Versailles Palace & Gardens Tour from Paris

Indulge in the beauty and excess of the French monarchy's most extravagant palace. Counting some 700 rooms and 2,000 acres of gardens, this dazzling chateau still evokes the same sense of awe that it did over 300 years ago when it reached its apex under the Sun King, Louis XIV. Our Versailles tours from Paris cover the top sights at this famed UNESCO World Heritage Site on a half day visit, including the Grand Apartments, State Rooms and Hall of Mirrors, as well as the most exemplary parts of the Gardens of Versailles.

City Wonders will personally escort you to Versailles, where you will head straight past the long lines to enter the palace. Be mesmerized by its spectacular adornment as you enjoy captivating stories on its history and inhabitants including Louis XIV, XV, and XVI, their queens, and mistresses. Walk in the footsteps of Marie Antoinette and other historical figures to discover the moments that defined their lives, spanning the 'golden age' from the rise of France as one of Europe's most influential powers to the dramatic events of the French Revolution.

Considered among the highest achievements of 17th and 18th century art and architecture, this palace par excellence started with humbler beginnings as Louis XIII's hunting lodge in the early 1600s. Over the century that followed it became an extravagant show of power as the court's official seat from 1682 to 1789.

After the palace, explore the equally sumptuous gardens. Designed by master gardener André Le Nôtre and court painter Charles Le Brun in the 1660s, this vast French formal garden originally stretched as far as the eye could see. Admire the statues, secret groves and numerous fountains that were designed to extend the palace's interior into nature itself.

Depending on the day, your visit may include the Musical Fountain Show or Musical Gardens, during which you will see the fountains timed perfectly to classical music, or hear delightful tunes while discovering some of the most idyllic places on the grounds. If these events are not running, you will continue on a standard tour of the park's features.

This tour has been carefully planned so you get in-depth perspective into both must-see sides of Versailles with convenient transportation from Paris. See the top sights of the palace and gardens with an expert guide by your side. Check out our full list of Paris tours, or opt for a VIP Versailles full day tour.