RaufWhen you think of royalty and elegance, you might find that Versailles fits the bill nicely. It’s a stunning French city that is known for its châteaus and gardens. Once a former capital and area of monarchial residence, this is also the famous destination where Marie Antoinette allegedly declared, “Let them eat cake!” during a bread shortage.
To this day, Versailles lives up to its classy reputation with an assortment of architectural marvels, royal landmarks, lavish restaurants, and sophisticated cultural attractions. This 3D2N guide covers most of the popular royal attractions to help you make the most of your stay in the city. Keep scrolling for the top things to do in Versailles!
Day 1 – Royal prominence
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The very first spot you should cross of the list is the Palace of Versailles, the principal royal residence of France from 1682 under Louis XIV up until the beginning of the French Revolution in 1789 under Louis XVI. You can find this colossal tribute to the royal family in the department of Yvelines within the region of Île-de-France, about 20 kilometres southwest of the centre of Paris. Its intricate Baroque architecture and beautifully crafted interiors have helped establish it as one of Versaille’s awe-inspiring attractions. It’s free to visit from 9am to 5.30pm, but take not that it’s closed on Mondays.
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Next, the Royal Chapel stands as the last of the five chapels established throughout the history of the Palace of Versailles. Its exterior is visible from the entrance courtyard, completed in the early 18th century under Louis XIV. It has been renovated and improved on since then but the remnants of royal architecture from days past remain.
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Among the top things to do in Versailles, trying out local cuisine is usually on top of everyone’s itinerary. You must have heard of world-class chef Gordon Ramsay. Have you ever wanted to try his food? You might just get your opportunity at the Gordon Ramsay au Trianon, which proudly stands as home to the chef’s culinary prowess. With a stylish setting and delectable dishes, this esteemed establishment has been awarded two Michelin stars. Under the guidance of super chef Simone Zanoni, you can expect Ramsay’s food to be well worth the trip here. It’s located at 1 Boulevard de la Reine. Opening hours are from 7.30pm to 10pm but do note that it’s closed every Sunday and Monday.
Day 2 – Elegant structures
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The Grand Trianon (located in Avenue de Trianon) is a pink-collonaded structure that was built in 1687 by famous architect Mansart. It functioned mostly as a tranquil getaway for Louis XIV and sets the benchmark for exemplary Italianate garden conservatory designs. It’s open from 12pm to 6.30pm, but is closed on Mondays. For about €12, you get access to the estate of Trianon, temporary exhibitions, the Gardens, and the Park. Alternatively, a Passport ticket includes admission to the whole Estate of Versailles and Trianon, and costs about €20.
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The magnificent Versailles Château Gardens are world renowned. A series of beautifully landscaped plots of greenery, show-stopping fountains and tree-lined pathways that span 800 hectares, these epic gardens centre on the cross-shaped Grand Canal. It is famous nowadays for musical fountain shows or evening fireworks displays held throughout summer.
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Set amidst lush greenery not far from the Château, La Veranda has gained a reputation as an elegant restaurant serving impeccable culinary delights. Beautiful interior design is accompanied by a diverse range of continental cuisine. Seasonal vegetables, roasted tofu, and a sorbet of fresh herbs are just some of the healthy selections that can be found. It’s typically open from 6.30am to 10.30pm, except on Saturdays and Sundays (when it stays open from 7am to 10.30pm).
Day 3 – Cultural landmarks
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There are over 30 fountains at Versailles, most of which were conceived by Louis XIV in 1666. The most famous one is the Apollo fountain, depicting horses that pull the Greek god’s chariot. The Neptune fountain (second most famous), also features the god of the oceans with his wife. These fountains run in full play to musical accompaniment during the weekends from April to October. If you’re still planning your list of things to do in Versailles, make sure you include some of these spectacles. You won’t regret it.
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The Royal Opera at Versailles was a prominent spot for theatre and performances, evoking scenes from another era. It reopened in 2009 after extensive renovations and the palace administration has made an effort to book a full suite of performances and programs each season in the hopes of restoring functionality to this historic space. The Royal Opera can be found at Rue des Réservoirs. Do visit it when in Versailles.
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A few minutes away from the Palace of Versailles, Nuance (a restaurant offering a wide variety of dishes) is elegantly decorated with a mixture of wood, glass, and stone and black granite details. Extravagance and indulgence are ongoing themes here — something you’ll observe all throughout the city. Try the sweet and creamy millefeuille or the exquisitely presented Noirmoutier potato and vegetables salad. It opens from 12pm to 9pm, except Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Glorious Versailles has so much to offer in terms of culture, history, and royal heritage. You could even get an opportunity to try some of world-class chef Gordon Ramsay’s sumptuous creations! Be sure to refer to this 3D2N guide for a look at some of the most popular royal attractions in the city. There is plenty to do in Versailles, but be sure not to miss anything on this list.
Also read: When In France: Paris For First-Time Travellers
