Versailles Palace — Best Activities & Things to Do (2025)
Make the most of your day at the Palace of Versailles: explore the Hall of Mirrors, formal gardens, Trianon estate, and the Queen’s Hamlet. This guide highlights the top activities, smart routes, and handy tips so you spend more time exploring and less time queuing.
Top Activities Inside the Palace & Estate
Hall of Mirrors & State Apartments
Walk the glittering Hall of Mirrors and royal chambers where court ceremonies unfolded. Early morning or late afternoon is calmest.
Gardens & Bosquets
Stroll Le Nôtre’s geometric alleys, secret groves (bosquets), and fountains. Plan loops from the Parterre d’Eau to the Orangery terrace.
Grand & Petit Trianon
Visit the pink-marble Grand Trianon and the intimate Petit Trianon—royal hideaways with quieter rooms and elegant gardens.
Queen’s Hamlet
Explore Marie Antoinette’s rustic model village, lakeside paths, and farm—great for photos and a slower pace away from the palace crowds.
Grand Canal Boating
Rent a rowboat on the mile-long Grand Canal for a classic view back toward the palace and parterres.
Fountain Shows (Seasonal)
On selected dates, enjoy Musical Fountains by day and spectacular Night Fountains with fireworks—check schedules before you go.
Great Things to Do Nearby (Versailles Town)
Notre-Dame Market
Pick up picnic supplies (cheese, fruit, pastries) and enjoy them by the Grand Canal or in the shade of a bosquet.
Antique Shops & Cafés
Browse side streets near the Cathedral of Saint-Louis for antiques, pâtisseries, and relaxed terraces.
Avenue de Paris Promenade
Walk the grand axial avenue for palace vistas; sunset light is especially photogenic.
Royal Stables (Grande/ Petite Écurie)
Admire the monumental 17th-century stables complex opposite the palace esplanade.
Cycling Loops
Follow signed paths around the estate perimeter and town parks for easy, family-friendly rides.
Local Museums
Smaller museums in town offer quicker visits if you’re filling time before your entry slot.
Which Ticket Fits Your Plan?
Full Access (Passport)
Best for a full day: palace + gardens + Trianon Estate/Queen’s Hamlet on applicable dates. Reserve morning slots for smoother pacing.
Timed Palace Entry
Focus on the State Apartments and Hall of Mirrors. Arrive 15–20 minutes early to pass security comfortably.
Gardens & Fountain Days
On show dates, gardens may require a separate ticket/supplement. Align your palace time around the display hours.
Paris Museum Pass
Includes palace entry (security still required). In busy months, book a free timed slot to avoid long waits.
Good to know: Mobile tickets are widely accepted. Policies and inclusions vary by product—always check the details on the booking page.
Food & Drink Picks Near the Estate
Canal-Side Picnic
Bring market finds to the Grand Canal banks for an easy picnic with palace views.
Café Terraces
Find quick lunches and coffee on Rue de Satory and in streets south of the palace.
Sweet Stops
Sample macarons, éclairs, and seasonal fruit tarts at local pâtisseries between visits.
Family Breaks
Use garden snack kiosks for water and ice cream; keep cash/card handy on busy days.
Quick Planning Tips
When to Go
Weekday mornings at opening are calmest. Late afternoons also thin out in many rooms.
Route Order
Do the palace first, then gardens and Trianon in the afternoon—less backtracking and softer light for photos.
What to Wear
Comfortable shoes for cobbles and long walks. Bring water; sun protection helps in summer.
Accessibility
Step-free routes and lifts exist on signed paths. Allow extra time for distances across the estate.
Security & Bags
Expect screening. Travel light; large items and tripods are restricted.
Photos
Non-flash photography is generally allowed inside; respect signage and staff directions.
Ready to Plan Your Versailles Day?
Pick the ticket that matches your time and interests—then mix palace highlights with gardens, Trianon, and a canal picnic.
