Palace of Versailles

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History of the place

Louis XIV’s residence and a symbol of the French monarchy, Versailles combines royal apartments, the Hall of Mirrors and gardens designed by Le Nôtre. Allow a full day if you also wish to visit Trianon.

From Louis XIII’s hunting lodge, Louis XIV developed a palace and estate that became the centre of royal power. The court settled at Versailles in 1682. Louis Le Vau, Jules Hardouin-Mansart, Charles Le Brun and André Le Nôtre contributed to its architecture, interiors and gardens.

The Hall of Mirrors embodies the monarchy’s theatrical display of power. After the Revolution, Louis-Philippe transformed part of the palace into a museum of French history. The Treaty of Versailles was signed here in 1919. The estate also includes the Trianon palaces and the Queen’s Hamlet, best explored at a different pace.

Visiting tips

1. 01

   Allow a full day for the palace, gardens and Trianon; walking distances are considerable.

2. 02

   Check what your ticket includes: gardens and events may have separate admission depending on the date.

3. 03

   Bring comfortable shoes, water and rain or sun protection for outdoor areas.

4. 04

   Distinguish your palace entry slot from the opening times of other areas; check closures before travelling.