Versailles Full Day 8H30

Versailles is a jeweled symbol of the absolute rule of the French monarchy and a stunning example of royal power, both a Palace and home to the royals and also a gilded prison for the French nobility.

Relive the splendor of absolute monarchy that contributed to its glory and its fall. Share with your guide for the fabulous and tragic lives of Louis XIV, Louis XV’s mistress Madame de Pompadour, and Queen Marie Antoinette.

Representative of French Art, Versailles became the archetype of the royal palace.

You will visit the Grand Apartments of the King and Queen and the Hall of Mirrors.  Then your guide will accompany you through the gardens to discover the Grand Perspective designed by André Le Nôtre.

After your visit to the Chateau, you can have lunch in a restaurant or a picnic in the Palace Gardens if you choose. 

Next, you will visit the Grand Trianon, the Petit Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet. 

 

The Grand Trianon construction was started in 1687 at the direction of Louis XIV in order to give him more privacy with his family.  The interior furniture was auctioned off during the revolution and replaced at the beginning of the 19th century by Napoleon and King Louis Philippe.  It is a splendid palace, constructed between a courtyard and a garden. 

 

The Petit Trianon was constructed by Louis XV between 1762 and 1769 for Madame de Pompadour, but she was not able to enjoy it because she passed away in 1764.  It is an example of sobriety and reasonable ornamentation, order and perfection.  Today you can step into the atmosphere as it was during the time of Marie Antoinette. 

 

The Queen’s Hamlet was designed by Richard Mique and constructed in 1783 to give Marie Antoinette more privacy with her children and her entourage. There is a series of small rustic cottages:  her personal residence, Moulin Eau (The Watermill), the gardner’s home, and the colombier.  You will also see a small farm and the property’s cheese cave. 

Pick up and drop off at your hotel or your apartment in Paris.
Entrance fees included with a skip the line reservation.

Lunch not included.