles and seeing the iconic Hall of Mirrors is at the top of everyone’s bucket list, but there’s so much more to experience beyond the palace walls. If you’re staying for a few days, set aside some time to explore the Grand & Petit Trianon, Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet, and the Central Library of Versailles.
One of my favorite parts of the trip is the newer exhibition inside the Grand Trianon (photos below) which explores the history of the estate’s gardens and landscape design. The exhibit showcases everything from 18th century outdoor furniture to artwork, fashion, and the garden’s evolution from the perfectly manicured French style to the more natural English-inspired landscapes that Marie Antoinette loved -Sponsored by Dior.
Another one of my fav spots is the Grand Canal. Pick up a baguette, pastries, or some sorbet (all sold on the park grounds) before taking a stroll along the water, renting a rowboat, or just finding a quiet spot to relax.
The best part? There’s no need to rush. Some of my favorite memories in Versailles came from simply slowing down. After the crowds have gone home, I make sure to wander the cobblestone streets (completely empty with Palace views at night,) browse the Sunday market in the village, and stop for a matcha from Angelina on the palace grounds, before exploring the Petite Trianon.
*Bonus: if you’re visiting during the summer, don’t miss out on the fireworks shows inspired by the celebrations once hosted by Louis XIV, it’s truly magical.The Grounds, country side & vacation homes of the royals!
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