How to Plan Your Versailles Palace & Marie-Antoinette’s Estate Private Guided Tour with Lunch
Are you planning a trip to Paris but want to include a day trip to the breathtakingly beautiful Versailles Palace? Look no further than the Versailles Palace & Marie-Antoinette’s Estate Private Guided Tour with Lunch. This full-day tour offers a VIP experience, skipping the lines at every corner of the estate, including the main residence, the Grand Trianon, the Petit Trianon, and Marie Antoinette’s private rural hamlet. Here’s how you can plan your own tour.
Step 1: Book Your Ticket
The first step in planning your Versailles Palace tour is to secure your spot. Book your tour through Viator’s website, and you’ll get skip-the-line tickets to the Palace of Versailles, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a gourmet three-course lunch at the historic and picturesque La Flotille restaurant. You can either head directly to the meeting point at the Palace of Versailles or request pickup.
Step 2: Prepare for the Day
Before you hit the road, take a moment to prepare for the day ahead. Dress comfortably, as you’ll be on your feet for most of the day. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring a backpack or bag to carry your belongings. You’re allowed to bring water or snacks with you, so be sure to pack accordingly.
Step 3: Arrive at the Palace of Versailles
When you arrive at the Palace of Versailles, you’ll meet your private guide, who will accompany you throughout the tour. Your guide will provide you with headphones so you can hear their in-depth commentary about Versailles and its rich history. With skip-the-line admission, you’ll breeze past the entrance queues and head straight into the main residence.
Step 4: Explore the Palace of Versailles
The highlight of the tour is the main residence of the Palace of Versailles. Your guide will take you through the gorgeous Hall of Mirrors, where kings and queens have walked for centuries. See the stunning bedrooms, the chapel, the dining hall, and the royal opera house. With your skip-the-line tickets, you’ll get VIP entry to every corner of the estate with full-access, no-wait admission.
Step 5: Visit the Gardens
After your tour of the main residence, you’ll have free time to roam the stunning royal gardens on your own. These vast gardens cover 800 hectares and are a work of art with their hedges, fountains, and sculptures. Take in the fresh air and scenery, and be sure to snap some photos of the beautiful gardens.
Step 6: Explore the Other Areas of Versailles
Your private guide will then take you to see the Grand Trianon, a smaller palace built by Louis XIV. This palace was a private retreat for the king and his family. You’ll also visit the Petit Trianon, where Marie Antoinette lived and played with her friends. Finally, you’ll see Marie Antoinette’s private rural hamlet, a charming village-like area where she liked to go to escape the pressures of court life.
Step 7: Lunch at La Flotille
After a full day of exploring, you’ll head to La Flotille for a gourmet three-course lunch. This restaurant is situated in a peaceful and historic location overlooking the Grand Canal. Here, you can relax and enjoy some French cuisine before heading back to your accommodations in Paris.
Conclusion
The Versailles Palace & Marie-Antoinette’s Estate Private Guided Tour with Lunch is a VIP experience that you don’t want to miss. With skip-the-line admission and a private guide, you’ll have the opportunity to explore every corner of the estate, including the breathtaking Palace of Versailles, the stunning gardens, and the other areas of Versailles. Book your tour today, and immerse yourself in French history and culture.
An Insider’s Guide to Versailles, France
If you’re planning a trip to Versailles, France, chances are you’re going to visit the famous palace of Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette’s estate. But the city has so much more to offer beyond these iconic tourist spots. To help you make the most of your trip, here are some hidden gems, local dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your stay in Versailles unforgettable.
Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems
Of course, the Palace of Versailles is a must-visit, but there are also plenty of lesser-known attractions that are worth exploring. One of them is the hidden gem, the Hameau de la Reine. A peaceful and charming village featuring a picturesque lake, an elegant dovecote, and a beautiful garden. It was once a private retreat for the queen and her closest friends. Another spot to check out is the Potager du Roi, a lovely 17th-century garden once used to supply fresh produce to the palace kitchens but now open to the public.
Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine and Culture
When it comes to food, Versailles deserves a special mention. The city’s cuisine blends classic French dishes with ingredients sourced from the local countryside, creating a unique flavor palate. For an authentic taste of the region, try the local specialty, Brie de Meaux, or indulge in a savory quiche Lorraine of buttery pastry crust, eggs, bacon, and cream.
When selecting a dining spot, look no further than the Michelin-starred Le Jardin d’Hiver, a truly exceptional restaurant with an enchanting garden. For a more casual vibe, head to La Table du Loup, an authentic French bistro with a cozy ambiance and delicious comfort food.
Cultural Experiences: Immersing Yourself in the Local Scene
Taking in some cultural experiences is an essential part of any trip to Versailles. Immerse yourself in the local scene by attending a classical music concert in the Chateau de Versailles’s Royal Opera. Alternatively, step back in time with one of the city’s traditions, the horse-drawn carriage ride through the scenic town center square.
Don’t forget to visit the famous Notre-Dame Market, featuring antiques, fashion, and art shops that showcase the local cultures.
Local History: Discovering Captivating Stories
From Marie Antoinette’s affair to the French revolution, Versailles has an incredible history that travelers should not miss. Start with the iconic guide of the palace to understand the lavish of the Sun King era better. Afterward, venture to the nearby town of Saint-Germain-en-Laye and visit Château Vieux du Marly to see the ruins of an 18th-century royal estate. These sites tell fascinating stories about the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences
To finish off your trip and create unforgettable experiences, there are unique off-the-beaten-path suggestions to consider. Take the Balloon Route, a trip up high in a hot air balloon to see breathtaking views of the French countryside from above. Another exciting option is to explore the underground water system built during Louis XIV’s reign, better known as the Aqueduc de Louveciennes. This historical network provides an incredible glimpse into the engineering feat.
Versailles is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful and glamorous cities in the world with much to offer travelers beyond the Palace. With this insider’s guide, you can enjoy your time here to the fullest and get a truly authentic French experience.
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